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<p>Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton accused the Trump administration at the Munich Security Conference of betraying the West and NATO. She called the handling of Ukraine “disgraceful” and accused Trump of modelling himself after "Vladimir Putin". Clinton went on a long, unhinged rant. Her fellow panellist Petr Macinka, the deputy prime minister of the Czech Republic, took a dig at her, suggesting that Trump was just a reaction to some of the policies that were too extreme for the common people, the “Woke revolution” and cancel culture, drawing chuckles from the crowd.&nbsp;</p><p>“He has betrayed the West, he’s betrayed human values, he’s betrayed the NATO charter, the Atlantic charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” Clinton said. She accused Trump of wanting unaccountable power, and Macinka interrupted her, saying that Clinton really does not like Trump. Former 1st lady responded affirmatively, “Not only do I not like him, but also I don’t like him because of what he’s doing to the United States and the world, and I think you should take a hard look at it if you think there’s something good that will come of that.”&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-maxwell-emails-alan-dershowitz-claims-1771152984894"><strong>Epstein File tranche mentions recorded material, redacted official response raises eyebrows</strong></a></p><p>“A divide has opened up between Europe and the United States…The United States’ claim to leadership has been challenged, and possibly lost," said German Chancellor Friedrich Mertz on Friday. &nbsp;</p><p>Munich Security Conference can be considered the Davos of the Western world. &nbsp;Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was obsessively attacking Trump over US policies on Ukraine to force it into a compromise with Russia. She said that Trump has dealt huge damage to the US-Europe relations. However, there was a slight conciliatory tone from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. At the conference, Rubio stressed the need for a stronger ally. He stressed that NATO should be collectively strong and proud of Western civilisation, instead of guilt and shame. The conference seems to be an acceptance of the changing world order, where the US is forsaking its leadership role.&nbsp;</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Hillary Clinton accused Donald Trump of betraying NATO and Western values at the Munich Security Conference, calling his Ukraine policy “disgraceful.”

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton accused the Trump administration at the Munich Security Conference of betraying the West and NATO. She called the handling of Ukraine “disgraceful” and accused Trump of modelling himself after "Vladimir Putin". Clinton went on a long, unhinged rant. Her fellow panellist Petr Macinka, the deputy prime minister of the Czech Republic, took a dig at her, suggesting that Trump was just a reaction to some of the policies that were too extreme for the common people, the “Woke revolution” and cancel culture, drawing chuckles from the crowd. “He has betrayed the West, he’s betrayed human values, he’s betrayed the NATO charter, the Atlantic charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” Clinton said. She accused Trump of wanting unaccountable power, and Macinka interrupted her, saying that Clinton really does not like Trump. Former 1st lady responded affirmatively, “Not only do I not like him, but also I don’t like him because of what he’s doing to the United States and the world, and I think you should take a hard look at it if you think there’s something good that will come of that.” Also Read: Epstein File tranche mentions recorded material, redacted official response raises eyebrows “A divide has opened up between Europe and the United States…The United States’ claim to leadership has been challenged, and possibly lost," said German Chancellor Friedrich Mertz on Friday. Munich Security Conference can be considered the Davos of the Western world. Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was obsessively attacking Trump over US policies on Ukraine to force it into a compromise with Russia. She said that Trump has dealt huge damage to the US-Europe relations. However, there was a slight conciliatory tone from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. At the conference, Rubio stressed the need for a stronger ally. He stressed that NATO should be collectively strong and proud of Western civilisation, instead of guilt and shame. The conference seems to be an acceptance of the changing world order, where the US is forsaking its leadership role.

<p>Hillary Clinton accused Donald Trump of betraying NATO and Western values at the Munich Security Conference, calling his Ukraine policy “disgraceful.”</p>

Hillary Clinton accuses Trump of 'betraying the West' at Munich Security Conference

<p>For centuries, European empires expanded across Asia and Africa under the banner of trade and commerce. Infrastructure such as railways and ports was developed, but largely to extract resources for European industries, not to strengthen local economies. The social and economic scars of that era remain visible across much of what is now called the Global South.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a speech at the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Western countries to compete more aggressively for ‘market share’ in the economies of developing countries. He framed this effort as part of constructing a ‘new Western century’, stressing industrial revival, supply chain security, and strategic competition.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Munich Forum, attended by world leaders, ministers, and policy experts, has long been a platform for shaping global security debates. Rubio’s remarks, however, stood out for their assertive tone. He described the West as a unified civilisation whose influence had receded after World War II, accelerated, according to him, by communist revolutions and anti-colonial movements. He characterised decolonisation as a period of Western contraction.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-case-will-10-walmart-holster-and-backpack-clue-help-catch-suspect-here-s-what-we-know-1771235388040"><strong>Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case: Will $10 Walmart holster and backpack clue help catch suspect? Here's what we know</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His comments have unsettled observers in many developing countries. Critics argue that portraying the Global South primarily as a terrain for economic rivalry risks reviving the mindset that once justified colonial expansion. While Rubio did not advocate territorial conquest, his focus on supply chains, critical minerals, and industrial leverage struck some as reminiscent of earlier patterns where trade paved the way for domination.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Historical parallels have been drawn to the English East India Company, which began as a commercial venture before evolving into a political and military force that reshaped entire regions. Today’s context is different; modern states are sovereign, globally connected, and capable of negotiating their own interests. Yet concerns persist that aggressive economic competition, especially when tied to sanctions or political pressure, may reproduce unequal power dynamics.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Recent US foreign policy moves have also fueled skepticism. The Trump administration’s centralised decision-making style and its assertive approach to trade and sanctions have led some analysts to see Rubio’s speech as an extension of a broader strategy aimed at restoring Western primacy. Geopolitical commentators such as Brahma Chellaney and Arnaud Bertrand criticized the address as revisionist and imperial in tone. Others, including Debabrata Bhaduri and Sanjaya Baru, urged countries like India, long seen as champions of anti-colonial solidarity, to push back strongly against what they perceive as an outdated worldview.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hawaii-s-kilauea-volcano-erupts-again-42nd-lava-fountaining-episode-rocks-the-island-1771232379274/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/hawaii-s-kilauea-volcano-erupts-again-42nd-lava-fountaining-episode-rocks-the-island-1771232379274/embed</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Supporters might argue that Rubio’s call simply reflects normal strategic competition in a multipolar world. Unlike in the colonial era, today’s Global South countries actively diversify partnerships and safeguard strategic autonomy. Economic engagement now operates through contracts, trade frameworks, and investment agreements rather than imperial charters. Even so, the rhetoric of ‘taking back control’ and reclaiming influence in developing regions inevitably evokes historical memories.&nbsp;</p><h2>Ramaphosa: ‘Africa must avoid a new colonialism’</h2><p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged African countries to stand united to avoid being exploited for their natural resources, following a statement by Marco Rubio praising imperialism. Speaking on the sidelines of the African Union leaders’ summit, which ended on Sunday, Ramaphosa stressed that Africa must respond to shifting global geopolitics with a single, coordinated voice. “We must guard against a new form of colonialism, where powerful economies once again set their sights on our minerals,” he was quoted as saying to The Africa Report.</p>

Marco Rubio's 'market share' speech in Munich triggers colonialism debate

For centuries, European empires expanded across Asia and Africa under the banner of trade and commerce. Infrastructure such as railways and ports was developed, but largely to extract resources for European industries, not to strengthen local economies. The social and economic scars of that era remain visible across much of what is now called the Global South. In a speech at the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Western countries to compete more aggressively for ‘market share’ in the economies of developing countries. He framed this effort as part of constructing a ‘new Western century’, stressing industrial revival, supply chain security, and strategic competition. The Munich Forum, attended by world leaders, ministers, and policy experts, has long been a platform for shaping global security debates. Rubio’s remarks, however, stood out for their assertive tone. He described the West as a unified civilisation whose influence had receded after World War II, accelerated, according to him, by communist revolutions and anti-colonial movements. He characterised decolonisation as a period of Western contraction. Also Read: Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case: Will $10 Walmart holster and backpack clue help catch suspect? Here's what we know His comments have unsettled observers in many developing countries. Critics argue that portraying the Global South primarily as a terrain for economic rivalry risks reviving the mindset that once justified colonial expansion. While Rubio did not advocate territorial conquest, his focus on supply chains, critical minerals, and industrial leverage struck some as reminiscent of earlier patterns where trade paved the way for domination. Historical parallels have been drawn to the English East India Company, which began as a commercial venture before evolving into a political and military force that reshaped entire regions. Today’s context is different; modern states are sovereign, globally connected, and capable of negotiating their own interests. Yet concerns persist that aggressive economic competition, especially when tied to sanctions or political pressure, may reproduce unequal power dynamics. Recent US foreign policy moves have also fueled skepticism. The Trump administration’s centralised decision-making style and its assertive approach to trade and sanctions have led some analysts to see Rubio’s speech as an extension of a broader strategy aimed at restoring Western primacy. Geopolitical commentators such as Brahma Chellaney and Arnaud Bertrand criticized the address as revisionist and imperial in tone. Others, including Debabrata Bhaduri and Sanjaya Baru, urged countries like India, long seen as champions of anti-colonial solidarity, to push back strongly against what they perceive as an outdated worldview. https://www.wionews.com/videos/hawaii-s-kilauea-volcano-erupts-again-42nd-lava-fountaining-episode-rocks-the-island-1771232379274/embed Supporters might argue that Rubio’s call simply reflects normal strategic competition in a multipolar world. Unlike in the colonial era, today’s Global South countries actively diversify partnerships and safeguard strategic autonomy. Economic engagement now operates through contracts, trade frameworks, and investment agreements rather than imperial charters. Even so, the rhetoric of ‘taking back control’ and reclaiming influence in developing regions inevitably evokes historical memories. Ramaphosa: ‘Africa must avoid a new colonialism’ South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged African countries to stand united to avoid being exploited for their natural resources, following a statement by Marco Rubio praising imperialism. Speaking on the sidelines of the African Union leaders’ summit, which ended on Sunday, Ramaphosa stressed that Africa must respond to shifting global geopolitics with a single, coordinated voice. “We must guard against a new form of colonialism, where powerful economies once again set their sights on our minerals,” he was quoted as saying to The Africa Report.

<p>US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s call to win ‘market share’ in the Global South sparks debate, with critics warning it echoes colonial-era economic dominance</p>

<p>Amidst the diplomatic tensions over the nuclear deal with the US, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy began a military exercise in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, local media reported on Monday (Feb. 16). The drill was named “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz," and was reported being led by the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It was also reported that IRGC's Commander-in-Chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour, was supervising the process. The exercise aimed to assess the readiness of operational units, review security plans, and rehearse scenarios for a military response to potential security threats.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This came after the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, said that if the US used force against the Islamic Nation, Tehran would target American bases. “If the Americans use force against us, they will receive force in return. The Islamic Republic is fully prepared but is not seeking war, and if war is imposed on us, we will respond,” Ali Larijani told Al Jazeera.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-hitler-wanted-master-race-they-want-master-religion-us-senator-lindsey-graham-compares-khamenei-with-nazis-1771009318196">'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“If the Americans attack Iran, we will strike their bases. But based on past experience, I doubt the other side is seeking war again,” he added. Meanwhile, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, at a presser with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, said that it was going to be hard to make a deal with Tehran.&nbsp;</p><h2>‘It’s going to be traumatic’</h2><p>US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (Feb 12), warned Iran, saying that if the Islamic Republic fails to reach an agreement with America, then it will lead to a “very traumatic” outcome for Tehran. “With Iran, we have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic,” Trump said in remarks at the White House. He added, “They should have made a deal the first time, and they got Midnight Hammer instead.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We had a very good meeting yesterday with Bibi Netanyahu, and he understands, but it's ultimately up to me if the deal is in a very fair deal and a very good deal with Iran, and it's going to be. I think a very difficult time for them,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Iran’s IRGC Navy launched a “Smart Control” military drill in the Strait of Hormuz, as officials warned of retaliation against US bases amid escalating nuclear deal tensions.

Amidst the diplomatic tensions over the nuclear deal with the US, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy began a military exercise in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, local media reported on Monday (Feb. 16). The drill was named “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz," and was reported being led by the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It was also reported that IRGC's Commander-in-Chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour, was supervising the process. The exercise aimed to assess the readiness of operational units, review security plans, and rehearse scenarios for a military response to potential security threats. This came after the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, said that if the US used force against the Islamic Nation, Tehran would target American bases. “If the Americans use force against us, they will receive force in return. The Islamic Republic is fully prepared but is not seeking war, and if war is imposed on us, we will respond,” Ali Larijani told Al Jazeera. Also read: 'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis “If the Americans attack Iran, we will strike their bases. But based on past experience, I doubt the other side is seeking war again,” he added. Meanwhile, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, at a presser with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, said that it was going to be hard to make a deal with Tehran. ‘It’s going to be traumatic’ US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (Feb 12), warned Iran, saying that if the Islamic Republic fails to reach an agreement with America, then it will lead to a “very traumatic” outcome for Tehran. “With Iran, we have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic,” Trump said in remarks at the White House. He added, “They should have made a deal the first time, and they got Midnight Hammer instead.” “We had a very good meeting yesterday with Bibi Netanyahu, and he understands, but it's ultimately up to me if the deal is in a very fair deal and a very good deal with Iran, and it's going to be. I think a very difficult time for them,” Trump said.

<p>Iran’s IRGC Navy launched a “Smart Control” military drill in the Strait of Hormuz, as officials warned of retaliation against US bases amid escalating nuclear deal tensions.</p>

IRGC starts military drill in Strait of Hormuz for ‘smart control’. Details here

<p>At least five people were injured after an avalanche derailed a train in the Swiss Alps. In a social media post Valais Police announced that a train had derailed in the village of Goppenstein at around 7 am local time, and a response was underway with injuries “likely.”</p><p><br>Authorities later confirmed that "Five people were injured. One of them was taken to hospital," adding that the rest of the passengers on the regional train in Goppenstein had been evacuated.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The accident occurred as the region was under the second-highest avalanche warning.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Swiss Federal Railways said on its website that an avalanche caused the accident.</p><p>The affected train was a RegioExpress that departed Spiez at 6:12 am. According to the &nbsp;BLS, there were 29 passengers on board at the time of the derailment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Train services between Goppenstein and Brig in the canton of Valais have been interrupted until 4 PM. Further delays and train cancellations are expected.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Swiss Federal Railways said on its website that an avalanche caused the accident.</p><p>The affected train was a RegioExpress that departed Spiez at 6:12 am. According to the &nbsp;Bern–Lötschberg–Simplon (BLS), the train company, there were 29 passengers on board at the time of the derailment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Train services between Goppenstein and Brig in canton Valais have been interrupted until 4 PM. Further delays and train cancellations are expected.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

The accident occurred as the region was under the second-highest avalanche warning. 

At least five people were injured after an avalanche derailed a train in the Swiss Alps. In a social media post Valais Police announced that a train had derailed in the village of Goppenstein at around 7 am local time, and a response was underway with injuries “likely.” Authorities later confirmed that "Five people were injured. One of them was taken to hospital," adding that the rest of the passengers on the regional train in Goppenstein had been evacuated. The accident occurred as the region was under the second-highest avalanche warning. Swiss Federal Railways said on its website that an avalanche caused the accident. The affected train was a RegioExpress that departed Spiez at 6:12 am. According to the BLS, there were 29 passengers on board at the time of the derailment. Train services between Goppenstein and Brig in the canton of Valais have been interrupted until 4 PM. Further delays and train cancellations are expected. Swiss Federal Railways said on its website that an avalanche caused the accident. The affected train was a RegioExpress that departed Spiez at 6:12 am. According to the Bern–Lötschberg–Simplon (BLS), the train company, there were 29 passengers on board at the time of the derailment. Train services between Goppenstein and Brig in canton Valais have been interrupted until 4 PM. Further delays and train cancellations are expected.

<p>The accident occurred as the region was under the second-highest avalanche warning.&nbsp;</p>

Avalanche derails passenger train in Switzerland, five injured

<p>In the newly released tranche of Epstein file emails, there are shocking references to Ghislaine Maxwell possessing sensitive material on Epstein's lawyer Alan Dershowitz and other high-profile individuals. The email correspondent was from Nicolas Biase, then Senior Public Affairs Officer of the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, and dated September 17, 2020, only a month after Maxwell's arrest.</p><p>“This will probably sound ridiculous, but I promised I'd ask (since it's from a credible publication): A reporter has heard rumours that Maxwell claims she was in possession of video(s) Epstein captured of Dershowitz and other high-profile individuals at the time of her arrest and may be using them to negotiate with you,” read the mail.</p><p>The recipient of the mail had been surprisingly redacted. (Redacted) responds, "Oh, sure. I can screen them for you in the Library if you want. We have Clinton, too." To which Baise responds, “I'm making popcorn as we speak. Much appreciated, sorry for the dumb Q.”</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeffrey-epstein-financial-bounty-hunter-doj-memo-1771221218669"><strong>Was Jeffrey Epstein a US 'financial bounty hunter'? DOJ memo raises questions</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Screenshot of EFTA00031582

Screenshot of EFTA00087773

<p>The correspondence leaves little room for speculation and suggests that the officials had themselves accessed the material, which could possibly be used as leverage by Maxwell. Ghislaine Maxwell was arrested on July 2, 2020, from a secluded estate in Bradford, New Hampshire. The disgraced British socialite, daughter of media mogul and alleged Mossad asset Robert Maxwell, had been serving a sentence of 20 years. Since Maxwell's arrest, one of the close associates of Epstein, Jean-Luc-Brunel has committed suicide in his cell at La Santé Prison in 2022. But Maxwell has maintained her innocence, sought clemency in exchange for cooperation, hinting at the presence of possible leverage in negotiation.&nbsp;</p><p>Former Israeli intelligence operative Ari Ben Menashi have claimed that both Ghislaine and Epstein were running a kompromat operation for the Israeli intelligence. Maria Farmer, one of the earliest victims of the Epstein-Maxwell ring, had alleged that all of Epstein's properties were laced with high-tech cameras, recording devices and a surveillance room to monitor activities. In 2005, Florida Detective Joseph Recarey noted that the property had unusual recording devices, and there were supposed to be computer towers which were removed before the raid, as cables were found dangling from the walls.&nbsp;</p>

Newly released Epstein-related emails reference claims that Ghislaine Maxwell possessed alleged leverage material involving Alan Dershowitz and others.

In the newly released tranche of Epstein file emails, there are shocking references to Ghislaine Maxwell possessing sensitive material on Epstein's lawyer Alan Dershowitz and other high-profile individuals. The email correspondent was from Nicolas Biase, then Senior Public Affairs Officer of the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, and dated September 17, 2020, only a month after Maxwell's arrest. “This will probably sound ridiculous, but I promised I'd ask (since it's from a credible publication): A reporter has heard rumours that Maxwell claims she was in possession of video(s) Epstein captured of Dershowitz and other high-profile individuals at the time of her arrest and may be using them to negotiate with you,” read the mail. The recipient of the mail had been surprisingly redacted. (Redacted) responds, "Oh, sure. I can screen them for you in the Library if you want. We have Clinton, too." To which Baise responds, “I'm making popcorn as we speak. Much appreciated, sorry for the dumb Q.” Also Read: Was Jeffrey Epstein a US 'financial bounty hunter'? DOJ memo raises questions

<p>Newly released Epstein-related emails reference claims that Ghislaine Maxwell possessed alleged leverage material involving Alan Dershowitz and others.</p>

Epstein File tranche mentions recorded material, redacted official response raises eyebrows

<p>At least eight people were killed, and two were injured after an explosion and fire at a fireworks shop in eastern China ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations, authorities said. The deadly Sunday blast in a village in Jiangsu province was triggered when a resident set off fireworks improperly near the store, the Donghai county government said in a statement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Bursting firecrackers at midnight on the Lunar New Year is a part of traditional celebrations in China. However, many places have banned fireworks in recent years, at least in part because of air pollution. Many regional governments have eased these restrictions in recent times, but the incident may spark renewed bans.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Ministry of Emergency Management in China has warned officials of urgent measures to prevent a repeat of such an incident in the coming days amid massive celebrations. In a statement following an emergency meeting of top officials, the ministry said all regions had to learn from the Sunday explosion and must strengthen the supervision of all stages of fireworks production, transport, sales and use.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Officials must resolutely prevent similar incidents from recurring,” the ministry said in the statement issued after the meeting, which was presided over by Vice-Minister Xu Jiaai.</p><p>The ministry instructed that all regions, as well as the fireworks business, must conduct a thorough assessment of safety risks and dangers related to fireworks and firecrackers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-assam-congress-president-bhupen-borah-quits-party-reverses-resignation-within-hours-1771238158971"><strong>Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah, quits party, reverses resignation within hours</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Lunar New Year, also known as Spring Festival in China, is a 15-day celebration marking the beginning of the new year on the traditional lunisolar calendar. This year, the festival falls on Tuesday (Feb 17), ushering in the year of the Fire Horse.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The festival is also considered the world's biggest annual migration, known as Chuyan. In 40 days, nearly 9.5 million journeys are undertaken by Chinese citizens. The mass inter-region migration is fueled by the cultural imperative of the Reunion Dinner. It also serves as a key occasion for Chinese society's family reunions when millions of migrant workers return from coastal mega cities to their ancestral villages.</p>

Bursting firecrackers at midnight on the Lunar New Year is a part of traditional celebrations in China. However, many places have banned fireworks in recent years, at least in part because of air pollution.

At least eight people were killed, and two were injured after an explosion and fire at a fireworks shop in eastern China ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations, authorities said. The deadly Sunday blast in a village in Jiangsu province was triggered when a resident set off fireworks improperly near the store, the Donghai county government said in a statement. Bursting firecrackers at midnight on the Lunar New Year is a part of traditional celebrations in China. However, many places have banned fireworks in recent years, at least in part because of air pollution. Many regional governments have eased these restrictions in recent times, but the incident may spark renewed bans. The Ministry of Emergency Management in China has warned officials of urgent measures to prevent a repeat of such an incident in the coming days amid massive celebrations. In a statement following an emergency meeting of top officials, the ministry said all regions had to learn from the Sunday explosion and must strengthen the supervision of all stages of fireworks production, transport, sales and use. “Officials must resolutely prevent similar incidents from recurring,” the ministry said in the statement issued after the meeting, which was presided over by Vice-Minister Xu Jiaai. The ministry instructed that all regions, as well as the fireworks business, must conduct a thorough assessment of safety risks and dangers related to fireworks and firecrackers. Also Read: Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah, quits party, reverses resignation within hours The Lunar New Year, also known as Spring Festival in China, is a 15-day celebration marking the beginning of the new year on the traditional lunisolar calendar. This year, the festival falls on Tuesday (Feb 17), ushering in the year of the Fire Horse. The festival is also considered the world's biggest annual migration, known as Chuyan. In 40 days, nearly 9.5 million journeys are undertaken by Chinese citizens. The mass inter-region migration is fueled by the cultural imperative of the Reunion Dinner. It also serves as a key occasion for Chinese society's family reunions when millions of migrant workers return from coastal mega cities to their ancestral villages.

<p>Bursting firecrackers at midnight on the Lunar New Year is a part of traditional celebrations in China. However, many places have banned fireworks in recent years, at least in part because of air pollution.</p>

Fireworks store explosion in China kills 8 ahead of Lunar New Year, prompts nationwide safety checks

Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, is reportedly being groomed as North Korea’s next leader, but experts warn she could face a fierce power struggle with her influential aunt, Kim Yo Jong.

Kim Jong Un’s teen heiress vs ruthless aunt: Inside North Korea’s deadly succession war

<p>The US military, along with the US Department of Energy and a private company, Valar Atomics, transported a micro nuclear reactor from March Air Reserve Base in California to Hill Air Force Base in Utah in first of its kind Operation Windlord. &nbsp;It will now be moved to Utah San Rafael Energy Lab (USREL) in Orangeville for extensive testing. The project components of the Ward250 reactor were transported by three C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft, each with a maximum load capacity of 77 tons. The reactor did not have any fuel installed in it.&nbsp;</p><p>"Today, the Department of War transported a next-generation nuclear reactor. This historic flight took place on a C-17 from California to Utah. We are executing President Trump’s energy dominance agenda," wrote the US Department of War on a social media post.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeffrey-epstein-financial-bounty-hunter-doj-memo-1771221218669"><strong>Was Jeffrey Epstein a US 'financial bounty hunter'? DOJ memo raises questions</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today, the Department of War transported a next-generation nuclear reactor.<br><br>This historic flight took place on a C-17 from California to Utah.<br><br>We are executing President Trump’s energy dominance agenda. <a href="https://t.co/I3tqUtUF6A">pic.twitter.com/I3tqUtUF6A</a></p>&mdash; Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2023223300181078073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today, we’re exited to partner with the Department of War and Department of Energy on Operation Windlord. Three C-17s will be transporting our Ward250 reactor from March ARB to Hill AFB.<br><br>Here’s a peek at what it took to bring this operation to life. (Part 1) <a href="https://t.co/aQR2l9aTd3">pic.twitter.com/aQR2l9aTd3</a></p>&mdash; Valar Atomics (@valaratomics) <a href="https://twitter.com/valaratomics/status/2023088173300289749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What is the Ward250 reactor?</h2><p>The Ward250 is a micro reactor with an output capacity of &nbsp;5-megawatt equivalent to the power demand of 5000 households. IT is suitable for small military bases and remote villages. It can be standardised, transported and assembled on site for temporary deployment. The reactor uses helium coolant and graphite moderators. At its core is the tri-structural isotropic (TRISO) fuel, which consists of &nbsp;“uranium kernels encased in ceramic layers”. According to a press release by Valar Atomics, the TRISO fuel is comparatively more efficient than the traditional fissile materials used in traditional power plants used in.</p><h2>Why is the deployment of Ward250 significant?</h2><p>The officials are suggesting it is more than a logistics deployment exercise. It is touted as a display of technical superiority, greater emphasis on energy autonomy. According to a Pentagon release, the groundbreaking collaboration between the US military and the DOE is a way to modernise America’s nuclear energy landscape. Officials say this demonstrates the autonomy of rapidly deploying nuclear capability to military bases, infrastructure, remote installations and disaster responses. This will further open the “future of energy resilience and strategic independence” of the US defence to infrastructural challenges.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The US military airlifted the Ward250 micro nuclear reactor to Utah in Operation Windlord, marking a major step toward energy resilience and defence autonomy.

The US military, along with the US Department of Energy and a private company, Valar Atomics, transported a micro nuclear reactor from March Air Reserve Base in California to Hill Air Force Base in Utah in first of its kind Operation Windlord. It will now be moved to Utah San Rafael Energy Lab (USREL) in Orangeville for extensive testing. The project components of the Ward250 reactor were transported by three C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft, each with a maximum load capacity of 77 tons. The reactor did not have any fuel installed in it. "Today, the Department of War transported a next-generation nuclear reactor. This historic flight took place on a C-17 from California to Utah. We are executing President Trump’s energy dominance agenda," wrote the US Department of War on a social media post. Also Read: Was Jeffrey Epstein a US 'financial bounty hunter'? DOJ memo raises questions

<p>The US military airlifted the Ward250 micro nuclear reactor to Utah in Operation Windlord, marking a major step toward energy resilience and defence autonomy.</p>

Operation Windlord: US deploys Ward250 micro reactor via C-17 Globemaster III in first-of-its-kind Mission

<p>Federal investigators have shared new details in the ongoing search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of ‘Today’ show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, as the case enters its third week. Authorities are treating the disappearance as a potential kidnapping and are intensifying efforts to identify a suspect. After reviewing doorbell camera footage from Guthrie’s home in Tucson and conducting a forensic analysis, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released updated information about a person of interest.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the agency’s Phoenix field office, the individual is believed to be a man standing between 5’9” and 5’10” with a medium build. He was seen carrying a black 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. Officials also confirmed that the reward for credible information has been raised to $100,000. The increased amount is being offered for tips that lead to Nancy Guthrie’s whereabouts or to the arrest and conviction of anyone connected to her disappearance.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-too-late-to-do-the-right-thing-savannah-guthrie-says-in-new-plea-to-kidnappers-1771215397075"><strong>‘Never too late to do the right thing’: Savannah Guthrie says in new plea to kidnappers</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What is the new evidence in Nancy Guthrie case?</strong></h2><p>Earlier footage made public by investigators shows a person approaching the residence wearing a ski mask, black gloves, a backpack, and what appears to be a holstered firearm. Authorities later determined that the holster, reportedly retailing for around $10, had been purchased from Walmart. Investigators believe these product details could provide valuable leads. Some online observers have also pointed out that the backpack seen in the footage is a model sold at select Walmart stores.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-impact-summit-2026-over-100-countries-invited-to-participate-at-ai-summit-1771234169266/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-impact-summit-2026-over-100-countries-invited-to-participate-at-ai-summit-1771234169266/embed</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Independent investigative blogger Jonathan Lee Riches has claimed that the Ozark Trail Hiker Pack is stocked at only certain locations, including one situated a few miles from Guthrie’s home. Law enforcement officials remain hopeful that the newly released information will generate tips that help solve the case.</p>

FBI shares new suspect details and raises reward to $100K in the suspected kidnapping of Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie, in Tucson, Arizona

Federal investigators have shared new details in the ongoing search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of ‘Today’ show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, as the case enters its third week. Authorities are treating the disappearance as a potential kidnapping and are intensifying efforts to identify a suspect. After reviewing doorbell camera footage from Guthrie’s home in Tucson and conducting a forensic analysis, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released updated information about a person of interest. According to the agency’s Phoenix field office, the individual is believed to be a man standing between 5’9” and 5’10” with a medium build. He was seen carrying a black 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. Officials also confirmed that the reward for credible information has been raised to $100,000. The increased amount is being offered for tips that lead to Nancy Guthrie’s whereabouts or to the arrest and conviction of anyone connected to her disappearance. Also Read: ‘Never too late to do the right thing’: Savannah Guthrie says in new plea to kidnappers What is the new evidence in Nancy Guthrie case? Earlier footage made public by investigators shows a person approaching the residence wearing a ski mask, black gloves, a backpack, and what appears to be a holstered firearm. Authorities later determined that the holster, reportedly retailing for around $10, had been purchased from Walmart. Investigators believe these product details could provide valuable leads. Some online observers have also pointed out that the backpack seen in the footage is a model sold at select Walmart stores. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-impact-summit-2026-over-100-countries-invited-to-participate-at-ai-summit-1771234169266/embed Independent investigative blogger Jonathan Lee Riches has claimed that the Ozark Trail Hiker Pack is stocked at only certain locations, including one situated a few miles from Guthrie’s home. Law enforcement officials remain hopeful that the newly released information will generate tips that help solve the case.

<p>FBI shares new suspect details and raises reward to $100K in the suspected kidnapping of Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie, in Tucson, Arizona</p>

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case: Will $10 Walmart holster and backpack clue help catch suspect? Here's what we know

<p>Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir was at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, and he has taken the internet by storm. A video of Munir entering the event venue has gone viral, in which the security is seen asking him for his ID. Netizens are questioning his popularity. Social media users are having a field trip; many interpretations of the situation have been established.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Some say it is the usual protocol, and attendees need to produce identity proof, which is standardised for everybody. So, Munir was not treated differently in accordance with the rules, said some netizens. But largely, his dignity was questioned on how the man holding the highest military rank of Pakistan was not recognised at a security event.&nbsp;</p><h2>WATCH VIDEO HERE:&nbsp;</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Field Marshal Asim Munir in Germany. To attend Defence &amp; Security meeting.<br>🇵🇰 - 🇩🇪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FieldMarshalGenAsimMunir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FieldMarshalGenAsimMunir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISPR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISPR</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsimMunir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsimMunir</a> <a href="https://t.co/nFyXOr5KK8">pic.twitter.com/nFyXOr5KK8</a></p>&mdash; Hammas H (@ihammas_h) <a href="https://twitter.com/ihammas_h/status/2022577118648099240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>As per news agency ANI, Germany-based Sindhi political organisation, the Jeay Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSMM), has strongly objected Munir's participation in the conference. They expressed "deep shock and regret" seeing him attending the summit on security.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a statement, JSMM alleged that Pakistan's military establishment has a historical record of human rights violations and political interference. The group referred to the 1971 events in former East Pakistan that led to the creation of Bangladesh, describing them as genocide. It also accused Pakistan's military and intelligence agencies of supporting extremist elements in the region -- allegations that Islamabad has consistently denied.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The organisation further claimed that Pakistan's military wields disproportionate influence over the country's political and judicial institutions. It cited the assassinations of former leaders, including Liaquat Ali Khan and Benazir Bhutto, as well as the execution of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, as examples of alleged instability linked to military dominance. It also referenced the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, attributing it to tensions with the current military leadership. Additionally, JSMM alleged ongoing enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>(With agency inputs)</p>

Watch the viral video of Pak Field Marshal Asim Munir being stopped for an ID check at the Munich Security Conference. Is it routine security or a diplomatic snub?

Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir was at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, and he has taken the internet by storm. A video of Munir entering the event venue has gone viral, in which the security is seen asking him for his ID. Netizens are questioning his popularity. Social media users are having a field trip; many interpretations of the situation have been established. Some say it is the usual protocol, and attendees need to produce identity proof, which is standardised for everybody. So, Munir was not treated differently in accordance with the rules, said some netizens. But largely, his dignity was questioned on how the man holding the highest military rank of Pakistan was not recognised at a security event. WATCH VIDEO HERE:

<p>Watch the viral video of Pak Field Marshal Asim Munir being stopped for an ID check at the Munich Security Conference. Is it routine security or a diplomatic snub?</p>

Embarrassment or routine? German security asks Pak Field Marshal Asim Munir to prove identity, netizens question his popularity

<p>A newly surfaced document from the DOJ's Epstein Files contain a striking claim that &nbsp;Jeffrey Epstein was a US “financial bounty hunter”. The document was an internal law-enforcement memo, either the FBI or the Attorney General, it remains unspecified. The document suggests that he has significant political connections with Israel and the United States and lists Ehud Barak, Les Wexner, George Mitchell, Bill Richardson, Bill Clinton, and Doug Band as having significant knowledge about Epstein's activity. The document categorises Epstein as a &nbsp;“Tier 3 registered sex offender”, the highest risk category.&nbsp;</p><p>"At some point in time, Jeffrey Epstein worked for the United States government as a financial bounty hunter. He has retained significant political connections with both Israel and the United States. Individuals with significant knowledge include Ehud Barak, Les Wexner, George Mitchell, Bill Richardson, Bill Clinton, and Doug Band," read the memo.</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-pizza-cream-cheese-code-claims-analysis-1771139756648"><strong>Epstein files fuel speculation over ‘pizza’ and ‘cream cheese baby’ references</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Screenshot EFTA00098755

<h2>Was Epstein a financial bounty hunter?</h2><p>The first widely reported instance of bounty hunting was in the 1980s when the brokerage firm Drysdale Securities imploded. Epstein was hired by a Spanish socialite and actress, Ana Obregón and his family. He, along with federal prosecutor Bob Gold, helped them recover the funds hidden in a Canadian bank’s branch in the Cayman Islands.&nbsp;</p><p>Another famous one was the Tower Ponzi scheme, the largest Ponzi scheme in US history. Steven Hoffenberg, the founder of Tower Corporation, said that while Epstein was working for him, he took $100 million and put it in offshore accounts and then reported Hoffenberg to the federal authorities. Hoffenberg pleaded guilty in 1995 and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.&nbsp;</p><p>Hoffenberg alleged that Epstein was the architect of the scheme; he further alleged that Epstein laundered money for Saudi Defence broker Adnan Khashoggi and British Defence Contractor Douglas Lesse during the Iran-Contra Scam. &nbsp;Hoffenberg died in his apartment in August 2022, and his body was recovered in a state of decomposition. Hoffenberg maintained regular contact with one of Epstein's earliest victims, Maria Farmer.</p><p>A financial bounty hunter is usually someone who identifies financial misconduct, such as money laundering, and reports it to authorities. Epstein did introduce himself as a financial bounty hunter. There is no official government title of financial bounty hunter. This could potentially mean informal co-operation with federal agents to uncover financial fraud. The document further points to a broader prosecutorial pathway, suggesting the people in his inner circle and the possibility of Epstein being convicted for at least 10 years in a US federal prison. The document seems to have been drafted after his first conviction in 2008, when he received a sweetheart deal: 13 months in a county jail with work-release privileges and immunity for his possible co-conspirators. Former US attorney who negotiated a controversial 2008 plea deal with Jeffrey Epstein, suggesting that he was asked to leave Epstein alone as he "belonged to intelligence".</p>

A newly surfaced DOJ memo claims Jeffrey Epstein worked as a US “financial bounty hunter” with high-level political connections. Here’s what we know.

A newly surfaced document from the DOJ's Epstein Files contain a striking claim that Jeffrey Epstein was a US “financial bounty hunter”. The document was an internal law-enforcement memo, either the FBI or the Attorney General, it remains unspecified. The document suggests that he has significant political connections with Israel and the United States and lists Ehud Barak, Les Wexner, George Mitchell, Bill Richardson, Bill Clinton, and Doug Band as having significant knowledge about Epstein's activity. The document categorises Epstein as a “Tier 3 registered sex offender”, the highest risk category. "At some point in time, Jeffrey Epstein worked for the United States government as a financial bounty hunter. He has retained significant political connections with both Israel and the United States. Individuals with significant knowledge include Ehud Barak, Les Wexner, George Mitchell, Bill Richardson, Bill Clinton, and Doug Band," read the memo. Also Read: Epstein files fuel speculation over ‘pizza’ and ‘cream cheese baby’ references

<p>A newly surfaced DOJ memo claims Jeffrey Epstein worked as a US “financial bounty hunter” with high-level political connections. Here’s what we know.</p>

Was Jeffrey Epstein a US 'financial bounty hunter'? DOJ memo raises questions

<p>Ahead of swearing-in as the first male prime minister of Bangladesh after 35 years, BNP chief Tarique Rahman reached out to the Opposition in his country. On Sunday (Feb 15), he met Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman and National Citizen Party leader Nahid Islam as part of a “positive political beginning.” In the recently concluded polls, the Jamaat-e-Islami registered its best ever performance with 31.76 per cent votes and 68 seats. The National Citizen Party (NCP) secured the third-highest number of seats, six, and 3.05 per cent votes.</p><h2>Tarique Rahman's reaches out to Opposition</h2><p>Tarique Rahman visited Jamaat chief at his residence along with party’s secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamigir. Soon after, the BNP’s media wing released a photograph showing the two rival party leaders standing side by side with Shafiqur Rahman seen holding a bouquet to be handed over to Tarique Rahman and terming the meeting as “courtesy visit.” The BNP leader also met Jamaat-ally National Citizen Party’s (NCP) convenor Nahid Islam later.</p><h2>How Jamaat reacted?</h2><p>After the visit, Jamaat said that the visit by the prime minister-in waiting “marks an important moment in our national political journey.” Stating that the Jamaat welcomes “this engagement in a spirit of dialogue and responsibility,” the party said in a post on X that it hopes it signals “a new chapter of institutional maturity and mutual respect.” The party also said that the BNP chief &nbsp;reaffirmed that steps are being taken regarding incidents of post-election violence, including actions to address harm against opposition supporters and minority communities. “We will cooperate fully on matters of national interest, yet we will discharge our constitutional duty as a firm and principled opposition. Where the government acts in the public interest, we will support. Where accountability is required, we will speak,” the Jamaat added.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-bjp-actually-won-in-bangladesh-elections-here-s-the-truth-1771147183190"><strong>Did BJP actually win a seat in Bangladesh Elections? Here's the truth</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Jamaat and allies allege poll violation</strong></h2><p>This comes even as Jammat and its allies submitted complaints to the Election Commission, challenging results in 32 constituencies. "We have identified 32 constituencies where our candidates were unfairly defeated. The election day began smoothly, but the ending was not what we had expected. Fake votes, the circulation of black money (bribes), threats, assaults, and attacks marred the atmosphere.," said senior Jamaat official Hamidur Rahman Azad in complaint to the EC. Police records show that political clashes during the campaign period left five people dead and more than 600 injured.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-invites-india-and-12-other-nations-to-tarique-rahman-s-cabinet-oath-ceremony-1771096731770"><strong>Bangladesh invites India and 12 other nations to Tarique Rahman’s cabinet oath ceremony</strong></a></p><h2>What we know about recently concluded Bangladesh elections?</h2><p>Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) registered an impressive victory in the recently concluded elections. BNP's chief and son of former PM late Khaleda Zia - Tarique Rahman - is set to become the first male PM of the country in 35 years. Rahman has reiterated that his government's approach will 'Bangladesh first' but it will maintain a balanced relations with India, China and other South Asian nations. The elections took place in the country after former PM Sheikh Hasina was ousted after a violent uprising in 2024. In this elections, Awami League was banned and Hasina dismissed the polls as a “sham.” Meanwhile, Bangladeshis also voted for referendum on the July National Charter 2025. The "Yes" vote won a decisive mandate with 68.59 per cent support. It will approve 84 reform points out of which 47 require constitutional amendments.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

After a landslide election win, Tarique Rahman met rival leaders including Jamaat and NCP in a conciliatory move ahead of forming Bangladesh’s new government. While opposition raised concerns over poll irregularities and violence, both sides signaled cooperation and political stability.

Ahead of swearing-in as the first male prime minister of Bangladesh after 35 years, BNP chief Tarique Rahman reached out to the Opposition in his country. On Sunday (Feb 15), he met Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman and National Citizen Party leader Nahid Islam as part of a “positive political beginning.” In the recently concluded polls, the Jamaat-e-Islami registered its best ever performance with 31.76 per cent votes and 68 seats. The National Citizen Party (NCP) secured the third-highest number of seats, six, and 3.05 per cent votes. Tarique Rahman's reaches out to Opposition Tarique Rahman visited Jamaat chief at his residence along with party’s secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamigir. Soon after, the BNP’s media wing released a photograph showing the two rival party leaders standing side by side with Shafiqur Rahman seen holding a bouquet to be handed over to Tarique Rahman and terming the meeting as “courtesy visit.” The BNP leader also met Jamaat-ally National Citizen Party’s (NCP) convenor Nahid Islam later. How Jamaat reacted? After the visit, Jamaat said that the visit by the prime minister-in waiting “marks an important moment in our national political journey.” Stating that the Jamaat welcomes “this engagement in a spirit of dialogue and responsibility,” the party said in a post on X that it hopes it signals “a new chapter of institutional maturity and mutual respect.” The party also said that the BNP chief reaffirmed that steps are being taken regarding incidents of post-election violence, including actions to address harm against opposition supporters and minority communities. “We will cooperate fully on matters of national interest, yet we will discharge our constitutional duty as a firm and principled opposition. Where the government acts in the public interest, we will support. Where accountability is required, we will speak,” the Jamaat added. Also Read: Did BJP actually win a seat in Bangladesh Elections? Here's the truth Jamaat and allies allege poll violation This comes even as Jammat and its allies submitted complaints to the Election Commission, challenging results in 32 constituencies. "We have identified 32 constituencies where our candidates were unfairly defeated. The election day began smoothly, but the ending was not what we had expected. Fake votes, the circulation of black money (bribes), threats, assaults, and attacks marred the atmosphere.," said senior Jamaat official Hamidur Rahman Azad in complaint to the EC. Police records show that political clashes during the campaign period left five people dead and more than 600 injured. Also Read: Bangladesh invites India and 12 other nations to Tarique Rahman’s cabinet oath ceremony What we know about recently concluded Bangladesh elections? Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) registered an impressive victory in the recently concluded elections. BNP's chief and son of former PM late Khaleda Zia - Tarique Rahman - is set to become the first male PM of the country in 35 years. Rahman has reiterated that his government's approach will 'Bangladesh first' but it will maintain a balanced relations with India, China and other South Asian nations. The elections took place in the country after former PM Sheikh Hasina was ousted after a violent uprising in 2024. In this elections, Awami League was banned and Hasina dismissed the polls as a “sham.” Meanwhile, Bangladeshis also voted for referendum on the July National Charter 2025. The "Yes" vote won a decisive mandate with 68.59 per cent support. It will approve 84 reform points out of which 47 require constitutional amendments.

<p>After a landslide election win, Tarique Rahman met rival leaders including Jamaat and NCP in a conciliatory move ahead of forming Bangladesh’s new government. While opposition raised concerns over poll irregularities and violence, both sides signaled cooperation and political stability.</p>

'Will cooperate in matters of national interest': Bangladesh's Tarique Rahman meets Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman ahead of swearing-in

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Israel next week amid efforts to deepen bilateral ties in defence, counter-terrorism, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. The visit, PM Modi's first to Israel during his third term in office and his first since 2017, comes at a time of strengthened strategic partnership between the two nations. Official confirmation from New Delhi is pending, but possible dates of 24-25 February are expected, following an invitation extended by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hopes-to-conclude-free-trade-agreement-with-india-this-year-says-ambassador-azar-1769626573391"><strong>Israel hopes to conclude free trade agreement with India this year, says Ambassador Azar</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a recent address to the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, Netanyahu publicly announced the forthcoming visit, highlighting the robust relationship between the countries. "Parliament address on the anvil. Who’s coming here next week? Narendra Modi," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;"Tremendous alliance between Israel and India, and we are going to discuss all sorts of cooperation. Now, you know, India is not a small country. It has 1.4 billion people. India is enormously powerful, enormously popular. Did you know that? Yeah, you do? Good, I’m glad you know it, but I want all of you to know it."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-stands-with-israel-against-terrorism-fs-misri-says-at-holocaust-remembrance-event-1769623473649"><strong>India stands with Israel against terrorism, FS Misri says at Holocaust remembrance event</strong></a></p>

<p>He emphasised Israel's popularity in India, framing the partnership as a key element in both nations' strategic outlooks. Talks between Modi and Netanyahu are anticipated to focus on defence collaboration, as well as intensified counter-terrorism efforts.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Both leaders have repeatedly affirmed a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism in recent interactions. Emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum research, and advanced agriculture are also expected to feature prominently, with potential agreements to expand cooperation in these fields. The visit builds on longstanding ties that have grown markedly under Modi and Netanyahu's leadership.</p>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Israel on February 24–25 to strengthen ties in defence, counter-terrorism and AI. Announced by Benjamin Netanyahu, the visit signals deepening strategic cooperation, though official confirmation from India is still awaited.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Israel next week amid efforts to deepen bilateral ties in defence, counter-terrorism, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. The visit, PM Modi's first to Israel during his third term in office and his first since 2017, comes at a time of strengthened strategic partnership between the two nations. Official confirmation from New Delhi is pending, but possible dates of 24-25 February are expected, following an invitation extended by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Also Read: Israel hopes to conclude free trade agreement with India this year, says Ambassador Azar In a recent address to the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, Netanyahu publicly announced the forthcoming visit, highlighting the robust relationship between the countries. "Parliament address on the anvil. Who’s coming here next week? Narendra Modi," he said. "Tremendous alliance between Israel and India, and we are going to discuss all sorts of cooperation. Now, you know, India is not a small country. It has 1.4 billion people. India is enormously powerful, enormously popular. Did you know that? Yeah, you do? Good, I’m glad you know it, but I want all of you to know it." Also Read: India stands with Israel against terrorism, FS Misri says at Holocaust remembrance event

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Israel on February 24–25 to strengthen ties in defence, counter-terrorism and AI. Announced by Benjamin Netanyahu, the visit signals deepening strategic cooperation, though official confirmation from India is still awaited.</p>

PM Narendra Modi to visit Israel next week

<p>As the AI Impact Summit 2026 kicks off at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, top industrialists highlighted that artificial intelligence will not take over jobs, but rather significantly enhance productivity. They also urged young professionals to adapt to AI tools or risk being left behind. Tech leaders also predicted an exponential growth in the sector over the next three years, with AI models improving at an unprecedented pace.</p><p>Speaking at the “Democratizing AI Resources for Economic Growth and Social Good” session, Microsoft India and South Asia President Puneet Chandok said that rapid advancements in the industry in recent months show how quickly the technology is developing.</p><p>“The models you have seen today, it’s incredible and we are growing on. With AI, we have potentially the ability to grow and move on, and now the world is changing and ready to adopt it,” he said.</p><p>“The next generation of AI businesses will be built on AI, not just clouds,” he added. “AI - it will not kill jobs, but will unbundle jobs. AI will end the charade. You and I have to bundle ourselves. If you are not learning AI today, you are not learning anything.”</p><p>Highlighting India’s position in the global AI ecosystem, Chandok said, “What’s happening in India is quite interesting. Here, real talent is coming up, policies are coming up. 59% businesses in India use AI agents. We have a huge pool of talent.”</p><p>Meanwhile, Info Edge founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani said that deploying AI can improve efficiency and serve previously unviable market segments, rather than replace human workers.</p><p>“You can sit in office and you can make phone calls now the bottom 5100 clients who really don't pay that much. It doesn’t make financial sense to have a person person holding them and calling on them, it doesn’t make financial sense for a person who and for India, so we put a chatbot, a voice bot automatically calls, you can’t make out it’s not a human being, that’s how it’s advanced, right, and suddenly we are calling them up. Now what is happening here is stuff that is not getting done, we have served an underserved segment, underserved market by using AI,” Bikhchandani said, speaking at the “Future of Employability and AI” session.</p><p>“Thus nobody is thrown out of a company because of AI, I don’t want that happening going forward, but right now it’s being used to increase productivity, it is being used to do stuff better, it is being used to do stuff better,” he added.</p>

At AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, industry leaders said AI won’t replace jobs but boost productivity, urging youth to upskill as India sees rapid AI growth and wider business adoption.

As the AI Impact Summit 2026 kicks off at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, top industrialists highlighted that artificial intelligence will not take over jobs, but rather significantly enhance productivity. They also urged young professionals to adapt to AI tools or risk being left behind. Tech leaders also predicted an exponential growth in the sector over the next three years, with AI models improving at an unprecedented pace. Speaking at the “Democratizing AI Resources for Economic Growth and Social Good” session, Microsoft India and South Asia President Puneet Chandok said that rapid advancements in the industry in recent months show how quickly the technology is developing. “The models you have seen today, it’s incredible and we are growing on. With AI, we have potentially the ability to grow and move on, and now the world is changing and ready to adopt it,” he said. “The next generation of AI businesses will be built on AI, not just clouds,” he added. “AI - it will not kill jobs, but will unbundle jobs. AI will end the charade. You and I have to bundle ourselves. If you are not learning AI today, you are not learning anything.” Highlighting India’s position in the global AI ecosystem, Chandok said, “What’s happening in India is quite interesting. Here, real talent is coming up, policies are coming up. 59% businesses in India use AI agents. We have a huge pool of talent.” Meanwhile, Info Edge founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani said that deploying AI can improve efficiency and serve previously unviable market segments, rather than replace human workers. “You can sit in office and you can make phone calls now the bottom 5100 clients who really don't pay that much. It doesn’t make financial sense to have a person person holding them and calling on them, it doesn’t make financial sense for a person who and for India, so we put a chatbot, a voice bot automatically calls, you can’t make out it’s not a human being, that’s how it’s advanced, right, and suddenly we are calling them up. Now what is happening here is stuff that is not getting done, we have served an underserved segment, underserved market by using AI,” Bikhchandani said, speaking at the “Future of Employability and AI” session. “Thus nobody is thrown out of a company because of AI, I don’t want that happening going forward, but right now it’s being used to increase productivity, it is being used to do stuff better, it is being used to do stuff better,” he added.

<p>At AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, industry leaders said AI won’t replace jobs but boost productivity, urging youth to upskill as India sees rapid AI growth and wider business adoption.</p>

‘AI will not kill jobs’: Industrialists predict exponential growth in next 3 years at AI Impact Summit 2026

<p>Iran and the US diplomats will meet in Geneva for second round of talks on Tuesday (Feb 17). While the US wants Iran to ensure that there will be no uranium enrichment in future, Tehran has expressed that it will compromise only when sanctions relief are granted. Additionally, the US wants the deal to include areas like oil and gas fields, joint fields, mining investments, and even aircraft purchases. Iran and the US renewed negotiations amid US President Donald Trump's massive military buildup in Arabian Sea.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-top-iranian-general-warns-trump-any-war-would-be-a-lesson-1771220675947/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-top-iranian-general-warns-trump-any-war-would-be-a-lesson-1771220675947/embed</a>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"For the sake of an agreement's durability, it is essential that the US also benefits in areas with high and quick economic returns. Common interests in the oil and gas fields, joint fields, mining investments, and even aircraft purchases are included in the negotiations" foreign ministry deputy director for economic diplomacy Hamid Ghanbari said, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. Ghanbari also argued that the 2015 nuclear pact with world powers had not secured US economic interests.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/netanyahu-lists-condition-for-us-iran-deal-but-tehran-wants-sanctions-relief-will-second-round-of-nuclear-talks-succeed-1771220160353"><strong>Netanyahu lists condition for US-Iran deal but Tehran wants sanctions relief: Will second round of nuclear talks succeed?</strong></a></p><h2>What we know about Iran-US nuclear talks?</h2><p>On Feb 15, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi reached Geneva to lead Tehran’s delegation into a second round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States. Trump's top envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner will attend the Geneva talks from American side. Both sides held first round of latest talks in Muscat earlier this month.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-back-israeli-strikes-on-iran-what-trump-told-netanyahu-if-deal-fails-1771213080247/amp"><strong>US to back Israeli strikes on Iran? What Trump told Netanyahu if deal fails</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about reaching a deal with Iran, and said that Trump is open to meeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, he acknowledged that no previous attempts to strike a deal with the Iranian regime have been successful. "No one's ever been able to do a successful deal with Iran but we're going to try," Rubio said during a news conference in Bratislava. During Munich Security Conference, he also insisted that Trump wants to resolve the matter diplomatically.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Iranian deputy foreign minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said that Iran is ready to consider compromises to reach a nuclear deal with the US if the Americans are willing to discuss lifting sanctions. He said that the ball was "in America's court to prove that they want to do a deal", adding, "If they are sincere, I'm sure we will be on the road to an agreement. We are ready to discuss this and other issues related to our programme if they are ready to talk about sanctions," Takht-Ravanchi told the BBC.</p>

Iran is pushing for a nuclear deal with the US that brings mutual economic gains, while offering limited compromise on uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief. With talks underway in Geneva and military pressure rising, the outcome remains uncertain.

Iran and the US diplomats will meet in Geneva for second round of talks on Tuesday (Feb 17). While the US wants Iran to ensure that there will be no uranium enrichment in future, Tehran has expressed that it will compromise only when sanctions relief are granted. Additionally, the US wants the deal to include areas like oil and gas fields, joint fields, mining investments, and even aircraft purchases. Iran and the US renewed negotiations amid US President Donald Trump's massive military buildup in Arabian Sea. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-top-iranian-general-warns-trump-any-war-would-be-a-lesson-1771220675947/embed "For the sake of an agreement's durability, it is essential that the US also benefits in areas with high and quick economic returns. Common interests in the oil and gas fields, joint fields, mining investments, and even aircraft purchases are included in the negotiations" foreign ministry deputy director for economic diplomacy Hamid Ghanbari said, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. Ghanbari also argued that the 2015 nuclear pact with world powers had not secured US economic interests. Also Read: Netanyahu lists condition for US-Iran deal but Tehran wants sanctions relief: Will second round of nuclear talks succeed? What we know about Iran-US nuclear talks? On Feb 15, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi reached Geneva to lead Tehran’s delegation into a second round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States. Trump's top envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner will attend the Geneva talks from American side. Both sides held first round of latest talks in Muscat earlier this month. Also Read: US to back Israeli strikes on Iran? What Trump told Netanyahu if deal fails US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about reaching a deal with Iran, and said that Trump is open to meeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, he acknowledged that no previous attempts to strike a deal with the Iranian regime have been successful. "No one's ever been able to do a successful deal with Iran but we're going to try," Rubio said during a news conference in Bratislava. During Munich Security Conference, he also insisted that Trump wants to resolve the matter diplomatically. Meanwhile, Iranian deputy foreign minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said that Iran is ready to consider compromises to reach a nuclear deal with the US if the Americans are willing to discuss lifting sanctions. He said that the ball was "in America's court to prove that they want to do a deal", adding, "If they are sincere, I'm sure we will be on the road to an agreement. We are ready to discuss this and other issues related to our programme if they are ready to talk about sanctions," Takht-Ravanchi told the BBC.

<p>Iran is pushing for a nuclear deal with the US that brings mutual economic gains, while offering limited compromise on uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief. With talks underway in Geneva and military pressure rising, the outcome remains uncertain.</p>

From mining to aircraft deals: What's on table in Iran-US nuclear negotiations?

<p>Former US president Barack Obama on Sunday (Feb 15) issued a clarification after his remarks on the existence of extraterrestrial life made during a podcast interview went viral on social media. In the video, Obama responds to a question posed by YouTuber Brian Tyler Cowen, saying that aliens are “real”. He also addressed popular conspiracy theories linked to Area 51, the top-secret US Air Force base in Nevada that is rumoured to keep aliens.</p><p>In a post on Instagram, Obama wrote, “I was trying to stick with the spirit of the speed round, but since it’s gotten attention let me clarify.”</p><p>The former president continued, “Statistically, the universe is so vast that the odds are good there’s life out there. But the distances between solar systems are so great that the chances we’ve been visited by aliens is low, and I saw no evidence during my presidency that extraterrestrials have made contact with us. Really!”</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-aliens-are-real-what-former-us-president-barack-obama-said-about-extraterrestrial-and-area-51-1771144567786"><strong>‘Aliens are real’: What former US president Barack Obama said about extraterrestrial and Area 51</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What did Obama say about aliens and Area 51?</strong></h2><p>During the interview, Cowen asked Obama, “Are aliens real?”</p><p>“They’re real,” Obama replied to the question, adding, “but I haven’t seen them.”</p><p>Speaking about the Area 51 base, the former president said, “They’re not being kept in Area 51. There’s no underground facility, unless there’s this enormous conspiracy, and they hid it from the president of the United States.”</p><p>Cowen further asked Obama, “What was the first question you wanted answered when you became president?” To this, the Democrat replied, “Where are the aliens?”</p>

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<p>Obama has also spoken about aliens in UFOs earlier in 2021, when he told The Late Late Show host James Corden, “When it comes to aliens, there are some things I just can’t tell you on air.”</p><p>He later confirmed that UAP sightings are real and the US government has not been able to uncover details on where these objects come from or how they move.</p><p>“But what is true and I’m actually being serious here is that there’s footage and records of objects in the skies that we don’t know exactly what they are,” Obama had said.</p>

Barack Obama issued a clarification after his podcast comments about aliens and Area 51 went viral, drawing widespread attention and online debate over his remarks.

Former US president Barack Obama on Sunday (Feb 15) issued a clarification after his remarks on the existence of extraterrestrial life made during a podcast interview went viral on social media. In the video, Obama responds to a question posed by YouTuber Brian Tyler Cowen, saying that aliens are “real”. He also addressed popular conspiracy theories linked to Area 51, the top-secret US Air Force base in Nevada that is rumoured to keep aliens. In a post on Instagram, Obama wrote, “I was trying to stick with the spirit of the speed round, but since it’s gotten attention let me clarify.” The former president continued, “Statistically, the universe is so vast that the odds are good there’s life out there. But the distances between solar systems are so great that the chances we’ve been visited by aliens is low, and I saw no evidence during my presidency that extraterrestrials have made contact with us. Really!” Also read | ‘Aliens are real’: What former US president Barack Obama said about extraterrestrial and Area 51 What did Obama say about aliens and Area 51? During the interview, Cowen asked Obama, “Are aliens real?” “They’re real,” Obama replied to the question, adding, “but I haven’t seen them.” Speaking about the Area 51 base, the former president said, “They’re not being kept in Area 51. There’s no underground facility, unless there’s this enormous conspiracy, and they hid it from the president of the United States.” Cowen further asked Obama, “What was the first question you wanted answered when you became president?” To this, the Democrat replied, “Where are the aliens?”

<p>Barack Obama issued a clarification after his podcast comments about aliens and Area 51 went viral, drawing widespread attention and online debate over his remarks.</p>

‘Since it’s gotten attention...’: Obama clarifies on ‘aliens are real’ claim after video goes viral

The Department of Justice released a list of 305 names mentioned in the Epstein Files. The names "are or were a government official or politically exposed person", and who were also named "in the files released under the Act at least once."

Epstein Files new release has 305 names, including politicians, celebrities and businessmen - Full List

Netanyahu urged Iran to end uranium enrichment, while Tehran signaled willingness to negotiate if sanctions are lifted. As US-Iran talks resume in Geneva, Washington pushes diplomacy alongside pressure tactics, leaving the prospects of a breakthrough uncertain.

Netanyahu lists condition for US-Iran deal but Tehran wants sanctions relief: Will second round of nuclear talks succeed?

<p>As the search continues in the second week to find Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC broadcaster Savannah Guthrie, investigators have recovered a DNA sample from a glove found near the 84-year-old’s home in Arizona. According to the FBI, the DNA evidence is being found ,and the glove appears to match the gloves worn by the suspect seen in a doorbell camera video.</p><p>The FBI said that the glove was one of the 16 recovered by investigators in areas surrounding Guthrie’s home, noting that most other gloves belonged to searchers who discarded them while working in the area.</p><p>“The one with the DNA profile recovered is different and appears to match the gloves of the subject in the surveillance video,” the FBI said in a statement.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-too-late-to-do-the-right-thing-savannah-guthrie-says-in-new-plea-to-kidnappers-1771215397075"><strong>‘Never too late to do the right thing’: Savannah Guthrie says in new plea to kidnappers</strong></a></p><p>The investigators are waiting before putting what it called “the unknown male profile” into CoDIS, the agency’s national database for matching DNA profiles.</p><p>“This process typically takes 24 hours from when the bureau receives DNA,” the FBI added.</p><h2><strong>Savannah Guthrie shares new plea video</strong></h2><p>As the search continues in the second week to find Nancy Guthrie, NBC broadcaster Savannah Guthrie has shared a new video on social media pleading for the person who abducted her mother.</p><p>“It’s been two weeks since our mom was taken, and I just wanted to come on and say that we still have hope and we still believe,” she said in the video posted on Instagram.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-sign-of-nancy-found-pima-county-sheriff-warns-exhausting-search-for-guthrie-could-take-years-1771133612912"><strong>‘No sign of Nancy found’: Pima County Sheriff warns ‘exhausting’ search for Guthrie could take years</strong></a></p><p>Addressing the person who kidnapped her mother, she said, “You’re not lost or alone, and it is never too late to do the right thing.” She added, “We are here. And we believe. And we believe in the essential goodness of every human being.”</p><p>Meanwhile, investigators are looking into several leads and hundreds of tips related to the case of the disappearance of the 84-year-old from her Arizona home. She was last seen at her residence on January 31 and was reported missing by her family at approximately noon the next day, after she didn’t show up to her regular church service, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.</p><p><strong>Watch | Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping: FBI Probing Recovered Glove's Purported Link To Suspect On Video</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-fbi-probing-recovered-glove-s-purported-link-to-suspect-on-video-1771211696579/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-fbi-probing-recovered-glove-s-purported-link-to-suspect-on-video-1771211696579/embed</a></p>

FBI recovered DNA from a glove near Nancy Guthrie’s Arizona home that may match a suspect seen on video. As tests continue, Savannah Guthrie shared a new plea urging her mother’s abductor to come forward.

As the search continues in the second week to find Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC broadcaster Savannah Guthrie, investigators have recovered a DNA sample from a glove found near the 84-year-old’s home in Arizona. According to the FBI, the DNA evidence is being found ,and the glove appears to match the gloves worn by the suspect seen in a doorbell camera video. The FBI said that the glove was one of the 16 recovered by investigators in areas surrounding Guthrie’s home, noting that most other gloves belonged to searchers who discarded them while working in the area. “The one with the DNA profile recovered is different and appears to match the gloves of the subject in the surveillance video,” the FBI said in a statement. Also read | ‘Never too late to do the right thing’: Savannah Guthrie says in new plea to kidnappers The investigators are waiting before putting what it called “the unknown male profile” into CoDIS, the agency’s national database for matching DNA profiles. “This process typically takes 24 hours from when the bureau receives DNA,” the FBI added. Savannah Guthrie shares new plea video As the search continues in the second week to find Nancy Guthrie, NBC broadcaster Savannah Guthrie has shared a new video on social media pleading for the person who abducted her mother. “It’s been two weeks since our mom was taken, and I just wanted to come on and say that we still have hope and we still believe,” she said in the video posted on Instagram. Also read | ‘No sign of Nancy found’: Pima County Sheriff warns ‘exhausting’ search for Guthrie could take years Addressing the person who kidnapped her mother, she said, “You’re not lost or alone, and it is never too late to do the right thing.” She added, “We are here. And we believe. And we believe in the essential goodness of every human being.” Meanwhile, investigators are looking into several leads and hundreds of tips related to the case of the disappearance of the 84-year-old from her Arizona home. She was last seen at her residence on January 31 and was reported missing by her family at approximately noon the next day, after she didn’t show up to her regular church service, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Watch | Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping: FBI Probing Recovered Glove's Purported Link To Suspect On Video https://www.wionews.com/videos/nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-fbi-probing-recovered-glove-s-purported-link-to-suspect-on-video-1771211696579/embed

<p>FBI recovered DNA from a glove near Nancy Guthrie’s Arizona home that may match a suspect seen on video. As tests continue, Savannah Guthrie shared a new plea urging her mother’s abductor to come forward.</p>

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping: FBI finds DNA on glove that may belong to suspect

<p>As the search continues in the second week to find Nancy Guthrie, NBC broadcaster Savannah Guthrie has shared a new video on social media pleading for the person who abducted her mother. Meanwhile, investigators are looking into several leads and hundreds of tips related to the case of the disappearance of the 84-year-old from her Arizona home. She was last seen at her residence on January 31 and was reported missing by her family at approximately noon the next day, after she didn’t show up to her regular church service, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.</p><p>“It’s been two weeks since our mom was taken, and I just wanted to come on and say that we still have hope and we still believe,” she said in the video posted on Instagram.</p><p>Addressing the person who kidnapped her mother, she said, “You’re not lost or alone, and it is never too late to do the right thing.” She added, “We are here. And we believe. And we believe in the essential goodness of every human being.”</p>

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<p>NewsNation reported, citing a former FBI agent, that Savannah’s new message was likely made with coaching from an FBI behavioural specialist and is an attempt to appeal to the humanity of Nancy Guthrie’s kidnappers. Former Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer told “NewsNation Prime” that the plea also serves as a “message to Nancy.”</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-sign-of-nancy-found-pima-county-sheriff-warns-exhausting-search-for-guthrie-could-take-years-1771133612912/amp"><strong>‘No sign of Nancy found’: Pima County Sheriff warns ‘exhausting’ search for Guthrie could take years</strong></a></p><p>“When I hear a message like that, it’s much like what we do when we interview individuals we believe are responsible for a violent crime,” she said. “We try to tell them, ‘Listen, we know you’re human,’ and I can hear that message ringing through here.”</p><p>Meanwhile, the authorities found a glove containing DNA evidence about 2 miles from Nancy Guthrie’s home, which appears to be the same one worn by the person seen in the doorbell camera video.</p><p><strong>Watch | Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping: FBI Probing Recovered Glove's Purported Link To Suspect On Video</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-fbi-probing-recovered-glove-s-purported-link-to-suspect-on-video-1771211696579/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-fbi-probing-recovered-glove-s-purported-link-to-suspect-on-video-1771211696579/embed</a></p>

NBC’s Savannah Guthrie shared a video pleading for her abducted 84-year-old mother Nancy Guthrie’s safe return, as Arizona investigators pursue leads two weeks after her disappearance.

As the search continues in the second week to find Nancy Guthrie, NBC broadcaster Savannah Guthrie has shared a new video on social media pleading for the person who abducted her mother. Meanwhile, investigators are looking into several leads and hundreds of tips related to the case of the disappearance of the 84-year-old from her Arizona home. She was last seen at her residence on January 31 and was reported missing by her family at approximately noon the next day, after she didn’t show up to her regular church service, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. “It’s been two weeks since our mom was taken, and I just wanted to come on and say that we still have hope and we still believe,” she said in the video posted on Instagram. Addressing the person who kidnapped her mother, she said, “You’re not lost or alone, and it is never too late to do the right thing.” She added, “We are here. And we believe. And we believe in the essential goodness of every human being.”

<p>NBC’s Savannah Guthrie shared a video pleading for her abducted 84-year-old mother Nancy Guthrie’s safe return, as Arizona investigators pursue leads two weeks after her disappearance.</p>

‘Never too late to do the right thing’: Savannah Guthrie says in new plea to kidnappers

<p>&nbsp;In his first public hearing, Bondi Beach attacker Naveed Akram who appeared in an Australian court via video link Monday (Feb 16) reportedly said only one word. , since the nation’s worst mass shooting in nearly three decades. Akram and his father, Sajid, shot at people during a Hanukkah celebration at Australia’s Bondi Beach in December. While Sajid was shot and killed by police during the attack, Naveed has been charged with terrorism, 15 counts of murder and a litany of other crimes. He appeared in a Sydney court for about five minutes via video link from prison, according to AFP report.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistani-nationals-links-to-islamic-state-what-we-know-about-bondi-beach-shooters-sajid-and-naveed-akram-1765765119824"><strong>Islamic State links? What we know about Bondi beach shooters Sajid and Naveed Akram</strong></a></p><h2>What happened during the hearing?</h2><p>In the hearing, the timeline of evidence and technical matters such as suppressing the identification of some victims were discussed. AFP reported that Akram wore a green jersey during the hearing and reportedly spoke only one word — “yeah” — when asked by the judge whether he had heard a discussion about the extension of suppression orders. Akram will next appear in court on March 9. Speaking outside the court, Akram’s lawyer Ben Archbold claimed that his client is held in “very onerous conditions." He also said it was too early to say whether Akram would plead guilty.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bondi-beach-terror-attack-india-police-extends-full-support-to-australian-authorities-1765884820225"><strong>Bondi Beach terror attack: India police extends full support to Australian authorities</strong></a></p><h2>What we know about Naveed Akram?</h2><p>According to reports, Naveed Akram was flagged by Australia’s intelligence agency in 2019, but he slipped off the radar after it decided that he posed no imminent threat. Police documents released following the attack said the two had carried out “firearms training” in what was believed to be the New South Wales countryside before the shooting. They said the suspects “meticulously planned” the attack for months, releasing pictures showing them firing shotguns and moving in what they described as a “tactical manner. The pair also recorded a video in October railing against “Zionists” while sitting in front of a flag of the Islamic State jihadist group and detailing their motivations for the attack, police said. Moreover, it has also came to light that Sajid Akram is originally from Hyderabad, India, and migrated to Australia in November 1998. In a statement, India's Telangana police said that Akram’s family in Hyderabad had no knowledge of his “radical mindset" and he visited India only six times in the 27 years since he moved to Australia. Indian police have reassured that they are fully cooperating with Australian authorities and other relevant agencies on the matter.</p>

Naveed Akram appeared briefly in a Sydney court via video link over the deadly Bondi Beach Hanukkah attack. Facing terrorism and murder charges, the case highlights security lapses, alleged extremist links, and ongoing investigations into one of Australia’s deadliest shootings.

In his first public hearing, Bondi Beach attacker Naveed Akram who appeared in an Australian court via video link Monday (Feb 16) reportedly said only one word. , since the nation’s worst mass shooting in nearly three decades. Akram and his father, Sajid, shot at people during a Hanukkah celebration at Australia’s Bondi Beach in December. While Sajid was shot and killed by police during the attack, Naveed has been charged with terrorism, 15 counts of murder and a litany of other crimes. He appeared in a Sydney court for about five minutes via video link from prison, according to AFP report. Also Read: Islamic State links? What we know about Bondi beach shooters Sajid and Naveed Akram What happened during the hearing? In the hearing, the timeline of evidence and technical matters such as suppressing the identification of some victims were discussed. AFP reported that Akram wore a green jersey during the hearing and reportedly spoke only one word — “yeah” — when asked by the judge whether he had heard a discussion about the extension of suppression orders. Akram will next appear in court on March 9. Speaking outside the court, Akram’s lawyer Ben Archbold claimed that his client is held in “very onerous conditions." He also said it was too early to say whether Akram would plead guilty. Also Read: Bondi Beach terror attack: India police extends full support to Australian authorities What we know about Naveed Akram? According to reports, Naveed Akram was flagged by Australia’s intelligence agency in 2019, but he slipped off the radar after it decided that he posed no imminent threat. Police documents released following the attack said the two had carried out “firearms training” in what was believed to be the New South Wales countryside before the shooting. They said the suspects “meticulously planned” the attack for months, releasing pictures showing them firing shotguns and moving in what they described as a “tactical manner. The pair also recorded a video in October railing against “Zionists” while sitting in front of a flag of the Islamic State jihadist group and detailing their motivations for the attack, police said. Moreover, it has also came to light that Sajid Akram is originally from Hyderabad, India, and migrated to Australia in November 1998. In a statement, India's Telangana police said that Akram’s family in Hyderabad had no knowledge of his “radical mindset" and he visited India only six times in the 27 years since he moved to Australia. Indian police have reassured that they are fully cooperating with Australian authorities and other relevant agencies on the matter.

<p>Naveed Akram appeared briefly in a Sydney court via video link over the deadly Bondi Beach Hanukkah attack. Facing terrorism and murder charges, the case highlights security lapses, alleged extremist links, and ongoing investigations into one of Australia’s deadliest shootings.</p>

Australia's Bondi Beach gunman Naveed Akram says only THIS word in court appearance

<p>US President Donald Trump reportedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December that he would back Israeli strikes on Iran’s ballistic missile program if Washington and Tehran could not reach a deal. The revelation comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East as another round of talks is set to take place in Geneva, and the US expands its military presence in the region.</p><p>According to a CBS report, citing sources familiar with the matter, internal discussions between senior officials in the US military and intelligence agencies have started on the possibility of supporting fresh Israeli strikes on Iran.</p><p>Last year, the US joined Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. CBS reported that Washington’s role this time will involve helping jets refuel in midair or aiding Israel in receiving permission to fly over neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, several countries have voiced that they would not allow their airspace be used for an attack on Iran.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-will-go-full-force-trump-and-netanyahu-agree-to-ramp-up-maximum-pressure-on-iran-s-oil-1771126657780"><strong>‘We will go full force’: Trump and Netanyahu agree to ramp up ‘maximum pressure’ on Iran’s oil</strong></a></p><p>The report comes ahead of the second round of negotiations between the US and Iran in Geneva to discuss Iran’s nuclear program.&nbsp;</p><p>Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 15) said that any deal between the US and Iran must include the removal of all enriched uranium from Iran as well as Tehran’s ability to enrich more.</p><p>Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Trump has made it clear that he would prefer diplomacy and a negotiated settlement.</p><p>“No one’s ever been able to do a successful deal with Iran, but we’re going to try,” Rubio said.</p><p>Axios reported that Trump and Netanyahu have agreed to intensify economic pressure on Iran to force Tehran give up its nuclear program, and also reduce its oil sales to China.&nbsp;</p><p>According to the report, more than 80 per cent of Iranian oil exports are sent to China. Reducing Beijing’s oil purchases from Iran could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran. The pressure campaign will take place alongside the talks on Iran’s nuclear program and ongoing US military buildup in the Middle East if negotiations fail.</p><p><strong>Watch | US-Iran Talk: Netanyahu Demands All Uranium Leave Iran Ahead Geneva Talks</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-talk-netanyahu-demands-all-uranium-leave-iran-ahead-geneva-talks-1771210796373/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-talk-netanyahu-demands-all-uranium-leave-iran-ahead-geneva-talks-1771210796373/embed</a></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

Donald Trump reportedly told Benjamin Netanyahu he’d back Israeli strikes on Iran’s missile program if US-Iran talks fail, as tensions rise and Washington weighs expanded military support.

US President Donald Trump reportedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December that he would back Israeli strikes on Iran’s ballistic missile program if Washington and Tehran could not reach a deal. The revelation comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East as another round of talks is set to take place in Geneva, and the US expands its military presence in the region. According to a CBS report, citing sources familiar with the matter, internal discussions between senior officials in the US military and intelligence agencies have started on the possibility of supporting fresh Israeli strikes on Iran. Last year, the US joined Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. CBS reported that Washington’s role this time will involve helping jets refuel in midair or aiding Israel in receiving permission to fly over neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, several countries have voiced that they would not allow their airspace be used for an attack on Iran. Also read | ‘We will go full force’: Trump and Netanyahu agree to ramp up ‘maximum pressure’ on Iran’s oil The report comes ahead of the second round of negotiations between the US and Iran in Geneva to discuss Iran’s nuclear program. Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 15) said that any deal between the US and Iran must include the removal of all enriched uranium from Iran as well as Tehran’s ability to enrich more. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Trump has made it clear that he would prefer diplomacy and a negotiated settlement. “No one’s ever been able to do a successful deal with Iran, but we’re going to try,” Rubio said. Axios reported that Trump and Netanyahu have agreed to intensify economic pressure on Iran to force Tehran give up its nuclear program, and also reduce its oil sales to China. According to the report, more than 80 per cent of Iranian oil exports are sent to China. Reducing Beijing’s oil purchases from Iran could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran. The pressure campaign will take place alongside the talks on Iran’s nuclear program and ongoing US military buildup in the Middle East if negotiations fail. Watch | US-Iran Talk: Netanyahu Demands All Uranium Leave Iran Ahead Geneva Talks https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-talk-netanyahu-demands-all-uranium-leave-iran-ahead-geneva-talks-1771210796373/embed

<p>Donald Trump reportedly told Benjamin Netanyahu he’d back Israeli strikes on Iran’s missile program if US-Iran talks fail, as tensions rise and Washington weighs expanded military support.</p>

US to back Israeli strikes on Iran? What Trump told Netanyahu if deal fails

<p>In yet another statement over the purchase of Russian oil, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday (Feb 15) said that India has committed to stop buying Russian oil. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, Rubio said, “In our conversations with India, we’ve gotten their commitment to stop buying additional Russian oil.” On Feb 10, the White House released a factsheet on India-US trade deal. Interestingly, the only mention of Russian oil in the document was in a statement acknowledging that Trump "agreed to remove the additional 25 per cent tariff on imports from India in recognition of India's commitment to stop purchasing Russian Federation oil." Apart from this, there was no mention of how and in what capacity is India going to stop Russian oil purchase.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-oil-piles-up-at-sea-diplomatic-pressures-complicate-russia-s-search-for-oil-buyers-1770790884270/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-oil-piles-up-at-sea-diplomatic-pressures-complicate-russia-s-search-for-oil-buyers-1770790884270/embed</a> &nbsp;</p><h2>India's take on Russian oil issue</h2><p>On Feb 14, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while speaking at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, reiterated that India's decision with regards to energy issues are based on its "best interests." &nbsp;"As for energy issues, this is a complex market today. Oil companies in India, as in Europe, as probably in other parts of the world, look at availability, look at costs, look at risks and take the decisions that they feel are in their best interest," he said. He also added, ""India may not agree with all partners on every issue, dialogue and willingness to find common ground remain important."</p><p>The statement by Jaishankar was in line with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's earlier statement that New Delhi will continue sourcing crude oil from multiple suppliers to safeguard energy stability.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-heard-from-anyone-except-russian-fm-sergei-lavrov-counters-us-claim-on-india-oil-deal-1770824550039"><strong>'Not heard from anyone except...': Russian FM Sergei Lavrov counters US claim on India oil deal</strong></a></p><h2>Russia blames US</h2><p>On Feb 9, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that US is using "coercive" measures like tariffs, sanctions and direct prohibitions in order to achieve its goal of economic domination. He also said that Washington is trying to transform Russian ties with friendly countries like India. "They are trying to ban India and our other partners from buying cheap, affordable Russian energy resources and are forcing them to buy US LNG at exorbitant prices," he said. He also said that he had not heard any confirmation from Indian officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi about ending Russian oil purchase.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><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"><strong>White House releases first official fact sheet on US-India trade deal</strong></a></p><h2>India-US trade deal</h2><p>India and the US confirmed a trade deal after months of negotiations with Indian Prime Minister Modi announcing the same formally on Feb 2 and appreciating US President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity.” Trump claimed that India will stop buying Russian oil as the part of the deal. India or PM Modi did not mention anything on Russian oil purchase in its statement. Trump, who had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian exports late last year and later doubled the tariffs on India to 50 per cent punishing Delhi for buying oil from Russia, reduced the tariffs to 18 per cent.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Marco Rubio claimed India agreed to halt Russian oil purchases, but Indian officials stress energy decisions are based on national interest. With no clear confirmation from New Delhi, the issue highlights tensions between economic priorities and geopolitical pressure.

In yet another statement over the purchase of Russian oil, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday (Feb 15) said that India has committed to stop buying Russian oil. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, Rubio said, “In our conversations with India, we’ve gotten their commitment to stop buying additional Russian oil.” On Feb 10, the White House released a factsheet on India-US trade deal. Interestingly, the only mention of Russian oil in the document was in a statement acknowledging that Trump "agreed to remove the additional 25 per cent tariff on imports from India in recognition of India's commitment to stop purchasing Russian Federation oil." Apart from this, there was no mention of how and in what capacity is India going to stop Russian oil purchase. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-oil-piles-up-at-sea-diplomatic-pressures-complicate-russia-s-search-for-oil-buyers-1770790884270/embed India's take on Russian oil issue On Feb 14, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while speaking at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, reiterated that India's decision with regards to energy issues are based on its "best interests." "As for energy issues, this is a complex market today. Oil companies in India, as in Europe, as probably in other parts of the world, look at availability, look at costs, look at risks and take the decisions that they feel are in their best interest," he said. He also added, ""India may not agree with all partners on every issue, dialogue and willingness to find common ground remain important." The statement by Jaishankar was in line with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's earlier statement that New Delhi will continue sourcing crude oil from multiple suppliers to safeguard energy stability. Also Read: 'Not heard from anyone except...': Russian FM Sergei Lavrov counters US claim on India oil deal Russia blames US On Feb 9, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that US is using "coercive" measures like tariffs, sanctions and direct prohibitions in order to achieve its goal of economic domination. He also said that Washington is trying to transform Russian ties with friendly countries like India. "They are trying to ban India and our other partners from buying cheap, affordable Russian energy resources and are forcing them to buy US LNG at exorbitant prices," he said. He also said that he had not heard any confirmation from Indian officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi about ending Russian oil purchase. Also Read: White House releases first official fact sheet on US-India trade deal India-US trade deal India and the US confirmed a trade deal after months of negotiations with Indian Prime Minister Modi announcing the same formally on Feb 2 and appreciating US President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity.” Trump claimed that India will stop buying Russian oil as the part of the deal. India or PM Modi did not mention anything on Russian oil purchase in its statement. Trump, who had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian exports late last year and later doubled the tariffs on India to 50 per cent punishing Delhi for buying oil from Russia, reduced the tariffs to 18 per cent.

<p>Marco Rubio claimed India agreed to halt Russian oil purchases, but Indian officials stress energy decisions are based on national interest. With no clear confirmation from New Delhi, the issue highlights tensions between economic priorities and geopolitical pressure.</p>

Rubio says India ‘committed’ to stop Russian oil purchase days after Jaishankar's 'strategic autonomy' remark: Who said what

<p>US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday (Feb 15) said that the US has no reason to doubt or dispute the report by five European nations that blames Russia for poisoning opposition leader and fierce Putin critic Alexi Navalny in a prison in 2024. Rubio said that the report is "troubling" and that Washington had no reason to question it. He clarified that the US not joining the joint statement does not mean a disagreement between them. Five European countries, including the UK, France and Germany, accused Russia of "poisoning" Navalny with epibatidine toxin found in the skin of dart frogs.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-killed-putin-critic-navalny-by-poisoning-with-rare-toxin-say-european-states-1771086288649"><strong>Russia killed Putin critic Navalny by poisoning with ‘rare toxin,’ say European states</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/navalny-death-probe-putin-s-critic-alexei-navalny-poisoned-with-rare-dart-frog-toxin-in-prison-1771123461934/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/navalny-death-probe-putin-s-critic-alexei-navalny-poisoned-with-rare-dart-frog-toxin-in-prison-1771123461934/embed</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We obviously are aware of the report. It's a troubling report. We're aware of that case of Mr. Navalny and certainly... we don't have any reason to question it," Rubio told reporters at a news conference in Bratislava during a visit to Slovakia. When asked why the United States did not join the statement, Rubio said this was an endeavour by them. "Those countries came to that conclusion. They coordinated that. We chose - Doesn't mean we disagree with the outcome. We just, it wasn't, our endeavour. Sometimes countries go out and do their thing with based on the intelligence they've gathered. We're not disputing or getting into a fight with these countries over it. But it was their report, and they put that out there." Rubio said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed Navalny's "courage in the face of tyranny" in a social media post, slamming “Putin's murderous intent.” Meanwhile, Britain said that it will consider "increasing sanctions" against Russia following the findings.&nbsp;</p><h2>What Russia said on the allegations?</h2><p>Russia on Saturday (February 14) strongly rejected the claims calling it “a Western propaganda hoax.” Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted by the Russian state's TASS news saying, "When the test results are available and the formulas for the substances are disclosed, we will comment accordingly. Until then, all such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues." She also criticized the timing of these allegations. “Just as the investigation into the Nord Stream explosions was about to yield results, suddenly Navalny's poisoning is brought into focus. When asked for Navalny's test results, Western officials instead circulated sensational stories about the Skripals. This pattern continues unabated,” she added. The Russian embassy in London said, “One must ask what kind of person would believe this nonsense about a frog.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-alexei-the-world-has-not-forgotten-when-navalny%E2%80%99-director-dedicated-oscar-win-to-political-prisoner-691017"><strong>'Alexei, world hasn't forgotten your message': When Navalny director dedicated Oscar win to political prisoner</strong></a></p><h2>What European countries claimed?</h2><p>A multi-agency inquiry involving the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands released its findings on the sidelines of the Munich Security conference, ahead of the second anniversary of Navalny's death. Navalny, 47, a staunch critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, died in February 2024 in a Siberian penal colony while serving a 19 year prision sentence. The UK Foreign Office said that there is no plausible explanation for the toxin called epibatidine, being found in samples taken from Navalny's body. &nbsp;"Only the Russian state had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin to target Navalny during his imprisonment in a Russian penal colony in Siberia, and we hold it responsible for his death," the UK Foreign Office added in a statement. Soon after, Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Navalny, said now it is proven scientifically that the Kremlin opponent had been murdered.</p>

Marco Rubio called a European report on Alexei Navalny’s alleged poisoning “troubling” and said the US has no reason to doubt it. While Western nations blame Russia, Moscow denies the claims, calling them propaganda, as tensions rise over the case.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday (Feb 15) said that the US has no reason to doubt or dispute the report by five European nations that blames Russia for poisoning opposition leader and fierce Putin critic Alexi Navalny in a prison in 2024. Rubio said that the report is "troubling" and that Washington had no reason to question it. He clarified that the US not joining the joint statement does not mean a disagreement between them. Five European countries, including the UK, France and Germany, accused Russia of "poisoning" Navalny with epibatidine toxin found in the skin of dart frogs. Also Read: Russia killed Putin critic Navalny by poisoning with ‘rare toxin,’ say European states https://www.wionews.com/videos/navalny-death-probe-putin-s-critic-alexei-navalny-poisoned-with-rare-dart-frog-toxin-in-prison-1771123461934/embed "We obviously are aware of the report. It's a troubling report. We're aware of that case of Mr. Navalny and certainly... we don't have any reason to question it," Rubio told reporters at a news conference in Bratislava during a visit to Slovakia. When asked why the United States did not join the statement, Rubio said this was an endeavour by them. "Those countries came to that conclusion. They coordinated that. We chose - Doesn't mean we disagree with the outcome. We just, it wasn't, our endeavour. Sometimes countries go out and do their thing with based on the intelligence they've gathered. We're not disputing or getting into a fight with these countries over it. But it was their report, and they put that out there." Rubio said. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed Navalny's "courage in the face of tyranny" in a social media post, slamming “Putin's murderous intent.” Meanwhile, Britain said that it will consider "increasing sanctions" against Russia following the findings. What Russia said on the allegations? Russia on Saturday (February 14) strongly rejected the claims calling it “a Western propaganda hoax.” Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted by the Russian state's TASS news saying, "When the test results are available and the formulas for the substances are disclosed, we will comment accordingly. Until then, all such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues." She also criticized the timing of these allegations. “Just as the investigation into the Nord Stream explosions was about to yield results, suddenly Navalny's poisoning is brought into focus. When asked for Navalny's test results, Western officials instead circulated sensational stories about the Skripals. This pattern continues unabated,” she added. The Russian embassy in London said, “One must ask what kind of person would believe this nonsense about a frog.” Also Read: 'Alexei, world hasn't forgotten your message': When Navalny director dedicated Oscar win to political prisoner What European countries claimed? A multi-agency inquiry involving the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands released its findings on the sidelines of the Munich Security conference, ahead of the second anniversary of Navalny's death. Navalny, 47, a staunch critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, died in February 2024 in a Siberian penal colony while serving a 19 year prision sentence. The UK Foreign Office said that there is no plausible explanation for the toxin called epibatidine, being found in samples taken from Navalny's body. "Only the Russian state had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin to target Navalny during his imprisonment in a Russian penal colony in Siberia, and we hold it responsible for his death," the UK Foreign Office added in a statement. Soon after, Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Navalny, said now it is proven scientifically that the Kremlin opponent had been murdered.

<p>Marco Rubio called a European report on Alexei Navalny’s alleged poisoning “troubling” and said the US has no reason to doubt it. While Western nations blame Russia, Moscow denies the claims, calling them propaganda, as tensions rise over the case.</p>

US backs report on Navalny's poisoning as UK calls out 'Putin's murderous intent': Are sanctions next?

<p>Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who pleaded guilty in a Manhattan federal court to charges of murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit money laundering in a foiled plot to assassinate Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, is reported to have done so to end ‘long and exhausting’ legal battle for himself and his family, said a report in the Indian Express.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sources close to Gupta’s family told the media outlet that his decision to plead guilty was motivated by a desire to bring an end to a “long and exhausting” legal battle that had taken a serious emotional and financial toll on his family.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/board-of-peace-members-have-pledged-over-5-billion-thousands-of-personnel-for-gaza-says-trump-1771174635077"><strong>Board of Peace members have pledged over $5 billion, thousands of personnel for Gaza, says Trump</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The family has been fighting this for so long. He would have sensed the toll it was taking on them and decided to put an end to it. He hasn’t turned approver or anything but has taken all the blame on himself, from what the family has been told by his lawyer,” says the report, citing one of the sources familiar with the family’s situation.</p><p>Gupta’s family is reported to have learned about his plea through his lawyer only on Friday, just hours before the news broke in the media. His wife and mother are in shock, struggling to process the reality that Nikhil now faces a long prison sentence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-white-collar-terror-probe-radicalised-doctors-formed-outfit-ansar-interim-to-carry-out-attacks-1771153445817"><strong>‘White-collar’ terror probe: Radicalised doctors formed outfit ‘Ansar Interim’ to carry out attacks</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gupta reportedly spoke to his family a few days before entering the plea but gave no hint about his decision.</p><p>The prolonged legal battle has put a severe financial burden on the family.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The sources cited in the report said the family had exhausted its resources while trying to retain private legal counsel in the US, ultimately requesting a government-appointed lawyer for Gupta.</p><p>Despite repeated efforts, the family said they received no support from the Indian government, despite attempts to reach out to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-victory-is-not-declared-by-mere-rhetoric-as-our-neighbourhood-entities-do-says-cds-gen-anil-chauhan-1771085253490"><strong>‘Victory is not declared by mere rhetoric as our neighbourhood entities do,’ says CDS Gen Anil Chauhan</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gupta was arrested by Czech authorities at the Vaclav Havel Airport in Prague on June 30, 2023, while traveling from India, following a US extradition request. He was extradited to the US on June 14, 2024, and has been held in a Brooklyn jail pending trial.</p><p>The US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York confirmed that Gupta is scheduled for sentencing before US District Judge Victor Marrero on May 29, 2026. Under the plea agreement, prosecutors have recommended a sentence of 21 to 24 years.</p>

The sources said Nikhil Gupta’s family had exhausted its resources to retain private legal counsel in the US but ultimately requested a government-appointed lawyer for him. The family said they received no support from the Indian government, despite attempts to reach out to the MEA.

Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who pleaded guilty in a Manhattan federal court to charges of murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit money laundering in a foiled plot to assassinate Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, is reported to have done so to end ‘long and exhausting’ legal battle for himself and his family, said a report in the Indian Express. Sources close to Gupta’s family told the media outlet that his decision to plead guilty was motivated by a desire to bring an end to a “long and exhausting” legal battle that had taken a serious emotional and financial toll on his family. Also Read: Board of Peace members have pledged over $5 billion, thousands of personnel for Gaza, says Trump “The family has been fighting this for so long. He would have sensed the toll it was taking on them and decided to put an end to it. He hasn’t turned approver or anything but has taken all the blame on himself, from what the family has been told by his lawyer,” says the report, citing one of the sources familiar with the family’s situation. Gupta’s family is reported to have learned about his plea through his lawyer only on Friday, just hours before the news broke in the media. His wife and mother are in shock, struggling to process the reality that Nikhil now faces a long prison sentence. Also Read: ‘White-collar’ terror probe: Radicalised doctors formed outfit ‘Ansar Interim’ to carry out attacks Gupta reportedly spoke to his family a few days before entering the plea but gave no hint about his decision. The prolonged legal battle has put a severe financial burden on the family. The sources cited in the report said the family had exhausted its resources while trying to retain private legal counsel in the US, ultimately requesting a government-appointed lawyer for Gupta. Despite repeated efforts, the family said they received no support from the Indian government, despite attempts to reach out to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Also Read: ‘Victory is not declared by mere rhetoric as our neighbourhood entities do,’ says CDS Gen Anil Chauhan Gupta was arrested by Czech authorities at the Vaclav Havel Airport in Prague on June 30, 2023, while traveling from India, following a US extradition request. He was extradited to the US on June 14, 2024, and has been held in a Brooklyn jail pending trial. The US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York confirmed that Gupta is scheduled for sentencing before US District Judge Victor Marrero on May 29, 2026. Under the plea agreement, prosecutors have recommended a sentence of 21 to 24 years.

<p>The sources said Nikhil Gupta’s family had exhausted its resources to retain private legal counsel in the US but ultimately requested a government-appointed lawyer for him. The family said they received no support from the Indian government, despite attempts to reach out to the MEA.</p>

Nikhil Gupta pleaded guilty to end ‘long and exhausting’ legal battle for family: Report

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‘Nikhil Gupta pleaded guilty to end long, exhausting legal battle for family’