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In a landmark victory amid Bangladesh's historic 13th national parliamentary election on 12 February 2026, senior Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Gayeshwar Chandra Roy has been elected as the Member of Parliament for the Dhaka-3 constituency.Roy, a prominent figure from the country's Hindu community and a veteran of mainstream politics, comfortably defeated his nearest rival, Md Shahinur Islam of Jamaat-e-Islami.The win marks a significant moment for representation in the newly formed parliament, where Roy is reported to be one of the few, if not the only, Hindu MPs elected. It comes as the BNP, led by Tarique Rahman, swept to a landslide majority across the country.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/friday-the-13th-brings-new-dawn-to-bangladesh-citizens-say-yes-to-july-charter-reject-recap-of-authoritarian-regimes-khaleda-zia-sheikh-hasina-1770970235848">Friday the 13th brings new dawn to Bangladesh: Citizens reject authoritarianism, say 'yes' to 'July Charter'</a>Speaking to WION after his victory, Roy emphasised his deep roots in the nation. "I am son of the soil," he said. He rejected labels along religious lines. "I am not a Hindu Lawmaker. I became a lawmaker in the parliament and make law for every body," Roy stated. "As per the constitution, everyone has equal rights."Roy went further in addressing perceptions of minority status. "Hindus are not minorities. Buddhists are not minorities. Everyone has equal rights," he declared. "In our country, communal harmony is historical. We live together; we share things. No communalism in Bangladesh."On the safety and rights of minorities, he added: "Minorities in Bangladesh safe. Values same, right of minorities same. we have several problems, but not communal issues."The veteran politician highlighted his long-standing commitment to public service. "I have a long history in politics, I sacrificed for nation, for people," Roy said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamaat-chief-shafiqur-rahman-who-compared-working-women-to-prostitutes-wins-dhaka-15-seat-1770954274658">Jamaat chief who compared working women to prostitutes, wins Dhaka-15 seat</a>He also touched on foreign policy, underscoring a balanced approach. "We believe in friendship with all countries..but we will assert our national interest."He previously served in ministerial roles during BNP-led governments in the 1990s, including as State Minister for Environment and Forests, and Fisheries and Livestock. His election in Dhaka-3, part of the capital's constituencies where the BNP performed strongly, reflects broad voter support in the wake of the election, which saw turnout around 59-60% and was described by observers as competitive and largely peaceful.

Speaking to WION after his victory, Roy emphasised his deep roots in the nation. "I am son of the soil," he said.

In a landmark victory amid Bangladesh's historic 13th national parliamentary election on 12 February 2026, senior Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Gayeshwar Chandra Roy has been elected as the Member of Parliament for the Dhaka-3 constituency. Roy, a prominent figure from the country's Hindu community and a veteran of mainstream politics, comfortably defeated his nearest rival, Md Shahinur Islam of Jamaat-e-Islami. The win marks a significant moment for representation in the newly formed parliament, where Roy is reported to be one of the few, if not the only, Hindu MPs elected. It comes as the BNP, led by Tarique Rahman, swept to a landslide majority across the country. Also read | Friday the 13th brings new dawn to Bangladesh: Citizens reject authoritarianism, say 'yes' to 'July Charter' Speaking to WION after his victory, Roy emphasised his deep roots in the nation. "I am son of the soil," he said. He rejected labels along religious lines. "I am not a Hindu Lawmaker. I became a lawmaker in the parliament and make law for every body," Roy stated. "As per the constitution, everyone has equal rights." Roy went further in addressing perceptions of minority status. "Hindus are not minorities. Buddhists are not minorities. Everyone has equal rights," he declared. "In our country, communal harmony is historical. We live together; we share things. No communalism in Bangladesh." On the safety and rights of minorities, he added: "Minorities in Bangladesh safe. Values same, right of minorities same. we have several problems, but not communal issues." The veteran politician highlighted his long-standing commitment to public service. "I have a long history in politics, I sacrificed for nation, for people," Roy said. Also read | Jamaat chief who compared working women to prostitutes, wins Dhaka-15 seat He also touched on foreign policy, underscoring a balanced approach. "We believe in friendship with all countries..but we will assert our national interest." He previously served in ministerial roles during BNP-led governments in the 1990s, including as State Minister for Environment and Forests, and Fisheries and Livestock. His election in Dhaka-3, part of the capital's constituencies where the BNP performed strongly, reflects broad voter support in the wake of the election, which saw turnout around 59-60% and was described by observers as competitive and largely peaceful.

Speaking to WION after his victory, Roy emphasised his deep roots in the nation. "I am son of the soil," he said.

'I am son of the soil', says Bangladesh's newly elected Hindu Lawmaker Gayeshwar Chandra Roy

The search for missing Arizona resident Nancy Guthrie has taken another unusual turn, as TMZ receives a third letter from a person claiming to know the identity of the kidnapper who abducted 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie. This comes as investigators pursue new forensic DNA evidence in the missing case.<h2>Mysterious letter raises questions</h2>At the same time, authorities are reviewing several messages sent to TMZ &nbsp;claiming to have information about the suspected kidnapper.Harvey Levin, founder of TMZ, told CNN that his outlet received a third email from a person demanding the full $100,000 FBI reward in bitcoin in exchange for identifying the alleged abductor. According to Levin, the person said they did not trust federal authorities and preferred to communicate through the media instead.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missing-for-13-days-investigators-recover-dna-from-nancy-guthrie-s-property-not-belonging-to-anyone-close-to-her-savannah-guthrie-1771032290821">Missing for 13 days: DNA not belonging to 84 YO or anyone 'close' to her recovered from Nancy Guthrie’s property</a>According to Levin, the sender is demanding half the payment, bitcoin worth $50,000, upfront, and said they would provide "the name of the main individual" and tracking information. "He also says he will not touch the $50,000 until an arrest is made and once that happens, they can then deposit the other $50 (thousand) and he’ll take the money," said Levin.He also said that the latest letter, the third of its kind, contains some "ominous references to Nancy," though he did not elaborate on the specifics.<h2>Did the suspect cross the border into Mexico?</h2>TMZ, in a report, suggested the suspect may have crossed an international border. The publication reported that an email from a man who claims to know the kidnapper has content that sounds like the suspect may have crossed the border. In its closing lines, the writer referenced a "man hunt" and advised investigators to "be prepared to go international."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-reveals-fresh-details-about-masked-suspect-in-nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-reward-for-information-about-savannah-guthrie-s-mother-raised-to-100-000-1770945498452">FBI reveals fresh details about masked suspect in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping; Reward raised to $100,000</a> This has fueled speculation that the alleged kidnapper may have crossed into Mexico. Guthrie was abducted from her home near Tucson, Arizona, which lies relatively close to the US Mexico border. Officials have not confirmed the authenticity of the messages.

A third cryptic letter claims to know the identity of who kidnapped Nancy Guthrie, but demands $50,000 in bitcoin before sharing the name. It also contains language that suggests the suspect fled across the border. Scroll down to know more.

The search for missing Arizona resident Nancy Guthrie has taken another unusual turn, as TMZ receives a third letter from a person claiming to know the identity of the kidnapper who abducted 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie. This comes as investigators pursue new forensic DNA evidence in the missing case. Mysterious letter raises questions At the same time, authorities are reviewing several messages sent to TMZ claiming to have information about the suspected kidnapper. Harvey Levin, founder of TMZ, told CNN that his outlet received a third email from a person demanding the full $100,000 FBI reward in bitcoin in exchange for identifying the alleged abductor. According to Levin, the person said they did not trust federal authorities and preferred to communicate through the media instead. Also read | Missing for 13 days: DNA not belonging to 84 YO or anyone 'close' to her recovered from Nancy Guthrie’s property According to Levin, the sender is demanding half the payment, bitcoin worth $50,000, upfront, and said they would provide "the name of the main individual" and tracking information. "He also says he will not touch the $50,000 until an arrest is made and once that happens, they can then deposit the other $50 (thousand) and he’ll take the money," said Levin. He also said that the latest letter, the third of its kind, contains some "ominous references to Nancy," though he did not elaborate on the specifics. Did the suspect cross the border into Mexico? TMZ, in a report, suggested the suspect may have crossed an international border. The publication reported that an email from a man who claims to know the kidnapper has content that sounds like the suspect may have crossed the border. In its closing lines, the writer referenced a "man hunt" and advised investigators to "be prepared to go international." Also read | FBI reveals fresh details about masked suspect in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping; Reward raised to $100,000 This has fueled speculation that the alleged kidnapper may have crossed into Mexico. Guthrie was abducted from her home near Tucson, Arizona, which lies relatively close to the US Mexico border. Officials have not confirmed the authenticity of the messages.

A third cryptic letter claims to know the identity of who kidnapped Nancy Guthrie, but demands $50,000 in bitcoin before sharing the name. It also contains language that suggests the suspect fled across the border. Scroll down to know more.

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping: TMZ receives third message claiming to know kidnapper’s identity, hints suspect crossed border

Investigators searching for missing Arizona resident Nancy Guthrie say they have recovered unidentified DNA from her home, a development that could mark a turning point in the case that has now stretched nearly two weeks. In an update released Friday (Feb 13), the Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that forensic teams found genetic material at Guthrie’s Tucson area property that does not belong to her or anyone known to have been in regular contact with her. This comes as TMZ founder Harvey Levin revealed that they have received the third letter from a person claiming to know who abducted the 84-year-old mother of "TODAY" show co-host Savannah Guthrie.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-reveals-fresh-details-about-masked-suspect-in-nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-reward-for-information-about-savannah-guthrie-s-mother-raised-to-100-000-1770945498452">FBI reveals fresh details about masked suspect in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping; Reward raised to $100,000</a><h2>DNA other than Nancy Guthrie and those 'close' to her found</h2>The Pima County Sheriff Department, in its latest update, said, "DNA other than Nancy Guthrie’s and those in close contact to her has been collected from the property.""Investigators are working to identify who it belongs to," the department added.<h2>Where was the DNA evidence found?</h2>Officials did not disclose where on the property the material was discovered. However, they said that the evidence has been sent to a laboratory for analysis as authorities continue to piece together what happened to the 84-year-old, who was reported missing on February 1 after failing to attend church.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/friday-the-13th-brings-new-dawn-to-bangladesh-citizens-say-yes-to-july-charter-reject-recap-of-authoritarian-regimes-khaleda-zia-sheikh-hasina-1770970235848">Friday the 13th brings new dawn to B'desh: Citizens say yes to 'July Charter'</a><h2>Evidence under scrutiny</h2>The DNA discovery comes as investigators also confirmed the recovery of several black gloves during searches in the area surrounding Guthrie's home. One glove was found roughly two miles away, according to officials.The items could be significant because surveillance footage from a doorbell camera captured a masked individual outside Guthrie's home on the night she disappeared. The suspect was seen wearing black gloves and carrying a backpack.The FBI has described the person in the video as a man of average build, about 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall. He was seen carrying a black 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack.Authorities say they are still reviewing tips from the public and seeking additional surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses.

Unidentified DNA has been found near Nancy Guthrie’s home, and it does not match her or anyone close to her. Black gloves, a masked suspect, and a third mystery letter are now in play. Is the case finally cracking open? Scroll down to see the latest.

Investigators searching for missing Arizona resident Nancy Guthrie say they have recovered unidentified DNA from her home, a development that could mark a turning point in the case that has now stretched nearly two weeks. In an update released Friday (Feb 13), the Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that forensic teams found genetic material at Guthrie’s Tucson area property that does not belong to her or anyone known to have been in regular contact with her. This comes as TMZ founder Harvey Levin revealed that they have received the third letter from a person claiming to know who abducted the 84-year-old mother of "TODAY" show co-host Savannah Guthrie. Also read | FBI reveals fresh details about masked suspect in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping; Reward raised to $100,000 DNA other than Nancy Guthrie and those 'close' to her found The Pima County Sheriff Department, in its latest update, said, "DNA other than Nancy Guthrie’s and those in close contact to her has been collected from the property." "Investigators are working to identify who it belongs to," the department added. Where was the DNA evidence found? Officials did not disclose where on the property the material was discovered. However, they said that the evidence has been sent to a laboratory for analysis as authorities continue to piece together what happened to the 84-year-old, who was reported missing on February 1 after failing to attend church. Also read | Friday the 13th brings new dawn to B'desh: Citizens say yes to 'July Charter' Evidence under scrutiny The DNA discovery comes as investigators also confirmed the recovery of several black gloves during searches in the area surrounding Guthrie's home. One glove was found roughly two miles away, according to officials. The items could be significant because surveillance footage from a doorbell camera captured a masked individual outside Guthrie's home on the night she disappeared. The suspect was seen wearing black gloves and carrying a backpack. The FBI has described the person in the video as a man of average build, about 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall. He was seen carrying a black 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. Authorities say they are still reviewing tips from the public and seeking additional surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses.

Unidentified DNA has been found near Nancy Guthrie’s home, and it does not match her or anyone close to her. Black gloves, a masked suspect, and a third mystery letter are now in play. Is the case finally cracking open? Scroll down to see the latest.

Missing for 13 days: DNA not belonging to 84 YO or anyone 'close' to her recovered from Nancy Guthrie’s property

US Senator Lindsey Graham compared Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to Adolf Hitler, calling the regime “religious Nazis” and warning that failure to confront Tehran would undermine US credibility.

'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis

The reputation of the United States seems to be eroding among NATO allies and raising fresh questions about America’s strength on the world stage and the global order that it has sustained for decades. A poll conducted by POLITICO shows that President Donald Trump’s efforts to rewrite longstanding international relationships are repelling longtime, traditionally loyal partners of the US. More people across countries, including Canada, UK, France and Germany, said the US was an unreliable ally. They included half the adults polled in Germany and 57 per cent in Canada.&nbsp;American credibility was highest in the UK, but only by comparison, as 35 per cent of Britons said the US was a reliable ally and 39 per cent said it was unreliable.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-high-court-says-terror-tag-ban-on-activist-group-palestine-action-unlawful-1771004055465">UK High Court says terror tag, ban on activist group Palestine Action ‘unlawful’</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘American military power is increasingly seen as an uncertain asset’</h2>&nbsp;More importantly, American military power is increasingly seen as an uncertain asset. Many respondents in France and Germany said they did not believe enemies would be afraid to attack them because of their relationship with the US.&nbsp;In just one year, there has been a 10 per cent drop in the share of UK adults who still see the US as an effective deterrent against enemy attacks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-rules-based-world-order-no-longer-exists-says-chancellor-friedrich-merz-at-munich-security-conference-1770994111300">‘Rules-based world order no longer exists,’ says Chancellor Friedrich Merz at Munich Security Conference</a>&nbsp;The online survey, conducted by the independent London-based polling company Public First, reveals that trust in the US has dropped sharply among four key NATO allies amid a series of disputes with Washington over the past year.Moreover, negative perceptions of the US outweigh positive ones on key measures, including whether it protects democracy, shares their values, and acts as a reliable ally.&nbsp;<h2>Trade rows, aggressive rhetoric, and push to seize Greenland rocked ties</h2>&nbsp;After US Vice President JD Vance’s address to the Munich Security Conference last year shocked his European hosts, trade rows, aggressive rhetoric, and a Trump-led push to seize Greenland from the Kingdom of Denmark have rocked the ties between Washington and NATO allies.&nbsp;The poll also shows that more people do not feel the United States shares their values or protects democracy, a long-standing American tenet.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bnp-sweeps-to-power-with-two-thirds-majority-tarique-rahman-poised-to-be-pm-1770988570665">BNP sweeps to power with two-thirds majority; Tarique Rahman poised to be PM</a>&nbsp;In France, just 17 per cent of respondents agreed with the statement that “the US shares our values” versus 49 per cent who disagreed. In Germany, 50 per cent of respondents said the United States did not share their values, while just 18 per cent said that Washington “protects democracy.”&nbsp;However, adults across the key NATO countries still expressed some hope for the future. In Germany, France and the United Kingdom, people said that Trump has weakened the relationship with their countries, but it can recover after he is gone.

More people in Canada, the UK, France, and Germany now feel that the United States is an unreliable ally. More importantly, American military power is increasingly seen as an uncertain asset, as many respondents said they did not believe enemies would not attack because of ties with the US.

The reputation of the United States seems to be eroding among NATO allies and raising fresh questions about America’s strength on the world stage and the global order that it has sustained for decades. A poll conducted by POLITICO shows that President Donald Trump’s efforts to rewrite longstanding international relationships are repelling longtime, traditionally loyal partners of the US. More people across countries, including Canada, UK, France and Germany, said the US was an unreliable ally. They included half the adults polled in Germany and 57 per cent in Canada. American credibility was highest in the UK, but only by comparison, as 35 per cent of Britons said the US was a reliable ally and 39 per cent said it was unreliable. Also Read: UK High Court says terror tag, ban on activist group Palestine Action ‘unlawful’ ‘American military power is increasingly seen as an uncertain asset’ More importantly, American military power is increasingly seen as an uncertain asset. Many respondents in France and Germany said they did not believe enemies would be afraid to attack them because of their relationship with the US. In just one year, there has been a 10 per cent drop in the share of UK adults who still see the US as an effective deterrent against enemy attacks. Also Read: ‘Rules-based world order no longer exists,’ says Chancellor Friedrich Merz at Munich Security Conference The online survey, conducted by the independent London-based polling company Public First, reveals that trust in the US has dropped sharply among four key NATO allies amid a series of disputes with Washington over the past year. Moreover, negative perceptions of the US outweigh positive ones on key measures, including whether it protects democracy, shares their values, and acts as a reliable ally. Trade rows, aggressive rhetoric, and push to seize Greenland rocked ties After US Vice President JD Vance’s address to the Munich Security Conference last year shocked his European hosts, trade rows, aggressive rhetoric, and a Trump-led push to seize Greenland from the Kingdom of Denmark have rocked the ties between Washington and NATO allies. The poll also shows that more people do not feel the United States shares their values or protects democracy, a long-standing American tenet. Also Read: BNP sweeps to power with two-thirds majority; Tarique Rahman poised to be PM In France, just 17 per cent of respondents agreed with the statement that “the US shares our values” versus 49 per cent who disagreed. In Germany, 50 per cent of respondents said the United States did not share their values, while just 18 per cent said that Washington “protects democracy.” However, adults across the key NATO countries still expressed some hope for the future. In Germany, France and the United Kingdom, people said that Trump has weakened the relationship with their countries, but it can recover after he is gone.

More people in Canada, the UK, France, and Germany now feel that the United States is an unreliable ally. More importantly, American military power is increasingly seen as an uncertain asset, as many respondents said they did not believe enemies would not attack because of ties with the US.

Major NATO countries think US doesn’t help deter enemies anymore, reveals poll

Russia blocked WhatsApp and launched state-backed MAX as a national “super app,” urging citizens to switch. Critics warn the platform could expand government surveillance and provide authorities access to private data.



Putin wants Russians to use MAX instead of WhatsApp; critics say govt will get access to messages

New Delhi is gearing to welcome tech bosses, political leaders, and thought leaders from across the globe to participate in the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, set to be held in the national capital from February 16 to 20, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. The MEA in a press release on Friday (Feb 13) confirmed that delegations from over 45 countries will participate in the Summit, including the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Senior Officials from several international organisations joining the deliberations.&nbsp;The Summit's framework is built on three key elements: People, Planet, Progress, reflecting India's commitment to shaping global cooperation on Artificial Intelligence with a focus on inclusive growth, Sustainiblity and technological advancements.&nbsp;Several heads of state and governments are scheduled to attend the Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These includes incudes the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Tshering Tobgay; Vice President of Bolivia, Edmand Lara Montano; President of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva; Prime Minister of Croatia, Andrej Plenkovic; President of Estonia, Alar Karis; Prime Minister of Finland, Petteri Orpo; President of France, Emmanuel Macron; Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis; Vice President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo; and Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, Olzhas Bektenov.&nbsp;The other 10 leaders to participate are Hereditary Prince of the Principality of Liechtenstein, Prince Alois; Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navin Ramgoolam; President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic; President of Slovakia, Peter Pellegrini; President of Spain, Pedro Sanchez; President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Disanayaka; Vice President of Seychelles, Sebastien Pillay; President of Switzerland, Guy Parmelin; Prime Minister of Netherlands, Dick Schoof and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi from UAE, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-rules-based-world-order-no-longer-exists-says-chancellor-friedrich-merz-at-munich-security-conference-1770994111300">‘Rules-based world order no longer exists,’ says Chancellor Friedrich Merz at Munich Security Conference</a>&nbsp;In addition to these, ministerial delegations from over 45 countries will participate, along with executives from several big technology corporations, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, Microsoft President Brad Smith and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon, are also expected to be present The India-AI Impact Summit 2025 aims to facilitate dialogues on responsible AI governance, innovation ecosystems, digital public infrastructure, climate-conscious technology and equitable access to emerging technologies.&nbsp;The Summit is envisioned as a pivotal global platform to shape a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI, and it aims to move beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that support economic growth, social development, and the sustainable use of AI.

Executives from several big technology corporations, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, Microsoft President Brad Smith and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon, are also expected to be present

New Delhi is gearing to welcome tech bosses, political leaders, and thought leaders from across the globe to participate in the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, set to be held in the national capital from February 16 to 20, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. The MEA in a press release on Friday (Feb 13) confirmed that delegations from over 45 countries will participate in the Summit, including the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Senior Officials from several international organisations joining the deliberations. The Summit's framework is built on three key elements: People, Planet, Progress, reflecting India's commitment to shaping global cooperation on Artificial Intelligence with a focus on inclusive growth, Sustainiblity and technological advancements. Several heads of state and governments are scheduled to attend the Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These includes incudes the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Tshering Tobgay; Vice President of Bolivia, Edmand Lara Montano; President of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva; Prime Minister of Croatia, Andrej Plenkovic; President of Estonia, Alar Karis; Prime Minister of Finland, Petteri Orpo; President of France, Emmanuel Macron; Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis; Vice President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo; and Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, Olzhas Bektenov. The other 10 leaders to participate are Hereditary Prince of the Principality of Liechtenstein, Prince Alois; Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navin Ramgoolam; President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic; President of Slovakia, Peter Pellegrini; President of Spain, Pedro Sanchez; President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Disanayaka; Vice President of Seychelles, Sebastien Pillay; President of Switzerland, Guy Parmelin; Prime Minister of Netherlands, Dick Schoof and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi from UAE, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Also Read: ‘Rules-based world order no longer exists,’ says Chancellor Friedrich Merz at Munich Security Conference In addition to these, ministerial delegations from over 45 countries will participate, along with executives from several big technology corporations, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, Microsoft President Brad Smith and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon, are also expected to be present The India-AI Impact Summit 2025 aims to facilitate dialogues on responsible AI governance, innovation ecosystems, digital public infrastructure, climate-conscious technology and equitable access to emerging technologies. The Summit is envisioned as a pivotal global platform to shape a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI, and it aims to move beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that support economic growth, social development, and the sustainable use of AI.

Executives from several big technology corporations, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, Microsoft President Brad Smith and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon, are also expected to be present

India AI Impact Summit to host heads of 20 nations, delegations from 45 countries, top tech CEOs. See full list of participants

The UK High Court has said in a ruling that the government’s decision to ban activist group Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation was unlawful. The court found that then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper’s decision to ban the group was disproportionate, raising questions about the arrests of almost 3000 people at solidarity protests.&nbsp;However, Judge Victoria Sharp ruled that the ban remains in place pending an appeal by the government.Human rights activists had argued that the ban represented a sweeping overreach of government power, risked criminalising political dissent, and set a far-reaching precedent for the use of anti-terror laws against protest movements.&nbsp;The group’s co-founder, Huda Ammori, had challenged the British government’s decision to ban the group under anti-terrorism laws. As many as 2,787 people were arrested at protests nationwide since July.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-rules-based-world-order-no-longer-exists-says-chancellor-friedrich-merz-at-munich-security-conference-1770994111300">‘Rules-based world order no longer exists,’ says Chancellor Friedrich Merz at Munich Security Conference</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;London's Metropolitan Police on Friday acknowledged “there will likely be some confusion,” among the public following the government’s announcement to appeal the decision. It said that officers will no longer be making arrests in relation to Palestine Action support but will continue to “focus on gathering evidence.”&nbsp;After the court’s ruling, crowds who had gathered outside London’s High Court erupted in cheers and chants of “Free free Palestine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The Home Office has spent nearly £700,000 on the case, said Ammori, citing a Freedom of Information request.The case followed a three-day judicial review in December, where lawyers for the group’s co-founder argued the ban was “an extraordinary and unlawful escalation against political dissent.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bnp-sweeps-to-power-with-two-thirds-majority-tarique-rahman-poised-to-be-pm-1770988570665">BNP sweeps to power with two-thirds majority; Tarique Rahman poised to be PM</a>&nbsp;Palestine Action is a UK-based group that aims to disrupt the operations of weapons manufacturers connected to the Israeli government and its war in Gaza. The group was founded by Ammori and climate activist Richard Barnard in 2020, when it took its first action to shut down the UK operations of Elbit Systems, Israel’s largest weapons manufacturer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Palestine Action has also occupied, blockaded, spray-painted, and disrupted the Israeli-French drone company UAV Tactical Systems and the global arms giant Leonardo.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ai-will-replace-most-white-collar-jobs-soon-says-microsoft-ai-head-mustafa-suleyman-1770916772093">‘AI will replace most white-collar jobs soon,’ says Microsoft AI head Mustafa Suleyman</a>&nbsp;The group’s late June 2025 action at the RAF Brize Norton air base, where activists vandalised two Airbus Voyager refuelling planes with paint and crowbars, led to its banning.Government lawyers argued that the proscription of the group was a necessary national security measure.

The Palestine Action group’s late June 2025 action at the RAF Brize Norton air base, where activists vandalised two Airbus Voyager refuelling planes with paint and crowbars, led to its banning. Government lawyers argued that its proscription was a necessary national security measure.

The UK High Court has said in a ruling that the government’s decision to ban activist group Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation was unlawful. The court found that then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper’s decision to ban the group was disproportionate, raising questions about the arrests of almost 3000 people at solidarity protests. However, Judge Victoria Sharp ruled that the ban remains in place pending an appeal by the government. Human rights activists had argued that the ban represented a sweeping overreach of government power, risked criminalising political dissent, and set a far-reaching precedent for the use of anti-terror laws against protest movements. The group’s co-founder, Huda Ammori, had challenged the British government’s decision to ban the group under anti-terrorism laws. As many as 2,787 people were arrested at protests nationwide since July. Also Read: ‘Rules-based world order no longer exists,’ says Chancellor Friedrich Merz at Munich Security Conference London's Metropolitan Police on Friday acknowledged “there will likely be some confusion,” among the public following the government’s announcement to appeal the decision. It said that officers will no longer be making arrests in relation to Palestine Action support but will continue to “focus on gathering evidence.” After the court’s ruling, crowds who had gathered outside London’s High Court erupted in cheers and chants of “Free free Palestine.” The Home Office has spent nearly £700,000 on the case, said Ammori, citing a Freedom of Information request. The case followed a three-day judicial review in December, where lawyers for the group’s co-founder argued the ban was “an extraordinary and unlawful escalation against political dissent.” Also Read: BNP sweeps to power with two-thirds majority; Tarique Rahman poised to be PM Palestine Action is a UK-based group that aims to disrupt the operations of weapons manufacturers connected to the Israeli government and its war in Gaza. The group was founded by Ammori and climate activist Richard Barnard in 2020, when it took its first action to shut down the UK operations of Elbit Systems, Israel’s largest weapons manufacturer. Palestine Action has also occupied, blockaded, spray-painted, and disrupted the Israeli-French drone company UAV Tactical Systems and the global arms giant Leonardo. Also Read: ‘AI will replace most white-collar jobs soon,’ says Microsoft AI head Mustafa Suleyman The group’s late June 2025 action at the RAF Brize Norton air base, where activists vandalised two Airbus Voyager refuelling planes with paint and crowbars, led to its banning. Government lawyers argued that the proscription of the group was a necessary national security measure.

The Palestine Action group’s late June 2025 action at the RAF Brize Norton air base, where activists vandalised two Airbus Voyager refuelling planes with paint and crowbars, led to its banning. Government lawyers argued that its proscription was a necessary national security measure.

UK High Court says terror tag, ban on activist group Palestine Action ‘unlawful’

As part of stepping up pressure on Ivy League institutions, the Trump administration filed a lawsuit against Harvard University over federal funding to the school. The Department of Justice (DOJ) accused the university of failing to comply with a federal investigation by not providing sufficient documents to ascertain whether the elite school has illegally considered race in its admission process.&nbsp;According to US Attorney General Pam Bondi, the data is required to ensure the admission process of Harvard remains free of discrimination, in accordance with the 2023 Supreme Court ruling that suspended the race-based affirmative actions. The DOJ further claimed that the university has not provided the applicant-level data requested nearly 10 months ago. The development comes less than two weeks after the US President Donald Trump stated that the government is seeking $1 billion in damages from Haravard to to settle federal probes into the school's polices.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-chaos-on-manchester-bound-flight-as-brawl-at-30-000-feet-forces-emergency-landing-1770999194263">Watch: Chaos on Manchester-bound flight as brawl at 30,000 feet forces emergency landing</a>&nbsp;Harvard hasn't issued any statement on the fresh lawsuit; it previously sued the administration over what it called ideologically motivated actions of the federal government and an illegal attempt to take control over academic decision-making. The Ivy League institutions in the United States have been at odds with the federal government after President Trump took over White House for a second term after he accused Harvard of promoting woke culture and pro palestianian protestes against Israel's war against Gaza.&nbsp;In a press release issued on Friday, the Justice Department said Harvard has "repeatedly slow-walked the pace of production and refused to produce pertinent data and documents," including admissions policies and correspondence related to banned diversity, equity and inclusion programs.&nbsp;In April 2025, the Trump administration froze $2.2 billion in research grants to Harvard over the school failing to address harassment of Jewish students and the rise in anti-seminitm in campus. Trump's actions to stop federal funds for Harvard led to a fierce battle between the School and the administration. As of now, the two sides failed to reach any agreement.

The development comes less than two weeks after the US President Donald Trump stated that the government is seeking $1 billion in damages from Haravard to to settle federal probes into the school's polices.

As part of stepping up pressure on Ivy League institutions, the Trump administration filed a lawsuit against Harvard University over federal funding to the school. The Department of Justice (DOJ) accused the university of failing to comply with a federal investigation by not providing sufficient documents to ascertain whether the elite school has illegally considered race in its admission process. According to US Attorney General Pam Bondi, the data is required to ensure the admission process of Harvard remains free of discrimination, in accordance with the 2023 Supreme Court ruling that suspended the race-based affirmative actions. The DOJ further claimed that the university has not provided the applicant-level data requested nearly 10 months ago. The development comes less than two weeks after the US President Donald Trump stated that the government is seeking $1 billion in damages from Haravard to to settle federal probes into the school's polices.

The development comes less than two weeks after the US President Donald Trump stated that the government is seeking $1 billion in damages from Haravard to to settle federal probes into the school's polices.

Trump-Harvard feud escalates after Justice Department files lawsuit over alleged race bias in admissions

New Epstein documents reference Madeleine McCann in a 2009 witness statement describing a woman resembling Ghislaine Maxwell with a child, though authorities have confirmed no proven link to her disappearance.

New Epstein documents mention Madeleine McCann, British child missing since 2007. Here’s what witness saw

Chaotic scenes unfolded 30,000 feet above the ground on a United Kingdom-bound flight from Turkey after a mass brawl broke out between British passengers, forcing the aircraft to divert and make an emergency landing. The incident occurred on Jet2 flight LS896 from Antalya to Manchester. The pilot diverted the plane to Brussels, where police stormed the aircraft immediately upon landing to remove the primary instigators.&nbsp;Jet2 confirmed that two passengers have been banned for life due to their “appalling behaviour.” The flight later continued to Manchester, arriving significantly behind schedule.Video footage shows one passenger attempting to grab another’s phone following an argument over loud music. The dispute quickly escalated, sparking panic among passengers, including children, elderly travellers, and those with additional needs.&nbsp;

According to a witness, the pair had reportedly been drinking and making racist remarks before turning aggressive towards crew members over cigarettes.&nbsp;Passengers reported seeing blood on seats and even teeth on the floor as the fight broke out. Police in Brussels took two men into custody.&nbsp;The pilot reportedly told passengers that in his 30 years of flying, he had experienced only a handful of emergency landings — and none as severe as this.&nbsp;One passenger praised those who confronted the alleged racism and commended the Jet2 crew for remaining calm and professional throughout the ordeal.&nbsp;In a statement, Jet2 said both men have been banned for life and that the airline will seek to recover the costs incurred by the diversion.

Jet2 said both men have been banned for life and that the airline will seek to recover the costs incurred by the diversion.

Chaotic scenes unfolded 30,000 feet above the ground on a United Kingdom-bound flight from Turkey after a mass brawl broke out between British passengers, forcing the aircraft to divert and make an emergency landing. The incident occurred on Jet2 flight LS896 from Antalya to Manchester. The pilot diverted the plane to Brussels, where police stormed the aircraft immediately upon landing to remove the primary instigators. Jet2 confirmed that two passengers have been banned for life due to their “appalling behaviour.” The flight later continued to Manchester, arriving significantly behind schedule. Video footage shows one passenger attempting to grab another’s phone following an argument over loud music. The dispute quickly escalated, sparking panic among passengers, including children, elderly travellers, and those with additional needs.

Jet2 said both men have been banned for life and that the airline will seek to recover the costs incurred by the diversion.

Watch: Chaos on Manchester-bound flight as brawl at 30,000 feet forces emergency landing

The US is sending USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier to the Middle East, where&nbsp;USS Abraham Lincoln&nbsp;is already stationed. America is&nbsp;creating a "dual carrier" presence.&nbsp;It seems like Donald Trump’s strategy to persuade Iran into a deal over its nuclear programme, which may potentially extend to its missile programme as well. A day after hosting Israeli President Netanyahu, Trump told reporters, "We have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic. I don't want that to happen, but we have to make a deal. This will be very traumatic for Iran if they don't make a deal."&nbsp;The deployment of the largest warship ever constructed comes after the US president’s sharp comments. Last year in July, US which was brokering peace between the warring nations, struck Iran and also caused damage to its nuclear facilities. Referring to the talks and deal, he added, "We'll see if we can get a deal with them, and if we can't, we'll have to go to phase two. Phase two will be very tough for them.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-nuclear-programme-degraded-by-up-to-two-years-says-pentagon-after-10-days-of-strikes-1751501157096">Iranian nuclear programme degraded by up to two years, says Pentagon</a>&nbsp;<h2>Phase 1: July 2025</h2>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump announces a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. This comes on a day after America struck nuclear facilities in Iran and hours after Iran struck a US base, al-Udeid in Qatar. After conducting airstrikes in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, Trump said, “Our objective was the destruction of Iran’s nuclear enrichment capacity, a stop to the nuclear threat posed by the world’s number one state sponsor of terror.” Sharing visuals of US’ B-2 bombers returning home after striking Iranian nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, President Donald Trump called the damage caused to the sites ‘monumental’. He lauded the soldiers and thanked them for the ‘job well done’.

With the USS Abraham Lincoln already on station, Trump has ordered the world's largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to the Middle East. Explore the strategic shift as the US ramps up "Phase Two" pressure on Iran’s nuclear program and what this "armada" signals for the Oman talks.

The US is sending USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier to the Middle East, where USS Abraham Lincoln is already stationed. America is creating a "dual carrier" presence. It seems like Donald Trump’s strategy to persuade Iran into a deal over its nuclear programme, which may potentially extend to its missile programme as well. A day after hosting Israeli President Netanyahu, Trump told reporters, "We have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic. I don't want that to happen, but we have to make a deal. This will be very traumatic for Iran if they don't make a deal." The deployment of the largest warship ever constructed comes after the US president’s sharp comments. Last year in July, US which was brokering peace between the warring nations, struck Iran and also caused damage to its nuclear facilities. Referring to the talks and deal, he added, "We'll see if we can get a deal with them, and if we can't, we'll have to go to phase two. Phase two will be very tough for them.” Also read: Iranian nuclear programme degraded by up to two years, says Pentagon Phase 1: July 2025 US President Donald Trump announces a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. This comes on a day after America struck nuclear facilities in Iran and hours after Iran struck a US base, al-Udeid in Qatar. After conducting airstrikes in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, Trump said, “Our objective was the destruction of Iran’s nuclear enrichment capacity, a stop to the nuclear threat posed by the world’s number one state sponsor of terror.” Sharing visuals of US’ B-2 bombers returning home after striking Iranian nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, President Donald Trump called the damage caused to the sites ‘monumental’. He lauded the soldiers and thanked them for the ‘job well done’.

With the USS Abraham Lincoln already on station, Trump has ordered the world's largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R Ford, to the Middle East. Explore the strategic shift as US ramps up "phase two" pressure on Iran’s nuclear programme and what this "armada" signals for the Oman talks.

US deploys world’s largest aircraft carrier to Middle East. Is Trump planning military action against Iran?

Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany said in his keynote address at the opening of the Munich Security Conference 2026 on Friday that the rules-based international order had collapsed and criticised President Donald Trump’s reorientation of American foreign policy. However, Merz also extended an olive branch to Trump as he switched to English from German and addressed Americans as “friends” and warned that the United States could not “go it alone.” “The international order based on rights and rules is currently being destroyed,” Merz said at the opening of Europe’s largest annual security conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Conference a ‘seismograph’ for Europe-US relations’</h2>&nbsp;The German Chancellor described the conference as a ‘seismograph’ for relations between Europe and the US and the state of the world order as a whole—and said the conference’s official theme, “under destruction”, is an apt description of that order.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bnp-sweeps-to-power-with-two-thirds-majority-tarique-rahman-poised-to-be-pm-1770988570665">BNP sweeps to power with two-thirds majority; Tarique Rahman poised to be PM</a>&nbsp;“You’ve chosen a grim motto for this conference, ‘under destruction’, and it probably means that the international order based on rights and rules is currently being destroyed,” he said. “But I’m afraid we have to put it in even harsher terms: This order, as flawed as it has been even in its heyday, no longer exists.”&nbsp;Merz also suggested that the Trump administration’s actions over the past year meant that the US’ claim to global leadership “has been challenged, and possibly squandered.”He also criticised Europe for not doing enough to bolster its security and to grow its economies independently of America, but insisted that Europe and the US need to continue working together, including through NATO.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ai-will-replace-most-white-collar-jobs-soon-says-microsoft-ai-head-mustafa-suleyman-1770916772093">‘AI will replace most white-collar jobs soon,’ says Microsoft AI head Mustafa Suleyman</a><h2>‘Even the US will not be powerful enough to go it alone’</h2>&nbsp;“In the era of great power rivalry, even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone,” he said. “Dear friends, being a part of NATO is not only Europe’s competitive advantage. It is also the United States’ competitive advantage.”&nbsp;The Chancellor said that repairing trust was the work of both Europe and the United States as the rift is real.&nbsp;&nbsp;He also listed the ways in which Trump’s policies had deviated from the values Germans and other Europeans once believed they shared with America, including opposition to hate speech, the fight against climate change and support for free trade.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-reports-1st-nipah-related-death-as-25-year-old-woman-nurse-succumbs-1770912260619">West Bengal reports 1st Nipah-related death, as 25-year-old woman nurse succumbs</a>&nbsp;“A divide has opened up between Europe and the United States. Vice President JD Vance said this very openly here in Munich a year ago. He was right. The culture war of the MAGA movement is not ours,”Merz said.&nbsp;Merz’s speech at the Munich Security Conference came at a critical moment for Europe, which is still hurting from Trump’s blunt diplomacy.&nbsp;<h2>‘Transatlantic partnership needs a stronger Europe’: Wolfgang Ischinger</h2>&nbsp;Wolfgang Ischinger, the chairman of the conference, said in his opening remarks that he hoped the event would help build a “constructive trans-Atlantic reset.”But, he asked, “Does the Trump administration believe, truly believe, that it needs allies and partners?” He added, “If so—this is what we hope—is Washington actually prepared to treat allies as partners?”“The transatlantic partnership needs a stronger Europe, but Europe will stand only if European nations stand together more closely than in the past,” Ischinger added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-speaks-with-bnp-chief-tarique-rahman-congratulates-him-on-poll-victory-1770978280986">PM Modi speaks with BNP Chief Tarique Rahman, congratulates him on poll victory</a>&nbsp;In an aggressive speech at last year’s conference, Vice President JD Vance shocked attendees by castigating Europe’s migration policies and calling on its leaders to end the isolation of far-right parties across the continent.Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to speak on Saturday morning.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the Munich Security Conference as a ‘seismograph’ for relations between Europe and the US and the state of the world order as a whole—and said the conference’s official theme, “under destruction”, is an apt description of that order.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany said in his keynote address at the opening of the Munich Security Conference 2026 on Friday that the rules-based international order had collapsed and criticised President Donald Trump’s reorientation of American foreign policy. However, Merz also extended an olive branch to Trump as he switched to English from German and addressed Americans as “friends” and warned that the United States could not “go it alone.” “The international order based on rights and rules is currently being destroyed,” Merz said at the opening of Europe’s largest annual security conference. ‘Conference a ‘seismograph’ for Europe-US relations’ The German Chancellor described the conference as a ‘seismograph’ for relations between Europe and the US and the state of the world order as a whole—and said the conference’s official theme, “under destruction”, is an apt description of that order. Also Read: BNP sweeps to power with two-thirds majority; Tarique Rahman poised to be PM “You’ve chosen a grim motto for this conference, ‘under destruction’, and it probably means that the international order based on rights and rules is currently being destroyed,” he said. “But I’m afraid we have to put it in even harsher terms: This order, as flawed as it has been even in its heyday, no longer exists.” Merz also suggested that the Trump administration’s actions over the past year meant that the US’ claim to global leadership “has been challenged, and possibly squandered.” He also criticised Europe for not doing enough to bolster its security and to grow its economies independently of America, but insisted that Europe and the US need to continue working together, including through NATO. Also Read: ‘AI will replace most white-collar jobs soon,’ says Microsoft AI head Mustafa Suleyman ‘Even the US will not be powerful enough to go it alone’ “In the era of great power rivalry, even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone,” he said. “Dear friends, being a part of NATO is not only Europe’s competitive advantage. It is also the United States’ competitive advantage.” The Chancellor said that repairing trust was the work of both Europe and the United States as the rift is real. He also listed the ways in which Trump’s policies had deviated from the values Germans and other Europeans once believed they shared with America, including opposition to hate speech, the fight against climate change and support for free trade. Also Read: West Bengal reports 1st Nipah-related death, as 25-year-old woman nurse succumbs “A divide has opened up between Europe and the United States. Vice President JD Vance said this very openly here in Munich a year ago. He was right. The culture war of the MAGA movement is not ours,”Merz said. Merz’s speech at the Munich Security Conference came at a critical moment for Europe, which is still hurting from Trump’s blunt diplomacy. ‘Transatlantic partnership needs a stronger Europe’: Wolfgang Ischinger Wolfgang Ischinger, the chairman of the conference, said in his opening remarks that he hoped the event would help build a “constructive trans-Atlantic reset.” But, he asked, “Does the Trump administration believe, truly believe, that it needs allies and partners?” He added, “If so—this is what we hope—is Washington actually prepared to treat allies as partners?” “The transatlantic partnership needs a stronger Europe, but Europe will stand only if European nations stand together more closely than in the past,” Ischinger added. Also Read: PM Modi speaks with BNP Chief Tarique Rahman, congratulates him on poll victory In an aggressive speech at last year’s conference, Vice President JD Vance shocked attendees by castigating Europe’s migration policies and calling on its leaders to end the isolation of far-right parties across the continent. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to speak on Saturday morning.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the Munich Security Conference as a ‘seismograph’ for relations between Europe and the US and the state of the world order as a whole—and said the conference’s official theme, “under destruction”, is an apt description of that order.

‘Rules-based world order no longer exists,’ says Chancellor Friedrich Merz at Munich Security Conference

In a major milestone for space exploration, NASA and SpaceX successfully launched the Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday (Feb 13). A Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying four astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft Resilience.&nbsp;The spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the ISS on Saturday, February 14, at 3:15 PM EST (1:45 AM IST on Sunday), following a 34-hour journey. This arrival coincides perfectly with Valentine’s Day.&nbsp;A primary goal of the mission is to reinforce the ISS following the early return of the Crew-11 mission in January due to a health emergency. The arrival of Crew-12 will restore the station to its full seven-person complement as they join the Expedition 74 members already aboard.This launch also achieved a technical milestone: it was the first time SpaceX successfully launched and landed a crew-capable Falcon 9 booster at the same facility, Space Launch Complex 40, further demonstrating the rapid reusability and reliability of commercial spaceflight.<h2>The multinational crew</h2>The mission features a diverse team representing three different space agencies:&nbsp;Jessica Meir (NASA): Mission Commander. On her second trip to space, she previously made history by performing the first all-woman spacewalk.&nbsp;Jack Hathaway (NASA): Pilot. A US Navy Commander making his first spaceflight.&nbsp;Sophie Adenot (ESA): Mission Specialist. A French engineer and the first from her 2022 ESA astronaut class to fly; her portion of the mission is named "Epsilon."&nbsp;Andrey Fedyaev (Roscosmos): Mission Specialist. A Russian cosmonaut on his second long-duration mission.&nbsp;Scheduled for an eight-month stay, the crew will conduct over 200 experiments. Key research includes the "Venous Flow" study to understand blood clot risks in microgravity, investigating how pneumonia-causing bacteria affect heart tissue, testing on-demand IV fluid generation, and studying nitrogen-fixing microbes to improve sustainable food production for future Mars missions.

A primary goal of the mission is to reinforce the ISS following the early return of the Crew-11 mission in January due to a health emergency. The arrival of Crew-12 will restore the station to its full seven-person complement as they join the Expedition 74 members already aboard.

In a major milestone for space exploration, NASA and SpaceX successfully launched the Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday (Feb 13). A Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying four astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft Resilience. The spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the ISS on Saturday, February 14, at 3:15 PM EST (1:45 AM IST on Sunday), following a 34-hour journey. This arrival coincides perfectly with Valentine’s Day. A primary goal of the mission is to reinforce the ISS following the early return of the Crew-11 mission in January due to a health emergency. The arrival of Crew-12 will restore the station to its full seven-person complement as they join the Expedition 74 members already aboard. This launch also achieved a technical milestone: it was the first time SpaceX successfully launched and landed a crew-capable Falcon 9 booster at the same facility, Space Launch Complex 40, further demonstrating the rapid reusability and reliability of commercial spaceflight. The multinational crew The mission features a diverse team representing three different space agencies: Jessica Meir (NASA): Mission Commander. On her second trip to space, she previously made history by performing the first all-woman spacewalk. Jack Hathaway (NASA): Pilot. A US Navy Commander making his first spaceflight. Sophie Adenot (ESA): Mission Specialist. A French engineer and the first from her 2022 ESA astronaut class to fly; her portion of the mission is named "Epsilon." Andrey Fedyaev (Roscosmos): Mission Specialist. A Russian cosmonaut on his second long-duration mission. Scheduled for an eight-month stay, the crew will conduct over 200 experiments. Key research includes the "Venous Flow" study to understand blood clot risks in microgravity, investigating how pneumonia-causing bacteria affect heart tissue, testing on-demand IV fluid generation, and studying nitrogen-fixing microbes to improve sustainable food production for future Mars missions.

A primary goal of the mission is to reinforce the ISS following the early return of the Crew-11 mission in January due to a health emergency. The arrival of Crew-12 will restore the station to its full seven-person complement as they join the Expedition 74 members already aboard.

SpaceX lifts off with four astronauts for Valentine’s Day International Space Station docking

On Thursday (Feb 12), Tarique Rahman's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a landslide victory in the national election. Apart from choosing the next government, the voters also gave their mandate for reforms in a national referendum - the July National Charter. As per the Bangladesh election commission, the referendum saw voter turnout of 60.26 per cent and the “yes” vote won a clear majority. Akhtar Ahmed, senior secretary of Bangladesh’s election commission, during a press conference, said that the official figures, 4,80,74,429 people voted “yes” in the referendum, while 2,25,65,627 voters went for “no”.<h2>What's July Charter?</h2>The July National Charter 2025 is a proposed constitutional reform package to decide what changes to make in the constitution of the country. The charter was made after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. The proposed reform package talks about several reforms for good governance, democracy, and social justice through institutional reforms, so as to avoid "recurrence of authoritarian and fascist rule", reported news agency Reuters. Now, after getting a "yes" for the adoption of the July Charter, a Constitutional Reform Council will execute the reforms within 180 working days of its first session.<h2>Key reforms &nbsp;</h2>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>&nbsp;In the July Charter, which was named after the July uprising in 2024 leading to the ouster of Hasina, a key reform is the creation of an upper house with 100 seats, which will be allocated in accordance with each party’s national voter share. It also mentions putting a limit to the number of terms a prime minister can have, more representation of women in the parliament, election of opposition leaders as deputy speaker and parliamentary committee chairs, and enhanced powers of the President.&nbsp;

Bangladesh voters approved the July National Charter 2025 in a referendum alongside BNP’s election win, paving the way for constitutional reforms including an upper house, PM term limits and greater women’s representation.

On Thursday (Feb 12), Tarique Rahman's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a landslide victory in the national election. Apart from choosing the next government, the voters also gave their mandate for reforms in a national referendum - the July National Charter. As per the Bangladesh election commission, the referendum saw voter turnout of 60.26 per cent and the “yes” vote won a clear majority. Akhtar Ahmed, senior secretary of Bangladesh’s election commission, during a press conference, said that the official figures, 4,80,74,429 people voted “yes” in the referendum, while 2,25,65,627 voters went for “no”. What's July Charter? The July National Charter 2025 is a proposed constitutional reform package to decide what changes to make in the constitution of the country. The charter was made after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. The proposed reform package talks about several reforms for good governance, democracy, and social justice through institutional reforms, so as to avoid "recurrence of authoritarian and fascist rule", reported news agency Reuters. Now, after getting a "yes" for the adoption of the July Charter, a Constitutional Reform Council will execute the reforms within 180 working days of its first session. Key reforms Also read: 'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis In the July Charter, which was named after the July uprising in 2024 leading to the ouster of Hasina, a key reform is the creation of an upper house with 100 seats, which will be allocated in accordance with each party’s national voter share. It also mentions putting a limit to the number of terms a prime minister can have, more representation of women in the parliament, election of opposition leaders as deputy speaker and parliamentary committee chairs, and enhanced powers of the President.

Bangladesh voters approved the July National Charter 2025 in a referendum alongside BNP’s election win, paving the way for constitutional reforms, including an upper house, PM term limits and greater women’s representation.

What is July Charter? What’s next for Bangladesh as voters say yes to constitution reforms

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, secured a sweeping victory in the 13th national parliamentary elections in the country with a two-thirds majority. According to official results and the party’s own counts, the BNP and its allies won 213 of the 297 constituencies. The party, which has been out of office for nearly two decades, described the poll outcome as “an overwhelming public mandate”.&nbsp;The Election Commission announced the primary results of 297 constituencies, while the results of two constituencies—Chittagong-2 and Chittagong-4—have been postponed and will be announced later.&nbsp;As per local media reports, the BNP alliance won 212 seats while the Jamaat alliance got 77. The Islami Andolan Bangladesh won 1 seat, and independent candidates won 7.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-speaks-with-bnp-chief-tarique-rahman-congratulates-him-on-poll-victory-1770978280986">PM Modi speaks with BNP Chief Tarique Rahman, congratulates him on poll victory</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Congratulations Leader!🌾 A clear mandate from the people. 213 Seats for Bangladesh Nationalist Party. 🌾🇧🇩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNPforWin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNPforWin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BangladeshElections2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BangladeshElections2026</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShobarAgeyBangladesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShobarAgeyBangladesh</a> <a href="https://t.co/S40XNx6Aky">pic.twitter.com/S40XNx6Aky</a>&mdash; BNP Media Cell (@BNPBdMediaCell) <a href="https://twitter.com/BNPBdMediaCell/status/2022197582064496680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman got elected from the Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 constituencies after securing decisive victories over his nearest rivals.Tarique, who returned to the country after 17 years in exile in the United Kingdom, won the Dhaka-17 constituency by beating Dr Khaleduzzaman of Jamaat-e-Islami.&nbsp;Among BNP standing committee members, Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain won Cumilla-1; Mirza Abbas secured Dhaka-8; and Abdul Moyeen Khan won Narsingdi-2. Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury was elected from Chattogram-11, and Salahuddin Ahmed from Cox’s Bazar-1.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-reports-1st-nipah-related-death-as-25-year-old-woman-nurse-succumbs-1770912260619">West Bengal reports 1st Nipah-related death, as 25-year-old woman nurse succumbs</a><h2>‘Grateful for the love you have shown me’: Tarique Rahman</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;BNP chairman Tarique Rahman exchanged greetings with people on his way to offer Juma prayers after his party secured a sweeping victory.“I am grateful for the love you have shown me. Please pray for me,” Rahman said before proceeding to the Navy Headquarters Mosque for Friday prayers.The party had directed all leaders, activists, and supporters to refrain from victory processions or public celebrations. “Instead, we call upon the nation to observe a day of prayers today (13 February), seeking peace, stability, and guidance for the future of Bangladesh,” it said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ai-will-replace-most-white-collar-jobs-soon-says-microsoft-ai-head-mustafa-suleyman-1770916772093">‘AI will replace most white-collar jobs soon,’ says Microsoft AI head Mustafa Suleyman</a>&nbsp;<h2>Rahman to become Bangladesh’s first male prime minister since 1991</h2>&nbsp;Tarique Rahman is set to become Bangladesh’s first male prime minister since 1991, when his mother, late Khaleda Zia, held the top post.&nbsp;Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed addressed a press briefing at Nirbachan Bhaban and said the average voter turnout was 59.44% in 297 constituencies, while the average voter turnout is 60.26% in 299 constituencies. He said the results of the Chittagong-2 and 4 constituencies have been kept pending (following the court’s decision).The election to Sherpur-3 was earlier cancelled following the death of a Jamaat candidate.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanpur-lamborghini-crash-tobacco-tycoon-s-son-shivam-mishra-arrested-after-4-days-gets-bail-in-hours-1770895141801">Kanpur Lamborghini crash: Tobacco tycoon’s son, Shivam Mishra, arrested after 4 days, gets bail in hours</a>&nbsp;About the referendum, he said 4,80,74,429 voters (68.05% of total casting votes) voted for the “Yes” option in the referendum ballots, while 2,25,65,627 voters (31.95%) voted for the “No” option to decide the fate of the implementation of the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Order 2025.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, who returned to the country after 17 years in exile in the United Kingdom, got elected from the Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 constituencies after securing decisive victories over his nearest rivals.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, secured a sweeping victory in the 13th national parliamentary elections in the country with a two-thirds majority. According to official results and the party’s own counts, the BNP and its allies won 213 of the 297 constituencies. The party, which has been out of office for nearly two decades, described the poll outcome as “an overwhelming public mandate”. The Election Commission announced the primary results of 297 constituencies, while the results of two constituencies—Chittagong-2 and Chittagong-4—have been postponed and will be announced later. As per local media reports, the BNP alliance won 212 seats while the Jamaat alliance got 77. The Islami Andolan Bangladesh won 1 seat, and independent candidates won 7. Also Read: PM Modi speaks with BNP Chief Tarique Rahman, congratulates him on poll victory

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, who returned to the country after 17 years in exile in the United Kingdom, got elected from the Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 constituencies after securing decisive victories over his nearest rivals.

BNP sweeps to power with two-thirds majority; Tarique Rahman poised to be PM

US President Donald Trump has overturned a significant scientific ruling which was introduced during the Obama administration that forms the foundation of federal actions to curb planet-warming emissions. The 2009 "endangerment finding" concluded that several greenhouse gases pose a risk to public health and has since served as the legal basis for regulating emissions, particularly from vehicles.&nbsp;The White House described the decision as the “largest deregulation in American history,” arguing that it would lower vehicle prices by reducing compliance costs for automakers by about $2,400 per car. Environmental organisations, however, say the move represents the most sweeping rollback of US climate policy to date and have indicated they will challenge it in court.&nbsp;While addressing the Oval Office on Thursday, US President Donald Trump stated that the ruling in 2009 was "a disastrous Obama era policy that severely damaged the American auto industry and massively drove up prices for American consumers". "This radical rule became the legal foundation for the Green New Scam, one of the greatest scams in history," he added about the Democrats' climate agenda, BBC reported.&nbsp;In response, former President Barack Obama stated that overturning the finding would make Americans more vulnerable. "Without it, we'll be less safe, less healthy and less able to fight climate change — all so the fossil fuel industry can make even more money," he said in a post on X.<h3>The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) first stance</h3>The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) first took a stance on the impacts of greenhouse gases in 2009, in the first year of Obama's first term. The agency decided that six key planet-warming greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane, were a danger to human health.&nbsp;The first instance by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the impacts of greenhouse gases was initiated in 2009 when Obama was serving its first term. The agency noted that six key planet-warming greenhouse gases, which include carbon dioxide and methane, were a danger to human health.&nbsp;With Congress split and unable to pass laws addressing rising global temperatures, the EPA’s determination became the cornerstone of federal action to curb emissions in the years that followed. "The endangerment finding has really served as the lynchpin of US regulation of greenhouse gases," said Meghan Greenfield, a former EPA and Department of Justice attorney, BBC reported.&nbsp;"So that includes motor vehicles, but it also includes power plants, the oil and gas sector, methane from landfills, and even aircraft. So it really runs the gamut, all of the standards for each of the sectors are premised on this one thing," he added.&nbsp;Officials from the Trump administration argue that repealing the regulation will generate savings of more than $1 trillion and help lower energy and transportation costs. The White House has said the move would cut expenses for car manufacturers by about $2,400 per vehicle.&nbsp;Diana Furchtgott-Roth, serving in the US Department of Transportation during the first Trump term, stated that these regulations have been an economic strain. "The burden on the economy results in higher prices, and manufacturing has left. It's gone to China, where it's made in a dirtier way," she told the BBC.&nbsp;"So to say that we're reducing global emissions by ending energy-intensive manufacturing in some countries, then having it go to China and India, where it's made in a dirtier way, does not reduce global emissions." Several environmentalists are sceptical about the future cost savings being touted by the administration of Trump.&nbsp;In a nutshell, the move goes beyond routine regulatory changes and represents a major shift in US climate policy. Trump, who has repeatedly dismissed climate change as a “hoax” and a “scam,” has overseen a series of rollbacks targeting environmental protections since returning to office. However, the repeal of the endangerment finding strikes at the core legal framework that enabled federal climate action for over a decade. &nbsp;

After Donald Trump's decision, the White House described it as the “largest deregulation in American history,” and it argued that it would lower vehicle prices by reducing compliance costs by about $2,400 per car for automakers.

US President Donald Trump has overturned a significant scientific ruling which was introduced during the Obama administration that forms the foundation of federal actions to curb planet-warming emissions. The 2009 "endangerment finding" concluded that several greenhouse gases pose a risk to public health and has since served as the legal basis for regulating emissions, particularly from vehicles. The White House described the decision as the “largest deregulation in American history,” arguing that it would lower vehicle prices by reducing compliance costs for automakers by about $2,400 per car. Environmental organisations, however, say the move represents the most sweeping rollback of US climate policy to date and have indicated they will challenge it in court. While addressing the Oval Office on Thursday, US President Donald Trump stated that the ruling in 2009 was "a disastrous Obama era policy that severely damaged the American auto industry and massively drove up prices for American consumers". "This radical rule became the legal foundation for the Green New Scam, one of the greatest scams in history," he added about the Democrats' climate agenda, BBC reported. In response, former President Barack Obama stated that overturning the finding would make Americans more vulnerable. "Without it, we'll be less safe, less healthy and less able to fight climate change — all so the fossil fuel industry can make even more money," he said in a post on X. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) first stance The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) first took a stance on the impacts of greenhouse gases in 2009, in the first year of Obama's first term. The agency decided that six key planet-warming greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane, were a danger to human health. The first instance by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the impacts of greenhouse gases was initiated in 2009 when Obama was serving its first term. The agency noted that six key planet-warming greenhouse gases, which include carbon dioxide and methane, were a danger to human health. With Congress split and unable to pass laws addressing rising global temperatures, the EPA’s determination became the cornerstone of federal action to curb emissions in the years that followed. "The endangerment finding has really served as the lynchpin of US regulation of greenhouse gases," said Meghan Greenfield, a former EPA and Department of Justice attorney, BBC reported. "So that includes motor vehicles, but it also includes power plants, the oil and gas sector, methane from landfills, and even aircraft. So it really runs the gamut, all of the standards for each of the sectors are premised on this one thing," he added. Officials from the Trump administration argue that repealing the regulation will generate savings of more than $1 trillion and help lower energy and transportation costs. The White House has said the move would cut expenses for car manufacturers by about $2,400 per vehicle. Diana Furchtgott-Roth, serving in the US Department of Transportation during the first Trump term, stated that these regulations have been an economic strain. "The burden on the economy results in higher prices, and manufacturing has left. It's gone to China, where it's made in a dirtier way," she told the BBC. "So to say that we're reducing global emissions by ending energy-intensive manufacturing in some countries, then having it go to China and India, where it's made in a dirtier way, does not reduce global emissions." Several environmentalists are sceptical about the future cost savings being touted by the administration of Trump. In a nutshell, the move goes beyond routine regulatory changes and represents a major shift in US climate policy. Trump, who has repeatedly dismissed climate change as a “hoax” and a “scam,” has overseen a series of rollbacks targeting environmental protections since returning to office. However, the repeal of the endangerment finding strikes at the core legal framework that enabled federal climate action for over a decade.

After Donald Trump's decision, the White House described it as the “largest deregulation in American history,” and it argued that it would lower vehicle prices by reducing compliance costs by about $2,400 per car for automakers.

Trump scraps landmark ruling that empowers US govt to regulate climate rules: Here's what it means

After the uproar over the newly released documents in the Epstein Files, Dubai's port giant DP World announced on Friday (Feb 13) that the appointment of Essa Kazim as chairman of its board of directors and Yuvraj Narayan as group chief executive officer after the removal of Sultan bin Sulayem over alleged involvement with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.&nbsp;Members of the US Congress said DP World's long-serving chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem 's name has appeared in the fresh documents. Sulayem is Dubai's most influential businessman, who has led the DP World for over four decades, through an expansion that turned it into one of the world's largest logistics companies. The company said it handles around 10 per cent of global trade.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-voterless-illegal-unconstitutional-sheikh-hasina-calls-for-cancellation-of-bangladesh-election-1770910927243">‘Voterless, illegal, unconstitutional’: Sheikh Hasina calls for ‘cancellation’ of Bangladesh election</a>&nbsp;The DOJ described Sulayem as a “close personal friend” and called him one of his most trusted friends in other files. Sulayem has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing. A disclosure to Nasdaq Dubai, where DP World maintains listed bonds, said Sulayem had resigned “effective immediately.”&nbsp;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>&nbsp;A statement issued on Friday by the DP World did not name Sulayem but said, “affirmed that the new appointments support its strategy for sustainable growth and reinforce its role in strengthening global supply chains and supporting Dubai’s position as a leading hub for trade and logistics.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/epstein-was-obsessed-with-girls-like-every-unmarried-billionaire-yale-professor-defends-emails-with-sex-offender-on-good-looking-blonde-student-1770906176284">Epstein was 'obsessed with girls, like every unmarried billionaire': Yale professor defends emails with sex offender on 'good-looking blonde' student</a>&nbsp;As per the documents, the exchange between the two was mostly about business, with Sulayem often seeking Epstein’s advice on meetings, connections and investments. &nbsp;

After uproar over the newly released documents in the Epstein Files, Dubai's DP World has named a new chairman and CEO over involvement with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein 

After the uproar over the newly released documents in the Epstein Files, Dubai's port giant DP World announced on Friday (Feb 13) that the appointment of Essa Kazim as chairman of its board of directors and Yuvraj Narayan as group chief executive officer after the removal of Sultan bin Sulayem over alleged involvement with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Members of the US Congress said DP World's long-serving chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem 's name has appeared in the fresh documents. Sulayem is Dubai's most influential businessman, who has led the DP World for over four decades, through an expansion that turned it into one of the world's largest logistics companies. The company said it handles around 10 per cent of global trade. ‘Voterless, illegal, unconstitutional’: Sheikh Hasina calls for ‘cancellation’ of Bangladesh election The DOJ described Sulayem as a “close personal friend” and called him one of his most trusted friends in other files. Sulayem has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing. A disclosure to Nasdaq Dubai, where DP World maintains listed bonds, said Sulayem had resigned “effective immediately.” Also read: 'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis A statement issued on Friday by the DP World did not name Sulayem but said, “affirmed that the new appointments support its strategy for sustainable growth and reinforce its role in strengthening global supply chains and supporting Dubai’s position as a leading hub for trade and logistics.” Also read: Epstein was 'obsessed with girls, like every unmarried billionaire': Yale professor defends emails with sex offender on 'good-looking blonde' student As per the documents, the exchange between the two was mostly about business, with Sulayem often seeking Epstein’s advice on meetings, connections and investments.

After uproar over the newly released documents in the Epstein Files, Dubai's DP World has named a new chairman and CEO over involvement with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein&nbsp;

Dubai's DP World CEO and chairman loses position after being named in Epstein Files

After the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a landslide victory in the national election, the party announced on Friday (Feb 13) that it will formally seek the extradition of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina from India. Salahuddin Ahmed, party official, told a press briefing in Dhaka that the BNP would “press for her extradition in accordance with the law."&nbsp;“It is a matter between the Foreign Ministry of Bangladesh and the Foreign Ministry of India. We will urge the government of India to send her back to face trial," he said.<h2>Hasina's first reaction on election</h2>Hasina called for the “cancellation of this voterless, illegal, and unconstitutional election" on Thursday (Feb 12). In a statement, Hasina thanked voters for “boycotting and rejecting this election without the Awami League". By 2 in the afternoon, voter turnout was recorded at less than 50 per cent, according to the Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed.&nbsp;After the polling ended, Hasina issued the statement and said that the number of voters on the voter list, especially in Dhaka, “has increased abnormally, which is highly questionable and unbelievable".&nbsp;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>&nbsp;“Today’s so-called election, organised by Yunus, who took power through illegal and unconstitutional means, was essentially a carefully planned farce. Disregarding the people’s voting rights, democratic values, and the spirit of the constitution, a deceptive election was arranged without the Awami League and without voters," she said.&nbsp;She also said that the elections were marred by violence. “From the evening of February 11, this farce began through the capture of polling centres, gunfire, the widespread use of money to buy votes, stamping ballot papers, and taking agents’ signatures on result sheets. From the morning of February 12, voter turnout in most polling centers across the country was extremely low. Many polling stations in the capital and other parts of the country were completely empty of voters," she further said.&nbsp;

After a landslide win, Bangladesh’s BNP said it will seek Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India, while Hasina rejected the election as illegal, citing low turnout and alleged violence.

After the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a landslide victory in the national election, the party announced on Friday (Feb 13) that it will formally seek the extradition of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina from India. Salahuddin Ahmed, party official, told a press briefing in Dhaka that the BNP would “press for her extradition in accordance with the law." “It is a matter between the Foreign Ministry of Bangladesh and the Foreign Ministry of India. We will urge the government of India to send her back to face trial," he said. Hasina's first reaction on election Hasina called for the “cancellation of this voterless, illegal, and unconstitutional election" on Thursday (Feb 12). In a statement, Hasina thanked voters for “boycotting and rejecting this election without the Awami League". By 2 in the afternoon, voter turnout was recorded at less than 50 per cent, according to the Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed. After the polling ended, Hasina issued the statement and said that the number of voters on the voter list, especially in Dhaka, “has increased abnormally, which is highly questionable and unbelievable". Also read: 'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis “Today’s so-called election, organised by Yunus, who took power through illegal and unconstitutional means, was essentially a carefully planned farce. Disregarding the people’s voting rights, democratic values, and the spirit of the constitution, a deceptive election was arranged without the Awami League and without voters," she said. She also said that the elections were marred by violence. “From the evening of February 11, this farce began through the capture of polling centres, gunfire, the widespread use of money to buy votes, stamping ballot papers, and taking agents’ signatures on result sheets. From the morning of February 12, voter turnout in most polling centers across the country was extremely low. Many polling stations in the capital and other parts of the country were completely empty of voters," she further said.

After a landslide win, Bangladesh’s BNP said it will seek Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India, while Hasina rejected the election as illegal, citing low turnout and alleged violence.

‘Send her back’: BNP to formally seek Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India after election win

In a significant blow, Kathryn Ruemmler, Goldman Sachs’s top lawyer has resigned on Thursday after the US Justice Department released new emails along with other material disclosing her good relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Earlier, Ruemmler and Goldman's representatives claimed she had a strictly professional relationship with Epstein. But the recent release of emails, text messages and photographs prompted Ruemmler to suddenly resign, surprising several.&nbsp;According to a report in the New York Times, the documents revealed that Ruemmler was a counsellor, confidante and friend to Epstein before joining Goldman in 2020. She assisted him in responding to tough questions in connection with his sex crimes, dating life, advised him to avoid unflattering media scrutiny and referred to him as “sweetie” and “Uncle Jeffrey.”&nbsp;In response, Epstein assisted Ruemmler with career advice, directing her to move to Goldman. Later, he introduced her to prominent businesspeople along with gifts of spa treatments, high-end travel and Hermes luxury items. The surprising fact is that Ruemmler's name appears in the Epstein file, along with over 10,000 documents.&nbsp;In addition, she has served as Goldman’s general counsel since 2021 and as a partner and vice chair of its reputational risk committee. She also acted as White House counsel under President Obama and was a white-collar defence lawyer at Latham &amp; Watkins. “My responsibility is to put Goldman Sachs’s interests first,” Ruemmler said in a statement while confirming her resignation.&nbsp;Following her resignation, David M. Solomon, Goldman’s chief executive, said he respected her decision and described her as “a mentor and friend to many of our people.”<h3>Reality of the relationship with Jeffrey Epstein</h3>Before stepping down, Ruemmler had said through intermediaries that her exchanges with the influential Epstein were limited to light-hearted banter and social contact aimed at securing introductions to potential clients. However, the records point to a much closer connection between the two beginning in 2014, which Ruemmler herself referred to in one email as a “friendship.”&nbsp;She also explained to him how the law distinguishes between minors who are victims of sex crimes and adult sex workers. “I think the point is that if she was underage, she could not legally consent to engaging in prostitution,” Ruemmler wrote to Epstein in 2015.&nbsp;In addition, she offered strategic guidance on undermining the credibility of one of his accusers, suggesting in an email that Epstein’s attorney could try to lure the woman into a “perjury trap.” Some of Ruemmler’s messages were signed “xoxo,” and the two exchanged photographs. She joked with Epstein about the weight of travellers at New Jersey rest stops and made remarks speculating about the sexuality of a prominent hedge fund billionaire.&nbsp;Across a series of meetings and messages, she also sought his counsel on both personal and professional issues, at one point expressing frustration in an email that “men aren’t interested in women my age.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-jeffrey-epstein-really-involved-in-cannibalism-here-s-what-doj-files-reveal-1770370197051">Was Jeffrey Epstein really involved in cannibalism? Here's what DOJ files reveal</a>

The documents in the file disclosed that Ruemmler was a counsellor, confidante and friend to Epstein before joining Goldman, where she assisted him in responding to tough questions in connection with his sex crimes and dating life.

In a significant blow, Kathryn Ruemmler, Goldman Sachs’s top lawyer has resigned on Thursday after the US Justice Department released new emails along with other material disclosing her good relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Earlier, Ruemmler and Goldman's representatives claimed she had a strictly professional relationship with Epstein. But the recent release of emails, text messages and photographs prompted Ruemmler to suddenly resign, surprising several. According to a report in the New York Times, the documents revealed that Ruemmler was a counsellor, confidante and friend to Epstein before joining Goldman in 2020. She assisted him in responding to tough questions in connection with his sex crimes, dating life, advised him to avoid unflattering media scrutiny and referred to him as “sweetie” and “Uncle Jeffrey.” In response, Epstein assisted Ruemmler with career advice, directing her to move to Goldman. Later, he introduced her to prominent businesspeople along with gifts of spa treatments, high-end travel and Hermes luxury items. The surprising fact is that Ruemmler's name appears in the Epstein file, along with over 10,000 documents. In addition, she has served as Goldman’s general counsel since 2021 and as a partner and vice chair of its reputational risk committee. She also acted as White House counsel under President Obama and was a white-collar defence lawyer at Latham & Watkins. “My responsibility is to put Goldman Sachs’s interests first,” Ruemmler said in a statement while confirming her resignation. Following her resignation, David M. Solomon, Goldman’s chief executive, said he respected her decision and described her as “a mentor and friend to many of our people.” Reality of the relationship with Jeffrey Epstein Before stepping down, Ruemmler had said through intermediaries that her exchanges with the influential Epstein were limited to light-hearted banter and social contact aimed at securing introductions to potential clients. However, the records point to a much closer connection between the two beginning in 2014, which Ruemmler herself referred to in one email as a “friendship.” She also explained to him how the law distinguishes between minors who are victims of sex crimes and adult sex workers. “I think the point is that if she was underage, she could not legally consent to engaging in prostitution,” Ruemmler wrote to Epstein in 2015. In addition, she offered strategic guidance on undermining the credibility of one of his accusers, suggesting in an email that Epstein’s attorney could try to lure the woman into a “perjury trap.” Some of Ruemmler’s messages were signed “xoxo,” and the two exchanged photographs. She joked with Epstein about the weight of travellers at New Jersey rest stops and made remarks speculating about the sexuality of a prominent hedge fund billionaire. Across a series of meetings and messages, she also sought his counsel on both personal and professional issues, at one point expressing frustration in an email that “men aren’t interested in women my age.” Also read: Was Jeffrey Epstein really involved in cannibalism? Here's what DOJ files reveal

The documents in the file disclosed that Ruemmler was a counsellor, confidante and friend to Epstein before joining Goldman, where she assisted him in responding to tough questions in connection with his sex crimes and dating life.

Goldman Sachs’ top lawyer resigns after Epstein link surfaces in emails: How close were they?

Trump’s Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota sparked protests after two fatal ICE shootings. The state sued over racial profiling claims. Following unrest, the administration began withdrawing agents.

Killings, protests, withdrawal: How Trump’s Minnesota ICE crackdown unfolded – PICS

China on Friday (Feb 13) asserted that it will take all necessary measures against foreign spying activities in the country after the United States circulated a recruitment video aimed at Chinese military officers to work for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Beijing called the CIA’s attempt a naked political provocation and accused Washington of maliciously smearing the Chinese government.&nbsp;"China will take all necessary measures to resolutely combat infiltration and sabotage activities of foreign anti-China forces and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests," foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said.<h2>The CIA recruitment video</h2>The CIA released a video titled "The Reason to Step Forward: To Save the Future" across social media platforms, including YouTube. The timing of the video raised questions as China is going through a political and military shift with XI Jinping's so-called anti-corruption campaign.&nbsp;The video features a fictional mid-level People's Liberation Army (PLA) officer who becomes disillusioned by allged corruption and selfishness of the senior leadership. It pitches espionage as a patriotic act, and suggests contacting the CIA is a way to fight for family and country against the madman leaders. The video also details methods and technical instructions to contact the CIA through the Tor Network or virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass the Great Firewall. The CIA campaign coincides with a significant purge of high-ranking military officials in China. Recently, senior generals like Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli have reportedly been under investigation for disciplinary violations. US intelligence officials suggest that this internal turmoil may create openings for recruiting disaffected insiders who fear for their own careers or the country's direction. However, this is not the first time the CIA launched such a campaign; in early 2025, it released a similar video in Mandarin as agency director John Ratcliffe described China as a top intelligence priority. &nbsp;

Beijing called the CIA’s attempt a naked political provocation and accused Washington of maliciously smearing the Chinese government.

China on Friday (Feb 13) asserted that it will take all necessary measures against foreign spying activities in the country after the United States circulated a recruitment video aimed at Chinese military officers to work for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Beijing called the CIA’s attempt a naked political provocation and accused Washington of maliciously smearing the Chinese government. "China will take all necessary measures to resolutely combat infiltration and sabotage activities of foreign anti-China forces and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests," foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said. The CIA recruitment video The CIA released a video titled "The Reason to Step Forward: To Save the Future" across social media platforms, including YouTube. The timing of the video raised questions as China is going through a political and military shift with XI Jinping's so-called anti-corruption campaign. The video features a fictional mid-level People's Liberation Army (PLA) officer who becomes disillusioned by allged corruption and selfishness of the senior leadership. It pitches espionage as a patriotic act, and suggests contacting the CIA is a way to fight for family and country against the madman leaders. The video also details methods and technical instructions to contact the CIA through the Tor Network or virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass the Great Firewall. The CIA campaign coincides with a significant purge of high-ranking military officials in China. Recently, senior generals like Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli have reportedly been under investigation for disciplinary violations. US intelligence officials suggest that this internal turmoil may create openings for recruiting disaffected insiders who fear for their own careers or the country's direction. However, this is not the first time the CIA launched such a campaign; in early 2025, it released a similar video in Mandarin as agency director John Ratcliffe described China as a top intelligence priority.

Beijing called the CIA’s attempt a naked political provocation and accused Washington of maliciously smearing the Chinese government.

China vows to crush CIA espionage efforts after recruitment video targeting PLA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to BNP Chief Tarique Rahman on Friday afternoon and congratulated him on the victory, as his party is headed to a two-thirds majority in Bangladesh's national elections.&nbsp;After speaking to the BNP leader who is likely to take oath as Bangladesh’s new prime minister on Saturday, PM Modi wrote on X that he was delighted to speak with Rahman, the son of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and conveyed his wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people there.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-reports-1st-nipah-related-death-as-25-year-old-woman-nurse-succumbs-1770912260619">West Bengal reports 1st Nipah-related death, as 25-year-old woman nurse succumbs</a>&nbsp;The PM wrote on X, “Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections. I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ai-will-replace-most-white-collar-jobs-soon-says-microsoft-ai-head-mustafa-suleyman-1770916772093">‘AI will replace most white-collar jobs soon,’ says Microsoft AI head Mustafa Suleyman</a>&nbsp;Earlier, PM Modi had penned a post on X, congratulating Tarique Rahman after his party secured a clear majority in the general elections, and affirmed that India will continue to back a democratic Bangladesh.&nbsp;The Prime Minister conveyed his “warm congratulations” to Rahman for leading the BNP to victory.&nbsp;“I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading the BNP to a decisive victory in the parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership,” he wrote on X, hours before their phone call.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanpur-lamborghini-crash-tobacco-tycoon-s-son-shivam-mishra-arrested-after-4-days-gets-bail-in-hours-1770895141801">Kanpur Lamborghini crash: Tobacco tycoon’s son, Shivam Mishra, arrested after 4 days, gets bail in hours</a>&nbsp;“India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals,” he added.&nbsp;The official count gave the BNP and its allies at least 212 of the 299 seats, the Election Commission said. The opposition Jamaat-e-Islami and its allies won 77 seats in the Jatiya Sangsad, or House of the Nation.&nbsp;

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had penned a post on X, congratulating BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman after his party secured a clear majority in the general elections, and affirmed that India will continue to back a democratic Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to BNP Chief Tarique Rahman on Friday afternoon and congratulated him on the victory, as his party is headed to a two-thirds majority in Bangladesh's national elections. After speaking to the BNP leader who is likely to take oath as Bangladesh’s new prime minister on Saturday, PM Modi wrote on X that he was delighted to speak with Rahman, the son of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and conveyed his wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people there. Also Read: West Bengal reports 1st Nipah-related death, as 25-year-old woman nurse succumbs The PM wrote on X, “Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections. I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples.” Also Read: ‘AI will replace most white-collar jobs soon,’ says Microsoft AI head Mustafa Suleyman Earlier, PM Modi had penned a post on X, congratulating Tarique Rahman after his party secured a clear majority in the general elections, and affirmed that India will continue to back a democratic Bangladesh. The Prime Minister conveyed his “warm congratulations” to Rahman for leading the BNP to victory. “I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading the BNP to a decisive victory in the parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership,” he wrote on X, hours before their phone call. Also Read: Kanpur Lamborghini crash: Tobacco tycoon’s son, Shivam Mishra, arrested after 4 days, gets bail in hours “India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals,” he added. The official count gave the BNP and its allies at least 212 of the 299 seats, the Election Commission said. The opposition Jamaat-e-Islami and its allies won 77 seats in the Jatiya Sangsad, or House of the Nation.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had penned a post on X, congratulating BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman after his party secured a clear majority in the general elections, and affirmed that India will continue to back a democratic Bangladesh.

PM Modi speaks with BNP Chief Tarique Rahman, congratulates him on poll victory

A lawsuit against Meta, YouTube, TikTok and Snap brought by a 20-year-old woman at the Los Angeles Superior Court could lead to drastic changes in their apps. Referred to as KGM, the plaintiff claims that she became addicted to social media as a child, causing anxiety, depression and body-image issues. Notably, TikTok and Snapchat settled with her before the trial. There are thousands of other lawsuits where people are slamming social media companies for leading youth to become addicted to their apps. Her lawyers say that “infinitely scroll” on Instagram kept her glued to her phone for at least eight hours a day. They argue that "likes" on her photos and videos gave her a dopamine rush, which made the platform more addictive. They compared the addiction to social media with cigarettes. Mark Lanier, the woman's lawyer, said, "They didn’t just build apps, they built traps. They didn’t want users, they wanted addicts.”&nbsp;Instagram chief Adam Mosseri's testimony has not gone down well with the plaintiffs. Mosseri told the court that addiction is different from "problematic usage" of social media. “I’m sure I said this, but I think it’s important to differentiate between clinical addiction and problematic use,” said Mosseri. He argued that "addiction" is often used casually, such as when he once said he was addicted to a Netflix show, but "that’s not an actual clinical addiction." He agreed that "it’s possible to use Instagram more than you feel good about," but "too much is relative, it’s personal." Mosseri added, "We are trying to be as safe as possible but also censor as little as possible." Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is testifying next week.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-addiction-by-design-meta-youtube-accused-of-engineering-addiction-children-during-us-trial-1770688114440">‘Addiction by design’? Meta, YouTube accused of 'engineering addiction' in children during US trial</a><h2>Prince Harry supports grieving parents standing against social media platforms</h2>The plaintiff claims that these social media platforms were aware that some designs and features could foster detrimental mental health effects in young people, and still misled the public about the safety of their apps. Several families are closely watching the trial, and a group of them are being supported by Prince Harry. His Archewell Foundation is focused on digital safety. There are several cases of young people killing themselves because of social media. Lori Schott took her own life at the age of 18 in November 2020 because she believed she was ugly and worthless. In 2017, Molly Russell, a 14-year-old British schoolgirl, harmed herself and died as she was suffering from depression. It was revealed that social media contributed to her condition. These and many more such cases have triggered a widespread call for clamping down on social media platforms that are being accused of ignoring the safety of children. &nbsp;

Meta has been accused of engineering Instagram to create addiction among youth in a lawsuit. Mark Zuckerberg is set to testify next week. Meanwhile, Instagram chief Adam Mosseri created a furore by claiming addiction and problematic usage are two different things.

A lawsuit against Meta, YouTube, TikTok and Snap brought by a 20-year-old woman at the Los Angeles Superior Court could lead to drastic changes in their apps. Referred to as KGM, the plaintiff claims that she became addicted to social media as a child, causing anxiety, depression and body-image issues. Notably, TikTok and Snapchat settled with her before the trial. There are thousands of other lawsuits where people are slamming social media companies for leading youth to become addicted to their apps. Her lawyers say that “infinitely scroll” on Instagram kept her glued to her phone for at least eight hours a day. They argue that "likes" on her photos and videos gave her a dopamine rush, which made the platform more addictive. They compared the addiction to social media with cigarettes. Mark Lanier, the woman's lawyer, said, "They didn’t just build apps, they built traps. They didn’t want users, they wanted addicts.” Instagram chief Adam Mosseri's testimony has not gone down well with the plaintiffs. Mosseri told the court that addiction is different from "problematic usage" of social media. “I’m sure I said this, but I think it’s important to differentiate between clinical addiction and problematic use,” said Mosseri. He argued that "addiction" is often used casually, such as when he once said he was addicted to a Netflix show, but "that’s not an actual clinical addiction." He agreed that "it’s possible to use Instagram more than you feel good about," but "too much is relative, it’s personal." Mosseri added, "We are trying to be as safe as possible but also censor as little as possible." Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is testifying next week. Also Read: ‘Addiction by design’? Meta, YouTube accused of 'engineering addiction' in children during US trial Prince Harry supports grieving parents standing against social media platforms The plaintiff claims that these social media platforms were aware that some designs and features could foster detrimental mental health effects in young people, and still misled the public about the safety of their apps. Several families are closely watching the trial, and a group of them are being supported by Prince Harry. His Archewell Foundation is focused on digital safety. There are several cases of young people killing themselves because of social media. Lori Schott took her own life at the age of 18 in November 2020 because she believed she was ugly and worthless. In 2017, Molly Russell, a 14-year-old British schoolgirl, harmed herself and died as she was suffering from depression. It was revealed that social media contributed to her condition. These and many more such cases have triggered a widespread call for clamping down on social media platforms that are being accused of ignoring the safety of children.

Meta has been accused of engineering Instagram to create addiction among youth in a lawsuit. Mark Zuckerberg is set to testify next week. Meanwhile, Instagram chief Adam Mosseri created a furore by claiming addiction and problematic usage are two different things.

Instagram head says no such thing as 'social media addiction'. The lawsuit might change apps forever

Norway’s former prime minister Thorbjørn Jagland has been charged with "aggravated corruption” following a police investigation into his links with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the Norwegian police said on Thursday (Feb 12). According to authorities, several properties belonging to Jagland had also been searched, his attorney said.Elden Law Firm said that the former leader is cooperating with the authorities, adding that he “denies all charges”. Jagland’s lawyers added that the searches of his “home and leisure properties” are “a normal part of an investigation of this type.”Økokrim, Norway’s investigative agency for economic and environmental crime, said that it will question Jagland as part of the investigation, country’s public broadcaster NRK reported. Investigators have said that they were looking into “whether gifts, travel and loans were received in connection with his position.”“As an automatic consequence of the search, Jagland now has formal status as a suspect,” the former prime minister’s lawyer Anders Brosveet said in a statement. “Jagland wants to contribute to the case being thoroughly investigated, and the next step is that he will appear for questioning at Økokrim.”Jagland, who served as the country’s prime minister from 1996 to 1997, has denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein. He has also served as Norway’s foreign minister and secretary-general of the Council of Europe.This comes as Norway’s royal family faces mounting controversy as charities reconsidered or reviewed ties to the crown princess over her past contact with Epstein. The critics are now questioning her suitability to the role of future queen.Last week Norway’s royal house said Mette-Marit “strongly disavows Epstein’s abuse and criminal acts” and is sorry for “not having understood early enough what kind of person he was.”

Norway’s ex-PM Thorbjørn Jagland faces aggravated corruption charges over alleged Epstein links. Police searched his properties. He denies wrongdoing and is cooperating with investigators.

Norway’s former prime minister Thorbjørn Jagland has been charged with "aggravated corruption” following a police investigation into his links with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the Norwegian police said on Thursday (Feb 12). According to authorities, several properties belonging to Jagland had also been searched, his attorney said. Elden Law Firm said that the former leader is cooperating with the authorities, adding that he “denies all charges”. Jagland’s lawyers added that the searches of his “home and leisure properties” are “a normal part of an investigation of this type.” Økokrim, Norway’s investigative agency for economic and environmental crime, said that it will question Jagland as part of the investigation, country’s public broadcaster NRK reported. Investigators have said that they were looking into “whether gifts, travel and loans were received in connection with his position.” “As an automatic consequence of the search, Jagland now has formal status as a suspect,” the former prime minister’s lawyer Anders Brosveet said in a statement. “Jagland wants to contribute to the case being thoroughly investigated, and the next step is that he will appear for questioning at Økokrim.” Jagland, who served as the country’s prime minister from 1996 to 1997, has denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein. He has also served as Norway’s foreign minister and secretary-general of the Council of Europe. This comes as Norway’s royal family faces mounting controversy as charities reconsidered or reviewed ties to the crown princess over her past contact with Epstein. The critics are now questioning her suitability to the role of future queen. Last week Norway’s royal house said Mette-Marit “strongly disavows Epstein’s abuse and criminal acts” and is sorry for “not having understood early enough what kind of person he was.”

Norway’s ex-PM Thorbjørn Jagland faces aggravated corruption charges over alleged Epstein links. Police searched his properties. He denies wrongdoing and is cooperating with investigators.

Norway’s former PM Thorbjørn Jagland faces corruption charges over alleged Epstein links

Going to watch his country’s ice hockey team at the Winter Olympics in Italy turned out to be a bad decision for a Slovak man, when he was arrested by the Italian authorities after being on the run for 16 years. The 44-year-old returned to the country to watch his national hockey team despite being on the wanted list, the local Carabinieri police force said in a statement.According to the police, he had an arrest warrant issued for a series of shop thefts in 2010. The authorities managed to track him down after he checked into a guest house in outskirts of Milan.The man was apprehended after receiving a tip from hotel staff, the Carabinieri police said. He was arrested and taken to the central San Vittore prison to serve an 11 months and seven days sentence, the Carabinieri said.Much to his disappointment, the man could not watch the game in which Slovakia’s opening ice hockey game at Milan's Santagiulia Arena. Slovakia’s men’s hockey team debuted at the Milano Cortina Games on Wednesday with a 4-1 win over Finland.The case mirrors the plot of “The Bandit and the Champion”, a famous Italian ballad inspired by early 20th-century outlaw Sante Pollastri, in which a criminal is captured following a years-long manhunt when he returned to watch a childhood friend at a cycling event.The 2026 Winter Olympics, officially the XXV Winter Olympic Games and commonly known as Milano Cortina 2026, kicked off on February 6 and will conclude on February 22. The international multi-sport event is being held across several locations in Lombardy and Northeast Italy.

A Slovak fugitive on the run for 16 years was arrested in Milan after arriving to watch his team at the 2026 Winter Olympics. 

Going to watch his country’s ice hockey team at the Winter Olympics in Italy turned out to be a bad decision for a Slovak man, when he was arrested by the Italian authorities after being on the run for 16 years. The 44-year-old returned to the country to watch his national hockey team despite being on the wanted list, the local Carabinieri police force said in a statement. According to the police, he had an arrest warrant issued for a series of shop thefts in 2010. The authorities managed to track him down after he checked into a guest house in outskirts of Milan. The man was apprehended after receiving a tip from hotel staff, the Carabinieri police said. He was arrested and taken to the central San Vittore prison to serve an 11 months and seven days sentence, the Carabinieri said. Much to his disappointment, the man could not watch the game in which Slovakia’s opening ice hockey game at Milan's Santagiulia Arena. Slovakia’s men’s hockey team debuted at the Milano Cortina Games on Wednesday with a 4-1 win over Finland. The case mirrors the plot of “The Bandit and the Champion”, a famous Italian ballad inspired by early 20th-century outlaw Sante Pollastri, in which a criminal is captured following a years-long manhunt when he returned to watch a childhood friend at a cycling event. The 2026 Winter Olympics, officially the XXV Winter Olympic Games and commonly known as Milano Cortina 2026, kicked off on February 6 and will conclude on February 22. The international multi-sport event is being held across several locations in Lombardy and Northeast Italy.

A Slovak fugitive on the run for 16 years was arrested in Milan after arriving to watch his team at the 2026 Winter Olympics.&nbsp;

Game over! Winter Olympic dream turns into arrest drama for wanted Slovak fan in Italy

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