-
On February 25, 2026, Christophe Leribault was appointed director of the Louvre, succeeding Laurence des Cars who resigned amid crises including a $102 million crown jewels heist, labor strikes, water damage, and a decade-long ticket fraud scandal. Leribault faces the challenge of restoring security and advancing President Macron's costly Louvre modernization plan.
-
French officials blocked Jared Kushner from accessing government ministers after he failed to attend a scheduled meeting to explain controversial comments about far-left violence and Quentin Deranque's death. The incident marks a diplomatic rift amid ongoing disagreements between France and the US, with France demanding explanations and Kushner citing personal commitments.
-
Heavy rains in Minas Gerais caused floods and landslides in Juiz de Fora and Uba, resulting in 30 deaths, 39 missing, and thousands displaced. Rescue efforts continue amid record rainfall and warnings of further storms.
-
Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed during a military ambush at his rural home in Jalisco. He died after attempting to escape gunfire while being airlifted from the scene. The operation was based on a tip linked to his personal life.
-
On February 24, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice filed an 81-page lawsuit against UCLA, accusing the university of fostering a hostile work environment for Jewish and Israeli employees amid pro-Palestinian protests following the October 2023 Hamas attack. The suit alleges UCLA tolerated antisemitic acts, failed to discipline offenders, and violated civil rights laws, demanding damages and policy enforcement.
-
Senegal's parliament is set to pass a bill criminalizing same-sex relations, increasing penalties and broadening the scope of 'unnatural acts.' The legislation follows recent arrests and social media homophobia, with the bill awaiting a parliamentary vote. Critics warn it worsens human rights conditions.
-
On February 24, 2026, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) launched a criminal investigation into Telegram founder Pavel Durov, accusing him of aiding terrorist activities. The probe follows Russia's recent restrictions on Telegram, citing security risks and refusal to cooperate. Durov, living abroad, denies wrongdoing and criticizes Russia's push for a state-controlled app designed for surveillance.
-
Retired Major-General Suresh Sallay was detained in Colombo over links to the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings. Authorities allege he conspired and aided the attacks, which targeted churches and hotels, causing over 500 injuries. The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation.
-
German Chancellor Merz visited China, emphasizing the need for fair trade, open communication, and deepening economic ties. He called for China to reduce subsidies and strengthen the renminbi, while addressing concerns over Chinese competition and geopolitical issues, including Beijing’s support for Russia and its impact on German industry.
-
Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán claims Ukraine is using an oil blockade to pressure Hungary amid a dispute over Russian oil supplies via the Druzhba pipeline. He ordered increased security measures at energy sites, citing threats of further disruption. The situation is linked to Hungary's ongoing resistance to EU sanctions and support for Ukraine.
-
As Mexico prepares to host 13 World Cup matches, recent cartel violence and the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes have raised security doubts. Officials assure safety, but local residents and international observers remain cautious amid ongoing violence in Jalisco.
-
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visits China to strengthen economic and strategic relations, emphasizing balanced cooperation and addressing trade imbalances. The trip occurs amid rising tensions over trade, Ukraine, and China's assertiveness on the global stage, with European leaders seeking to navigate complex relations with Beijing.
-
King Harald V of Norway, aged 89, was hospitalized in Tenerife for an infection and dehydration. His condition is stable, but his doctors emphasize the seriousness due to his age. He is responding well to treatment, with further updates expected after assessment.
-
President Trump delivered a speech amid ongoing military tensions, highlighting recent foreign policy wins like Gaza ceasefire and Maduro's capture, while addressing concerns over Iran, Ukraine, and the economy. The speech aims to bolster his foreign policy record and influence upcoming elections.
-
On February 24, 2026, Australia’s Royal Commission into the December 14 Bondi Beach massacre began, led by retired judge Virginia Bell. The inquiry will investigate the terror attack, antisemitism, and social cohesion, with a report due by December. The accused, Naveed Akram, faces terrorism and murder charges; his father was killed during the attack. The commission will examine security failures and intelligence effectiveness.
-
French prosecutors have ordered PSG defender Achraf Hakimi to stand trial on rape charges after a woman accused him in 2023. Hakimi denies the allegations and plans to appeal. The case highlights ongoing issues in men's football regarding the #MeToo movement, with no trial date set yet.
-
Russian-Australian historian Andrei Lankov was detained and expelled from Latvia while preparing to give a lecture on North Korea. Latvia's authorities reportedly blacklisted him, citing concerns over his views. Lankov, who lives in Seoul, believes his objective analysis of North Korea led to his ban. He is now in Estonia.
-
President Trump delivered a lengthy prime-time speech to Congress, aiming to rally support amid economic setbacks, Supreme Court rulings, and escalating tensions with Iran. He highlighted economic gains, border policies, and peace efforts, while facing criticism over tariffs and his tone towards the judiciary.
-
On February 24, 2026, Ukraine commemorated four years since Russia's full-scale invasion. President Zelenskyy declared Ukraine's independence defended and Russia's goals unmet. Despite ongoing peace talks, territorial disputes persist, with Russia controlling 19% of Ukraine. European leaders reaffirmed support amid stalled sanctions and aid due to Hungary's veto. The war remains a costly stalemate with severe humanitarian impacts.
-
The U.S. men's hockey team celebrated their historic gold medal at the Winter Olympics in Italy, with team member Matthew Tkachuk inviting Trump to wear his medal during a White House visit. The team returned to Miami and then traveled to Washington, with the women's team declining the invitation.
-
As of February 2026, 15 South African men lured into fighting for Russia in Ukraine have returned home, with two still in Russia. Investigations are ongoing into illegal recruitment networks, including involvement by Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma. Across Africa, over 1,780 citizens from 36 countries are reported fighting for Russia, many deceived by false job promises.
-
A bomb attack near Savyolovsky station in Moscow resulted in the death of a police officer and injuries to two others. The attacker approached a traffic police vehicle and detonated an explosive, with the incident occurring on the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Authorities launched a criminal investigation, but motives remain unclear.
-
President Trump delivered a lengthy speech warning of Iran's nuclear ambitions, citing military buildup and recent strikes. He emphasized diplomacy but left open the possibility of military action amid ongoing negotiations and regional tensions. The US has increased military presence near Iran, with diplomatic talks scheduled for this week.
-
Canadian Prime Minister Carney is on a 10-day diplomatic tour to diversify trade and strengthen alliances with Japan, India, and Australia. The trip aims to counter US tariffs, rebuild relations, and boost non-US exports, amid ongoing trade frictions and geopolitical shifts.
-
On February 24, 2026, Israel's recent approval of land registration in the West Bank's Area C, allowing reclassification of Palestinian land as Israeli state property and facilitating settler purchases, has drawn widespread international condemnation. Over 80 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and European powers, denounce these moves as de facto annexation violating international law and threatening the two-state solution.
-
On February 25, 2026, President Donald Trump delivered the longest State of the Union address in history, highlighting economic growth, immigration enforcement, and military achievements. Despite Republican applause, Democrats criticized his policies and rhetoric amid low approval ratings and looming midterm elections. Trump also addressed the Supreme Court tariff ruling and tensions with Iran, while largely avoiding new policy proposals.
-
Clashes between Syrian forces and Kurdish fighters at Al-Hol camp led to mass escapes, raising regional security fears. Authorities have transferred residents to safer locations amid ongoing instability following the Kurdish withdrawal and breaches along the camp's perimeter.
-
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was evacuated from his Canberra residence after a security threat linked to a banned Chinese dance troupe. Police conducted a thorough search and found nothing suspicious. Albanese urged Australians to stay vigilant amid rising threats against politicians.
-
Hezbollah warns it will intervene if attacked directly, while Lebanon urges restraint amid fears of Israeli strikes targeting infrastructure. US military buildup and diplomatic efforts highlight the risk of wider regional conflict today, February 25, 2026.
-
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second visit to Israel highlights a deepening strategic partnership, focusing on security, technology, and trade. The visit signals a shift in India's foreign policy, aligning more closely with Israel amid regional tensions and global realignments, with implications for regional stability and international support.
-
In 2025, a record 129 journalists and media workers were killed worldwide, with Israel responsible for over two-thirds of these deaths, mainly in Gaza and Yemen. The CPJ reports a sharp increase in targeted killings, highlighting ongoing conflicts and restrictions on press access.
-
A shooting in Christian County, Missouri, resulted in the death of Deputy Gabriel Ramirez and the suspect Richard Bird, after a lengthy gunfight during a manhunt. Two other deputies were wounded but are in stable condition. Bird had a long criminal history and was recently charged with burglary and theft.
-
A Japanese journalist, identified as Shinnosuke Kawashima, has been transferred to Evin Prison in Tehran, according to reports from Radio Free Europe and Iran International. The detention occurred around January 20, but the exact charges and circumstances remain unclear. Japan is urging Iran for his early release amid ongoing protests in Iran.
-
Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao will face off again on September 19 at the Las Vegas Sphere, streamed on Netflix. The fight marks their second encounter, 11 years after their first, and will be the first boxing event at the Sphere. Both fighters are nearing 50 and have recently returned from retirement.
-
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Israel for the second time, strengthening security, economic, and technological cooperation amid regional tensions. The visit highlights a shift in India’s foreign policy, aligning more closely with Israel’s model of governance and security strategies, while also reflecting India’s evolving stance on Palestine and regional conflicts.
-
China's Commerce Ministry announced export bans on dual-use items to 20 Japanese companies, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and JAXA, citing concerns over Japan’s military capabilities and Taiwan support. Japan condemns the move, which follows recent tensions over Taiwan and Japan’s security policies. The restrictions impact trade and diplomatic relations.
-
U.S. military leaders, including General Dan Caine, express concerns over a potential strike on Iran, citing risks of high casualties, depleted munitions, and lack of regional support. President Trump claims Caine believes a war could be 'easily won,' amid ongoing tensions over Iran's nuclear program and regional conflicts.
-
Iran is close to finalizing a deal with China to purchase CM-302 missiles, which have a range of about 290 km and are designed to evade ship defenses by flying low and fast. The deployment would significantly boost Iran's strike capabilities and threaten U.S. naval forces in the region, with negotiations accelerating after Iran's recent conflict with Israel. No delivery date has been set.
-
President Trump delivered a speech claiming the U.S. has achieved a historic economic and security turnaround within a year, emphasizing border security, economic growth, and military strength. Critics question the specifics and motives behind the claims, highlighting ongoing domestic issues.
-
A new plan involves a Gaza-based Palestinian firm building a housing compound near Rafah, signaling an effort to start reconstruction ahead of Israel's withdrawal and Hamas disarmament. The project, linked to UAE support, aims to house tens of thousands but faces approval hurdles.
-
Melvin Trotter, 65, was executed in Florida for the 1986 murder of Virgie Langford. His execution follows a record number of Florida executions in 2025, with ongoing legal appeals questioning protocol management and age exemptions. The case highlights ongoing debates over death penalty practices.
-
Australia has issued travel warnings and offered voluntary departures for diplomats' dependents in the Middle East, citing escalating regional tensions and the risk of conflict. The warnings follow increased US military activity and diplomatic negotiations over Iran's nuclear program, with Australia advising citizens in Israel and Lebanon to consider leaving while commercial options remain available.
-
Somalia declared a national drought emergency amid years of failed rains, with over 4.4 million facing hunger and thousands displaced. The crisis worsens due to water shortages, conflict, and declining humanitarian aid, with projections indicating 6.5 million will face crisis levels by March 2026.
-
Cuban forces intercepted a speedboat from Florida that opened fire, injuring a Cuban commander. Four attackers were killed, six wounded. The incident occurred amid heightened US-Cuba tensions and ongoing regional instability. Cuba is investigating the event, which highlights ongoing border disputes and regional security concerns.
-
Lebanese authorities report progress in disarming Hezbollah, with the army completing the first phase of a plan to restrict weapons north of the Litani River. The government grants four months for the second phase, amid Hezbollah's rejection and Israeli concerns over security threats.
-
Venezuela's government announced that since February 20, over 3,200 individuals, including those under house arrest and in prison, have been granted freedom under a new amnesty law. Critics highlight exclusions for serious offenses, while UN experts urge comprehensive justice.
-
A Turkish Air Force F-16 crashed early on Wednesday near Balikesir during a training exercise, killing the pilot, Major Ibrahim Bolat. The incident occurred during a planned contingency training involving landing and takeoff from an alternate zone. An investigation is underway, and Turkey's defense ministry confirmed the pilot's death.
-
Guinea's military entered Sierra Leone's border town of Kalieyereh without authorization, seizing equipment and raising their flag. Sierra Leone's government confirmed the incident, which follows a history of border disputes linked to the Sierra Leonean civil war and regional tensions. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the crisis.
-
Israel plans to ban 37 aid organizations by March 1, citing security concerns and new registration rules. The NGOs warn the move will cause a humanitarian crisis, as many rely on these groups for essential services. The aid groups have appealed for a court halt, arguing the rules violate international law and threaten aid delivery.
-
In February 2026, two tigers in Chiang Mai parks died from canine distemper virus (CDV) and bacterial infection. Authorities confirmed no bird flu link, but investigations remain ongoing. No human infections have been reported, and the parks remain closed as health monitoring continues.
-
Heavy rains driven by El Niño Costero have caused widespread flooding across Peru, especially in Arequipa. Over 700 districts are under emergency, with roads damaged and at least 68 deaths since December. The government has declared a state of emergency and is fast-tracking funding for infrastructure repairs.
-
On February 27, 2026, the US Embassy in Jerusalem will provide passport services in Efrat, a Jewish settlement in the West Bank, marking the first time consular services are offered in an Israeli settlement. The move has sparked controversy, with Israeli officials welcoming it as legitimizing settlements, while Palestinians and international actors condemn it as violating international law.
-
American Express will develop a new 55-story headquarters at Two World Trade Center, completing the site’s redevelopment. The project, expected to finish in 2031, signifies a major step in the area's recovery and economic revival, with the company occupying the entire building and creating thousands of jobs.
-
A 32-year-old man in Pierce County, Washington, went on a stabbing rampage, killing four people including himself. The incident occurred while deputies were responding to reports of a no-contact order violation. The suspect was shot and killed by police, with victims including a woman’s son and multiple bystanders. The investigation is ongoing.
-
Savannah Guthrie's family is offering a $1 million reward for information on her mother Nancy Guthrie, who was last seen outside Tucson on Jan 31. Authorities believe she was kidnapped, but evidence remains limited. The family hopes for a miracle or her safe return today, Feb 25, 2026.
-
Zimbabwe has rejected a US proposal for a $367 million health aid package over data sharing and sovereignty concerns. The decision halts the largest US-supported health program in the country, impacting HIV, TB, and maternal health efforts amid ongoing aid reductions and shifting global health policies.
-
A bipartisan bill to improve aviation safety by mandating aircraft location systems has stalled in Congress. Despite support from the Senate and safety advocates, resistance from the Pentagon and concerns over costs threaten its passage, delaying measures that could prevent future midair collisions.
-
Gwendolyn Westbrook, former CEO of United Council for Human Services, faces charges of misappropriating over $1.2 million in public funds between 2019 and 2023. She allegedly used nonprofit funds for personal expenses, including luxury vehicles and retail purchases. Her arraignment is scheduled for today.
-
Fourteen states and Pennsylvania sue the federal government over CDC's new vaccine recommendations, which reduce routine immunizations for children from 17 to 11 diseases. The lawsuit claims the change bypassed scientific review and unlawfully replaced vaccine advisory members, raising concerns about public health and politicization.
-
A Texas judge ruled that California Attorney General Rob Bonta cannot claim official immunity over statements in a campaign email criticizing ExxonMobil's recycling claims. The case stems from Bonta's 2024 lawsuit against Exxon, alleging deceptive practices related to plastics recycling. The ruling allows the case to proceed against Bonta personally.
-
A suspect dubbed 'Oscar the Grouch' was captured after hiding inside a garbage can in Huber Heights, Ohio. The arrest followed a police chase after he fled a traffic stop. Dashcam footage shows the suspect emerging from the bin as officers arrived. He was taken into custody without injury today, Wed, 25 Feb 2026.
-
A fire at a three-family home in Taunton, Massachusetts, around 9:50 a.m. injured two residents, displaced eight others, and damaged neighboring homes. The cause is under investigation, with authorities responding amid ongoing snowstorm recovery efforts.
-
Tiger Woods remains uncertain about competing in the Masters and taking on the Ryder Cup captaincy as he recovers from multiple surgeries. His focus is on reshaping the PGA Tour schedule and managing his health, with key decisions expected in the coming weeks.
-
Chicago's annual snowplow naming contest crowned 'Abolish ICE' as the top choice, reflecting ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement. The name, which garnered 70% of votes, is a political statement following ICE operations in the city last fall. The winning name will appear on a city snowplow during winter storms. The contest, now in its fourth year, saw over 13,300 submissions, with the top entries often referencing local or political themes. Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed pride in the civic participation, while critics note the name's provocative nature amid ongoing immigration debates. The city maintains a fleet of over 300 snow trucks and 400,000 tons of salt to manage winter weather. The story highlights Chicago's use of a lighthearted contest to engage residents on serious political issues, with the name 'Abolish ICE' serving as a pointed critique of federal immigration policies.
-
A historic blizzard in New England has led the Boston Globe to cancel its Tuesday print for the first time in its 154-year history. Snow and wind made it unsafe for staff to reach the printing plant, with the paper delivering the next edition on Wednesday. The storm set snowfall records and caused widespread disruptions.