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On February 26-27, 2026, Bill and Hillary Clinton testified behind closed doors before the Republican-led House Oversight Committee in Chappaqua, New York, regarding their connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The depositions follow months of resistance and subpoenas, with the committee probing Epstein's network, federal investigation failures, and the Clintons' associations.
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On February 27, 2026, Pakistan launched air and ground strikes against Taliban military targets in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia following coordinated Afghan attacks on Pakistani border positions. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declared "open war" after a series of militant attacks in Pakistan, accusing Afghanistan of harboring insurgents. Both sides report heavy casualties amid a breakdown of ceasefire efforts.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky reports increased readiness for a trilateral peace meeting with Russia, likely in Abu Dhabi in early March, as Ukraine faces ongoing Russian missile strikes targeting critical infrastructure and civilian areas. Negotiations include post-war recovery and prisoner exchanges, with recent military gains disrupting Russian plans.
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Amid ongoing cartel violence and the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, Mexico prepares to host 13 World Cup matches. Officials assure safety, but local residents and international teams remain cautious due to recent violence and instability in Jalisco, especially in Guadalajara, the tournament's host city.
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Recent Gallup polling shows a dramatic shift in American public opinion, with support for Palestinians now roughly equal to support for Israelis. The change, accelerated by the Gaza conflict, reflects growing Democratic and independent sympathy for Palestinians, contrasting with sustained Republican backing for Israel.
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Brady Tkachuk, captain of the NHL's Ottawa Senators, refutes a fabricated AI video showing him insulting Canada, calling it clearly fake. He also dismisses claims he shouted 'close the northern border' during Team USA's Olympic celebration. The story highlights concerns over AI manipulation and political tensions following the Winter Olympics.
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In his State of the Union address, Trump claimed Iran is developing missiles capable of reaching the US. However, US intelligence assessments suggest Iran may need until 2035 to develop a viable ICBM, with experts noting recent Israeli strikes have damaged missile facilities. The story highlights ongoing tensions over Iran's missile and nuclear programs.
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The US has assembled its largest military presence in the Middle East in decades amid rising tensions with Iran. President Trump has threatened military action if nuclear talks fail, with ongoing negotiations scheduled for Thursday. The CIA has launched a covert recruitment campaign targeting Iranians, urging secure communication methods amid regional unrest.
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Violence following the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes has raised security concerns ahead of Mexico's hosting of the 2026 World Cup. FIFA and Mexican officials express confidence, but cancellations and security issues persist in key host cities, especially Guadalajara.
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Federal agents raided Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Alberto Carvalho's home, office, and a Miami property linked to an investigation into fraud and corruption. Carvalho denies personal involvement. The district is cooperating, and no further details are available as of today, February 27, 2026.
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Denmark's upcoming election, scheduled for March 24, is influenced by recent tensions over US President Trump's interest in Greenland. Prime Minister Frederiksen seeks to bolster support by emphasizing Denmark's sovereignty and security, amid protests and political debates about US influence and Arctic strategy.
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A German administrative court has issued an injunction preventing the BfV from labeling the AfD as a right-wing extremist until a full legal review. The move follows the BfV's 2025 decision to designate the party as extremist, which the AfD challenged. The court's ruling is temporary, pending a final decision, and maintains the party's 'suspected extremist' status. The case highlights ongoing tensions over the party's classification and surveillance, with implications for German politics and civil liberties. Today's date is Fri, 27 Feb 2026.
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On February 25, 2026, a speedboat registered in Florida entered Cuban territorial waters near Villa Clara province. Cuban border guards approached the vessel, which then opened fire, wounding a Cuban commander. Four of the ten men aboard the boat were killed, six wounded. The boat's occupants were Cuban-Americans allegedly aiming for infiltration with terrorist intent. The incident heightens US-Cuba tensions amid ongoing energy and political crises.
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The Taliban's recent decree, signed in January, introduces a penal code that criminalizes criticism of leadership, enforces corporal punishment for various offenses, and discriminates based on social class. UN officials urge Afghanistan to rescind the decree, citing violations of international legal obligations and human rights, especially affecting women and minorities.
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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited Jordan, focusing on humanitarian efforts. They met refugees, children evacuated from Gaza, and supported health and food aid initiatives, including the WHO and World Central Kitchen. The trip highlights ongoing regional crises and aid efforts.
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Latin American countries Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Mexico are increasing cooperation with the US on anti-narcotics efforts. Bolivia has resumed DEA operations after nearly 20 years, Colombia has intensified military actions, and Mexico has stepped up efforts following the death of cartel leader El Mencho. These shifts mark a regional security realignment.
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The IAEA reports Iran's nuclear activities remain unverified due to lack of access, with Iran maintaining a stockpile of uranium close to weapons-grade levels. Negotiations between the US and Iran continue, but tensions persist over Iran's nuclear program and regional security concerns.
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President Trump announced a new pledge requiring major tech firms to build their own power plants to meet rising electricity demands from AI data centers. The initiative aims to prevent higher consumer costs amid record power demand and utility rate hikes across the US, with several companies already planning on-site power solutions.
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Amid rising tensions over Iran's nuclear program, the US, UK, and other nations are evacuating diplomatic staff from Israel and Iran. The US warns of possible military action, with military deployments and diplomatic talks ongoing. The situation remains highly volatile as negotiations falter.
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Ecuador announced a plan to increase tariffs on Colombian imports to 50% from March 1, citing border security concerns and a trade deficit. The move follows escalating tensions over drug trafficking and border security, with Colombia denying accusations and suspending energy exports. The dispute risks regional stability.
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On February 26, 2026, Hong Kong's Court of First Instance overturned Jimmy Lai's 2022 fraud conviction related to his media business's lease, slightly reducing his prison time. Lai remains imprisoned after a 20-year sentence under the national security law. Separately, Kwok Yin-sang was sentenced for handling assets of a wanted activist under the same law.
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A Greek court sentenced four individuals linked to spyware use, including Israeli and Greek nationals, for illegal phone hacking. The case involves the misuse of Predator software against over 90 targets, including politicians and officials, amid ongoing political fallout and appeals.
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Norway's 89-year-old monarch, King Harald V, was hospitalized on Tuesday in Tenerife for a skin infection and dehydration. He is responding well to treatment and is expected to be released soon. His health update comes amid family scrutiny and political turbulence.
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Italian golfer Andrea Pavan was hospitalized after falling three floors in South Africa. The accident occurred when he stepped into an elevator with no car present. Pavan underwent surgery for back and shoulder injuries and is recovering with support from fellow players and staff. The incident happened in his private accommodation during the South African Open.
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Kenyan police detained Festus Omwamba in Moyale near Ethiopia, accusing him of leading a human trafficking syndicate that recruited Kenyans to fight in Ukraine for Russia. Over 1,000 Kenyans have been recruited, with some on the front lines, amid allegations of collusion with officials. Omwamba's arrest marks a major step in addressing the issue.
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On February 27, 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney began a 10-day diplomatic tour of India, Australia, and Japan to diversify trade away from the US amid ongoing tariff tensions. The visit aims to repair strained Canada-India relations following allegations of Indian involvement in a 2023 assassination, advance a free trade agreement, and boost non-US exports, targeting $51 billion in bilateral trade with India by 2030.
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Swedish forces intercepted and jammed a drone near the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle in the Öresund Strait. The drone's origin is suspected to be Russian, amid ongoing tensions over drone activities linked to Moscow in European waters. The incident highlights escalating hybrid warfare concerns in the region.
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The US Treasury proposes a regulation to block US banks from doing business with MBaer Merchant Bank AG, a small Swiss bank accused of funneling over $100 million for illicit activities linked to Iran and Russia. The move highlights concerns over money laundering and national security risks.
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Albanese, a UN special rapporteur on Palestinian rights, faces US sanctions and a lawsuit from her family, claiming violations of constitutional rights. The case highlights tensions over her criticism of Israel and her work on alleged war crimes, amid ongoing Gaza conflict and international disputes.
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Iran and the US are engaging in indirect negotiations to resolve a long-standing nuclear dispute. Talks in Switzerland and upcoming discussions in Vienna aim to reduce tensions and prevent military escalation. Progress is cautious but indicates a potential breakthrough, with both sides expressing optimism about reaching an agreement soon.
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The IMF has approved about $2.3 billion in disbursements to Egypt after reviewing reforms that led to a broad economic recovery. Inflation has fallen, and GDP growth reached 4.4%, but progress on structural reforms remains uneven amid external pressures.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Beijing to reinforce economic ties, emphasizing the need for fair cooperation amid concerns over Chinese subsidies, currency policies, and trade imbalances. The trip included signing agreements on climate and food security, with Merz urging China to address issues harming German industry.
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Iran and the US are engaged in indirect negotiations mediated by Oman in Geneva, aiming to revive a nuclear deal. Talks focus on uranium enrichment, with no breakthroughs yet. Regional tensions remain high, but war appears temporarily avoided as diplomacy persists today, February 26, 2026.
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As of February 2026, over 1,780 Africans from 36 countries, including South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, have been deceived into joining Russian forces in Ukraine, often without military training. South Africa has repatriated 15 men lured into fighting, with two still in Russia. Investigations and diplomatic efforts continue amid rising concerns over illegal recruitment and exploitation.
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Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer and critic of mainstream medicine, faces Senate confirmation as the next surgeon general. Her background includes questioning vaccines and advocating metabolic health, raising concerns among lawmakers. The confirmation process highlights debates over her unorthodox views and qualifications.
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Kim Jong-un warned of South Korea's potential collapse, emphasizing nuclear expansion and rejecting talks with Seoul. He highlighted plans for advanced missile systems and AI-driven weapons, while asserting North Korea's status as a nuclear power. The military parade and Kim’s daughter’s presence fuel succession speculation.
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South Africa faces a severe foot-and-mouth disease outbreak affecting over 297,000 cattle, with vaccination efforts underway amid export bans and economic impacts. Meanwhile, Uganda and Cyprus are also battling outbreaks, prompting quarantine and vaccination measures. The crisis threatens food supply and livelihoods worldwide.
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German politician Friedrich Merz visited China to strengthen economic ties and address trade imbalances, while emphasizing the need for a balanced partnership. The trip occurs amid ongoing tensions over trade, China's global assertiveness, and European efforts to reduce dependence on China and the US.
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Recent clashes in Jonglei state have resulted in at least 16 civilian deaths, with reports of military indiscriminate fire and civilian massacres. Displacement and humanitarian crises worsen amid ongoing conflict between government forces and militias, raising concerns over the country's fragile peace process.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel, reinforcing strategic, defense, and economic ties. He addressed the Knesset, expressed support for Israel amid ongoing Gaza conflict, and signed agreements on innovation and trade. The visit marks a deepening of India-Israel relations amid regional tensions.
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North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un has re-elected as party leader and promoted his sister, Kim Yo Jong, to a full department director during the recent Workers' Party congress. Kim also emphasized nuclear development and economic plans, with speculation about his daughter’s succession. The event underscores Kim’s consolidation of power and military ambitions.
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South Korea has approved Google's request to export high-precision map data under strict security conditions. This move ends years of restrictions, potentially enabling full Google Maps functionality in Korea and challenging local mapping giants. The decision follows a review addressing national security concerns and data sensitivity.
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Since Monday, heavy rains in Minas Gerais, Brazil, have caused severe flooding and landslides in Juiz de Fora and Uba, killing at least 46 people, leaving five missing, and displacing over 5,500 residents. Rescue operations continue amid warnings of further rain and risks of landslides. President Lula da Silva plans to visit the affected region on Saturday.
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The European Union has announced it will provisionally apply the EU-Mercosur trade deal after Argentina and Uruguay ratified it, despite ongoing parliamentary review and opposition from some sectors. The agreement, negotiated for 25 years, aims to create one of the world's largest free trade zones with over 700 million people.
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Recent prisoner exchanges in Syria, facilitated by the ICRC, mark a significant step in easing sectarian conflict in Sweida. Damascus released 61 Druze detainees in exchange for 25 government personnel, amid ongoing tensions and negotiations over the region's future stability.
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Tarek William Saab, close to Maduro, resigned as Venezuela's attorney general and will serve as acting ombudsman amid ongoing political and human rights tensions following Maduro's 2026 capture by the US military. His resignation follows scrutiny over abuses and recent reforms by acting President Rodriguez.
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Pope Leo will visit Algeria from April 13-15, marking the first papal trip to the country. The visit aims to promote interfaith dialogue and commemorate St. Augustine, who was born in Algeria. The trip is part of a broader tour including Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea, reflecting the Vatican's focus on Africa's growing Catholic community.
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As of February 27, 2026, Venezuelan ex-president Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores remain jailed in New York, facing drug trafficking charges. Maduro's lawyer argues the US Treasury blocked Venezuelan government funds to pay for his defense, violating his Sixth Amendment rights. The Treasury briefly authorized payment on January 9 but revoked it hours later without explanation.
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Tommy Schaefer received an 18-year sentence for the 2014 murder of Sheila von Wiese-Mack in Bali. He was deported back to the US after serving his sentence, while Heather Mack, involved in the case, remains imprisoned in Chicago. The case gained notoriety as the 'suitcase murder.'
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Bangladesh has ordered Interpol to issue a red notice for British Labour MP Tulip Siddiq over corruption allegations linked to land allocation. Siddiq, a British citizen and niece of ex-PM Sheikh Hasina, denies the charges, which relate to influence during Hasina's tenure. She faces multiple convictions in Bangladesh and has resigned from her UK role amid the controversy. The legal process is complicated by the lack of an extradition treaty between the UK and Bangladesh.
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Cuba shot at a Florida-registered speedboat carrying 10 armed Cubans from the U.S., resulting in four deaths and six injuries. Cuba claims the vessel was attempting infiltration and terrorism, while the U.S. investigates. Tensions rise amid ongoing U.S.-Cuba disputes.
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Authorities in South Kivu report discovering two mass graves near Uvira containing at least 171 bodies, suspected to be victims of M23 rebels. The region remains volatile despite rebel withdrawals and ongoing peace efforts. UN and regional bodies call for investigations today, Friday, 27 Feb 2026.
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President Trump’s recent State of the Union emphasized a stark divide on immigration, with Republicans supporting his call to prioritize American citizens' safety, while Democrats largely remained seated, refusing to endorse the principle that the government’s primary duty is to protect Americans over illegal migrants. The event underscores ongoing partisan tensions over immigration policy.
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Israeli strikes in Gaza have killed at least nine Palestinians and injured many more, amid ongoing violations of a ceasefire. Israel also restricts aid deliveries and orders aid groups to submit staff data, risking humanitarian collapse. Heavy rains and winter storms worsen living conditions for displaced Palestinians.
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As of February 27, 2026, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) is investigating Telegram founder Pavel Durov for allegedly aiding terrorist activities. This follows Moscow's escalating restrictions on Telegram, citing security risks and refusal to cooperate. Durov, living abroad, denies wrongdoing and accuses Russia of suppressing free speech while pushing a state-controlled app for surveillance.
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Lebanese authorities are advancing a plan to disarm Hezbollah and bring armed groups under state control, with international support focusing on the army's capacity to centralize weapons. The plan faces resistance from Hezbollah and ongoing Israeli strikes, complicating stability efforts amid upcoming international conferences.
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Cuban forces shot at a Florida-registered speedboat approaching the island, killing four and injuring six. The boat carried 10 armed individuals, including Michel Ortega Casanova, who was killed. Cuba claims the operation was an infiltration for terrorist purposes, amid heightened US-Cuba tensions.
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Recent clashes and camp breaches in northeastern Syria have led to mass escapes from al-Hol and al-Roj camps, raising concerns over security and potential regrouping of IS fighters. The shifts in control and camp management reflect broader regional instability and US withdrawal impacts.
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On February 27, 2026, the Pentagon reportedly shot down a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) drone near Fort Hancock, Texas, using a high-energy laser system. This marks the second such incident in two weeks, following a similar event near El Paso that caused a temporary FAA airspace shutdown. Lawmakers criticized the Trump administration for poor inter-agency coordination and inadequate drone operator training.
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Argentina's senate is set to approve a major reform of labour laws, aimed at weakening trade unions and reducing labour costs. The legislation, supported by President Milei's government, includes extending working hours, cutting severance pay, and allowing direct negotiations between companies and employees. Opponents warn it will weaken worker protections and increase exploitation.
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A new study shows nearly half of bird species are experiencing significant declines, with losses accelerating since 1987. Climate change and agricultural practices are key factors, especially in warmer regions. The findings highlight urgent conservation needs to prevent potential extinctions.
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Recent speeches by Donald Trump reveal ongoing political strategies and vulnerabilities. His latest address, the longest in history, avoided key issues and employed psychological techniques to rally support, while also exposing reliance on executive actions and unaddressed policy questions. Today's date is Thu, 26 Feb 2026.
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ICE agents attempted to stop a fleeing driver in Newark, resulting in a crash involving multiple vehicles and three children injured. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka condemned the pursuit, citing safety concerns and local laws. The driver was hospitalized; ICE's tactics face criticism amid broader debates on immigration enforcement.
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The European Commission announced that EU countries can use existing social funds to support women seeking abortions, especially in countries with restrictive laws like Malta and Poland. This move aims to improve cross-border access without new legislation, amid ongoing debates on reproductive rights.
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On February 26, 2026, the U.S. Justice Department acknowledged reviewing missing FBI interview memos related to a 2019 sexual assault allegation against former President Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. While millions of Epstein-related documents have been released under a transparency law, several FBI summaries of interviews with the accuser remain undisclosed, prompting congressional scrutiny and DOJ assurances of compliance.
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Joseph Boutros, a 21-year-old student at Salve Regina University in Rhode Island, died from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning after snow obstructed his car's exhaust pipe while he was charging his phone during a power outage caused by a winter storm. The incident highlights the dangers of CO buildup during winter weather and power outages.
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Rolls-Royce reported a 40% increase in 2025 profits, driven by military aircraft orders and data centre power demand. The company expects higher profits and share buybacks through 2028, despite supply chain and tariff challenges, reflecting a successful transformation since 2023.
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World Food Program Executive Director, Helen McCain, steps down after a mild stroke and health concerns. She returned to work in January but found the demands outpaced her recovery, leading to her decision to leave in three months. She has led WFP since April 2023, focusing on global hunger crises.
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Former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis has been summoned to stand trial in December over comments about his past ecstasy use. His party claims the case is politically motivated, reflecting Greece's broader crackdown on dissent and the manipulation of justice by the government.
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Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% share in UD Almeria, a Spanish club owned by Saudi interests, through his CR7 Sports Investments. The deal, announced today, reflects his long-term ambition to contribute to football beyond playing, with a focus on supporting the club’s growth and youth development.
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On February 25-26, 2026, the Trump administration, led by Vice President JD Vance, announced a $259 million withholding of Medicaid funds to Minnesota, citing fraud concerns. Governor Tim Walz condemned the move as politically motivated retribution, highlighting ongoing disputes over fraud allegations and state efforts to improve oversight. The state has submitted a corrective plan and awaits federal response.
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Abdullah Ocalan, imprisoned Kurdish leader, urges peace and reforms in Turkey, a year after PKK disarmament. His message supports legal reforms for reintegration of PKK members and promotes democratic society, amid ongoing peace efforts following decades of conflict.
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Cambodia unveiled 74 artifacts at the National Museum in Phnom Penh, returned from the UK under a 2020 agreement. The artifacts, dating from the pre-Angkorian period to the Angkor Empire, were smuggled out by art dealer Douglas Latchford, who was indicted before his death. The return marks a significant step in Cambodia's cultural recovery efforts.
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New York's lawsuit alleges Valve's loot boxes and virtual item sales in games like Counter-Strike and Dota 2 constitute illegal gambling, especially due to the resale market and third-party cash-out services. The case questions whether digital items of value and resale practices breach state laws, with Valve facing potential fines and restitution.
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Nancy Guthrie, 84, has been missing from her Tucson home since Jan 31. Her family, including NBC's Savannah Guthrie, offers a $1 million reward for information leading to her recovery, amid fears she may have been kidnapped or worse. Authorities urge caution and are investigating the case.
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Amarilis Brito Rodríguez was detained after performing the Dominican national anthem in an urban style at a restaurant. She claims no law prohibited her version, but authorities cite Article 37 of Law 210-19. She faces potential prison and fines, sparking social debate on respect and freedom of expression.
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Myanmar's military will formally transfer power to a new parliament in March after winning a 2026 election, with top generals expected to retain significant influence. The process marks a tentative step toward a return to parliamentary proceedings, though military control remains dominant amid ongoing unrest.
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On Tuesday, Feb 24, 2026, a 32-year-old man in Pierce County, Washington, stabbed and killed four people outside a home before being shot dead by police. The attack occurred amid reports of a no-contact order violation that had not yet been served. The victims and suspect's identities remain undisclosed as investigations continue.
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A snowstorm in New York City led to a large snowball fight in Washington Square Park, resulting in injuries to police officers and the arrest of a man for assaulting officers. Authorities are searching for four suspects, while the mayor downplays the incident as a fun but chaotic event.
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The US announced new health funding agreements with Congo, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and others, emphasizing domestic investment and data sharing. Zimbabwe rejected a $367 million deal over sovereignty concerns, while Uganda and Congo proceeded under different terms. The shift reflects US strategy changes and regional tensions over data control.
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U.S. lawmakers debate new aviation safety measures following recent midair collisions. The FAA and NTSB recommend mandatory aircraft location systems, but resistance from the Pentagon and cost concerns delay legislation. Families of crash victims urge stronger safety requirements, highlighting systemic weaknesses in current regulations.
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A suspect in Missouri opened fire during a manhunt, killing Deputy Gabriel Ramirez and another officer, Richard Bird. Two deputies were wounded but are in stable condition. The suspect, with a lengthy criminal history, was killed in the exchange. The incident highlights ongoing risks for law enforcement.
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A coalition of 14 states and Pennsylvania are suing the US government over recent changes to childhood vaccine recommendations. The lawsuit challenges the removal of vaccines from routine schedules, the replacement of advisory committee members, and the administration's reliance on unscientific comparisons. The case highlights ongoing political and scientific disputes over public health policy.
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Texas's Republican primary is intensifying, with incumbent Sen. John Cornyn facing a potential runoff against Attorney General Ken Paxton. The race has seen record spending, political tensions, and a high-stakes battle that could impact control of the Senate. Early voting shows Democratic turnout surpassing Republicans.
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In January, the US saw a record-high gap of home sellers over buyers, with 44% more sellers, marking the second-largest since 2013. Prices are rising in some markets like Milwaukee, while overall demand remains subdued due to high mortgage costs and economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, the UK housing market shows signs of recovery with increased listings and falling mortgage rates.
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Skiboky Stora was convicted of assault, stalking, and harassment targeting women, Jewish people, and white individuals in New York between 2023 and 2024. He represented himself during the trial, denying hate motives, but video evidence confirmed his involvement. Sentencing is scheduled for April 14.
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Federal agents have arrested 25 individuals, including Don Lemon, over a protest at Cities Church in St. Paul on Jan. 18. The protest involved accusations related to immigration enforcement and disrupted a Sunday service, leading to charges of conspiracy against religious freedom. More arrests are expected.