Norway’s crown princess revealed she was manipulated by Jeffrey Epstein, sparking headlines about royal scandal and safety concerns.
As of April 2026, Turkey has passed a law banning children under 15 from creating social media accounts, requiring platforms to install age-verification systems. The UK government is debating a similar ban for under-16s amid parliamentary disagreements. Australia has enforced a ban since December 2025, with other countries like Spain, France, and Indonesia considering or implementing similar restrictions.
European nations, led by the UK and Germany, commit to building 100GW of offshore wind in the North Sea through the Hamburg Declaration. US ambassador Warren Stephens criticises this focus, urging exploitation of North Sea oil and gas, echoing former President Trump’s stance. The debate highlights tensions over energy independence and climate goals.
Stellantis announced a $26.2 billion write-down amid a shift away from EV investments, reflecting a broader industry slowdown following US and European policy reversals. Automakers like Ford and GM also faced large losses, while some pivot to grid-scale batteries. The industry recalibrates after policy shifts and market realities.
Despite hosting the Winter Olympics in Cortina for a second time, the Ladin community feels overlooked. Their cultural representation is minimal, with no official inclusion in the opening ceremony. Ladins are raising awareness through flags and cultural events, highlighting their endangered language and heritage amid broader Italian celebrations.
Marius Borg Høiby, son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, is on trial in Oslo on 38 charges including rape, domestic violence, and drug possession. He was detained after new allegations of assault and threats. The trial, which began today, could see him sentenced up to 10 years if convicted.
The 2026 Winter Olympics officially opened on February 6, 2026, with ceremonies held simultaneously in Milan's San Siro stadium and Cortina d'Ampezzo. The Games span over 350 kilometers across northern Italy, featuring 2,900 athletes from 90+ countries. The event blends Italian culture with global performances amid protests over U.S. ICE agents' advisory role and political tensions.
Norway's royal family faces a major crisis as Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son, Marius Borg Hoiby, stands trial on 38 charges including rape and domestic violence. The case follows revelations of her ties to Jeffrey Epstein and has impacted public support for the monarchy, though most Norwegians still favor its continuation. The trial is ongoing today, February 10, 2026.
Recent reports suggest some ski jumpers may be injecting hyaluronic acid or using suit modifications to gain aerodynamic advantages at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Authorities are investigating, but no evidence has been confirmed. The controversy follows last year's suit tampering scandal involving Norwegian athletes.
On February 14, 2026, Thorbjørn Jagland, former Norwegian prime minister and ex-chair of the Nobel Peace Prize Committee, was charged with aggravated corruption linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Norwegian police searched his Oslo and other properties after US Justice Department files revealed extensive contacts and travel involving Epstein. Jagland denies wrongdoing and is cooperating with investigators.
Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit has issued a public apology after newly released files revealed her extensive email contact with Jeffrey Epstein, including using one of his properties in 2013. The revelations come amid ongoing scandals involving her family, including her son’s criminal trial. She regrets her past associations and the royal family’s situation.
Canadian curling teams faced a series of defeats at the 2026 Winter Olympics, with the mixed doubles pair Jocelyn Peterman and Brett Gallant eliminated after five consecutive losses. The team struggled with ice conditions and tactical adjustments, raising questions about Canada's curling dominance and future prospects in the sport.
At the Winter Olympics in Livigno, Norway's Birk Ruud defended his big air title amid a competitive field, with American Mac Forehand leading qualifying. Athletes used music for motivation, but opinions varied on its impact on performance. The event showcased high-level tricks and resilience, with some skiers facing falls and setbacks.
Norwegian skier Johannes Høsflot Klaebo won his ninth gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics, becoming the most successful Winter Olympian in history. Federica Brignone secured her second gold for Italy, while Mikaela Shiffrin's medal drought continued with an 11th-place finish. Controversies also emerged in curling.
At the 2026 Winter Olympics, Slovenian siblings Nika and Domen Prevc won medals in ski jumping, making history as the first brother and sister to medal together. The event highlighted their family’s long-standing ski jumping legacy amid ongoing doping and equipment regulation issues.
The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index shows a global decline, with the average score dropping to 42, the lowest in over ten years. Rwanda improved slightly, ranking 41st, while regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East continue to struggle with entrenched corruption. The US and Europe face rising risks.
U.S. President Trump’s interest in Greenland has sparked NATO discussions on Arctic security. NATO is planning an enhanced vigilance mission called 'Arctic Sentry' to address concerns, with Britain increasing defense spending and exploring private investment to bolster Arctic readiness. Details remain scarce, but coordination is underway.
At the 2026 Winter Olympics, a series of disputes over 'double-touching' stones and monitoring protocols have led to rule clarifications and increased scrutiny. The controversy involves Canadian, British, and Norwegian teams, highlighting tensions between sportsmanship and officiating standards amid growing professionalism.
American figure skater Isabeau Levito expressed joy about her experience in Italy before her short program, despite her performance. Meanwhile, teammate Amber Glenn received a surprise endorsement from Madonna, boosting her confidence. US men's skater Ilia Malinin faced disappointment, finishing eighth after a challenging performance, marking a setback in his Olympic debut.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy feature advanced drone tracking for sports and athletes using real-time feedback devices. Athletes also use personalized music to enhance performance, highlighting innovations in sports technology and athlete preparation amid ongoing competition.
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.
Following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, EU leaders urge maximum restraint and warn of escalation. Countries respond with diplomatic and military measures, amid concerns over regional stability and international law. The situation remains volatile as tensions escalate in the Middle East.
At the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics, Russia and Belarus competed under their national flags for the first time since 2014, following bans due to doping and the 2022 Ukraine invasion. Their participation sparked boycotts by seven countries, including Ukraine, and boos from some spectators. Russian athletes have won multiple medals, marking a contentious return amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Britain, Ukraine, and the Netherlands are working on a new security cooperation mechanism set for 2027, aimed at boosting defense investment and demand for military technology. Leaders also discuss joint drone production and increased NATO cooperation amid ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions.
Early Tuesday morning, two men fired shots at the US consulate in downtown Toronto from a stolen white Honda CR-V. No injuries were reported. The incident is under investigation as a national security threat amid heightened tensions over the Iran war and recent antisemitic attacks in Toronto. Security has been increased at US and Israeli diplomatic sites across Canada.
On Sunday, an improvised explosive device damaged the US embassy consular entrance in Oslo, causing no injuries. Three Norwegian brothers of Iraqi descent were arrested on Wednesday, suspected of a terror bombing intended to kill or cause significant damage. Authorities are investigating motives, including possible foreign state involvement amid Middle East tensions.
The US Trade Representative has launched investigations into over 60 countries, including China, the EU, and India, focusing on forced labor practices. The move aims to assess compliance and potentially impose tariffs, amid ongoing trade tensions and global economic pressures.
The US is launching new investigations into 60 countries, including China and the EU, over unfair trade practices and forced labor, aiming to replace lost tariff revenue after a Supreme Court ruling. The process could lead to new import taxes before July 2026.
European infrastructure faces a surge of sabotage and cyberattacks linked to Russia since 2022. Incidents include arson, cyberattacks on utilities, and railway sabotage during major events, aiming to undermine support for Ukraine, spread discord, and drain resources. Authorities warn of Moscow's increasingly aggressive posture.
President Bola Tinubu's two-day state visit to the UK, the first in 37 years, focused on deepening diplomatic, economic, and security relations. Discussions included trade, regional stability, and cultural ties, with agreements on trade summits and security cooperation. The visit highlights Nigeria's progress and strategic partnership with the UK.
Marius Borg Høiby, son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, is on trial in Oslo for 40 charges, including four counts of rape involving incapacitated women. He denies the allegations, while the case has drawn intense media attention and scrutiny of the royal family. A verdict is expected soon.
The 2026 World Happiness Report reveals a significant decline in life satisfaction among under-25s in Western countries, especially in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, linked to heavy social media use. Finland remains the happiest nation for the ninth year, while Costa Rica rises to fourth place. The report highlights social media's harmful effects on youth mental health, particularly among teenage girls.
Newly released documents show Crown Princess Mette-Marit maintained contact with Jeffrey Epstein from 2011 to 2014, including a stay at his Palm Beach house. She states she was manipulated and regrets her association, but has not been accused of wrongdoing. Her health and her son's trial dominate recent headlines.
The US has sent 5,000 Marines to the Gulf as tensions with Iran escalate. Iran denies negotiations, calling US claims 'fake news.' Oil prices surge, and the risk of conflict increases. The situation remains uncertain, with global security and energy supplies at stake.
Australia's new law requires 10 major social media platforms to block under-16s or face fines of up to AU$49.5 million. While platforms have deactivated 5 million accounts, concerns remain over compliance and effectiveness, with investigations ongoing into potential non-compliance by major companies like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
A study from NYU finds residents of low-opportunity neighborhoods exhibit signs of faster biological aging, driven mainly by social and economic stressors. The research highlights how structural conditions embed in biology, influencing aging processes over time, with potential interventions including improving neighborhood resources and reducing chronic stress.
Electric vehicle sales across Europe have increased sharply in April, driven by rising fuel prices and geopolitical tensions. Data shows record EV registrations in several countries, with prices in the UK falling below petrol cars for the first time. The shift is accelerating as consumers seek cheaper, cleaner alternatives amid ongoing conflicts and energy concerns.
Several major donors, including the US, UK, Germany, Japan, and France, reduced foreign aid in 2025, with the US experiencing a 57% decline. This has led to increased humanitarian crises, with experts warning of rising deaths and instability worldwide. The trend risks reversing decades of progress.
Labour MPs have criticised the UK government's shift towards renewable energy, calling for increased North Sea oil and gas exploration. Meanwhile, US President Trump has urged Britain to open North Sea oil fields, arguing it will boost energy security amid tensions in the Middle East. The debate highlights tensions between energy independence and climate commitments.
Russia has been linked to over 150 cyber and sabotage incidents across Europe since February 2022. Recent attacks include a failed attempt on a Swedish heating plant and previous operations on Polish power grids, water utilities, and Latvian railway infrastructure. Western officials warn these actions aim to undermine support for Ukraine and spread discord.
Russian drone and missile strikes have increased across Ukraine, targeting cities and infrastructure. Ukraine has responded with drone attacks on Russian territory, while international support and military aid are being reinforced. The conflict continues to escalate with ongoing casualties and damage.
The UK government has announced that existing guidance on mobile phone restrictions in schools will be made statutory. This move formalises policies most schools already enforce, aiming to strengthen child safeguarding legislation amid ongoing debates about technology's impact on young people. The legislation is part of broader child protection reforms.
Electric vehicle sales are increasing due to a surge in used EVs from lease returns and expanded government fleet purchases. The influx of used EVs is making electric cars more affordable, while Tesla is moving into public sector markets through new agreements, boosting EV adoption in North America.
Canada has announced the creation of its first sovereign wealth fund, focusing on investments in infrastructure, energy, mining, agriculture, and technology. Starting with 25 billion Canadian dollars, the fund aims to support major projects and diversify the economy amid trade tensions with the US. Details on funding sources remain unspecified.