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Friedrich Merz, the chancellor-hopeful from the CDU, celebrated his party's victory at their Berlin headquarters, where supporters danced to a video called "Rambo Zambo," created by a German comedian in his honor. Merz, still uncertain about forming a parliamentary majority, thanked his party workers and encouraged a celebratory mood. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz acknowledged his responsibility for the historic defeat of his Social Democratic Party (SPD) and congratulated Merz and the CDU/CSU for their success in securing the mandate to form the next government. Scholz reaffirmed the SPD's commitment to not cooperating with the extreme right. Coalition negotiations are expected to be complicated, especially due to divisions over migration policies and the handling of the far-right AfD party, which remains highly stigmatized in Germany due to its Nazi past. This political uncertainty could leave Scholz in a caretaker role for an extended period, delaying crucial economic recovery measures for Germany.
Tensions loom over Ukraine, as Starlink internet have raised the possibility of cutting the country's access to Elon Musk's vital Starlink satellite. The event comes amid Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s denial for US’ access to the critical Earth minerals. Notably, Zelenskiy has rejected demands from Trump's administration for $500 billion in mineral wealth from Ukraine to repay Washington for wartime aid. Musk rushed thousands of Starlink terminals to Ukraine to replace communications services destroyed by Russia after its February 2022 invasion. Hailed at the time as a hero in Ukraine, Musk later curtailed access at least once before in the fall of 2022 as he became more critical of Kyiv's handling of the war. Zelenskiy rejected a detailed U.S. proposal last week that would have seen Washington and U.S. firms receiving 50% of Ukraine's critical minerals. The minerals include graphite, uranium, titanium and lithium, which are the key components in electric car batteries. Since then a rift has emerged between the leaders, with Trump denouncing Zelenskiy as "a dictator without elections"
At CPAC in Maryland, White House Border Czar Tom Homan, “The other thing I said I stated to the RNC that president Trump is gonna designate the criminal cartels of Mexico as a terrorist organization. He's gonna wipe you off the face of the earth. After I said that, of course, I got numerous death threats. I've doubled the size of my security detail because all the cartels wanna take home now. Well, I'll tell you what, come get some. You have killed more Americans than every terrorist organization in the world combined. You are now a terrorist organization, so word out to anybody that assist them, anybody that sells your drugs on the street, anybody assist these cartels in any way, you are helping a terrorist organization, and the weight of the world is coming down on you. I read a story last night, the police commission of Boston. You said you doubled down on not not helping the law enforcement office advice. I'm coming to Boston.”
Remember when billionaire Elon Musk brought his son X Æ A-Xii, whom he calls X, to the Oval Office? From making weird noises to picking his nose, the 4-year-old, who was standing close to the President's Resolute Desk, grabbed headlines. Now, President Donald Trump has replaced the iconic 145-year-old desk with a C&O desk. He has called it a “temporary change.” Donald Trump, who has in the past labelled himself as a germaphobe, shared a picture of the Oval Office with the new desk on his social media platform Truth Social. It was not clear if the change was brought in due to the nose-picking incident. The note attached to the post read, “A President, after the election, gets a choice of 1 in 7 desks. This desk, the “C&O,” which is also very well known and was used by President George H.W. Bush and others, has been temporarily installed in the White House while the Resolute Desk is being lightly refinished—a very important job. This is a beautiful, but temporary replacement!”
Hamas freed two hostages and was set to release four more from Gaza on Saturday (February 22) in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees. Tal Shoham, 40 and Avera Mengistu, 39, were handed over to the Red Cross in southern Gaza's Rafah after they were led onto a stage by armed Hamas militants. Four more were expected to be released in central Gaza soon after.
Indian-American Kash Patel, confirmed by the US Senate to head the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), traces his roots to Bhadran village in Gujarat's Anand district, from where his family migrated to Uganda 70 to 80 years ago, his community members said on Friday. New York-born Patel (44), who belongs to the Patidar community, has become the first Indian-American to lead the premier law enforcement agency of the United States. Watch here-
Donald Trump has announced new tariffs, including a 25% levy on imported cars, drugs, and chips, with plans to increase the rates later in the year. He claims these tariff measures are encouraging major global companies to return manufacturing to the U.S. Trump also stated that more details on the auto tariffs will be revealed on April 2, following a report from his cabinet members. Trump has long complained about unfair treatment of U.S. automotive exports, noting that the EU imposes a 10% tariff on vehicles, which is higher than the U.S. rate. The U.S. also charges a 25% tariff on imported pickup trucks to protect domestic manufacturers. The tariffs on drugs and chips will begin at 25% and rise over time, with no set start date yet. Additionally, Trump has imposed a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports and set a March 12 start date for tariffs on steel and aluminum.
Over 170 migrants, primarily from Asia and the Middle East, deported from the US to Panama, have opted to voluntarily return to their home countries. Panama's Minister of Public Security, Frank Abrego, confirmed this decision, highlighting ongoing efforts supported by US and international agencies. Stay informed on the latest developments as the remaining migrants prepare for repatriation amid safety concerns near the Darien Gap.
Dive into the latest stock market developments with updates on Tata Steel's monumental investment in electric arc furnace steelmaking at Port Talbot, preserving thousands of jobs and slashing CO2 emissions. Explore Indian Overseas Bank's new CFO appointment and Aurobindo Pharma's recent FDA inspection findings. Plus, catch up on Mahindra Lifespace Developers' major partnership and Rail Vikas Nigam's significant project win for the Bengaluru Suburban Rail. Stay informed with insights on Piramal Pharma's latest FDA inspection outcomes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke diplomatic protocol to personally welcome Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, during his recent state visit. In this video, we explore why this warm gesture took place, the significance of the Emir's visit, and what it means for India-Qatar relations. Watch now to find out more!
Thousands of Serbians took to the streets in Kragujevac, lighting up the night with their phones in protest against corruption. The demonstration follows months of unrest after a tragic railway station collapse in November. Anger continues to swell as citizens demand accountability. Watch the powerful visuals from the midnight protest!
An aircraft carrying the third batch of illegal Indian immigrants landed in Amritsar on February 16, 2025, as part of the ongoing US crackdown under the Trump administration. The C-17 Globemaster brought back 112 deportees from Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and other states. This follows two previous deportation flights within 10 days. Political tensions rise as concerns over in-flight shackling resurface. External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar addresses the issue in Parliament. Stay tuned for the latest updates
US President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States will extradite Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to India. Rana, currently held in a high-security US prison, has been linked to the attack that killed 164 people. His extradition follows a US Supreme Court ruling on January 21, 2025, rejecting his review petition. The US State Department expressed support for India’s efforts to ensure justice for the attack’s perpetrators. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to President Trump for expediting the process, allowing Rana to face trial in India. Rana, a Pakistani-origin businessman, was aware of the attack and maintained communication with terrorists, including David Headley, who cooperated against him. He also allegedly had ties with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Rana will now be interrogated by Indian authorities for his role in the attacks, which included the siege of the Taj Mahal Hotel, resulting in over 300 casualties.
U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed trade, defence, and energy cooperation during their meeting at the White House. Trump criticized India's high tariffs, stating that the U.S. would adopt reciprocal tariffs. Both leaders agreed to work toward a trade deal, which could be finalized within seven months, and discussed India’s desire to increase its defense purchases from the U.S., including fighter jets, and to make the U.S. the top supplier of oil and gas. They also focused on strengthening security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, a response to China's influence. Additionally, Trump sought India’s help on unauthorized immigration and expressed hopes of resolving India-China border skirmishes. Modi emphasized India’s commitment to peace in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and defended its continued ties with Russia. The two leaders also discussed advancing joint technology production and reducing the U.S. trade deficit with India.
President Donald Trump has introduced a plan to increase US tariffs to match the tax rates of other countries, aiming for fairness and to level the playing field between US manufacturers and foreign competitors. This move could lead to retaliatory tariffs from other nations, causing potential trade conflicts. While Trump argues that the tariffs will improve fairness and raise revenue, there are concerns that they may cause inflation and hinder economic growth. The tariff increases will be customized for each country, and their revenues are expected to help balance the US's $1.9 trillion budget deficit. Analysts warn about possible stagflation.
What does Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with US President Donald Trump mean for India's economy, trade, tariffs and diplomacy? Moneycontrol's Managing Editor Nalin Mehta breaks down what this crucial meeting adds up to and how it may redefine India's economic trajectory. Why did Modi say that MIGA (Make India Great Again) and MAGA (Make America Great Again) add up to MEGA progress for India? Find out in this special Moneycontrol broadcast.
A suspected gas explosion occurred at the Taichung Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung, Taiwan, on February 13, 2025. The explosion happened on the 12th floor, where construction work was taking place, with damage spreading from the 9th floor upwards. At least five people were killed, and seven others were injured. The food court on the 12th floor was closed at the time due to the ongoing construction. Emergency services prioritized search and rescue efforts, with the city's mayor, Lu Shiow-yen, urging public cooperation to maintain safety at the scene. A total of 26 people were injured, and one individual was placed in the intensive care unit. Local authorities, including the fire department, have been actively managing the response to the incident. The blast's severity has left the community in shock, as officials continue to assess the full extent of the damage.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that the war would resume if Hamas does not release hostages by Saturday, February 15. He stated the renewed fighting would be even more intense, aligning with US President Trump's vision for Gaza, which includes a proposal for the US to potentially take over the region after the conflict. Trump’s plan also denies Palestinians the right of return, contradicting earlier statements from his officials who suggested temporary relocation. Tensions have risen, as Israeli military vehicles were spotted near the Gaza border. Israel has mobilized reservists in anticipation of potential hostilities. Under the current ceasefire agreement, Hamas had agreed to release three hostages on February 15. However, Hamas suspended the handover, citing alleged Israeli violations of the terms. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that intense fighting would resume if Hamas does not meet the deadline, though he didn’t specify the number of hostages to be freed.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Tulsi Gabbard, the newly confirmed US Director of National Intelligence, in Washington DC. He congratulated her on her confirmation and discussed enhancing intelligence cooperation between India and the US, particularly in areas like counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and emerging threats. Gabbard, a former Democratic Congresswoman from Hawaii, had been confirmed by the Senate after two months of deliberation, with a 52-48 vote. She was sworn in by Attorney General Pam Bondi in the Oval Office. In her remarks, Gabbard expressed her commitment to restoring trust in the intelligence community, which she criticized for its politicization and weaponization. PM Modi had arrived in Washington DC after attending the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in France with French President Macron. The two leaders were set to meet again for bilateral talks at the White House. Modi reiterated the importance of India-US relations for global cooperation and security.
Tulsi Gabbard, a former U.S. representative, was sworn in as the top U.S. spy on February 12, 2025, despite having little experience in intelligence work. Gabbard had served four terms in the House of Representatives but had never worked at a spy agency or been on an intelligence committee. She left the Democratic Party in 2022 to become an independent and supported Donald Trump, eventually joining the Republican Party in 2024. At her swearing-in ceremony, Trump praised her as a woman of "great common sense" and assured that she would work to protect American safety and civil liberties. Gabbard expressed her commitment to refocusing the intelligence community by empowering those who serve and ensuring the security and freedom of the American people. She will now lead the U.S. agency responsible for coordinating intelligence operations, a critical role in national security established after the September 11 attacks.
The US and UK refused to sign the Paris AI Declaration, breaking away from Europe's vision for AI regulation. Is this about innovation, national security, or something bigger? Find out why they walked away!
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a bilateral meeting with his Indonesian counterpart, Prabowo Subianto, during a state visit to Indonesia on Wednesday (February 12) following his trip to Malaysia earlier this week. The two leaders discussed views on Palestinian independence on top of defence and bilateral cooperation, citing plans to strengthen relations between their two countries. They also spoke about the situation in Gaza, with Prabowo saying that “Indonesia and Turkey have a shared vision that the solution for peace in Palestine is the independence of Palestine through the two-state solution". On his part, Erdogan said it is “impossible for the surrounding countries to achieve peace” if Gaza and Palestinians do not have peace.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated India's new consulate in Marseille, France, on Wednesday, during Modi’s official visit to France. The inauguration ceremony was celebrated with the press of a button, receiving cheers from the gathered crowd, which included people holding both Indian and French national flags. Some attendees wore tricolour headgear, adding to the festive atmosphere. Prior to the consulate opening, Modi and Macron paid a visit to the historic Mazargues Cemetery in Marseille, where they honored the Indian soldiers who had sacrificed their lives during the Great War. The event also saw the two leaders interact with members of the Indian diaspora in attendance. This consulate marks a significant milestone in strengthening India-France relations, enhancing diplomatic ties, and supporting the growing presence of the Indian community in France. The visit was a key moment in the ongoing collaboration between the two nations.
Marc Fogel, an American schoolteacher, was released by Russia after serving three and a half years in prison. Fogel, who was detained in Moscow in August 2021 with 17 grams of medically prescribed marijuana, had been sentenced to 14 years for drug smuggling. On February 11, 2025, Fogel was welcomed at the White House by U.S. President Donald Trump, expressing gratitude for his release and calling himself "the luckiest man on earth." Trump praised the release as a potential step toward improving U.S.-Russia relations and ending the war in Ukraine. Both Trump and Fogel thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for the decision. The release occurred as part of Trump’s broader efforts to enhance diplomatic relations with Moscow, with Trump hinting at another release to take place shortly. Fogel’s release was coordinated by Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, who visited Moscow to bring him home.
On February 11, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump and Elon Musk criticized the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), calling it “incompetent” and “corrupt.” Musk, appointed head of the Department of Government Efficiency, acknowledged USAID’s positive contributions but argued the agency oversteps by attempting to influence elections in questionable ways. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to government oversight, extending it beyond USAID to sectors like education and the military. This criticism follows Trump’s January 20 order to freeze most U.S. foreign aid, halting billions in global assistance, which affected numerous programs including disaster relief and humanitarian aid. Musk has expressed his intent to dismantle USAID, describing it as “beyond repair.” The U.S. disbursed $72 billion through USAID in 2023, representing 42% of global humanitarian aid. Musk also claimed that "professional foreign fraud rings" were exploiting U.S. funds, though no evidence was provided for these accusations.
Elon Musk, alongside President Donald Trump, called for basic controls at the U.S. Treasury on February 11, criticizing the federal bureaucracy for enriching its members at taxpayers' expense. Musk emphasized that elected officials should make decisions on agency actions, rather than unelected bureaucrats. This statement came after a U.S. district judge ruled on February 8 to block Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury's payment systems, halting his cost-cutting efforts aimed at reducing government spending. The judge clarified that the order does not affect Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s ability to access these systems. Musk’s push for reform continues, highlighting his concerns over the growing influence of unelected officials in federal agencies. His comments in the Oval Office with President Trump intensified the debate about the role and power of the bureaucracy in shaping government policy and expenditures. The legal ruling has sparked further discussions on government efficiency and accountability.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern warning, stating that the Gaza ceasefire will end if Hamas does not return hostages by Saturday noon. In a video statement, he declared that the military would resume intense operations until Hamas is defeated. Netanyahu also revealed that his cabinet supports U.S. President Trump’s 'Revolutionary vision for the future of Gaza.'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the CEOs Forum in Paris, underscoring India's economic growth, strong ties with France, and global investment opportunities. Highlighting stable policies, infrastructure advancements, and strides in technology, space, and defence, PM Modi described the event as a convergence of the brightest minds from India and France. Emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and purposeful progress, he reinforced the strategic partnership based on shared democratic values and a commitment to serving the people.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump plans to impose new reciprocal tariffs in the coming days, targeting cars, semiconductor chips, and pharmaceuticals. He also ended all exclusions on steel and aluminum tariffs, raising duties to 25%. A U.S. official claimed Biden's administration had approved excessive product exclusions. Stay tuned for more updates.
A deadly crash occurred at Scottsdale Municipal Airport in Arizona when a Learjet 35A skidded off the runway and collided with a stationary Gulfstream 200 jet. At least one person was killed, and four others were injured. Emergency responders worked to rescue a person trapped in one of the aircraft. The FAA is investigating the incident, but the exact cause remains unknown. The crash took place amid heightened concerns about air safety in the U.S. In recent weeks, multiple deadly crashes have drawn attention to aviation safety. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating several other fatal accidents, including a midair collision in Washington, D.C. between a passenger jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, a medical jet crash in Philadelphia, and another plane crash in Alaska. The Scottsdale airport runway remains closed as authorities continue their investigation into the crash.
U.S. President Donald Trump warned that if all hostages held in Gaza are not returned by Saturday at noon, he would propose canceling the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, allowing the conflict to intensify. He also suggested withholding aid to Jordan and Egypt if they do not accept Palestinian refugees relocated from Gaza. Hamas suspended the release of Israeli hostages, citing violations of the ceasefire by Israel, including delays in returning Palestinians to northern Gaza and targeting them with gunfire and shelling. Israel's defense minister condemned Hamas' move and ordered the military to remain on high alert. Protesters in Tel Aviv called for the safe return of all hostages, while families of hostages urged mediators to keep the deal intact. So far, 16 Israeli hostages have been freed, and Israel has released hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in exchange. Despite growing doubts, the ceasefire remains fragile, with ongoing challenges and limited progress in negotiations.
The U.S. Senate voted 52-46 on February 10 to advance Tulsi Gabbard's nomination for Director of National Intelligence (DNI), setting the stage for a confirmation vote later this week. The vote, which was largely along party lines, saw Republicans supporting Gabbard, while Democrats opposed her. Gabbard, a former Democrat and Army National Guard veteran, has faced criticism for her lack of intelligence experience and past controversial statements, including her defense of Syria's Bashar al-Assad and remarks perceived as sympathetic to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Despite these concerns, Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune praised Gabbard for agreeing to streamline the DNI office, aligning with the Trump administration's goal of reducing government size. The Senate Intelligence Committee recommended Gabbard’s nomination by a narrow 9-8 vote. Gabbard can afford to lose only three Republican votes if Democrats remain united in opposition for her confirmation.
Ahead of the global AI summit in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke exclusively with Firstpost and France TV. Advocating for sustainable and "frugal" AI, he acknowledged that "all countries" trail behind the US in AI training capabilities. Macron also pledged to join Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in pushing for tech sovereignty at this week's summit. Watch his full conversation with Palki Sharma.
French President Emmanuel Macron opposes excessive regulations that could hinder AI innovation. Ahead of the AI summit in Paris, he advocates for global AI regulations while warning that local restrictions might slow progress. With India co-chairing the summit, can New Delhi and Paris strike a balance between mitigating AI risks and maximising its benefits?
On February 9, 2025, President Donald Trump announced plans to impose new 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports into the United States, applying to all countries, including major suppliers like Canada, Brazil, and Mexico. These tariffs will be officially announced soon. Additionally, Trump stated that the U.S. would match tariffs imposed by countries that tax U.S. imports. He also clarified his stance on Nippon Steel's potential investment in U.S. Steel, allowing it with a non-majority stake. On the Middle East, Trump expressed his commitment to "buying and owning" Gaza, aiming to rebuild it with help from other Middle Eastern nations, ensuring safety for Palestinians. He also opened the door for Palestinian refugees to enter the U.S. on a case-by-case basis. Trump further mentioned progress in U.S. efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, indicating ongoing communication with both Russia and Ukraine but withholding specific details.
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that he and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will advocate for tech sovereignty at this week's AI summit in Paris. Speaking exclusively to Firstpost and France TV, Macron addressed the possibility of India and Europe presenting a "third way" in AI, distinct from China and the US. Hear his response to Palki Sharma.
French President Emmanuel Macron dismisses fears of AI replacing humans, viewing it instead as an assistant that accelerates routine tasks. On the eve of the AI summit in Paris, he stresses the need for workforce training to adapt to evolving technology. With India co-chairing the summit, how are New Delhi and Paris preparing their citizens for an AI-driven future?
French President Emmanuel Macron discusses the potential of Artificial Intelligence as India co-chairs the AI summit in Paris. He emphasises the need for France, Europe, and partners like India to capitalise on AI’s opportunities. Highlighting AI’s transformative impact on medicine, Macron aims to harness its power at the upcoming summit.
After spending over a year in Hamas captivity, five Thai hostages have finally returned home to an emotional reunion in Bangkok. Overcome with joy, they embraced their loved ones at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Thailand’s Foreign Minister led the welcome, while efforts continue to bring back one remaining Thai hostage and the bodies of two deceased nationals. Watch the heartfelt homecoming and the latest updates on Thailand's repatriation efforts.
“To err is human, to forgive divine” this is what the Department of Government Efficiency lead Elon Musk said while talking about his contemplation on rehiring a DOGE staffer who had been previously fired for posting racist comments. According to The Hill, Marko Elez resigned on Thursday after The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) revealed several racist posts made from a now-deleted account
On February 6, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump authorized economic and travel sanctions against individuals involved in International Criminal Court (ICC) investigations targeting U.S. citizens or allies like Israel, a move echoing actions from his first term. This decision coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, with Netanyahu, his former defense minister, and Hamas leaders facing ICC arrest warrants for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The ICC, established in 2002, prosecutes genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression. While its 124 signatory states are legally obligated to arrest individuals under ICC warrants, enforcement relies on state cooperation. There have been cases of non-compliance, such as Sudan's Omar al-Bashir, and Russia's 2016 withdrawal from the Rome Statute. Leaders like Russia's Vladimir Putin, Israel's Netanyahu, and Hamas leaders face ICC warrants, though they have denied the charges, with critics questioning the ICC’s impartiality and decision-making.
A federal judge in Seattle, U.S. District Judge John Coughenour, ruled on February 6 that Donald Trump’s executive order attempting to limit birthright citizenship is unconstitutional. The order, signed on January 20, sought to deny citizenship to children born in the U.S. after February 19 if neither of their parents is a U.S. citizen or lawful resident. The ruling, which extended a temporary block placed two weeks earlier, was met with applause in the courtroom. The case, brought by Democratic-led states and several pregnant women, argued that the order violated the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born in the U.S. This decision marks the second nationwide injunction blocking the order, following one issued by a Maryland judge. Additional hearings in Boston and New Hampshire are scheduled. Trump’s administration is expected to appeal, but for now, the order remains blocked.
Beijing strongly opposes former US President Donald Trump's proposal to permanently displace Gazans and have the US take over the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its stance against forced displacement, aligning with global leaders supporting a two-state solution.
U.S. President Donald Trump has reimposed sanctions on individuals involved in ICC investigations of U.S. citizens and allies like Israel. The move coincides with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, as the ICC pursues war crime charges against him, his ex-defence minister, and a Hamas leader over the Gaza conflict. The sanctions freeze U.S. assets and impose travel bans. The ICC has yet to respond. Trump previously sanctioned ICC officials in 2020 over Afghanistan war probes. The U.S., Israel, China, and Russia are not ICC members and have long opposed its jurisdiction over their nationals.
After meeting with President Trump, Texas Governor Greg Abbott demanded an $11 billion reimbursement for border security expenditures, highlighting the state’s investment in a border wall, military facilities, and a massive fentanyl seizure of over 600 million doses. Meanwhile, Mexico deployed 10,000 troops along its northern frontier amid tariff threats from Trump. Mexican National Guard and Army units bolstered security near Ciudad Juárez, El Paso, and Tijuana, removing contraband equipment and reinforcing patrols. In exchange for delaying tariffs, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum promised a crackdown on fentanyl smuggling, while the U.S. vowed to combat gun trafficking fueling cartel violence actively.
The U.S. government has allegedly reached an agreement allowing its ships to use the Panama Canal for free, which is expected to save millions in fees annually. However, the Panama Canal Authority has denied this claim. The news comes as the Panama Canal becomes a point of contention in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump. Trump has criticized China's influence over the Canal and accused Panama of overcharging U.S. vessels. He even threatened to retake control of the Canal, citing concerns over regional financial security. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently visited Panama and held discussions with President Jose Raul Mulino, leading Panama to review China’s role in Canal operations. Panama also announced it would let its involvement in China’s Belt and Road Initiative expire. China, in turn, expressed dissatisfaction with U.S. remarks regarding its involvement in the Canal but stated cooperation with Panama remains unaffected.
On February 5, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to exclude transgender girls and women from participating in female-designated sports. The directive mandates the Department of Justice to enforce a ban on transgender athletes in school sports, based on Trump’s interpretation of Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination in federally funded educational programs. The order requires immediate enforcement across schools nationwide, with investigations led by the Department of Education to ensure compliance. However, if the department is dismantled as Trump has proposed, enforcement could shift to other agencies. Supporters, including Republicans, argue that the ban restores fairness to women’s sports, claiming transgender women have physical advantages from male puberty. Critics, however, contend that the decision infringes on the rights of transgender athletes, who represent a small minority. The ongoing debate centers on fairness and whether transgender women possess a competitive edge in sports.
Bangladesh on boil again as an angry mob vandalised the memorial of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Dhaka on Feb 05. Protestors vandalised his residence at Dhanmondi 32 and demanded a ban on the Awami League, the party he founded. The anger among the protesters was reportedly fuelled by an online speech by former PM Sheikh Hasina. This is not the first time that ousted PM Sheikh Hasina’s paternal house under attack. After the Awami League’s collapse on August 5, enraged demonstrators had earlier stormed the house, vandalizing it and setting parts ablaze
The US has deported 205 Indian nationals on a C-17 military aircraft, marking the first-ever military deportation flight to India. Instead of Delhi-NCR, the plane is landing in Amritsar, Punjab. Why this shift? What happens to the deportees next? And how does this fit into the US crackdown on illegal immigration? Watch the full video for all the details!
