Talks between Ukraine and Russia in Geneva entered a second day, with both sides discussing potential ways to end the war. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff mentioned there was "meaningful progress" in the discussions, although challenges remain. Ukraine insists on strong security guarantees from the West before agreeing to any settlement with Russia.
Key Facts
Ukraine and Russia are holding talks in Switzerland to discuss ending the war.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said there has been "meaningful progress" in the talks.
President Donald Trump played a role in bringing both parties to these negotiations.
Russia wants Ukraine to surrender more territory, which Ukraine refuses.
Ukraine demands strong security promises from Western countries before any agreement.
These talks are the third round of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
The negotiations are moderated by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Russia recently attacked Ukraine with drones and missiles, leading to casualties.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Reverend Jesse Jackson, a well-known civil rights leader and two-time presidential candidate, has died at the age of 84. Over his lifetime, he influenced many people with his activism and speeches. Despite controversies, he is remembered for his impact on civil rights and politics in the United States.
Key Facts
Reverend Jesse Jackson was a prominent civil rights leader.
He ran for U.S. president twice, first in 1984.
Jackson was known for his powerful speeches encouraging unity and hope.
He was involved in civil rights activism from a young age.
Jackson faced criticism for certain remarks and personal controversies.
His life and work have been influential in American politics.
Jackson passed away at the age of 84.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The NHS paid nearly £50 million to a company to assess claims of harm from Covid vaccines, which exceeded the original estimated cost of £6 million. The work, handled by Crawford & Company Adjusters, faced more claims than expected, leading to higher costs. A new company will take over this work soon.
Key Facts
Nearly £50 million was spent on assessing Covid vaccine harm claims.
The original contract was estimated at £6 million.
Over 22,000 claims were made, mostly related to the AstraZeneca vaccine.
About 1% of the claims resulted in compensation payouts.
A new company will replace Crawford & Company Adjusters in managing these claims.
The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS) offers up to £120,000 for proven severe disabilities from vaccines.
Compensation payouts to affected individuals totaled £29.8 million.
Costs rose significantly due to the high volume of claims.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Trump administration has appointed Riley Barnes as the United States special coordinator for Tibetan issues. Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State, announced the decision on the occasion of the Tibetan New Year. China's government has criticized similar appointments in the past, seeing them as interference in its internal affairs.
Key Facts
Riley Barnes is the new United States special coordinator for Tibetan issues.
Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State, announced the appointment on Tibetan New Year.
Barnes also serves as assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights, and labor.
The position was created by the US Congress in 2002.
China has historically opposed US appointments related to Tibetan affairs, seeing them as political interference.
Tibet has been under Chinese control since 1951, after China's "peaceful liberation" of the region.
The US government-funded Radio Free Asia has resumed its broadcasts into China, covering Mandarin, Tibetan, and Uyghur languages.
President Trump has approved congressional funding for the broadcasting resumption by Radio Free Asia.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The article discusses the emotional reaction from fans and social media users to the death of actor Robert Duvall, noted for his roles in the Godfather films. His passing marks another loss from the original cast of the film series. Observations on social media highlighted the sequence in which cast members have passed away, mirroring a scene from The Godfather Part II.
Key Facts
Robert Duvall, known for his role as Tom Hagen in the Godfather films, passed away at age 95.
Duvall starred in nearly 100 films throughout his career.
His portrayal of Tom Hagen was a significant part of the success of the first two Godfather movies.
Social media users noted that Al Pacino (Michael Corleone) is the last surviving "son" from the Godfather films' main cast.
A viral post on social media pointed out the sequence of death among the cast aligns with a scene from The Godfather Part II.
Duvall chose not to appear in The Godfather Part III over a pay dispute, leading to his character being replaced.
His death was peacefully confirmed by his wife, Luciana Duvall.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A third British citizen died in a week due to avalanches in the French Alps. The avalanches happened while people skied off-piste—skiing on unmarked paths—which is considered risky. These incidents raised the death count to 28 for the area's winter season.
Key Facts
A British man and a Polish citizen died in an avalanche near La Grave, France.
They were skiing off-piste, meaning away from marked trails.
A second avalanche in nearby Valloire killed one person and critically injured two others.
The winter season's death toll in the French Alps reached 28 with these incidents.
The avalanche risk in La Grave was marked "high," a four on a five-point scale.
The Valloire area's avalanche risk was at the maximum level of five.
Local authorities are investigating the cause of the avalanches.
The UK's Foreign Office is in contact with local authorities for assistance.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The article describes the experiences of couples in Ukraine, particularly in Kramatorsk, amid ongoing conflict with Russia. These couples, often separated due to military service, maintain their relationships despite the dangers and disruptions caused by the war. Kramatorsk, a strategically important city close to the front lines, frequently experiences attacks, which deeply affect its residents' lives.
Key Facts
Iryna Nikolaichuk visits her husband, Volodymyr, who is serving in the Ukrainian armed forces, amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
Kramatorsk, where Iryna meets her husband, is a front-line city close to Russian military positions.
Volodymyr enlisted in May 2025 and is part of a drone regiment in the Ukrainian forces.
Couples in Kramatorsk face challenges due to Russian drone attacks and artillery fire.
Kramatorsk has strategic military importance, making it a target in the conflict.
Alcohol is banned in Kramatorsk, and there is a strict curfew at night.
In April 2022, a missile attack on Kramatorsk's main railway station killed 61 and injured over 120 people.
Many civilians, including women visiting their soldier spouses, frequently travel to Kramatorsk.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The 2026 Oscars saw a significant shift with horror films earning major recognition. Ryan Coogler's "Sinners" became the most nominated film in Oscar history with 16 nominations, highlighting a change in how the genre is perceived.
Key Facts
Horror movies traditionally received less attention in major Oscar categories.
In 2025, horror films earned over $1.3 billion at the box office.
Ryan Coogler's "Sinners" received 16 nominations, surpassing the previous record of 14 nominations held by "All About Eve," "Titanic," and "La La Land."
Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein" earned nine Oscar nominations.
Amy Madigan received a nomination for her role in "Weapons," a horror film.
Historically, the Oscars rarely recognized horror films in major categories, with exceptions being "The Exorcist," "The Silence of the Lambs," and "Get Out."
"The Silence of the Lambs" was one of the few horror films to win the top five Oscar categories.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Sean Penn discussed his latest role in the film "One Battle After Another," directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, where he plays a bigoted officer named Col. Steven J. Lockjaw. In an interview, Penn shared his thoughts on the movie, the complexities of his character, and his views on political and social issues. He also touched on topics like artificial intelligence and his past interactions with world leaders.
Key Facts
Sean Penn stars in "One Battle After Another," a film directed by Paul Thomas Anderson.
In the movie, Penn plays Col. Steven J. Lockjaw, an officer chasing a Black extremist.
Penn found the script both humorous and thought-provoking.
He feels the project relates to current political and social issues.
Penn has won two Oscars for "Milk" and "Mystic River."
During interviews, Penn discussed AI, politics, and social activism.
He has interacted with world leaders like Hugo Chávez and Volodymyr Zelensky.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Vatican decided not to join President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, which aims to manage crisis situations like the governance of Gaza. Cardinal Pietro Parolin stated that such issues should be overseen by the United Nations. The board's first meeting is set to discuss Gaza's reconstruction with over $5 billion in humanitarian pledges.
Key Facts
The Vatican declined an invitation to join Trump's Board of Peace.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin emphasized using the United Nations for international crisis management.
The Board of Peace is planned to oversee Gaza and other global issues.
Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pope, was invited but did not join.
The board's first meeting in Washington is scheduled for February 19.
Over $5 billion has been pledged for humanitarian projects in Gaza.
Western allies have also chosen not to join the initiative.
The founding executive board includes several prominent figures like Marco Rubio and Jared Kushner.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Category: world
Over 80 countries in the United Nations have criticized Israel's plan to expand control over the West Bank, which is Palestinian territory. These countries, along with several international organizations, say that Israel's actions violate international law and could hurt efforts for peace in the area.
Key Facts
More than 80 UN member countries condemned Israel's plans in the West Bank.
The Palestinian Ambassador spoke on behalf of 85 countries and several organizations.
The UN Secretary-General warned that the plan could lead to Palestinians losing their homes.
Israel intends to start land registration in "Section C" of the West Bank.
Section C is about 60% of the West Bank's total area.
Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem are considered illegal under international law.
A UN panel described Israel's actions as unlawful and against the 2024 International Court of Justice ruling.
A 13-year-old Palestinian child was killed due to leftover ammunition in the area.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Iran and the United States are having indirect talks about Iran's nuclear program. These talks are happening in Switzerland and are intended to prevent possible military action by the U.S. Iran wants relief from sanctions, while the U.S. wants Iran to stop certain nuclear activities.
Key Facts
Iranian Minister Abbas Araghchi described recent talks with the U.S. as making "good progress."
The discussions are being mediated by Oman in Geneva, Switzerland.
The talks aim to prevent U.S. military intervention in Iran's nuclear program.
Iran seeks relief from U.S. sanctions, including those affecting its oil sales.
The U.S. wants Iran to stop uranium enrichment and address missile stockpiles in discussions.
The U.S. has deployed two aircraft carriers near Iran, increasing regional tension.
Iran's Supreme Leader warned that the country has the ability to sink U.S. warships.
Iran is conducting military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil route.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The U.S. military reported it killed 11 people in attacks on suspected drug trafficking boats in the eastern Pacific and the Caribbean. These actions are part of President Donald Trump's campaign against drug cartels, which the U.S. describes as necessary to control drug flow into the country. The U.S. Southern Command stated that the boats were on trafficking routes known to them.
Key Facts
The U.S. military conducted strikes that killed 11 people on alleged drug boats.
The attacks occurred in the eastern Pacific and the Caribbean.
The U.S. Southern Command confirmed the locations of these boats on known trafficking routes.
Since September, the U.S. has struck more than 40 times in Latin American waters.
Experts and some lawmakers argue these strikes might be illegal under international law.
Nicolás Maduro, the former President of Venezuela, was captured and brought to the U.S. on narco-terrorism charges.
The U.S. military shared video footage of the strikes.
A U.S. Marine, Lance Corporal Chukwuemeka Oforah, went missing and was declared dead after falling overboard in the Caribbean during this campaign.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Philippine Vice-President Sara Duterte announced she will run for president in the 2028 elections. She is currently in a political conflict with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., who cannot run again due to term limits. The political struggle includes Duterte's family gaining support in recent elections against Marcos' allies.
Key Facts
Sara Duterte is the current vice-president of the Philippines.
She declared her intention to run for president in 2028.
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. cannot seek re-election.
Marcos and Duterte were previously allies in the 2022 election.
Their alliance ended when Marcos allowed an international court to arrest Rodrigo Duterte, Sara's father.
Rodrigo Duterte is detained and facing charges at The Hague for his anti-drug campaign.
Duterte's family-backed candidates recently outperformed those supported by Marcos.
An impeachment complaint was filed against Sara Duterte by religious leaders, accusing her of corruption, which she denies.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A video of a goldendoodle puppy named Archie has gained over 1.3 million views online. The footage shows Archie, appearing energetic after surgery, defying expectations of being sedated. Viewers found Archie's lively behavior amusing and relatable.
Key Facts
Archie is a goldendoodle, which is a mix between a golden retriever and a poodle.
After surgery involving anesthesia, Archie was expected to be drowsy but appeared very energetic instead.
The video of Archie has received almost 249,000 likes and more than 260 comments.
Typically, dogs feel the effects of anesthesia for several hours and can be sleepy for up to a day.
Goldendoodles are known for being energetic and needing regular exercise to stay content.
The video resonated with viewers who experienced similar behavior from their dogs after anesthesia.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A UK-based cruise company, Paramount Cruise Company, is offering more Caribbean cruise options that start and finish outside the United States due to increasing interest from travelers who want to avoid U.S. departure ports. This trend occurs amid a broader slowdown in international travel to the United States.
Key Facts
Paramount Cruise Company is a UK-based cruise specialist.
They have seen more interest from customers wanting to avoid U.S. departure ports.
The company is making non-U.S. departure options, like those from Barbados, more visible.
Caribbean cruises are still popular among British travelers.
International travel to the U.S. is slowing down, with a decline in visitors from Canada and Europe.
This trend could impact U.S. tourism spending and jobs.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Caitríona Balfe, an actress in the TV show "Outlander," talks about the show's final season and how it has been a significant part of her life. She expresses mixed emotions about the show's end, describing pride and the excitement of moving on to new challenges.
Key Facts
Caitríona Balfe starred in the TV show "Outlander," which aired its final season.
The show first aired in 2014 and has been popular for more than ten years.
"Outlander" has a diverse audience, including different age groups and genders.
The show has also inspired spin-offs, like the prequel "Blood of My Blood."
Balfe feels proud of her work on the show and is ready to explore new roles.
Her character, Claire, evolves from her late 20s to her 60s throughout the series.
Balfe discusses both the challenge and excitement of moving on from a long-term role.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The United States has expressed support for the United Kingdom's plan to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while leasing back an important military base on Diego Garcia. This agreement ensures the continued military use of Diego Garcia by the UK and US for 99 years, which is seen as important for security in the Indian Ocean. Talks between the US and Mauritius about security cooperation are scheduled to occur soon.
Key Facts
The US supports the UK's decision to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.
The UK will lease back the military base on Diego Garcia for 99 years.
Diego Garcia is used by UK and US armed forces for military purposes.
President Trump had initially criticized the deal before later supporting it.
The deal is valued at £3.4 billion ($4.6 billion).
Talks between the US and Mauritius are planned to discuss security cooperation.
The Chagos Islands have been under British control since 1814.
Mauritius has claimed it was illegally forced to give up the islands when gaining independence.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A woman shared an enjoyable experience at a park where her Bernese Mountain Dog's photo was taken by a child offering free pet photos. This event, shared on a social media platform, gained attention due to the cute concept and the use of an instant-print camera.
Key Facts
A woman took her Bernese Mountain Dog to a park and met a child offering free pet photos.
The child's offer included taking a picture with a portable instant-print camera.
Instant-print cameras have become more popular as an alternative to digital smartphone photos.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, gentle dogs originally from the Swiss Alps.
The event was shared on social media, where it received thousands of views and likes.
The camera used by the child is compact and prints small black-and-white photos quickly.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Over 80 film workers, including well-known actors and directors, have criticized the Berlin International Film Festival for not clearly opposing Israel's actions in Gaza. They signed an open letter calling the festival's stance "anti-Palestinian racism" and noted that the festival has previously taken firm positions on other global issues. The letter comes amid increased calls within the international film industry to protest against Israel's actions.
Key Facts
81 film workers criticized the Berlin International Film Festival for its silence on Israel's actions in Gaza.
Well-known actors Javier Bardem and Tilda Swinton are among the signatories.
The film workers say the Berlinale has shown bias by taking a stand on other conflicts but not on Gaza.
They claim the festival has censored filmmakers who support Palestinian rights.
Jury president Wim Wenders said the festival should "stay out of politics," which the signatories disagree with.
Arundhati Roy, an Indian author, withdrew from the festival over similar concerns.
The Berlinale is accused of not supporting Palestinian rights to life and freedom.
Last year's international film festivals endorsed a cultural boycott of Israel.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
