Venezuela's National Assembly has passed the first vote on an amnesty bill intended to provide clemency to political prisoners. The bill aims to pardon individuals involved in certain political protests and activities but does not cover serious crimes like drug trafficking or human rights violations. Meanwhile, President Trump's administration conducted a military operation to capture former President Maduro, who now awaits trial in the U.S.
Key Facts
Venezuela's National Assembly approved an initial vote on an amnesty law aimed at political prisoners.
The law, named the Amnesty Law for Democratic Coexistence, received support from both the governing and opposition parties.
The bill offers clemency for political actions such as protest-related crimes but excludes serious offenses like murder and corruption.
Opposition leaders banned from running for office may have restrictions lifted under this bill.
The U.S., under President Trump, conducted a military operation to seize Maduro and his wife, who now face drug trafficking charges.
Experts suggest this U.S. operation might violate international laws.
Maduro's past elections were criticized for alleged fraud, impacting the current political situation.
The National Assembly currently has a majority from the chavismo movement, linked to late President Hugo Chavez.
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The New START Treaty between the United States and Russia, which limits nuclear weapons, expired on February 5, 2026. This leaves no restrictions on the number of nuclear weapons either country can have. The end of this treaty raises questions about future nuclear weapon policies.
Key Facts
The New START Treaty was originally signed in 2010 between the US and Russia.
It set limits on the number of nuclear weapons both countries could possess.
The treaty officially expired on February 5, 2026.
With its expiration, there are no longer any limits on nuclear arsenals between the US and Russia.
This treaty is part of a series of arms control agreements dating back to 1991.
The future of nuclear weapons and arms control is now uncertain for both countries.
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President Donald Trump is seeking a new nuclear arms control agreement that includes both Russia and China. The previous US-Russia treaty, known as New Start, has expired, and attempts to negotiate a new agreement face challenges, particularly with involving China. Talks are underway, but a quick resolution is unlikely due to the complex nature of these negotiations.
Key Facts
The previous US-Russia arms control treaty, New Start, has expired.
President Trump wants to create a new arms control deal that includes China.
Negotiations between the US and Russia are happening, but involving China makes it more complicated.
The US and Russia have agreed to temporary terms, but these lack the transparency of a formal treaty.
China has said it won't negotiate unless the US and Russia reduce their nuclear weapons first.
There are ongoing tensions between Russia and Western countries related to the Ukraine conflict, which could impact negotiations.
President Trump has advocated for limits on nuclear weapons as part of his broader foreign policy goals.
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David Furnish and Sir Elton John are in court, claiming the Daily Mail unlawfully gathered information about them for 10 articles published between 2002 and 2015. The publisher, Associated Newspapers Limited, denies these allegations. The couple says the uncertainty of not knowing how many times they were targeted is distressing.
Key Facts
David Furnish and Sir Elton John are suing the Daily Mail for privacy breaches.
They claim 10 articles published from 2002 to 2015 involved unlawful information gathering.
Associated Newspapers Limited, the publisher, denies any wrongdoing.
Furnish shared a history of difficult dealings with the newspaper.
One article reportedly published their son's birth certificate before they even received it.
Another article in 2015 shared details about an emergency ambulance trip that was meant to be private.
The trial is ongoing in the High Court in London, expected to conclude in March.
Other notable figures, like Prince Harry, are also involved in similar lawsuits against the publisher.
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A girl named Amelia Kolpa from Rowley Regis wanted to break a UK record by receiving 8,000 birthday cards. In an effort organized by motorcyclists, Amelia, who is battling cancer, received over 60,000 cards from around the world for her eighth birthday. The cards were delivered to her in a convoy of bikers.
Key Facts
Amelia Kolpa, a seven-year-old with cancer, attempted to set a UK record by receiving 8,000 birthday cards.
She received more than 60,000 cards from various countries, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the USA.
Amelia has neuroblastoma and is currently receiving palliative care.
The card collection effort was organized by motorcyclist Matt Lem and others.
Hundreds of bikers delivered the cards to Amelia on her birthday.
Amelia's family plans to create a collage with the cards she received.
Her aunt expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and love from people worldwide.
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President Donald Trump now supports the UK’s decision to transfer the Chagos Islands’ control to Mauritius, after initially opposing it. Following talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump expressed approval but emphasized that the US would keep its military rights on Diego Garcia island. The Chagos Islands’ control is being returned to Mauritius, while the US military base will stay there for 99 years.
Key Facts
President Trump initially called the UK's plan to hand over Chagos Islands to Mauritius "great stupidity."
After speaking with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump endorsed the deal.
The agreement allows Mauritius to have sovereignty over the Chagos Islands.
The US will retain military presence on Diego Garcia for the next 99 years.
Chagos Islands residents were removed in the 1960s and 1970s to create the US military base.
The British and US governments plan to ensure the continued operation of the base.
Chagos Islanders were forced out to make room for the military, affecting about 2,000 people.
The US military base has been used in operations in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
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Jacob Elordi talked about practicing a Northern accent for his role in the new Wuthering Heights film. The movie, featuring Elordi and Margot Robbie, premiered in London, attracting many fans and some controversy due to casting and themes. Charli XCX contributed to the film's soundtrack and also attended the premiere.
Key Facts
Jacob Elordi practiced a Northern accent by repeating phrases in the bath.
Elordi plays Heathcliff, and Margot Robbie plays Cathy in the new Wuthering Heights movie.
The movie, directed by Emerald Fennell, has both anticipation and controversy due to its casting and thematic content.
The film's premiere took place in London's Leicester Square, made to look like the Yorkshire moors.
Charli XCX wrote songs for the movie's soundtrack and described the project as a dream to work on.
Margot Robbie wore a Gothic gown and a bracelet similar to one made from Emily and Anne Brontë's hair.
There is speculation about the relationship between Elordi and Robbie, who have matching signet rings and have shared some close moments during filming.
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An explosion at an illegal coal mine in northeast India resulted in at least 18 deaths, with others possibly still trapped. The mine was in a remote area and work to rescue remaining individuals will continue. Prime Minister Modi has promised compensation for victims' families.
Key Facts
At least 18 people died in a coal mine explosion in East Jainta Hills, India.
Eight people were injured in the incident.
The mine is described as illegal and is located in a remote area.
Rescuers stopped work Thursday night and will resume Friday.
Police suspect dynamite caused the explosion, but investigations continue.
Prime Minister Modi announced a compensation of 200,000 rupees for each victim's family.
Illegal mining is common in the area despite being dangerous and banned.
The site is referred to as a "rat-hole mine," known for hazardous working conditions.
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A woman shared her pregnancy news with friends, and one friend's negative reaction sparked a large discussion online. Many people commented on social media about expectations in friendships during big life changes like pregnancy. The exchange highlighted how such announcements can sometimes reveal underlying issues in friendships.
Key Facts
A woman announced her pregnancy to a group of friends.
One friend responded negatively, saying she didn't have the "mental bandwidth" for the news.
The woman sought opinions online, where thousands commented on the situation.
Many people criticized the friend's reaction as unsupportive.
The conversation brought attention to how major life changes can affect friendships.
The exchange led the woman to reflect on the nature of her friendship.
Psychological sources suggest that not all friendships last through life changes.
The woman did not say if she would confront the friend or change her approach in the friendship.
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Cuba is planning to handle fuel shortages as the United States blocks fuel deliveries to the country. President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced that Cuba will increase its use of solar energy and try to boost local oil production to maintain essential services. Cuba is also looking to discuss the situation with the US under certain conditions.
Key Facts
The US is blocking fuel shipments to Cuba, leading to shortages.
President Miguel Diaz-Canel plans to use more solar energy and increase oil production.
President Diaz-Canel wants to ensure hospitals and essential services have electricity.
Tensions rose when the US threatened to add tariffs on countries sending oil to Cuba.
Cuba’s fuel shortage has caused higher food and transport costs and power outages.
Mexico offered to send food as humanitarian aid to Cuba.
Cuba is open to talks with the US but demands no interference in its affairs.
A blackout affected five provinces due to a failure in energy infrastructure.
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Molly-Mae Hague, known from the TV show Love Island, announced she is pregnant with her second child. She shared the news on Instagram, showing her baby bump and moments with her partner, Tommy Fury. The couple, who have a three-year-old child named Bambi, have had a rocky relationship but are currently together.
Key Facts
Molly-Mae Hague announced her second pregnancy on Instagram.
Her partner is Tommy Fury, a professional boxer and former Love Island contestant.
The couple has a three-year-old child named Bambi.
Hague and Fury split for nine months, partly due to Fury's drinking, before reuniting.
Molly-Mae has openly discussed her struggles with her first pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood.
Hague found the early stages of her first pregnancy emotionally challenging and experienced significant pain during childbirth.
Their relationship began on the reality TV show Love Island in 2019.
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President Donald Trump has endorsed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for the April parliamentary elections in Hungary. Trump supports Orban by highlighting their shared political goals and strong bilateral relations. Orban, facing challenges in his re-election bid, leads a far-right party in Hungary.
Key Facts
President Trump endorsed Viktor Orban on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Trump praised Orban as a strong leader and drew similarities between their policies.
Orban has served as Hungary's Prime Minister since 2010 and also from 1998 to 2002.
Orban's political party, Fidesz, is facing tough competition from the centre-right Tisza party.
Recent polls show Fidesz trailing Tisza by 7 percentage points.
Orban's government has been criticized for democratic backsliding and restricting asylum policies.
Human rights groups have opposed Orban’s policies, and Hungary has faced large public protests supporting LGBTQ rights.
Trump and Orban have met multiple times to discuss trade and political alliances.
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A young woman turned to Reddit for advice after facing issues in her relationship due to her girlfriend's food preferences. The girlfriend avoids garlic, onions, and spicy foods, which affected their shared cooking experience. After discussions, they decided to work through this aspect of their relationship together.
Key Facts
A 20-year-old woman posted on Reddit about her relationship issues related to food.
Her 23-year-old girlfriend does not eat garlic, onions, or spicy foods.
The woman values cooking as an important part of her cultural background.
Reddit users suggested the couple might be incompatible due to differing food preferences.
There was speculation about the girlfriend having sensory sensitivities affecting her diet.
The girlfriend expressed a willingness to try new foods.
The couple decided to address these differences rather than ending the relationship.
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Organizers of a humanitarian flotilla plan to send over 100 boats with 1,000 activists, including medics and investigators, to Gaza next month. This is in response to Israel's interception of a similar mission last year. The effort is meant to highlight the conditions in Gaza and challenge Israel's blockade.
Key Facts
A new flotilla with 100 boats and 1,000 activists is planned for Gaza in March.
The Global Sumud Flotilla is organizing the mission.
Last year, Israel intercepted a similar flotilla and arrested over 450 participants.
The upcoming flotilla will also get support from a land convoy in nearby Arab countries.
Activists and organizers claim Israel’s blockade of Gaza is illegal under international law.
Some aid has reached Gaza since an October ceasefire, but activists say it is insufficient.
The mission aims to bring global attention to the situation in Gaza.
Organizers expect Israel might try to stop the flotilla again.
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A pregnant woman shared online that her parents plan to take a long vacation during her due date and early weeks with her newborn. Her parents suggested she could arrange her schedule to ensure they are present for the birth, which upset her. The situation led her to reconsider her relationship with them and how much support she can expect.
Key Facts
The pregnant woman is expecting her first child in mid-July 2026.
Her parents plan to take a vacation from July 23 to mid-September, missing the birth and early weeks with their grandchild.
Her parents live 15 minutes away and are her only nearby family.
She had moved closer to her parents years ago to strengthen family ties.
The parents suggested she could visit them or adjust her schedule for their visit.
The woman expressed hurt and considered changing her expectations for their support.
Online commenters largely sided with the woman, offering her support and validation.
Newsweek could not verify the specific details of the woman's story.
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The United States and Russia have agreed to restart high-level military talks to help end the conflict in Ukraine. This is the first time in over four years the two countries are reestablishing direct military communication, following President Donald Trump's efforts to bring peace.
Key Facts
The U.S. and Russia agreed to restore military dialogue after more than four years.
Military communication was stopped in late 2021 due to rising tensions.
President Trump aims to end the Ukraine war and had promised swift action during his campaign.
Some of President Trump's peace proposals have favored Russia, including suggestions for Ukraine to give up some territory.
The decision was made during a meeting in Abu Dhabi between senior officials from the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine.
U.S. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich represented the U.S. as the commander in Europe for both U.S. and NATO forces.
The renewed communication aims to help maintain consistent military contact and work toward lasting peace.
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The United States and Iran are preparing to meet for talks in Oman after weeks of disputes over military threats and the meeting location. However, the specific topics they will discuss are not yet clear.
Key Facts
The US and Iran have agreed to hold talks in Oman.
They previously disagreed over where to meet and exchanged military threats.
The exact issues to be discussed in these talks have not been decided.
The announcement came after weeks of discussions and tensions.
The talks are intended to address unresolved disputes between the two countries.
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Many states in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions of the United States are preparing for extreme cold weather over the weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings about wind chills that could drop to -30 degrees Fahrenheit, potentially leading to frostbite, hypothermia, and power outages.
Key Facts
An Arctic surge is causing the cold weather, bringing wind chills as low as -30 degrees in some areas.
Affected regions include parts of West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
The extreme cold could cause frostbite and hypothermia due to dangerous wind chills.
The National Weather Service warns of possible power outages due to strong gusts reaching 50-55 mph.
Snow squalls are expected, which can reduce visibility and make roads dangerous for driving.
The cold outbreak may break temperature records along the I-95 corridor.
Conditions are expected to improve early next week.
People are advised to wear layers, limit travel, and protect animals from the cold.
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A new father, who works a physically demanding job, is exhausted and has turned to Reddit for advice on whether his girlfriend should take on more of the overnight care of their newborn. He argues that after his long workday, he is too tired to help at night, while his girlfriend, on maternity leave, believes they should share the responsibility.
Key Facts
A new father shared his experience on Reddit about handling night care for a newborn.
He works a full-time, physically demanding construction job with an early start and long commute.
By late afternoon, after work, he takes over baby care so his girlfriend can rest.
He is responsible for a late-night feeding and diaper change around 1:00 a.m.
The father wants his girlfriend to handle the 1:00 a.m. duties so he can get more sleep.
Reddit users commented with advice on sharing parenting responsibilities.
Users suggested alternating nights for care and emphasized teamwork in parenting.
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