BERLIN – A major German labor organization has launched criminal proceedings against a Tesla plant supervisor near Berlin, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the electric vehicle manufacturer and organized labor in Germany.
IG Metall, the country’s prominent metalworkers union, announced Tuesday it has filed criminal charges against Andre Thierig, alleging he disseminated inaccurate information about the union. The organization has simultaneously petitioned a labor court seeking a court order to prevent Thierig from continuing to make such statements.
Tesla has not yet provided a response to requests for comment regarding the allegations.
The conflict stems from Tesla’s own criminal filing made the previous week against a union member, whom the company accused of covertly recording a works council session at the facility. This information comes from an internal staff communication obtained by Reuters, which Tesla has verified as authentic.
IG Metall announced Tuesday it is also developing legal action against Tesla itself, citing interference with union operations.
Union spokesperson Jan Otto addressed the situation in an official statement, saying: “Legal disputes are not our preferred form of dispute resolution. But when a company fights workers’ participation and union work so aggressively, we defend ourselves with all means at our disposal, including legal ones.”
The developments represent another chapter in the deteriorating relationship between the American automaker and German labor representatives at the facility.
Canada’s women’s speed skating squad captured their second consecutive Olympic championship in the team pursuit competition on Tuesday at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, bringing home the nation’s inaugural speed skating gold medal of these Games.
The Dutch team finished in second place to take the silver medal, while Japan rounded out the medal ceremony by securing bronze after defeating the United States in the consolation final.
The triumph continues Canada’s dominance in the women’s team pursuit discipline, as they successfully retained the title they previously won at the last Winter Olympics.
Massive crowds filled the streets of Pristina on Tuesday as demonstrators rallied in support of former Kosovo Liberation Army leaders currently facing war crimes charges at an international tribunal.
The protest centered around four former KLA commanders who were taken into custody in 2020 and transferred to a specialized war crimes court in The Hague. Among those on trial is Hashim Thaci, Kosovo’s former president, along with ex-parliamentary leaders Jakup Krasniqi and Kadri Veseli, plus former legislator Rexhep Selimi.
The defendants face serious allegations including persecution, murder, torture and forced disappearances connected to Kosovo’s 1998-99 independence struggle against Serbia. All four have entered not guilty pleas to the charges.
Court proceedings have reached the final argument phase this week, with judges expected to render their decision within three months. Prosecutors have requested 45-year prison terms for each defendant.
Demonstrators expressed strong opposition to the proceedings, with many viewing the accused as freedom fighters rather than war criminals. “Those who deserve to be in The Hague are the occupiers, not the liberators,” declared Miran Zeka, 49, who traveled from Albania to join the demonstration.
“We fought in our land, we did not go to Serbia to fight,” stated Bekim Muja, 53, a veteran who participated in the Kosovo conflict.
Rally participants displayed KLA military uniforms while others carried flags representing the KLA, Kosovo, and Albania. Demonstrators held signs declaring “Freedom has a name” and carried photographs of Thaci and co-defendants labeled “Heroes of War and Peace.”
Thaci, now 57, held multiple high-ranking positions in independent Kosovo from 2008 to 2020, serving as prime minister, foreign minister, and president.
The conflict that sparked these charges resulted in over 13,000 casualties, predominantly Kosovo Albanians, during the late 1990s uprising. At that time, Kosovo remained under Serbian control, governed by nationalist leader Slobodan Milosevic, whose forces launched brutal campaigns against ethnic Albanian populations.
The Kosovo Specialist Chambers was established in 2015 with international judges and legal staff to prosecute war crimes cases involving former KLA fighters under Kosovo’s legal framework. Officials located the tribunal outside Kosovo due to concerns about witness safety, recognizing that many Kosovo citizens regard former KLA commanders as national heroes who secured their freedom.
A brand-new Olympic sport is making its historic debut this week in the Italian Alps, where ski mountaineering has deep roots dating back centuries.
The discipline, commonly called SkiMo, will hold its first-ever Olympic competitions starting Thursday with men’s and women’s sprint races in Bormio, Italy. The location is particularly meaningful since this mountainous Alpine region is considered the birthplace of competitive ski mountaineering.
THE COMPETITION FORMAT
SkiMo blends uphill climbing and downhill skiing into one intense race. The Olympic sprint version features rapid-fire heats lasting approximately three minutes each, with 36 total athletes competing across three elimination rounds leading to the finals.
Each competitor must navigate three distinct segments: climbing uphill on skis equipped with special gripping “skins,” carrying their skis in backpacks while running up stairs on foot (called boot-packing), and finally skiing downhill to the finish through a course that may include jumps and rolling terrain features.
Success depends heavily on how quickly athletes can transition between these different phases, making it a true race against time where the fastest finisher claims victory.
Saturday will feature a mixed-gender relay format, with male-female teams each completing two rounds together.
DEEP ROOTS IN HOST REGION
While ski mountaineering’s origins stretch back hundreds of years to Alpine military training, the sport holds special significance in the Bormio area hosting these Olympic events.
“It’s kind of where ski mountaineering racing came to life,” explained Michela Martinelli, who serves as sport manager of ski mountaineering for Milano Cortina, describing the Alpine region around Bormio. The area has produced numerous elite SkiMo athletes and houses a premier ski equipment manufacturer specializing in the sport.
The modern competitive version developed primarily during the 1980s when recreational races began emerging. The sport held its inaugural World Championships in 2002 in Serre Chevalier, France, later joined the Youth Olympic Games in 2022, and now reaches the Winter Olympics at Milano Cortina.
Adding to the local connection, two Italian competitors – Giulia Murada and Michele Boscacci – hail from the surrounding region, with both of their fathers actually helping construct the Olympic course.
Their fathers, Ivan Murada and Graziano Boscacci, are accomplished ski mountaineers themselves who captured the team event at that first-ever World Championship, contributing significantly to Italy’s prominence in the sport.
TOP CONTENDERS TO FOLLOW
France’s Emily Harrop enters as the defending world number one in women’s sprint from last year, while Spain’s Oriol Cardona Coll holds the same distinction in the men’s division.
However, they’ll face strong challenges from competitors including Switzerland’s Marianne Fatton and Jon Kistler, plus France’s Thibault Anselmet, who claimed the most recent World Cup men’s sprint victory in Spain earlier this February.
The French pair of Harrop and Anselmet, who won the mixed relay at that same competition, will battle not only Spanish and Swiss teams but also Italian married couple Michele Boscacci and Alba de Silvestro, along with promising American newcomers Anna Gibson and Cam Smith from the United States.
A top Federal Reserve official suggested Tuesday that Americans could see multiple interest rate decreases throughout 2026, provided inflation continues its downward trajectory toward the central bank’s desired 2% goal.
Austan Goolsbee, who serves as president of the Chicago Federal Reserve, made the comments during a television interview, though he emphasized the need for consistent economic data to support such moves.
January’s consumer price inflation came in at 2.4%, lower than many economists had anticipated. However, Goolsbee expressed caution about reading too much into this figure, noting that it was partly influenced by high inflation numbers from the previous year dropping out of calculations. More concerning, he said, was that services inflation remains “not tamed,” continuing to run at an elevated 3.2% annual pace.
“If we can show that we’re on path to 2% inflation, I still think there’s several more rate cuts that can happen in 2026,” Goolsbee stated during his CNBC appearance. “But we’ve got to see it” in upcoming economic reports.
The Fed official acknowledged the central bank’s current predicament, saying: “I think we’ve been basically stalled out around 3% with some positive signs, but also some warning signs.”
The Federal Reserve maintained its benchmark interest rate between 3.5% and 3.75% during its January 27-28 policy meeting, and market watchers anticipate no changes at the upcoming March 17-18 gathering.
Recent economic indicators have created a complex picture for policymakers. January employment figures showed robust job creation with 130,000 new positions added, while unemployment dipped slightly to 4.3%. These stronger-than-expected labor market results have reduced concerns about economic weakness but also diminished arguments for immediate rate reductions.
The challenge of bringing inflation back to the 2% target continues to occupy Fed officials’ attention. Many policymakers worry that persistent price pressures could become entrenched in the economy, providing justification for maintaining current interest rate levels.
Wednesday’s release of minutes from the Fed’s January meeting may offer additional insight into officials’ concerns as the central bank prepares for leadership changes. President Donald Trump has selected former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh to replace current Chair Jerome Powell when his term concludes in May. Financial markets currently don’t anticipate rate changes until the June 16-17 Fed session, which Warsh would oversee if the Senate confirms his nomination in time.
Both Powell and other Fed officials have expressed expectations that inflation will resume its decline toward 2% by mid-year, though many echo Goolsbee’s sentiment about needing clear confirmation in forthcoming data.
The Fed bases its inflation target on the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index, which differs from the Consumer Price Index and has remained around 2.8% since May through November’s latest available data. December PCE figures, scheduled for release Friday, are expected by Fed officials to show minimal improvement.
Should inflation demonstrate a clear path back to 2%, Goolsbee indicated he views a Fed policy rate near 3% as a “loose target” for a neutral interest rate level. Achieving this would require two to three quarter-point rate reductions from current levels.
The Fed will publish updated economic forecasts and rate projections following its March meeting. December’s median projection showed only one additional rate cut anticipated for this year, though the 19 policymakers were split, with eight supporting at least two quarter-point decreases.
An agricultural expert is calling on farmers to take more comprehensive steps to safeguard their stored grain supplies. According to John Mays from Central Life Sciences, many producers make the mistake of inadequate monitoring once their crops are placed in storage bins.
“They think that a probe every once in a while in the top of the bin, if it comes back clean everything is great,” Mays explained, highlighting a common oversight in grain management practices.
The specialist emphasizes that as storage duration increases, so do the potential hazards facing stored crops, making thorough and regular inspections essential for protecting valuable harvests from deterioration and loss.
A Minnesota agricultural leader is sharing insights about the benefits of soybean industry investment programs. Glen Groth, who serves as treasurer for the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council and farms in Winona County, recently discussed his experiences with the Soy Checkoff initiative.
During his six-year tenure on the council, Groth has gained valuable perspective on how the checkoff program supports agricultural advancement. Speaking with Brownfield, he emphasized that research funded through these programs is making a real difference for farmers working in the field.
The Soy Checkoff represents a collaborative effort within the soybean industry to fund research and promotion activities that benefit producers nationwide.
Morning commuters on northbound Interstate 95 are dealing with reduced lanes today as construction work forces the closure of the right travel lane.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the right lane on I-95 North between U.S. Route 202 and Marsh Road will remain blocked to traffic until 12:15 PM while crews complete construction activities.
Drivers traveling through the area should expect potential delays and are advised to allow extra time for their commute. The lane restriction affects traffic heading north through the Wilmington corridor.
A new research study from Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources has eliminated one potential cause for the recent decline in striped bass spawning success in Chesapeake Bay waters.
Scientists found that baby striped bass had sufficient food sources available during 2023 and 2024, despite both years showing poor reproduction rates for the popular game fish. The research, published in December in Marine and Coastal Fisheries journal, examined what tiny striped bass larvae were eating in the Choptank River.
Researchers had theorized that young striped bass might be missing critical feeding opportunities when zooplankton blooms didn’t coincide with their hatching periods. However, this new study shows that theory doesn’t hold water.
“When we got done, basically a strong year class like the one in the Choptank River in 1989 didn’t really look different from 2023 or 2024 in terms of feeding,” said DNR fisheries biologist Jim Uphoff, who led the research team.
The investigation compared stomach contents of weeks-old striped bass from recent years to historical data from the 1980s, when spawning success varied widely. Scientists discovered that larval fish had adequate amounts of copepods and water fleas – their primary food sources – even during years with disappointing reproduction results.
To gather this data, biologists used large plankton nets at multiple Choptank River locations following known spawning periods. Back in the laboratory, they painstakingly searched through preserved water samples to locate larval striped bass and white perch, each measuring just 5 to 10 millimeters in length. Using microscopes and dissecting tools, they analyzed what the tiny fish had consumed.
The study revealed that successful spawning years from decades past had similar zooplankton availability compared to recent unsuccessful years. This finding suggests that food supply alone doesn’t determine whether striped bass reproduction will succeed or fail.
Researchers also discovered that striped bass populations are essentially determined within their first three weeks of life, when the fish are smaller than rice grains. The number of larvae measuring 8-10 millimeters closely matched the juvenile counts found in later surveys.
Uphoff compared striped bass spawning behavior to gambling, explaining that the fish commit fully when temperatures rise slightly. “In enough cases, the timing is bad, and that doesn’t work,” he explained. “But every once in a while, they have a big year class.”
With this feeding theory ruled out, researchers are focusing on water temperature and flow as the primary factors affecting spawning success. Climate change appears to be shortening the spawning season as early spring water temperatures increase in the Bay.
“The amount of eggs is okay and the feeding larvae are okay, so now you’re looking at something in between,” Uphoff noted. “The big drivers are water flow and temperature. More and more, it’s looking like a temperature issue here, related to climate change.”
Previous DNR studies have shown that striped bass are producing sufficient eggs for good reproduction, but another study found that warming waters are compressing their spawning window. This latest research suggests the shortened breeding period is when striped bass face their greatest challenges.
“This study is another important contribution to striped bass research by our fisheries biologists at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources,” commented DNR Assistant Secretary of Aquatic Resources Kate Charbonneau. “Our scientists have brought us another step closer to understanding the ongoing low juvenile recruitment of striped bass.”
DNR officials continue emphasizing the importance of protecting adult striped bass through regulations to maintain healthy breeding populations. When environmental conditions align properly, a strong stock of spawning fish could produce a successful year class in the Chesapeake Bay.
The research team included DNR biologists Shannon Moorhead, Alexis Park, Carrie Hoover, Marisa Ponte, and Jeffrey Horne alongside lead author Uphoff.
ELKTON, MD – Quick thinking by a Maryland State Police officer turned what could have been a tragedy into a rescue story in Cecil County this past Saturday morning.
Trooper First Class Nicholas Warren was wrapping up a routine traffic enforcement action on Walnut Drive in Elkton around 9:44 a.m. on February 14 when desperate parents drove up seeking immediate assistance. As Warren headed back toward his cruiser after speaking with the motorist he had pulled over, another car approached his location.
“We need help. My baby is choking,” the driver shouted to the seven-year veteran officer, who is stationed at the North East Barrack.
Warren sprang into action, immediately requesting paramedics while pulling the struggling infant from the car to begin emergency care. Using his department training, the trooper delivered a series of back blows that successfully dislodged whatever was blocking the child’s breathing passage. The baby resumed normal breathing within moments.
Paramedics arrived soon afterward to check on the infant’s condition. Officials say Warren’s quick response, proper training application, and calm demeanor under pressure prevented what could have become a devastating situation for the family.
In southwestern Minnesota, one agricultural producer has made precision record-keeping a cornerstone of his farming operation. Nick Sandager makes it a priority to verify all harvest data immediately after bringing in his crops each season.
“I’m double-checking all the yields and everything, which is a funny one I always tell people (that) I don’t think I’ve ever had a year where I have not had our scale,” Sandager explained when discussing his meticulous approach to data reconciliation.
The farmer’s commitment to detailed documentation stems from his focus on ensuring accuracy in every aspect of his operation. By conducting these thorough reviews, Sandager has been able to identify discrepancies between his own measurements and those recorded by grain elevators.
Four years ago, the Detroit Pistons held the franchise’s worst record when the All-Star break arrived. Two seasons back, their standing was even more dismal.
The transformation has been remarkable.
As the NBA resumes action Thursday following the All-Star break, the Pistons — a team that hasn’t claimed a playoff series victory since 2008 — hold the league’s top record by the narrowest of margins over defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Detroit stands at 40-13, while Oklahoma City sits at 42-14.
While the Thunder’s position was anticipated, the Pistons’ rise has surprised many. Whether Detroit can maintain its grip on the top position becomes one of the most compelling narratives as the season’s final stretch begins — with roughly one-third of the campaign remaining as teams either push toward playoff positioning or tank for improved draft lottery chances.
“We’re just going to run our race,” said Pistons All-Star guard Cade Cunningham. “We like where we’re at, and we’re going to continue to try to finish our season strong.”
Several factors favor Detroit heading into the season’s final phase.
The team has avoided significant slumps, posting an 11-2 record following defeats and joining just Oklahoma City and San Antonio as the only franchises without a losing streak exceeding two games. They rarely suffer blowout losses, recording a league-low three defeats by double digits. Most impressively, they’ve compiled a league-best 17-6 mark against teams with .500 records or better.
Postseason basketball returns to Detroit, marking the first time since 2008 that the Pistons should host a playoff series opener. Several other franchises — including Oklahoma City, Boston, New York, San Antonio, Denver, Houston, and Cleveland — appear virtually guaranteed playoff spots at this stage.
The coming two months will determine which teams advance to the first round versus those competing for the top draft selection.
“It’s been hard. It’s been a long journey so far, but just going to work every day, finding ways to connect with my teammates, connect with the city the best I can, and bring wins to the city,” Cunningham explained. “That’s what the city respects and loves is people that go out there and compete every day. There were times they didn’t like how we played. We figured it out, and now we have something going, something building. Just have to keep going now.”
The current top five teams by record include: Detroit, Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Boston, Denver and New York (with the Nuggets and Knicks tied for fifth).
History suggests the eventual champion will emerge from this group.
While acknowledging the league’s smaller size in earlier eras, only four times has the NBA Finals winner failed to rank among the top five teams record-wise at the All-Star break.
Milwaukee ranked seventh during the pandemic-shortened 2020-21 season. Detroit held seventh place in 2003-04, Houston was ninth in 1994-95, and Washington sat eighth in 1977-78.
The scoring title appears to be a two-player battle between Los Angeles Lakers’ Luka Doncic and Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Doncic leads with 32.8 points per game, while Gilgeous-Alexander — last season’s scoring champion — averages 31.8.
After capturing the 2023-24 scoring crown, Gilgeous-Alexander could join just 13 other players in NBA history to win consecutive scoring titles.
Boston’s Jayson Tatum and Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton — both All-NBA selections last season — were expected to miss awards consideration this year due to Achilles injuries sustained in last year’s playoffs, signaling a different group of honorees this spring.
The changes will be more dramatic than anticipated.
Due to the 65-game minimum requirement for most individual awards, Lakers star LeBron James will see his 21-year All-NBA streak conclude. He joins four other previous All-NBA picks guaranteed to miss this year’s team: Tatum, Haliburton, Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Oklahoma City’s Jalen Williams.
Denver’s Nikola Jokic and Golden State’s Stephen Curry teeter on the edge, essentially unable to miss more than one additional game to maintain award eligibility.
Cleveland’s Evan Mobley — a second-team All-NBA pick last season — has missed 13 games this year, leaving little margin for additional absences. The Lakers’ Austin Reaves, Washington’s Anthony Davis, and Memphis’ Ja Morant have all exceeded the eligibility threshold.
Additional players approaching the cutoff include Doncic, San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama, Los Angeles Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard, Utah’s Lauri Markkanen, and Phoenix’s Devin Booker.
PRISTINA, Kosovo — Kosovo’s 18th independence anniversary took on a tone of resistance Tuesday as massive crowds demonstrated in support of former military leaders currently on trial for alleged war crimes committed during the 1998-1999 conflict with Serbia.
Despite frigid, snowy conditions in Pristina, demonstrators draped in Albanian national colors gathered to protest legal proceedings taking place in The Hague against ex-president and former rebel commander Hashim Thaci, along with three co-defendants accused of committing atrocities during and following the war that claimed approximately 13,000 lives.
The independence commemoration began with Kosovo security forces conducting ceremonial parades through Pristina, followed by a special parliamentary session.
The conflict began when the Kosovo Liberation Army initiated its independence campaign in 1998, prompting Serbia to launch a harsh military response. The war concluded after a 78-day NATO bombing campaign against Serbia in 1999, ultimately compelling Serbian forces to withdraw from the territory.
Serbia continues to reject Kosovo’s 2008 independence declaration, creating ongoing tensions throughout the unstable Balkans. Both nations have been informed that establishing normal diplomatic relations is a prerequisite for European Union membership.
The Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague — technically part of Kosovo’s court system despite its foreign location — has prosecutors seeking maximum 45-year sentences for Thaci and his co-defendants. Thaci faces additional charges in a separate witness intimidation case scheduled to begin this month.
Kosovo officials and demonstrators have condemned the trials as politically motivated, arguing they create an unfair equivalency with Serbia, whose political and military leadership faced previous war crimes convictions at a separate United Nations tribunal.
Tuesday’s protesters displayed signs declaring “History cannot be rewritten” and “Freedom for the liberators.” They surrounded a prominent independence monument with metal barriers and posted a “Kosovo in Prison” sign atop the structure.
President Vjosa Osmani released a statement asserting that “truth cannot be changed by attempts to rewrite history or to tarnish and devalue the struggle of Kosovo’s people for freedom.”
Prime Minister Albin Kurti declared that “the KLA-led war was pure, liberation (struggle) and an anti-colonial war … a just struggle of an occupied and oppressed people under apartheid.”
From Belgrade, a Serbian government office responsible for Kosovo affairs characterized the independence declaration 18 years ago as a “flagrant violation of international law.” The statement claimed “systematic terror” and persecution targeting Serbian minorities in Kosovo.
More than 100 countries, including the United States and most European Union members, have acknowledged Kosovo’s independence, while Russia and China support Serbia’s territorial claims.
Thaci stepped down from the presidency in 2020 to face 10 charges of crimes against humanity and war crimes.
The specialized court and prosecutor’s office were established following a 2011 Council of Europe human rights report that investigated claims of KLA fighters trafficking human organs from prisoners and killing both Serbs and fellow ethnic Albanians. The organ trafficking allegations have not appeared in court indictments.
LIMA, Peru — Lawmakers in Peru’s Congress were scheduled to cast ballots Tuesday on whether to force out interim President José Jerí, as prosecutors examine corruption claims related to undisclosed encounters between Jerí and Chinese business leaders.
Should the parliamentarians obtain enough support, Jerí would be forced from power just four months after taking office. His ouster would spark another leadership change, requiring lawmakers to select a replacement and adding fresh instability to Peru’s political landscape with national elections just two months away.
Jerí represents the seventh person to hold the presidency in Peru over the last ten years. He took the oath of office in October following his predecessor’s removal by Congress due to graft accusations and escalating violent crime. He now confronts potential dismissal by his former legislative peers, who claim he engaged in improper conduct and lacks the ability to fulfill presidential responsibilities.
The 39-year-old acting president expressed confidence he would weather the legislative challenge.
“I’m not dead yet,” Jerí stated in a weekend television appearance on Peru’s Panamericana network, declaring his intention to continue serving Peruvians until his “last day” at the presidential residence.
Should lawmakers vote for his dismissal, they will select a successor from their ranks to lead the country until July 28, when the acting president transfers power to whoever wins the April 12 presidential contest.
Following any removal, Jerí would resume his role as a congressional member through July 28, when the incoming legislature also assumes office.
There remains a possibility legislators will reject the removal effort. Jerí enjoys backing from the Fuerza Popular party, headed by presidential hopeful Keiko Fujimori, whose father previously served as president before facing imprisonment for human rights violations.
The charges against Jerí originated from a disclosed document about a secret December gathering with two Chinese business executives. One participant maintains active government contracts, while the other faces investigation for suspected participation in unlawful timber operations.
Jerí has rejected any wrongdoing, explaining he met with the executives to plan a Peruvian-Chinese celebration, though his critics have labeled this corruption.
This turmoil represents another episode in Peru’s extended political breakdown, as the nation has witnessed seven presidents since 2016 and prepares for general elections while citizens express widespread anger over rising violent crime.
Even with the constant presidential turnover, Peru’s economic situation has stayed steady.
The South American country maintained an external debt-to-GDP ratio of 32% in 2024, among Latin America’s most favorable, while the government continues encouraging foreign investment in sectors including mining and infrastructure development.
CHICAGO (AP) — When the Rev. Jesse Jackson emerged as a leading voice in what began as primarily a Southern civil rights movement — a cause with significant work still ahead — he became a vital connection between eras.
Jackson built connections spanning from the South’s struggle against Jim Crow laws to the North’s fight against institutional racism, linking the formal, traditional generation surrounding King with the dashiki-clad Black Power movement leaders and today’s hip-hop era activists. He successfully connected seemingly impossible aspirations with real political influence.
“From Martin Luther King to Barack Obama, there’s a bridge called Jesse Jackson,” the Rev. Al Sharpton said.
The civil rights leader, who served as a student of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and continued leading the movement for decades following the beloved leader’s murder, passed away Tuesday according to his family. Jackson was 84 years old.
For more than fifty years, Jackson maintained his public fight for racial equality, economic and political participation, and civil and human rights, continuing even as a neurological condition in recent years impacted his mobility and speech capabilities.
Jackson remained active by commenting on political developments, standing with families of Black Americans killed by law enforcement, and joining COVID-19 vaccination campaigns to address hesitancy in Black communities. His career encompassed presidential campaigns, international diplomatic efforts, and reshaping America’s vocabulary around racial identity.
Though Jackson wasn’t the powerful force he once was in his final years, his participation in racial justice demonstrations and COVID-19 advocacy events, plus his arrest near the U.S. Capitol while demanding Congress eliminate the filibuster to safeguard voting rights, showed he remained determined to fight.
“We’ve always had a place for him,” said the Rev. William Barber II, co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign and among many activists who followed his example. Jackson encouraged them to “live life so that it’s not your alarm clock that awakes you in the morning, but a purpose. … A purpose will get you up when you want to stay down.”
During George Floyd’s memorial service, Jackson’s anguished cry of “I can’t breathe!” cut through the quiet atmosphere of a Minneapolis cathedral. He repeated the phrase two more times as minutes passed, representing the duration Floyd endured with a police officer’s knee on his neck.
This wasn’t simply Jackson expressing his personal sorrow over Floyd’s killing, which triggered worldwide protests against racial injustice. It demonstrated that his voice maintained the unique power that made him an international symbol for civil and human rights for decades.
Jackson returned to energize protesters marching through Minneapolis streets and stood alongside Floyd’s family when a jury found former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin guilty of murder in Floyd’s death. “Even if we win,” he told the demonstrators, “it’s relief, not victory. They’re still killing our people. Stop the violence, save the children. Keep hope alive.”
“I think the fact that he came and then came back for the judge’s verdict, suffering with Parkinson’s, shows the determination that Jesse Jackson had all the way to the end,” Sharpton said about his longtime mentor. “He once said to me, years before he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, ‘I’m not going to stop until I drop. I’m going to die on the battlefield.’”
During the early COVID-19 pandemic period, Jackson received his vaccination and encouraged others to do the same. He highlighted racial inequalities in healthcare and worked with the National Medical Association, representing Black doctors and patients, on a public health initiative to enhance testing and treatment information and recruit more African Americans into medicine.
“It’s America’s unfinished business — we’re free, but not equal,” Jackson told The Associated Press in a 2020 interview. “There’s a reality check that has been brought by the coronavirus, that exposes the weakness and the opportunity.”
Jackson faced criticism from both inside and outside the Black community. Some viewed him as someone who sought attention, too eager to find the spotlight.
Jackson became widely recognized for appearing in photographs captured shortly after King’s assassination on a Memphis hotel balcony on April 4, 1968. For two days following, Jackson wore a turtleneck he claimed was stained with the respected civil rights leader’s blood, including during a King memorial service where he addressed the Chicago City Council: “I come here with a heavy heart because on my chest is the stain of blood from Dr. King’s head.”
Twenty years later, Jackson created history with his White House campaigns. Before Barack Obama’s 2008 victory, Jackson represented the most successful Black presidential candidate in U.S. history, capturing 13 primaries and caucuses for the Democratic nomination in 1988, four years following his initial unsuccessful bid.
“I was able to run for the presidency twice and redefine what was possible; it raised the lid for women and other people of color,” he told the AP in 2011. “Part of my job was to sow seeds of the possibilities.”
Jackson’s influence on American culture included changing the nation’s language around race and identity. In 1988, he joined other leaders in advocating that Black people should be called “African Americans,” creating an identity that recognized both the population’s heritage and their American citizenship.
Through founding and leading Operation PUSH, which later became the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, Jackson transformed demands for Black pride and self-determination into corporate boardroom pressure, pushing executives to create a more inclusive and fair society. His notable diplomatic achievements included securing the release of American civilians overseas during international conflicts.
Jesse Louis Jackson Sr. was born Oct. 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina, to Helen Burns, an unmarried high school student, and Noah Louis Robinson, a married neighbor. Jackson was subsequently adopted by Charles Henry Jackson, who wed his mother.
Jackson served as quarterback at Sterling High School in Greenville and received a football scholarship to the University of Illinois, but said he was informed Black people couldn’t play quarterback. He then transferred to North Carolina A&T in Greensboro, arriving shortly after students there began the sit-in movement to integrate Southern restaurants. He became starting quarterback, student body president, and an honor student in sociology and economics.
Jackson quickly began organizing demonstrations and traveled to Alabama to meet King during the 1965 voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery. Since he was moving to Chicago for theological studies, King’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference gave him responsibility for starting Operation Breadbasket, an effort to pressure companies into hiring more Black employees.
He later described his time with King as “a phenomenal four years of work,” learning how to push for social change within legal boundaries.
The continuous campaigns often meant his college sweetheart, whom he married in 1963, Jacqueline Lavinia Brown, took primary responsibility for raising their five children: Santita Jackson, Yusef DuBois Jackson, Jacqueline Lavinia Jackson Jr., and two future congressmen, former Rep. Jesse L. Jackson Jr., and Rep. Jonathan Luther Jackson. A regular houseguest was Santita’s friend Michelle Robinson, the future first lady.
Jackson, ordained as a Baptist minister in 1968 and earning his Master of Divinity in 2000, also admitted to fathering a child, Ashley Jackson, with Rainbow/PUSH employee Karen L. Stanford. He said he understood the experience of being born outside marriage and was providing her emotional and financial support.
After the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and Jackson separated in 1971, Jackson established his own comprehensive civil rights organization on Chicago’s South Side, with goals ranging from community social services to convincing corporate leaders to hire more minorities. He created the Rainbow Coalition following his first presidential campaign, then combined the political and social justice organizations into the Rainbow PUSH Coalition in 1996.
While Jackson was recognized for his compelling voice, his statements sometimes created problems. In 1984, he apologized for referring to New York City as “Hymietown,” a slur against the city’s substantial Jewish population, in what he said he thought were private remarks to a journalist.
In July 2008, he made news when an open microphone captured him criticizing that Obama was “talking down to Black people.” Despite this, tears flowed down his face when he joined the massive crowd in Chicago’s Grant Park celebrating Obama’s 2008 election victory.
“I wish for a moment that Dr. King or (assassinated civil rights leader) Medgar Evers … could’ve just been there for 30 seconds to see the fruits of their labor,” he told the AP years later. “I became overwhelmed. It was the joy and the journey.”
The son of President Donald Trump is putting money behind a massive business deal involving cutting-edge military technology. Eric Trump has joined a $1.5 billion transaction that would combine Israeli drone manufacturer XTEND with Florida construction company JFB Construction Holdings, according to an announcement made Tuesday.
The deal also includes investment from drone company Unusual Machines, which brought on Donald Trump Jr. as an advisor last November. JFB Construction Holdings revealed these details in their official statement this week.
This latest venture represents part of the Trump family’s growing portfolio of business activities following Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration. The family has already generated approximately $800 million through cryptocurrency ventures in just the first six months of 2025.
The timing coincides with surging demand for drone technology, particularly as these unmanned aircraft have become essential Pentagon purchases and crucial tools in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict. Traditional fighter jets face significant challenges in Ukrainian airspace due to sophisticated air defense networks positioned along battle zones.
Military drone success has sparked increased Silicon Valley funding for drone manufacturers and artificial intelligence defense companies, boosting valuations for American firms like Anduril Industries and Shield AI.
XTEND’s artificial intelligence-powered drone systems currently serve multiple government clients, including the U.S. Department of Defense, Singapore’s military, European nations, the United Kingdom, and Israel’s armed forces, according to July 2025 data.
Additional financial backing for the XTEND transaction comes from several investment groups: Israel’s Protego Ventures, Texas real estate developer American Ventures, and Miami-based Aliya Capital.
Company officials expect the stock-based merger to finalize by mid-2026. Following completion, the combined entity will operate under the name XTEND AI Robotics and trade on the Nasdaq exchange using the symbol “XTND.”
The destiny of two magnificent Olympic flame cauldrons that have captured worldwide attention during the 2026 Winter Games hangs in the balance as Milan and Cortina officials continue discussions about their permanent locations after the Olympic torch is extinguished.
One thing is definite: these beloved installations won’t stay in their current spots. Both structures, which debuted during the February 6 opening ceremonies in Olympic history’s first-ever dual-city lighting, will be dismantled and moved elsewhere, according to representatives from both municipalities.
Drawing inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci’s geometric “Knots” and designed to represent the sun, these cauldrons blend natural beauty with Renaissance craftsmanship principles.
The Olympic flames burn within sophisticated structures crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, featuring intricate mechanisms with 244 moving joints and over 1,400 precision-engineered parts that allow them to open and close.
Milan’s cauldron hangs elegantly below the Arco della Pace, a 19th-century victory arch commemorating the historic entrance of Napoleon III and Vittorio Emanuele II into the city following their 1859 triumph at the Battle of Magenta—a pivotal moment in Italy’s journey toward unification.
In Cortina, the cauldron stands tall on a platform in Piazza Dibona, positioned close to the church that anchors this Alpine resort town’s traditional center.
Nightly from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m., spectators flock to both locations to capture photos of the cauldrons and witness an enchanting four-minute display of illumination and music that occurs every hour on the hour. Visitors including families, couples, and tourists pause to experience the audio composition created by Roberto Cacciapaglia.
“The show was great. I watched it from the back, and it was spectacular,” Dominic Bruce, a Games fan from London, told Reuters TV.
Natasha Marchionne made a return visit to experience the display again, explaining: “I came yesterday evening to see it, but since I was filming it with my phone, I didn’t fully enjoy it. I really wanted to see it again tonight without filming it, without my phone.”
Most tourists remain unaware these installations are only temporary fixtures.
“I did not know it would be removed. As a Milan resident, I think it should remain in the city,” said Alessandro, who proposed moving it to Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, where Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper masterpiece is housed.
Another spectator, Roberto, described it as having already transformed into “a symbol” and believed it deserves to stay “somewhere visible and appreciated.”
Milan’s Mayor Giuseppe Sala expressed the city’s desire to retain their cauldron, while designer Marco Balich has proposed creating a citizen petition to determine its permanent location.
Potential new homes being considered include the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology—known for displaying significant engineering achievements—or the Palazzo Reale adjacent to the famous Duomo cathedral.
Cortina’s Mayor Gianluca Lorenzi spoke with greater certainty about his city’s plans.
“It is the symbol of the Olympics and we want to keep and promote it,” he stated. “I hope it will be in place by next summer; it must become a landmark of Cortina’s tourist offering.”
He pointed out that while the cauldron from the 1956 Winter Olympics still remains atop the town’s ice arena, its distance from downtown limits its appeal as a tourist destination.
Following the Olympic closing ceremony on Sunday, February 22, both flames will be temporarily put out. The host cities will go without the Olympic fire for several days until a modified version featuring new colors and musical accompaniment is lit for the Paralympic Games running from March 6 through 15.
German chemical manufacturer Bayer is preparing to unveil a massive $10.5 billion settlement package aimed at resolving thousands of cancer-related lawsuits connected to its popular Roundup weedkiller, according to a Bloomberg report released Tuesday.
Sources with knowledge of the settlement strategy told Bloomberg that the pharmaceutical giant has declined to provide immediate comment regarding these reports.
According to the Bloomberg report, the comprehensive settlement plan includes a proposed $7.5 billion class-action agreement that would be filed through Missouri state courts. This portion of the settlement is designed to address both currently pending Roundup litigation and any potential claims that might emerge over the next two decades.
Additionally, Bayer is reportedly ready to announce $3 billion in settlements for existing U.S. legal cases where former users of the herbicide claim it caused their non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the report indicates.
The company previously allocated approximately $10 billion to resolve the majority of Roundup-related lawsuits that were active as of 2020, but was unsuccessful in securing an agreement that would cover future legal claims. Since that time, additional lawsuits have continued to be filed against the company. Those bringing legal action claim they developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and other cancer types as a result of Roundup exposure, whether through residential use or workplace contact.
Roundup ranks among the most commonly used herbicides across the United States.
Delaware residents now have the opportunity to gain behind-the-scenes access to the state’s prison system through a new educational initiative launching this spring.
The Delaware Department of Correction is currently accepting applications for its Spring 2026 Citizens Academy, a comprehensive six-week educational program scheduled to commence Tuesday, April 14, in New Castle County.
This evening program will run for six consecutive weeks, providing participants with an in-depth understanding of how Delaware’s correctional facilities operate. The academy represents an effort by state corrections officials to increase transparency and community engagement with the prison system.
Delaware residents interested in learning more about the inner workings of the state’s correctional operations can apply for this unique educational opportunity that promises to provide insider access typically not available to the general public.
WILMINGTON — Delaware’s state flags will fly at half-staff at government buildings and facilities across the state following an order from Governor Matt Meyer to pay tribute to three prominent figures who recently passed away.
The governor’s directive honors two former Delaware state lawmakers, George Bunting and John Viola, who both died within the past week. The flag lowering also recognizes the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson.
State facilities throughout Delaware will participate in this gesture of remembrance for the former legislators, who served the people of Delaware during their time in the General Assembly.
A simple vegetable that’s a staple in Russian kitchens has become an unexpected flashpoint for economic frustration as the country’s war in Ukraine continues to strain household budgets.
Cucumber costs have surged dramatically across Russia, with government data showing prices have doubled since December to average more than 300 rubles (about $3.91) per kilogram. Social media posts reveal some stores charging two or three times that amount for the common salad ingredient.
The price spike has caught the attention of lawmakers, particularly those from the ruling United Russia party facing elections later this year. Anti-monopoly officials have now demanded explanations from growers and grocery chains about the sudden increases.
Sergei Mironov, who leads the Just Russia party in parliament, criticized government explanations that blame seasonal factors for the price jumps.
“This winter, a new ‘delicacy’ has appeared in our shops – cucumbers,” Mironov stated. “They used the same explanation for last year’s ‘golden’ potatoes, and now it’s ‘gilded’ cucumbers.”
The former paratrooper turned politician, known for highlighting issues that frustrate voters nationwide, pressed further: “What are people supposed to do? Just accept that they can’t afford the most basic foods?”
Food producers have attempted to calm concerns, promising cucumber prices should drop next month when temperatures rise. Officials point to successful resolutions of similar pricing problems with other foods in the past, and there’s no indication the complaints threaten social order despite widespread grumbling on social platforms.
However, the cucumber crisis comes amid broader economic pressures, with overall prices climbing 2.1% since January began – partly due to higher value-added taxes – while Russia’s economy slows after four years of conflict in Ukraine.
Russia’s central bank projects annual inflation could reach 5.5% this year, and citizens are voicing complaints about everything from utility costs to gasoline prices to restaurant bills.
The situation has become so severe that cucumbers now cost more than imported bananas. Some Siberian supermarkets have imposed purchase limits per customer, while a major Russian newspaper distributed seeds so readers could grow their own vegetables at home.
Opposition parties in the Duma, including Mironov’s group and the communists, have proposed government caps on retailer markups for essential foods.
Yevgeny Popov, a ruling party legislator, attempted to minimize concerns on social media, claiming prices would decline and emphasizing Russia’s complete self-sufficiency in cucumber production.
His reassurances drew sharp responses from constituents.
“The prices for cucumbers and tomatoes are outrageous,” replied a woman identifying herself as Svetlana. “Once upon a time they said eggs were ‘golden’ (because they were so expensive.) Now it’s cucumbers that are golden.”
Germany delivered a commanding performance against France on Tuesday, cruising to a decisive 5-1 victory that punched their ticket to the Olympic men’s ice hockey quarterfinals in Milan.
The Germans will now face Slovakia, who surprisingly topped Group B, in Wednesday’s quarterfinal matchup.
Team captain Leon Draisaitl led the charge, netting the opening goal during the first period and later assisting Edmonton Oilers teammate Joshua Samanski for another score in the third period.
Additional goals came from forwards Frederik Tiffels, JJ Peterka, and Nico Sturm during the qualification playoff contest at Santagiulia arena.
France entered the game short-handed, missing defenseman Pierre Crinon after their federation benched him for “provocative behaviour” following his altercation with Canada’s Tom Wilson during Sunday’s loss to the tournament favorites.
Draisaitl struck first on a power play just four minutes into the game, marking his second tournament goal, before Tiffels managed a solo effort that bounced the puck off the goalkeeper’s mask and into the corner.
Peterka added another score with an effortless wrist shot in the final two minutes before the break.
France caught a break early in the second period when captain Pierre-Edouard Bellemare’s shot deflected off a German player’s skate and found the net, while goaltender Antoine Keller made several impressive glove stops to keep his team competitive.
However, Germany sealed the victory when Draisaitl delivered a perfect pass to Samanski in the scoring zone, and Sturm added an empty-net goal in the closing minute.
Cotton prices may see an uptick this year as American farmers plan to plant significantly fewer acres of the crop, according to an agriculture market expert.
Jamie Wilkerson from RCM Ag Services explained to agricultural reporters that new survey findings from the National Cotton Council indicate growers intend to reduce their cotton plantings by more than three percent from the previous year’s totals.
“There’s an assumption we’ll have less than nine million acres of upland cotton planted this season,” Wilkerson stated, referencing the survey results that track farmer planting intentions nationwide.
The reduction in planted acreage typically creates supply constraints that can push commodity prices higher, benefiting producers who do choose to grow cotton while potentially affecting downstream industries that rely on the fiber.
ARLINGTON, Va. — Delaware farmers now have access to cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology that can measure how much nitrogen their cover crops provide, thanks to a major new conservation initiative.
The Nature Conservancy is leading this groundbreaking program, which brings together farmers, conservation organizations, agricultural businesses, universities, and government agencies to tackle a significant challenge in farming: understanding exactly how much nitrogen cover crops contribute to soil.
The organization anticipates this initiative will help farmers reduce their nitrogen fertilizer purchases by 3 million pounds that would otherwise be applied to agricultural land.
The technology works through a system called PlantMap3D, created by North Carolina State University. Agricultural service companies Willard Agri-Service and GROWMARK FS are installing specialized cameras on spray equipment that capture detailed photographs of cover crops when farmers apply herbicides in spring. Artificial intelligence software then examines these images to identify different cover crop species.
This process creates detailed field maps that show farmers precisely where nitrogen from cover crops is present, enabling them to adjust their fertilizer applications and only add nutrients where actually needed.
“AI-powered camera systems are how we can finally bring precision and sustainable agriculture together,” explained Chris Reberg-Horton, a North Carolina State University professor working on the initiative. “We hope this program will help farmers reduce their costs while also improving environmental outcomes.”
The four-year conservation effort plans to encompass 150,000 acres throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including 37,500 acres in Delaware, 92,500 acres in Maryland, and 20,000 acres in Pennsylvania. Implementation begins this spring growing season.
Federal funding totaling $16 million comes from the USDA through the USDA-NRCS Regional Conservation Partnership Program, while partner organizations contributed an additional $11.3 million.
According to The Nature Conservancy, the program seeks to help agricultural producers better understand their actual nitrogen requirements while maintaining crop yields, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing soil and water quality throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
“Knowledge is power, and this program arms TNC and our agricultural partners with unparalleled data that will boost biodiversity, water quality and farmers’ bottom lines in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, a globally important conservation landscape,” stated Amy Jacobs, Chesapeake Bay Director at The Nature Conservancy. “We are thrilled to be working with partners that are leaders in their field to deploy this new technology to support farmers with solutions that are both good for the environment and their businesses.”
Delaware farmers interested in joining this program can submit applications through February 28. Requirements and application details include:
• Geographic eligibility: All Delaware counties qualify (New Castle, Kent, Sussex); Maryland participants must farm in Baltimore, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Dorchester, Harford, Kent, Talbot, Queen Anne’s or Wicomico counties; Pennsylvania farmers must operate in Adams, Cumberland or York counties.
• Operations must currently utilize multi-species cover crops containing legumes, with plans for spring termination (Spring 2026).
• Applications should be directed to Amanda Bunn, Applied Agricultural Conservationist at The Nature Conservancy, at [email protected].
Part of the program’s funding will assist Pennsylvania farmers in establishing mixed-species cover crops, since Pennsylvania lacks the centralized cover crop programs that Maryland and Delaware have developed, where cover crop adoption is more widespread.
“In partnership with the Pennsylvania and Delaware Maryland 4R Alliances, TNC, agribusinesses, and government agencies have been working to ensure that every application of fertilizer is guided by the 4Rs of nutrient management: using the right source, at the right time, in the right place, and applying the right amount,” Jacobs added.
HARRINGTON, Del. — Delaware soybean farmers have achieved an unprecedented breakthrough in the state’s agricultural history, with two growers becoming the first to surpass 100 bushels per acre in the Delaware Soybean Board’s annual competition.
The Delaware Soybean Board has revealed the winners of their 2025 yield competition, celebrating farmers throughout the First State who demonstrated outstanding production achievements and farming techniques.
This year’s competition created agricultural history as it witnessed not only the first growers to cross the century mark in bushels per acre, but also established a new state yield record.
“These record-setting yields highlight the skill and dedication of Delaware soybean growers,” said Tim Rogers, chairman of the Delaware Soybean Board. “Breaking the 100-bushel mark twice in one year, while also setting a new statewide record, speaks to the strong management practices being implemented across the state.”
Sussex County farmer Blaine Hitchens claimed the top spot statewide in the Full-Season Irrigated division, establishing a new Delaware Soybean Yield Contest record with an exceptional harvest of 106.68 bushels per acre. Hitchens cultivated Pioneer P37T51PR soybean varieties, which he planted on April 21, resulting in the highest production ever documented in the contest’s history.
Fellow Sussex County grower Billy O’Day also broke the 100-bushel barrier, securing Sussex County Full-Season recognition with a harvest of 105.02 bushels per acre. O’Day grew Pioneer 37A18 soybeans, also planted on April 21, making 2025 the inaugural year that contest participants achieved production levels exceeding 100 bushels per acre.
In the statewide Double-Crop division, New Castle County’s Bob Willoughby Jr. took first place with a harvest of 65.47 bushels per acre from Seed Consultants SC7485E varieties, which he planted on June 29.
Kent County farmer Tyler Shaffer claimed the statewide Non-Irrigated championship, producing 78.57 bushels per acre from Seed Consultants SC7444E soybeans planted on June 23.
Other county-level Full-Season champions included Kent County’s John Comegys, who produced 67.33 bushels per acre with Seed Consultants SC7375E planted on May 3, and New Castle County’s Robbie Emerson, who achieved 76.53 bushels per acre using FS HS41E20 varieties planted on May 6.
For the Double-Crop county division, Dickerson Farms O.G. of Sussex County captured top recognition with 61.65 bushels per acre, cultivating Pioneer P40257E soybeans planted on July 20.
The Delaware Soybean Board launched the Delaware Soybean Yield Contest in 2012, providing farmers with opportunities to identify crop varieties and farming strategies that have demonstrated success in regional growing conditions.
Throughout its 12-year existence, the competition has attracted more than 200 participants, honoring farmers’ achievements in both full season and double-cropped soybean production across irrigated and non-irrigated farmland.
Contest participants can access comprehensive competition details and results at https://desoybeans.org/yield-contest/.
Delaware agriculture includes approximately 150,000 acres of soybean cultivation each year, yielding more than seven million bushels and contributing roughly $60 million in economic value to the state. The Delaware Soybean Board includes nine farmer-directors along with the Secretary of Agriculture.
The organization operates through a checkoff program funded by a half-percent assessment on soybeans’ net market value at initial sale, collaborating with industry partners to identify opportunities that enhance farmer profitability.
Home construction companies across the nation are growing more pessimistic about market conditions as February data reveals ongoing struggles with expensive building materials and home prices that many families simply cannot afford.
According to Tuesday’s release of the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, builder confidence dropped one point to reach 36 this month. The index has now stayed beneath the critical 50-point threshold that indicates market health for 22 consecutive months.
Industry experts had predicted the February reading would improve to 38, making the actual decline more disappointing than anticipated.
Builder optimism continues to struggle despite various Trump administration initiatives aimed at improving housing affordability, such as purchasing mortgage-backed securities and prohibiting institutional investors from acquiring single-family properties.
“Builders reduced their expectations for future sales as buyers report affordability challenges, which is contributing to declining consumer confidence for the overall economy,” explained NAHB Chairman Buddy Hughes.
“While the majority of builders continue to deploy buyer incentives, including price cuts, many prospective buyers remain on the sidelines,” Hughes added.
Several Trump administration policies have contributed to rising construction expenses, including widespread tariffs that have increased costs for building supplies and appliances. Additionally, immigration enforcement actions, including workplace raids at construction sites, have created labor shortages. The scarcity of available building lots adds another layer of difficulty.
Weak demand for new homes has created a surplus of unsold properties, presenting builders with yet another obstacle to overcome.
While fewer builders reported implementing price reductions compared to January – dropping from 40% to 36%, the lowest level in nine months – the typical discount remained at 6%, according to NAHB data.
The percentage of builders offering purchase incentives held steady at 65%. This marks the eleventh month in a row that more than 60% of builders have used such strategies.
The survey’s measurement of current market conditions remained flat at 41, while expectations for future sales declined three points to 46. The indicator tracking potential buyer interest fell two points to just 22.
“The solution for the housing market is the enactment of policies that will bend the construction cost curve and enable additional supply of attainable housing,” stated NAHB chief economist Robert Dietz. “On the positive side, easing inflation should continue to allow lower interest rates for mortgages and builder loans.”
ANTERSELVA, Italy – Despite facing challenges during his closing shooting session, France’s Eric Perrot managed to hold off a determined Norwegian competitor to claim the gold medal in Tuesday’s men’s 4 x 7.5km biathlon relay at the Winter Games.
Norway’s Vetle Sjaastad Christiansen made a strong push in the final stretch but couldn’t make up enough ground, settling for the silver medal position 9.8 seconds after the French team crossed the finish line. Sweden claimed the third spot on the podium after Sebastian Samuelsson delivered a flawless performance at the shooting range during his team’s final leg, securing the bronze medal for his squad.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta characterized his squad’s commanding position atop the Premier League standings as a hard-earned privilege, speaking ahead of Wednesday’s match against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Gunners currently hold a four-point advantage over second-place Manchester City through 26 matches, setting up a crucial midweek fixture against the league’s bottom club.
Speaking to media on Tuesday, Arteta emphasized the sustained effort required to maintain their league-leading status. “The position we are in is a privilege because we have earned it and for so long,” the Spanish manager stated.
“Seven and a half months is a long time to every single day do the right things and perform at the level we are. We need to embrace that,” Arteta continued. “When you get to the latter stages of the season you understand the importance of every win and what you have to do. The team are in a good emotional state, really looking forward to playing tomorrow.”
Despite the significant 48-point gap separating the two clubs in the table, Arteta warned against underestimating Rob Edwards’ Wolves squad. Arsenal required two own goals, including a stoppage-time winner, to secure victory in their December meeting.
“We know we are going to play a really difficult match,” Arteta explained. “Our recent past with them showed how tough it was to win the three points. I know Rob really well and how he sets his teams up. It’s going to be a really tough test.”
When questioned about his confidence in Arsenal’s title chances, the manager pointed to his team’s consistent excellence across multiple competitions as the source of his optimism.
Arsenal currently compete on four fronts, having secured top position in their Champions League group to advance to the knockout rounds, reaching the FA Cup’s fifth round, and earning a spot in the League Cup final against Manchester City next month.
“They have given me the confidence because of what we’ve done up until now and every single day,” Arteta noted. “That’s the biggest reassurance, to do it in every single competition and the manner we’ve done it with all the challenges we have faced already. It gives me confidence because it’s the way we prepare.”
“I don’t get confidence from the things I imagine, I get it from what I see every day in the preparation and also how much the players want it. We are where we want to be, that’s for sure,” he added.
Regarding team fitness, Arteta confirmed that captain Martin Odegaard and striker Kai Havertz will miss the Wolves fixture due to injuries, though both could return for Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
Defender Riccardo Calafiori has returned to training after being withdrawn from the starting lineup before Sunday’s 4-0 FA Cup victory over Wigan Athletic, while Ben White has recovered from a hamstring problem related to fatigue.
ROME – Political opposition forces in Italy are condemning their government’s decision to participate in President Donald Trump’s newly formed Board of Peace, arguing the organization weakens the United Nations and violates international legal principles.
The board will convene for its inaugural session in Washington this Thursday, focusing on reconstruction strategies for Gaza. Representatives from over 20 nations are expected to participate in the gathering.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who maintains strong relationships with Trump, announced Italy would join as an observer nation, stating Rome seeks involvement in American-led peace initiatives. However, most Western countries continue showing hesitation about participation.
During parliamentary discussions with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, Democratic Party legislator Giuseppe Provenzano questioned the government’s motives, stating: “How far are you willing to go in order to please Trump? You have answered this question: rushing to the American president’s court whenever and for any reason.”
While originally created to support Gaza’s ceasefire agreement, Trump envisions the Board of Peace addressing worldwide conflicts – a broader scope that concerns some nations who worry it could challenge the UN’s authority.
Several Middle Eastern powers have committed to the board, including Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, alongside major developing countries like Indonesia. A European Union representative will also observe the initial meeting, though Italy’s specific representative remains undetermined.
Rome has rejected full membership, citing constitutional conflicts with portions of the board’s charter. Italy’s constitution requires equal participation in international organizations, while the United States would maintain leadership authority in this new entity.
Centrist parliament member Riccardo Magi criticized the organization’s foundation, saying: “The Board of Peace is based not on democracy but on arrogance, not on law but on business,” referencing American proposals for residential developments and coastal resorts in Palestinian territory.
Foreign Minister Tajani defended against the criticism, arguing no viable alternatives exist for Trump’s Gaza strategy. “If anyone thought there are concrete, workable alternatives to this plan today, they would be showing they don’t know how to deal with reality,” Tajani responded.
Agricultural professionals in Missouri are preparing for an educational gathering scheduled for March 19, when the Missouri Soybean Association will present its annual Cover Crop Field Day.
Clayton Light, who serves as the Director of Conservation Ag and Farm Operations, is offering a preview of what attendees can expect at this farming-focused event through the organization’s Spotlight on Soybeans program.
The field day will provide farmers and agricultural professionals with hands-on learning opportunities about cover crop implementation and benefits for soybean production systems.
A newly released draft of the farm bill contains numerous provisions that agricultural experts are still analyzing, according to a policy specialist from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Brad Lubben, who studies agricultural policy, indicates the comprehensive legislation offers several elements aimed at creating more predictable regulatory conditions for farming operations.
According to Lubben, the proposed legislation’s primary objective centers on delivering regulatory certainty to agricultural producers through this extensive legislative process. “The goal of the farm bill, this process and introduction of this big bill is to give it,” Lubben explained, noting the complexity of the comprehensive agricultural policy package.
The draft represents the latest effort to address agricultural policy needs and provide framework for farming operations across the country. Policy experts continue reviewing the detailed provisions within the substantial piece of legislation.
TAMPA, Fla. — Major League Baseball Players Association leader Tony Clark is stepping away from his position, according to a source with knowledge of the union’s internal discussions who spoke Tuesday.
The individual requested anonymity when speaking with reporters since Clark’s departure, initially reported by ESPN, has not yet been formally announced. An official statement is expected to be released later today.
Clark’s exit occurs while federal prosecutors in Brooklyn, New York are conducting an investigation into One Team Partners, a licensing business established jointly by the baseball and football players’ unions.
His resignation comes at a crucial time, just months before collective bargaining talks are set to begin in April. The current five-year labor agreement between players and team owners is scheduled to end on December 1st. Baseball management is widely expected to push for implementing a salary cap during negotiations, which could potentially trigger a work stoppage and result in the first canceled regular season games since 1985.
In a related development, the players’ union called off the scheduled start of their annual spring training facility visits on Tuesday.
The 53-year-old Clark, a former All-Star first baseman, made history as the first active player to lead the organization.
Clark concluded his playing career in 2008 and was serving on the union’s staff when then-leader Michael Weiner received a brain tumor diagnosis.
Following Weiner’s death in late 2013, Clark assumed leadership of the union and guided players through contract negotiations that resulted in labor agreements in both 2016 and 2022. The most recent deal was reached only after a 99-day lockout period.
Bruce Meyer, who served as the primary negotiator under Clark’s leadership during the 2021-22 talks, received a promotion to deputy executive director during summer 2022 and is expected to once again lead the upcoming contract discussions.
A gunman opened fire during a youth hockey game at a Rhode Island ice arena Monday afternoon, fatally shooting two adults and wounding three others before a spectator intervened to help stop the violence, according to police.
The deadly incident occurred at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, located just outside Providence. By Monday evening, investigators had interviewed nearly 100 witnesses as they work to understand what led to the shooting.
Police Chief Tina Goncalves announced Monday that the gunman died from what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, though the investigation continues.
Goncalves praised an unidentified spectator who stepped in during the attack, saying the “good Samaritan” helped bring the violence “to a swift end.” The chief did not elaborate on how the individual intervened.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, as does whether specific individuals were targeted. Unconfirmed social media footage appears to show the moment gunshots rang out, with players scrambling for safety on the ice while spectators and those on team benches sought cover.
“It appears that this was a targeted event, that it may be a family dispute,” Goncalves stated. Officials confirmed both fatalities were adults but have not yet identified the victims.
The shooter was identified as Robert Dorgan, who also used the name Roberta Esposito and was born in 1969, according to Goncalves.
This tragedy follows another devastating shooting that shook Rhode Island nearly two months ago at Brown University, where two students were killed and nine others injured, along with a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor. In that case, authorities later discovered 48-year-old Claudio Neves Valente dead from a self-inflicted gunshot at a New Hampshire storage unit.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee expressed his grief in a public statement, saying “Our state is grieving again.” He added, “As governor, a parent, and a former coach, my heart breaks for the victims, families, students, and everyone impacted by the devastating shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket.”
Tributes are flooding in following the passing of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, the influential civil rights leader who spent decades at the forefront of America’s fight for equality. Jackson, who worked alongside Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and made two historic runs for the presidency, was 84 years old.
Rev. Bernice King, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s daughter, remembered Jackson’s diplomatic skills and commitment to unity.
“He was a gifted negotiator and a courageous bridge‑builder, serving humanity by bringing calm into tense rooms and creating pathways where none existed. My family shares a long and meaningful history with him, rooted in a shared commitment to justice and love. As we grieve, we give thanks for a life that pushed hope into weary places,” King said.
Rev. Al Sharpton, who considered Jackson a mentor, shared an emotional remembrance of the man who shaped his calling.
“Today, I lost the man who first called me into purpose when I was just twelve years old. And our nation lost one of its greatest moral voices. The Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson was not simply a civil rights leader; he was a movement unto himself. He carried history in his footsteps and hope in his voice. One of the greatest honors of my life was learning at his side. He reminded me that faith without action is just noise. He taught me that protest must have purpose, that faith must have feet, and that justice is not seasonal, it is daily work,” Sharpton stated.
President Donald Trump reflected on his personal relationship with Jackson, highlighting his character and charisma.
“I knew him well, long before becoming President. He was a good man, with lots of personality, grit, and ‘street smarts.’ He was very gregarious ‑ Someone who truly loved people! … Jesse was a force of nature like few others before him,” Trump said.
Illinois Representative Danny Davis, whose Chicago district was familiar to Jackson, emphasized how the civil rights leader’s influence will continue through his family’s ongoing public service.
“So I extend condolences to his family. Mrs. Jackie Jackson, all of his children, and the work that he has done will continue, because they are all seriously involved in public decision-making. And so though he will be gone, he will continue to live on,” Davis remarked.
Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock, who serves as senior pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King once preached, spoke about Jackson’s personal impact and distinctive speaking style.
“As a kid growing up in public housing while watching him run for President, Rev. Jesse Jackson gave me a glimpse of what is possible and taught me to say, ‘I am somebody!’ As an adult, I was proud to call him a friend. With an eloquence and rhythmic rhetoric all his own, Jesse Jackson reminded America that equal justice is not inevitable; it requires vigilance and commitment, and for freedom fighters, sacrifice. His ministry was poetry and spiritual power in the public square. He advanced King’s dream and bent the arc of history closer to justice,” Warnock said.
NAACP leadership issued a joint statement honoring Jackson’s contributions to the organization and the broader civil rights movement.
“Reverend Jesse Jackson was not only a civil rights icon—he was family to the NAACP. His work advanced Black America at every turn. He challenged this nation to live up to its highest ideals, and he reminded our movement that hope is both a strategy and a responsibility. His historic run for president inspired millions and brought race to the forefront of American politics,” said NAACP Chairman Leon W. Russell, Vice Chair Karen Boykin Towns and President & CEO Derrick Johnson.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged Jackson’s international advocacy, particularly his opposition to apartheid.
“His campaigns for an end to apartheid included disinvestment from the apartheid economy and challenging the support the regime enjoyed in certain circles and institutions internationally. We are deeply indebted to the energy, principled clarity and personal risk with which he supported our struggle and campaigned for freedom and equality in other parts of the world,” Ramaphosa said.
The nation mourns the passing of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, a towering civil rights leader who dedicated his life to fighting for justice and equality. The 84-year-old activist, who served as a protégé to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and made two historic runs for president, died Tuesday at his Chicago residence with loved ones by his side.
Throughout his remarkable career, Jackson championed causes for America’s most vulnerable populations, tackling everything from voting access and employment discrimination to educational reform and healthcare disparities. His work extended far beyond U.S. borders, where he secured notable diplomatic achievements with international leaders. Through his Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, Jackson transformed calls for Black empowerment and self-reliance into concrete corporate reforms, compelling business leaders to create a more inclusive and fair society.
Jackson became synonymous with his empowering message delivered through a poem he frequently shared: “I am Somebody.” His words resonated across racial lines as he declared, “I may be poor, but I am Somebody; I may be young; but I am Somebody; I may be on welfare, but I am Somebody,” establishing himself as the most prominent civil rights voice following King’s legacy.
His daughter Santita Jackson verified that her father passed peacefully at his Chicago home with family members present.
Tributes have flooded in from across the political and social spectrum. Kristen Clarke, who served as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights under President Biden, emphasized that Jackson’s influence “can be felt in virtually every aspect of American life.”
“A tireless and extraordinary public servant, his charge to all of us was to stay hopeful, keep up the good fight and respect the dignity and humanity of all people,” Clarke said in an emailed statement on Tuesday. “Jackson has been, and will always be, a central part of the story regarding America’s ongoing quest for justice and equality.”
Martin Luther King III and his spouse Andrea King described Jackson’s unique role in American history. “Jackson was more than a civil rights advocate—he was a living bridge between generations, carrying forward the unfinished work and sacred promise of the Civil Rights Movement,” they stated.
“He walked with courage when the road was uncertain, spoke with conviction when the truth was inconvenient, and stood with the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten when it was not popular to do so. His life was a testament to the power of faith in action—faith that justice could be won, that dignity belongs to every person, and that love must always have the final word.”
“May his memory be a wellspring of strength and courage for all who continue the sacred work to which he gave his life. As he so often reminded us, ‘Keep hope alive.’”
Bishop William J. Barber II, co-founder of the Poor People’s Campaign, reflected on Jackson’s spiritual impact and personal mentorship. “Jesse Jackson was a gift from God and a witness that God exists in the ways he cared for and lifted all people, the way he called forth a rainbow coalition of people to challenge economic and social inequality from the pulpit to a historic presidential run, the way he dared to keep hope alive whenever the nation struggled with being who she says she is and yet ought to be,” Barber said.
“When I was a college student, he was a gift to me as a mentor, and it has been my great privilege to have him walk alongside me through my whole public ministry,” Barber continued. “May we all take up his hope for the America that has never yet been but nevertheless must be.”
Senator Raphael Warnock of Georgia, who also serves as senior pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church where the King family worshipped, praised Jackson’s moral leadership. “America has lost one of its great moral voices. Reverend Jesse Jackson spent his life working to ensure our nation lives up to its highest ideals. From his early days as a young staffer with Dr. King onto the national stage, he fought for freedom, racial justice, equality, and for the human dignity of the marginalized and the poor,” Warnock said.
“With an eloquence and rhythmic rhetoric all his own, Jesse Jackson reminded America that equal justice is not inevitable; it requires vigilance and commitment, and for freedom fighters, sacrifice. His ministry was poetry and spiritual power in the public square. He advanced King’s dream and bent the arc of history closer to justice,” Warnock added.
Jackson’s international activism also drew recognition, particularly his work opposing South African apartheid. After visiting South Africa in July 1979 following Steve Biko’s death, Jackson became a fierce advocate for American sanctions against the apartheid government while supporting Nelson Mandela’s freedom movement.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged Jackson’s global impact, stating: “His campaigns for an end to apartheid included disinvestment from the apartheid economy and challenging the support the regime enjoyed in certain circles and institutions internationally. We are deeply indebted to the energy, principled clarity and personal risk with which he supported our struggle and campaigned for freedom and equality in other parts of the world.”
Rev. Al Sharpton, who considered Jackson a mentor, shared deeply personal reflections on their relationship. “Today, I lost the man who first called me into purpose when I was just twelve years old. And our nation lost one of its greatest moral voices. The Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson was not simply a civil rights leader; he was a movement unto himself. He carried history in his footsteps and hope in his voice,” Sharpton said.
“One of the greatest honors of my life was learning at his side. He reminded me that faith without action is just noise. He taught me that protest must have purpose, that faith must have feet, and that justice is not seasonal, it is daily work.”
Rev. Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., highlighted Jackson’s skills as a peacemaker. “He was a gifted negotiator and a courageous bridge‑builder, serving humanity by bringing calm into tense rooms and creating pathways where none existed,” she said.
“My family shares a long and meaningful history with him, rooted in a shared commitment to justice and love. As we grieve, we give thanks for a life that pushed hope into weary places.”
Even President Trump offered his condolences through social media, calling Jackson “a good man, with lots of personality, grit, and ‘street smarts.’” The Republican president described Jackson as “very gregarious -Someone who truly loved people!”
“He loved his family greatly, and to them I send my deepest sympathies and condolences. Jesse will be missed!” Trump wrote.
An unsettled weather pattern is setting up across the Mid-Atlantic this week, bringing several opportunities for rain to the Delmarva Peninsula through the weekend. While areas to our north may deal with some wintry precipitation at times, the setup locally favors mainly rain events for Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Wednesday: Light Rain, Mainly North
The first system arrives Wednesday into Wednesday night as a warm front lifts northward ahead of low pressure tracking through the Midwest.
For Delmarva, this looks to be a primarily light rain event. Current trends show the steadiest rainfall staying north of our area, with southern Delaware potentially seeing little to no measurable rain. Most locations across Delmarva should see under a tenth of an inch, though a few spots could pick up slightly more if the rain shield trends farther south.
Overall, this is not expected to be a high-impact system. However, any rainfall will be beneficial as parts of the region continue to deal with ongoing drought conditions.
Thursday: Cooler With Spotty Showers Possible
Behind Wednesday’s warm front, a backdoor cold front may slide southward late Wednesday into Thursday. This front will usher in a cooler maritime air mass from the north or northeast.
If the boundary settles close enough to Delmarva, some areas could see patchy drizzle or light showers Thursday. Confidence in exact placement remains moderate, so coverage and amounts look limited at this time.
Friday Into Saturday: Another Round of Rain
Another low pressure system is expected to move in late Friday into Saturday. As of now, this system also appears to favor rain for Delmarva.
While slightly cooler air will be in place compared to midweek, temperatures across the peninsula are expected to remain warm enough to support mostly liquid precipitation. At this time, wintry precipitation concerns remain confined well to our north and do not appear to be a factor locally.
Rainfall amounts will depend on the eventual track and timing of the system, but there is at least some potential for moderate rainfall if the storm strengthens or slows.
Late Weekend: Watching a Potentially Stronger Storm
Attention then turns to another possible system toward the end of the weekend. Of all the upcoming disturbances, this one carries the greatest uncertainty and the widest range of possible outcomes.
Forecast guidance shows everything from a storm tracking well offshore with minimal impact, to a more organized system bringing steadier precipitation to the region. It is still too early to determine specifics, including rainfall amounts or any other impacts.
At this point, the late weekend system remains in the monitoring phase, and forecast details will likely evolve over the coming days. But with the way weather models have been handling the last several storm systems, it’s hard to put faith in one single solution.
Ukrainian forces launched successful drone attacks against two major Russian industrial facilities during overnight operations, according to Ukraine’s domestic security service SBU on Tuesday.
The strikes targeted the Taman oil terminal located in Russia’s Krasnodar region and a significant chemical manufacturing facility in the Perm region near the Ural mountains, officials confirmed from Kyiv.
These operations represent Ukraine’s continued strategy of intensifying long-distance attacks against key Russian infrastructure that supports Moscow’s military operations in the ongoing four-year conflict.
According to an SBU representative, this marks the second time the agency has successfully struck the Taman terminal since January 22. Ukraine’s General Staff had previously announced another attack on the same facility over the weekend.
The drone assault also targeted the Metafrax Chemicals facility in Perm, positioned approximately 1,600 kilometers away from Ukrainian territory. Security officials characterized this plant as among Russia’s and Europe’s largest methanol manufacturing operations.
These military actions occurred just as new diplomatic discussions between Ukraine and Russia commenced Tuesday in Geneva under U.S. mediation, though expectations remain low for meaningful progress from these negotiations.
MILAN – Despite winning her appeal against doping charges, Italian biathlete Rebecca Passler will miss the Winter Olympics after team officials chose not to include her in the women’s relay squad.
Italy’s national anti-doping organization (NADO) ruled in Passler’s favor last week, reversing a temporary ban that stemmed from testing positive for Letrozole on January 26.
The 24-year-old athlete explained in her appeal that cross-contamination likely occurred when she used a spoon to eat Nutella for breakfast the morning before her drug test. Passler lives with her mother, who takes Letrozole as part of her breast cancer treatment.
Although Passler returned to team training on Monday following her successful appeal, team leader Klaus Hoellrigl did not include her in the four-woman relay team selected for Wednesday’s competition.
The Italian Winter Sports Federation (FISI) announced that Hannah Auchentaller, Dorothea Wierer, Michela Carrara and Lisa Vittozzi will comprise the relay team instead.
The women’s relay represented Passler’s sole qualifying event for the Milano Cortina Games.
Italy celebrated its first biathlon gold medal on Sunday when Vittozzi captured victory in the 10km pursuit race.
India’s information minister delivered a strong message to major technology companies on Tuesday, emphasizing that platforms such as YouTube, Meta, X and Netflix must operate according to the nation’s constitutional principles following the implementation of stricter content removal regulations.
The minister made these remarks while attending an artificial intelligence conference in Delhi, where executives from leading AI companies are meeting with world leaders throughout the week.
“It’s very important for the multinationals to understand the cultural context of the country in which they are operating,” Ashwini Vaishnaw stated during his presentation at the India AI Impact Summit.
The previous week saw India announce that social media platforms must now eliminate illegal content within three hours after receiving notification, significantly reducing the former 36-hour deadline in a move that presents new compliance hurdles for Meta, YouTube and X.
Vaishnaw emphasized the necessity for enhanced regulation regarding deepfake technology, noting that discussions with industry representatives on this matter have already begun.
Social media platforms face increasing worldwide demands from governments to monitor content more rigorously, with authorities from Brussels to Brasilia requiring quicker content removal and enhanced responsibility.
On the same day, Spanish authorities directed prosecutors to examine social media platforms X, Meta and TikTok for allegedly distributing AI-created child sexual abuse content, as European officials increase their oversight of major technology companies regarding dangerous and unlawful material.
Wall Street experienced a mixed start to Tuesday’s trading session after the extended weekend, with major technology-heavy indexes declining as concerns about artificial intelligence-related market disruptions weighed on investor sentiment.
At the opening bell, the Dow Jones Industrial Average managed a modest gain of 24.4 points, representing a 0.05% increase to reach 49,525.37. However, broader market indexes faced downward pressure, with the S&P 500 declining 16.3 points or 0.24% to open at 6,819.86. The technology-focused Nasdaq Composite experienced the steepest decline, falling 151.9 points or 0.67% to start trading at 22,394.756.
Market analysts pointed to growing anxiety about AI-driven disruptions as a key factor dampening trading sentiment, while investors also monitored ongoing nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran for potential geopolitical implications.
WILMINGTON — Delaware Governor Matt Meyer has issued an order directing all state government buildings and facilities to lower their flags to half-staff this week in tribute to two former Delaware lawmakers who died recently.
The flag directive honors George Bunting and John Viola, both former members of the Delaware General Assembly who passed away within the past week. The governor’s order also calls for flags to be lowered in memory of Rev. Jesse Jackson, recognizing his lifetime of service and impact.
State facilities across Delaware will display flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the three individuals and their contributions to public service and community leadership.
With the 2026 growing season on the horizon, Delaware farmers are being advised to develop comprehensive strategies for controlling weeds in their fields, with particular emphasis on herbicides applied before planting. According to Brad Allen, a Market Development Specialist with Corteva Agriscience, early herbicide treatments create a crucial foundation for season-long weed control.
Allen explained to agricultural news outlets that these early applications of residual herbicides are essential for establishing effective weed management from the start of the growing season.
Motorists traveling north on Route 1 should expect delays today as construction crews have shut down the left lane in a busy stretch near Milton.
The lane restriction affects northbound traffic on the Coastal Highway between Paynter Road and Broadkill Road, also known as Route 16. DelDOT officials say the closure is necessary for ongoing construction work in the area.
The lane will remain blocked until 3 PM today, according to state transportation authorities. Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when passing through the work zone.
Drivers traveling through the Rehoboth Beach area should plan for potential delays today as construction crews continue work along a busy stretch of roadway.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report that one eastbound lane on Broadkill Road is currently blocked off to traffic between Jefferson Drive and Coastal Highway (Route 1) North. The lane restriction is scheduled to remain in effect until 3 PM today.
The construction activity is impacting traffic flow in the popular coastal corridor, and motorists are advised to allow extra travel time or consider alternate routes when possible.
Motorists traveling on Route 9 near New Castle will encounter intermittent lane restrictions this week as railroad maintenance gets underway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation has notified drivers that Norfolk Southern Railroad crews will begin general maintenance work Wednesday, February 18th at 9:00 am at the railroad crossing located just north of New Castle. The maintenance project is scheduled to wrap up by 5:00 pm on Thursday, February 19th.
DelDOT is advising drivers to exercise caution while traveling through the work zone and to allow extra time for potential minor delays during the maintenance period.
Delaware State Police are working to determine what caused a deadly collision in Newark that claimed the life of a Bear woman on Sunday.
Authorities report that around 3:30 p.m. on February 15, 2026, a Jeep Compass was heading east along Pulaski Highway close to David Place when it veered off the road’s right side and struck a telephone pole. Both people inside the vehicle were rescued moments before flames engulfed the Jeep.
Betty Williams, 71, of Bear, Delaware, was riding as a passenger in the front seat without wearing a seatbelt. Medical personnel transported her to a nearby hospital where she was treated for severe injuries. Williams succumbed to her crash-related injuries in the early hours of February 16, 2026.
The 70-year-old male driver, also from Bear, Delaware, was hospitalized with significant injuries following the incident.
The crash remains under review by the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit. Authorities are seeking assistance from anyone who saw the accident occur, possesses surveillance or dashboard camera video, or has other pertinent details. Those with information can reach Corporal K. Oakes at (302) 365-8483, send a private message to the Delaware State Police Facebook page, or call Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Victims of crime, witnesses, or families who have experienced sudden loss can access support through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center. Help is available around the clock by calling the toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461) or emailing [email protected].
Michigan’s agricultural sector could see new support for emerging farmers under the governor’s proposed 2027 budget, according to state agriculture officials.
Tim Boring, who leads the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, explained to Brownfield that the budget proposal includes $2 million designated for a new FarmStart initiative. The program is designed to address the specific challenges facing newcomers to farming and agricultural careers.
According to Boring, the investment represents a commitment to developing future career opportunities within the agricultural industry. The FarmStart program will concentrate on supporting both beginning farmers and agricultural professionals as they enter the field.
“We know we have ongoing veterinarian shortages,” Boring noted, highlighting one of the key workforce challenges the program aims to address.
While the 2027 budget proposal introduces this new funding stream, it also eliminates certain one-time allocations that were included in the 2026 budget.
Drivers traveling south on Route 1 should expect delays this afternoon as construction crews have shut down the left lane between Janice Road and Cave Neck Road.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports the lane restriction on Coastal Highway is part of ongoing construction work in the area. Traffic is being directed around the work zone using the remaining lanes.
DelDOT officials say the left lane closure is expected to be lifted by 5:00 PM today, though motorists should plan for possible delays and consider alternate routes if traveling through the area during peak hours.
President Trump issued a statement commemorating civil rights pioneer Susan B. Anthony, describing the 19th-century activist as a champion of human rights and dignity. In his remarks, Trump praised the suffragette leader, stating she was “a true American giant and an unwavering advocate for the cause of human dignity. We recommit to the timeless truth she spent her life defending: that every human being is made in the holy image of God.”
Anthony, who entered the world as a member of the Quaker faith in 1820, dedicated her entire adult life to championing multiple social justice movements, most notably the fight to abolish slavery and secure voting rights for women. The historical figure became one of America’s most recognized voices in the struggle for civil liberties during the 1800s.
Young Americans are stepping away from the dating scene at alarming rates, according to fresh research that adds another layer to ongoing concerns about changing social patterns among this generation. The Institute for Family Studies has published findings showing that more than two-thirds of young adults seldom participate in dating or avoid it entirely.
Financial hardship stands as the leading obstacle preventing young people from pursuing romantic relationships, with most respondents indicating they lack sufficient funds for dating activities. However, researchers also point to growing levels of social anxiety among this demographic, along with an increasing preoccupation with digital entertainment and online interactions as contributing factors to this dating decline.
This trend aligns with other documented shifts in young adult behavior, including reduced marriage rates and declining birth rates, painting a picture of a generation that is fundamentally altering traditional relationship milestones.
A yearly study released by National Right to Life shows that roughly two-thirds of abortion procedures across the United States now involve medication rather than surgical methods, with these pharmaceutical options available for delivery throughout the nation. The organization’s latest findings indicate that 25 states have taken steps to protect abortion access through legislation or constitutional amendments, while the remaining 25 states have implemented significant limitations on the procedure, with some states enacting near-total prohibitions.
GENEVA – Iranian officials shut down the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday for military exercises while simultaneously engaging in nuclear negotiations with American representatives in Geneva, creating a dramatic escalation in Middle Eastern tensions.
This marked the first instance Iran has blocked the critical shipping lane – which handles one-fifth of global oil transportation – since Washington began deploying military forces to the region and issuing threats. The move represents a significant intensification in the ongoing standoff that threatens to spark another Middle Eastern conflict.
Iranian media reported that live missiles were fired toward the waterway as diplomatic discussions commenced, with officials citing “safety and maritime concerns” for the several-hour closure.
The Tasnim news agency, which maintains connections to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, confirmed that missiles launched from Iranian territory and coastal positions successfully hit their intended targets within the Strait.
State television later announced the completion of talks after nearly three hours of discussions.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Iranian broadcasting had previously indicated these negotiations would remain indirect, concentrating exclusively on nuclear issues while avoiding domestic matters such as the nation’s violent suppression of recent demonstrations.
President Donald Trump has consistently threatened military action to force Iranian compliance with nuclear restrictions. Iranian officials have promised retaliation for any attacks, while Trump has also issued warnings regarding the treatment of protesters.
The initial diplomatic session occurred February 6th in Oman, an Arabian Peninsula nation, following the same indirect format. The current meetings took place at the Omani diplomatic residence in Geneva, with both sides apparently conducting separate discussions through intermediaries.
Trump representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner traveled to participate in these latest negotiations.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, heading his country’s negotiating team, met Monday with the United Nations nuclear oversight chief in Geneva.
“I am in Geneva with real ideas to achieve a fair and equitable deal,” Araghchi posted on social media platform X. “What is not on the table: submission before threats.”
A diplomatic source close to the UN nuclear agency verified that Director General Rafael Grossi was present in Geneva to offer technical guidance when requested by either party. The source requested anonymity due to the discussions’ sensitive nature.
Speaking with reporters Monday evening aboard Air Force One while returning to Washington, President Trump indicated his planned involvement in the negotiations. “I think they want to make a deal. I don’t think they want the consequences of not making a deal,” Trump stated.
The United States is simultaneously hosting separate discussions between Russian and Ukrainian representatives in Geneva Tuesday and Wednesday, approaching the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Military Exercises in Strategic Waters
Iranian officials announced that Revolutionary Guard forces began exercises Monday morning in the Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf, and Gulf of Oman – all vital international shipping corridors. This represents the second live-fire drill Iran has conducted in the Strait recently.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei intensified his warnings to Washington regarding American military buildup in the Middle East.
“Of course a warship is a dangerous apparatus, but more dangerous than the warship is the weapon that can sink the warship into the depths of the sea,” Khamenei declared according to state television.
He additionally cautioned America that “forcing the result of talks in advance is a wrong and foolish job.”
American Military Buildup
Last week, Trump announced the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, from Caribbean waters to the Middle East to supplement existing American military assets in the region.
The Ford will join the USS Abraham Lincoln and its escort destroyers, which have maintained regional presence for more than two weeks. American forces shot down an Iranian drone that approached the Lincoln the same day Iran attempted to intercept a US-flagged vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.
Gulf Arab nations have expressed concerns that any attack could escalate into broader regional warfare in a Middle East already destabilized by the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The Trump administration seeks an agreement limiting Iran’s nuclear capabilities and preventing weapons development. Iran maintains it is not pursuing weapons and has resisted demands to cease uranium enrichment or surrender its highly-enriched uranium stockpile.
American-Iranian discussions had continued for months when Israel launched a 12-day military campaign against Iran in June, halting diplomatic progress. US forces bombed Iranian nuclear facilities during that conflict, likely destroying numerous centrifuges used for uranium enrichment to near-weapons grade levels. Israeli strikes also devastated Iran’s air defense systems and ballistic missile capabilities.
Iran continues asserting its nuclear program serves peaceful purposes. Prior to the June conflict, Iran had been enriching uranium to 60% purity, requiring only minor technical advancement to reach weapons-grade concentrations.
Protest Crackdown Remembrance
Iran is observing 40 days – the traditional Islamic mourning period – since one of the bloodiest days in its suppression of nationwide protests last month. Activists report at least 7,015 deaths, with many occurring during overnight violence between January 8th and 9th.
The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, which provided these figures, has demonstrated accuracy in previous Iranian unrest death counts and relies on domestic activist networks for verification.
The Associated Press cannot independently confirm casualty numbers due to Iranian authorities disrupting internet access and international communications.
Iran’s official news agency announced government memorial services at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla mosque, attributing the demonstrations to “violent actions by armed groups allegedly directed by foreign intelligence agencies.”
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Transportation companies across Africa are starting to build electric passenger vans and taxis within their own borders, utilizing component kits from Chinese manufacturers along with creative payment plans to expand electric public transit throughout the region.
Lagos-based Saglev has started putting together 18-passenger electric vans using component packages from Chinese car manufacturer Dongfeng Motor Corp. The Nigerian company expects to produce as many as 2,500 vehicles annually, with plans to eventually build 17 different electric models for Nigeria and neighboring West African countries.
“This is a major step in Nigeria’s transition toward clean, fossil-free transportation,” said Saglev’s CEO Olu Falaye. He described the van as Nigeria’s first domestically assembled electric vehicle designed for mass transportation, marking a first for sub-Saharan Africa as well.
“This feat is a clear signal that electric mobility in Nigeria is practical, scalable and ready for adoption,” Falaye said.
The company represents a partnership between Nigeria’s Stallion Group, a prominent automotive distributor, and Chinese car maker Sokon Motor. Saglev also intends to build solar-powered charging facilities to address power reliability issues that pose a significant obstacle to electric vehicle adoption across parts of Africa.
Kenya is pursuing a comparable strategy, where Chinese-supported Rideence Africa recently finalized a $2.46 million agreement with Mombasa’s Associated Vehicle Assemblers (AVA) to start local production of electric taxis and small buses using kits from China’s Jiangsu Joylong Automobile and Beijing Henrey Automobile Technology.
“We are now moving decisively from operator to manufacturer,” said Rideence Africa’s managing director, Minnan Yu. “Our aim is to build a Kenya-rooted new-energy mobility company serving Africa.”
These two major African economies are spearheading local electric vehicle production as nations work to lower fuel expenses, decrease pollution, and develop their own manufacturing industries.
“This partnership delivers Kenya’s first dedicated electric vehicle assembly line, demonstrating clearly that Kenya has the capacity and capability to assemble EVs locally at scale,” AVA Managing Director Matt Lloyd said.
Small electric vans and buses serve as the backbone of African public transportation, where Japanese vehicles like Toyota Hiace and Nissan vans currently dominate streets, transporting both passengers and cargo.
Charging an electric vehicle costs approximately $3 for distances up to 200 kilometers (123 miles), while gasoline expenses for the same distance exceed $15.
“The assembly of electric vans is emerging as a strong market segment,” said Dennis Wakaba, the secretary-general of the Electric Mobility Association of Kenya. “Earlier, the cost of electric vans was high, putting off operators. But as local assembly scales up, these costs have dropped, attracting more orders.”
Kenya operates one of Africa’s most dynamic electric transportation markets, featuring startup companies that build buses and vans for public transit and ride-sharing services. Ethiopia and South Africa have also joined this market, with Ethiopia’s Belayneh Kinde Group (BKG) producing approximately 150 small buses monthly using Chinese parts.
To improve electric vehicle affordability, companies such as Rideence offer pay-per-use and rent-to-own programs that eliminate large upfront costs for operators. The company rents its taxis to drivers for roughly $18 daily.
BasiGo-Kenya Vehicle Manufacturer, which is also expanding into electric van assembly, asks operators to make a down payment followed by approximately 20 U.S. cents per kilometer (32 cents per mile) of driving.
This strategy aligns with the financial circumstances of African transport operators, who face limited credit access and rarely have funds to buy new vehicles outright.
“These innovative financing models mitigate risks for both assembler and operators, helping put vehicles on the road faster. With these, we expect to see more e-vans taking a larger share of the African transport systems,” Wakaba said.
However, Africa currently has only about 30,000 electric vehicles compared to millions powered by gasoline and diesel, according to recent data from the Africa Mobility Alliance. The continent produced just 1.1 million vehicles total last year, with 90% manufactured in Morocco and South Africa.
French President Emmanuel Macron conducted bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday in Mumbai, working to strengthen economic and defense partnerships between the two nations during a period of global uncertainty and changing international relationships.
The discussions in India’s commercial hub highlighted the increasing significance of the France-India alliance, which has grown beyond military cooperation to encompass commerce, technology and energy sectors, with Paris establishing itself as New Delhi’s most dependable European ally.
“India-France partnership knows no boundary. In today’s era of uncertainties, this partnership is a force for global stability and progress,” Modi stated at a joint press briefing alongside Macron.
The diplomatic meeting occurred as India pursues foreign investment and supply chain strengthening while France aims to establish greater influence in the Indo-Pacific region and secure long-term involvement in India’s economic and security framework.
Both leaders participated in a virtual ceremony launching a final assembly facility for H125 helicopter manufacturing, a collaborative project between India’s Tata Advanced Systems and Airbus.
Located in Karnataka state in southern India, this assembly plant represents the country’s first private sector helicopter manufacturing facility.
Macron described the Franco-Indian relationship as entering an accelerated phase in response to evolving global dynamics.
“We have a special global strategic partnership, which gives new ambitions to the ties between India and France,” he stated.
The French president identified space technology, nuclear power, rare earth materials and critical minerals, aviation, and high-speed rail systems as priority areas for collaboration with India, while expressing support for a free-trade agreement between New Delhi and the European Union.
Macron also urged India to collaborate with France in efforts to conclude Russia’s military action in Ukraine and extended an invitation to Modi for the Group of Seven summit scheduled for June in Evian, France.
“As the ceasefire remains difficult to achieve, and I regret that, we could join our efforts to secure the establishment of an immediate and lasting moratorium on strikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure,” Macron explained.
Modi responded that India would maintain its advocacy for peaceful solutions to current conflicts in western Asia and eastern Europe.
Commercial relationships between Paris and New Delhi have grown consistently through increased trade volumes and expanded French investment in Indian manufacturing, energy, defense and infrastructure sectors. Trade between the nations surpassed $15 billion in the fiscal year concluding March 2025, establishing France as India’s third-largest EU trading partner, based on Indian government statistics.
Military cooperation forms the foundation of the bilateral relationship. The previous week, an Indian government committee granted preliminary authorization for military equipment purchases valued at $40 billion, including 114 Rafale fighter aircraft from France.
Preserving air superiority represents a strategic imperative for India, which confronts ongoing security threats along its frontiers with nuclear-capable adversaries Pakistan and China.
India currently operates two squadrons of Rafale fighter aircraft and completed an agreement last year to acquire 26 naval versions of the stealth fighter for its maritime forces.
The partial federal government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security shows no signs of ending soon, as neither Congress nor the White House indicated any willingness to compromise during the holiday weekend. The shutdown started Saturday when Democratic lawmakers and President Trump’s administration couldn’t agree on funding legislation to keep DHS operational through September.
The political standoff centers on Democratic calls for immigration enforcement reforms following last month’s deadly shootings of two American citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, by federal agents in Minneapolis.
This shutdown differs significantly from the lengthy 43-day closure that occurred last fall, as it only impacts DHS-related agencies. Affected departments include the Transportation Security Administration, Coast Guard, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Customs and Border Protection. However, ICE and CBP operations will largely continue thanks to billions in additional funding provided through Trump’s 2025 tax and spending legislation.
With Congress in recess until February 23, both political parties appear firmly entrenched in their respective positions. The funding dispute impacts multiple agencies including TSA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Coast Guard, Secret Service, ICE, and CBP.
Democratic leaders are pushing for comprehensive changes to immigration enforcement procedures following the fatal officer-involved shootings. Their demands include mandatory body cameras for immigration agents and requiring judicial warrants before making arrests on private property.
White House border czar Tom Homan stated the administration would not accept Democratic requirements for federal officers to clearly identify themselves, remove face coverings during operations, and wear unique identification numbers.
Despite the shutdown, ICE and CBP deportation activities continue without interruption due to the additional funding secured through Trump’s 2025 tax and spending legislation.
Each federal agency determines which employees are classified as “essential” or “excepted” – both terms meaning these workers must continue their duties during shutdowns, though they typically work without pay until funding resumes.
Essential personnel include military members, airport security staff, and law enforcement officers. The designation can cover various roles, from those critical to public safety to positions legally authorized to operate without new appropriations.
More than 270,000 DHS employees are considered essential, meaning they remain on duty during the shutdown. During the fall 2025 shutdown, over 258,000 DHS workers stayed on the job while approximately 22,000 – about 5% of the workforce – were furloughed.
The Secret Service and FEMA are also experiencing disruptions from the shutdown.
Most Secret Service and Coast Guard personnel will continue working, though they may miss paychecks if the shutdown extends. At FEMA, the closure hampers the agency’s ability to reimburse states for disaster relief expenses. Some FEMA workers face furloughs, reducing coordination capabilities with state and local partners. Training programs for first responders at Maryland’s National Disaster and Emergency Management University have been suspended.
The current situation developed because Trump agreed to Democratic requests to separate Homeland Security funding from a larger spending bill, allowing additional time to negotiate immigration enforcement changes including agent conduct standards and identification requirements. DHS received only temporary funding through Friday.
The remainder of federal government operations are funded through September 30, meaning most federal programs remain unaffected by this shutdown. Food assistance programs continue, and most federal workers and military personnel will receive their regular pay.
WILMINGTON — Delaware Governor Matt Meyer has directed that flags at all state properties be lowered to half-staff this week following the recent deaths of two former state lawmakers.
The flag directive honors George Bunting and John Viola, both former Delaware General Assembly members who died last week. The governor’s order also recognizes the life and contributions of Rev. Jesse Jackson.
State facilities throughout Delaware will display flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the public service these individuals provided to the state and nation.
A pharmaceutical company announced Tuesday it will move forward with standard federal approval procedures for its rare disease medication after the Food and Drug Administration turned down its application for expedited review.
Disc Medicine revealed that federal regulators declined to approve bitopertin through the agency’s accelerated review system. Last month, Reuters reported exclusively that FDA officials had delayed the drug’s evaluation by two weeks due to questions about clinical trial information and concerns regarding potential misuse.
The medication had been under consideration through the FDA’s national priority voucher system, which reduces review time to one or two months compared to the standard 10-12 month timeline.
Company CEO John Quisel noted that policy discussions surrounding accelerated drug approvals have continued through several presidential administrations, with recent regulatory actions indicating federal officials are taking a more cautious approach to such expedited approvals.
The pharmaceutical firm indicated it anticipates receiving final-stage trial results during the fourth quarter of this year.
A Swiss television network has removed controversial commentary from its website after a reporter extensively questioned whether an Israeli bobsled competitor should participate in the Olympics because of his purported backing of Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
Radio Television Suisse (RTS) aired the commentary during Monday’s two-man bobsled competition featuring Israeli athletes Adam Edelman and Chen Menachem at the Milano Cortina games in Italy.
Commentator Stefan Renna argued that Edelman had endorsed Israeli military actions in the Gaza conflict and suggested this violated International Olympic Committee regulations prohibiting political statements by Olympic participants.
“Our journalist wished to question the IOC’s policy regarding the statements made by the athlete concerned,” RTS explained in a statement to Reuters.
“However, although factual, such information may have appeared inappropriate due to its length within the context of a sports commentary. For this reason, we removed the segment from our website last night.”
On Tuesday, the IOC stated that inquiries about individual broadcaster commentary should be addressed directly to the networks. The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation has not yet responded to requests for comment.
During his commentary, Renna claimed Edelman identified as a Zionist, shared social media posts supporting what Renna termed the “genocide” in Gaza, and had ridiculed a “Free Palestine” message he spotted on a wall during a World Cup competition.
“One can therefore question his presence in Cortina during these Games,” Renna stated, referencing IOC regulations concerning athletes’ military ties and active war support, including through social media activity.
Edelman, an American-born athlete who the Times of Israel reports is the first Orthodox Jewish competitor to represent Israel at the Winter Olympics, acknowledged Renna’s remarks on social media, calling them a “diatribe.”
“(We are) a team of six proud Israelis who’ve made it to the Olympic stage. No coach with us. No big program. Just a dream, grit, and an unyielding pride in who we represent,” Edelman posted. “I don’t think it’s possible to witness that and give any credence to the commentary.”
IOC regulations regarding active war support currently apply exclusively to Russian and Belarusian competitors, who are permitted to participate as neutral athletes despite their countries’ bans following Russia’s 2022 Ukraine invasion.
Renna, who RTS has prohibited from discussing his commentary further, also referenced Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych, who was disqualified from last week’s competition for wearing a helmet honoring fellow Ukrainian athletes killed during the Russian invasion.
Edelman and Menachem are scheduled to complete their final two bobsled runs on Tuesday. After their initial two attempts, they ranked last in the competition.
Canada experienced a modest decline in its inflation rate during January, with the annual pace dropping to 2.3% from the previous month’s 2.4%, according to new data released Tuesday by Statistics Canada.
The improvement came primarily from substantial decreases in fuel costs, which helped offset rising expenses for food and clothing items. The January figure performed better than economist predictions, which had anticipated inflation would remain steady at 2.4%.
Month-to-month, Canada’s Consumer Price Index remained flat with no change from December, the data revealed.
Gasoline prices served as the primary driver behind the slower inflation growth, with fuel costs plummeting 16.7% compared to the same period last year. This represented a steeper decline than December’s 13.8% drop in gas prices.
However, when fuel is removed from calculations, consumer prices actually climbed 3% in January, matching December’s increase, the statistical agency reported.
Food costs presented a different story, surging 7.3% annually, with restaurant meals contributing significantly to this rise. Alcoholic beverage prices also increased by 4.8% during the month.
These food and alcohol price jumps partly resulted from comparison effects related to sales tax breaks that were implemented during the same timeframe in the previous year, creating an unfavorable baseline for current measurements.
Core inflation metrics, which economists consider more reliable indicators because they exclude volatile food and energy sectors, showed prices rising 2.4% year-over-year in January, an improvement from December’s 2.5% increase.
The Bank of Canada’s preferred inflation measurements also demonstrated continued moderation. The CPI-median measure, which tracks the middle-range price changes, decreased to 2.5% from the prior month’s 2.6%. Meanwhile, CPI-trim, which filters out the most extreme price movements, fell to 2.4% from December’s 2.7%.
Housing expenses, representing the largest component in Canada’s price index, continued their pattern of slower growth, rising just 1.7% compared to January of the previous year.
The inflation data arrives as Canada’s central bank has signaled satisfaction with current price stability, viewing inflation as hovering near the middle of its target range. This assessment has supported the bank’s decision to maintain its key interest rate at 2.25%.
Following the report’s release, the Canadian dollar weakened slightly by 0.2% against the U.S. dollar, trading at C$1.3668. Two-year government bond yields also declined by 3.9 basis points to 2.439%.
LIVIGNO, Italy – Swiss freestyle skiing champion Mathilde Gremaud’s Olympic journey concluded on a disappointing note after a training accident left her hospitalized and unable to compete in Monday’s big air finals.
The 26-year-old athlete, who had successfully defended her slopestyle Olympic championship just days earlier, was considered among the favorites to medal in big air competition following her third-place finish in qualifying rounds.
“It’s still a big success; it’s just a bummer that it ends like this,” Gremaud shared in an audio recording her team released Tuesday while she remained hospitalized awaiting medical clearance for discharge.
The accomplished skier, who previously earned slopestyle gold and big air bronze at the Beijing 2022 Games and slopestyle silver in Pyeongchang 2018, sustained a serious hip contusion but avoided any fractures.
“I just have to be slow and I cannot really bend on my side and stuff, so it’s okay. I’ll be sore for a while, but nothing broken and nothing that will give my body too much to fight for, I think,” she explained about her condition.
According to Gremaud, her primary objective for the Milano Cortina Games was successfully defending her slopestyle title, and after accomplishing that goal, she struggled to maintain concentration for subsequent competitions. She acknowledged that she “completely messed up” the maneuver that resulted in her crash.
Switzerland faced additional setbacks when Gremaud’s 22-year-old teammate Anouk Andraska also withdrew from Monday’s finals after sustaining injuries during practice.
The big air competition concluded with Canada’s Megan Oldham claiming gold, while American-born Chinese athlete Eileen Gu secured silver and Italy’s Flora Tabanelli earned bronze on home soil.
TESERO, Italy – In a thrilling finish at the Winter Olympics on Tuesday, Norwegian athlete Jens Luraas Oftebro claimed the gold medal in men’s Nordic combined large hill competition with a spectacular final sprint that left his competitors behind.
The dramatic conclusion saw Austria’s Johannes Lamparter earn the silver medal, while Finland’s Ilkka Herola took home bronze. Oftebro’s victory came through a commanding final push up the last hill in the closing meters of the 10-kilometer course, reminiscent of the signature finishing style displayed by his countryman Johannes Klaebo in the cross-country sprint event earlier during these Games.
Following the ski jumping portion, Lamparter began the cross-country race trailing by eight seconds from the lead position. He quickly took control in the race’s opening phase and established a modest lead over his competitors. However, his momentum began to diminish at the midpoint of the course, enabling his pursuers to close the gap. By the finish line, Lamparter crossed 5.9 seconds after Oftebro’s winning time.
Warner Bros Discovery has turned down Paramount Skydance’s most recent hostile takeover proposal valued at $30 per share, though the entertainment giant is allowing the competing studio one week to develop an enhanced bid for the company that owns HBO Max and the “Harry Potter” properties.
According to Warner Bros’ announcement, Paramount has informally suggested an increased offer of $31 per share, which appears to have caught the board’s attention enough to open limited discussions.
The competing studio now faces a February 23 deadline to present what Warner Bros is calling a “best and final offer,” which Netflix would have the right to match according to existing merger terms, the company stated Tuesday.
In a letter delivered Tuesday to Paramount’s board, Warner Bros Chairman Samuel DiPiazza Jr. and CEO David Zaslav made their position clear: “To be clear, our Board has not determined that your proposal is reasonably likely to result in a transaction that is superior to the Netflix merger. We continue to recommend and remain fully committed to our transaction with Netflix.”
Warner Bros revealed that an unnamed Paramount financial representative indicated their bid would increase to $31 per share if negotiations began, with potential for even higher amounts. The company now anticipates any final proposal will exceed that figure.
The numbers show a significant gap between offers: Paramount’s current proposal totals $108.4 billion for the entire company, while Netflix’s bid reaches $82.7 billion specifically for Warner Bros’ studio and streaming operations.
Despite repeatedly declining Paramount’s attempts to purchase the full company, Warner Bros continues advancing toward a shareholder decision on Netflix’s $27.75 per share offer for its entertainment and streaming divisions. The Netflix merger vote is scheduled for March 20 and would occur following Warner Bros’ plan to separate its Discovery Global cable networks, including CNN, TLC, Food Network and HGTV, into an independent publicly traded entity.
Warner Bros projects the Discovery Global spinoff could generate between $1.33 and $6.86 per share for investors.
The entertainment company’s willingness to consider Paramount’s approach, which required special permission from Netflix, represents a notable change in strategy.
Paramount had previously criticized the board for failing to “meaningfully engage” with six separate proposals submitted during the 12 weeks before Warner Bros announced its Netflix agreement on December 5. A public hostile takeover attempt launched shortly after was also rejected that same month.
An updated Paramount proposal featuring a personal $40 billion equity guarantee from Oracle founder Larry Ellison, whose son David Ellison leads Paramount as CEO, was similarly declined in early January.
This shift toward rival bidder discussions coincides with growing pressure from activist investor Ancora Holdings, which has accumulated a position in Warner Bros and intends to oppose the Netflix deal.
Paramount is simultaneously working to place representatives on Warner Bros’ board, with Pentwater Capital Management CEO Matt Halbower emerging as a potential candidate, according to Halbower’s statements last week. Pentwater, holding approximately 50 million Warner Bros shares, supports Paramount’s acquisition effort.
“Every substantive complaint that the Warner Bros board had with Paramount’s previous offer has been addressed,” Halbower explained in a recent interview.
Warner Bros’ board obtained special Netflix approval to engage with Paramount by invoking a merger agreement provision allowing rival bidder discussions when the board believes an offer might prove superior, creating a legal pathway for limited negotiations despite existing restrictions.
Netflix responded with a statement emphasizing the deal’s progress, noting the upcoming shareholder vote.
“While we are confident that our transaction provides superior value and certainty, we recognize the ongoing distraction for WBD stockholders and the broader entertainment industry caused by PSKY’s antics,” Netflix declared.
Last week, Paramount attempted to attract Warner Bros shareholders by improving its previous proposal without increasing the overall $30 per share price. The revised approach includes additional cash payments for each quarter the deal remains incomplete beyond this year and coverage of the $2.8 billion termination fee Warner Bros would owe Netflix if it abandoned their agreement.
However, Warner Bros indicated the modified Paramount proposal still doesn’t meet their standards for a superior offer.
Several significant concerns remain unaddressed in Paramount’s bid, including responsibility for a potential $1.5 billion junior lien financing fee, contingency plans if debt financing fails, and questions about the reliability of equity funding backed by lead sponsor Larry Ellison, according to the Warner board’s correspondence.
The letter acknowledged that while Paramount has dismissed financing concerns as “not serious” given their “lead equity sponsor’s personal wealth and lending banks’ credibility,” current draft agreements stipulate that additional equity funding must be secured if debt financing becomes unavailable to ensure deal completion.
Ancora, whose stake approaches $200 million in value, argued last week that Warner Bros’ board failed to properly consider Paramount Skydance’s rival proposal for the complete company, including cable properties like CNN and TNT.
A major legal battle involving smartphone technology has come to an end in London, with chip manufacturer Qualcomm announcing Tuesday that a significant lawsuit against the company will be dropped.
The consumer advocacy group Which? had filed the case representing approximately 29 million British consumers who purchased iPhones or Samsung smartphones beginning in 2015.
The organization had sought damages totaling up to 480 million pounds (equivalent to $652 million), claiming that Qualcomm forced major phone manufacturers to pay excessive licensing fees through what critics called a “no licence, no chips” approach that applied globally.
According to Which?, this practice meant that companies like Apple and Samsung were required to pay inflated royalty payments to Qualcomm regardless of whether Qualcomm’s actual chips were installed in their devices.
Qualcomm defended its business model, stating that the legal challenge incorrectly portrayed the company’s established practice of requiring device makers to secure proper licensing for essential patents before purchasing chipsets.
The case underwent a full trial last year, but before the Competition Appeal Tribunal could issue its final decision, Which? announced it would seek to dismiss the lawsuit. The withdrawal comes as part of a settlement arrangement where Qualcomm will not provide any monetary compensation to the affected consumer group.
In explaining the decision, Which? stated it had determined that Qualcomm’s business methods “did not infringe competition laws, did not result in inflated royalties, and did not lead to an increase in prices consumers paid for their mobile phones.”
A representative from Qualcomm responded to the development, saying: “This recognition by the class representative, following a trial on the merits, reaffirms what the courts in the United States have repeatedly held: Qualcomm’s licensing practices are lawful and do not harm competition.”
Drivers traveling westbound on Lighthouse Road should expect delays this afternoon due to a lane closure at the intersection with Dukes Avenue.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that one westbound lane on Route 54 is currently blocked at Dukes Avenue, with the closure expected to last until 4 PM today.
Motorists are advised to use alternate routes or allow extra travel time when passing through the area during the afternoon hours.
Drivers traveling on Route 9 northbound should expect delays this afternoon as construction crews have closed one shoulder of the roadway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the shoulder closure is impacting traffic between Federal School Lane and Hamburg Road on River Road, which is also known as Route 9.
Officials say the construction-related closure will remain active until 5 PM today. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and allow extra time for their commute.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report that construction activities are causing a shoulder closure on northbound Route 9 today.
The affected area spans from Federal School Lane to Hamburg Road, where crews are working on the roadway’s shoulder area.
DelDOT indicates the closure will remain in place through 5 p.m. this evening, after which normal traffic patterns are expected to resume.
Drivers using this section of Route 9 northbound should exercise caution while passing through the construction zone and allow extra time for potential delays.
Contract research corporation Danaher Corporation announced Tuesday its plans to purchase medical device manufacturer Masimo in a deal valued at $9.9 billion. The acquisition represents Danaher’s strategy to expand and strengthen its medical diagnostics business operations.
Masimo specializes in manufacturing pulse oximeters, devices commonly used in healthcare settings to measure oxygen levels in patients’ blood. The substantial purchase price reflects the growing importance of medical monitoring equipment in today’s healthcare landscape.
This major business transaction demonstrates Danaher’s commitment to growing its presence in the medical diagnostics sector through strategic acquisitions of established healthcare technology companies.
Laboratory Corporation of America released an optimistic financial outlook Tuesday, projecting annual earnings that surpass Wall Street expectations thanks to increased demand for medical testing services.
The medical testing giant has seen consistent growth in recent months as non-emergency medical procedures continue to rebound, particularly among elderly patients seeking routine care and diagnostics.
The North Carolina-headquartered corporation anticipates its diagnostic division will expand by 5% to 6% during 2026.
Company executives predict adjusted earnings per share will fall between $17.55 and $18.25 for the year, with the middle range exceeding the $17.50 average projected by financial analysts, based on LSEG data compilation.
“We expect continued strong performance in 2026 as we remain focused on growth,” CEO Adam Schechter said in a statement.
The laboratory services provider forecasts yearly revenue between $14.61 billion and $14.79 billion, closely aligned with analyst projections of $14.63 billion.
“Overall, we see this print giving Labcorp the ability to continue its steady growth, supported by a healthy end market that also saw outperformance from peer Quest Diagnostics,” said Leerink Partners analyst Michael Cherny.
Both Labcorp and competitor Quest Diagnostics have strengthened their market position through strategic partnerships with hospitals to operate their laboratory facilities, expanding their overall market presence.
The company also exceeded fourth-quarter earnings expectations, buoyed by consistent demand across its diagnostic testing and central laboratory operations.
For the quarter ending December 31, Labcorp reported adjusted earnings of $4.07 per share, surpassing analyst estimates of $3.94 per share.
Revenue in the company’s biopharmaceutical laboratory services division, which provides research facilities for drug companies, increased 3.4%, while diagnostic services revenue climbed 5.5% during the same timeframe.
Total quarterly revenue reached $3.52 billion, slightly below the anticipated $3.56 billion.
Investment and cryptocurrency trading application eToro surpassed Wall Street earnings predictions for the fourth quarter on Tuesday, bolstered by robust performance across various investment categories the platform provides.
The company’s stock price climbed approximately 8.9% in pre-market trading following the announcement.
American stock markets experienced gains throughout the quarter as anticipated interest rate reductions boosted investor sentiment, though cryptocurrency market fluctuations caused some traders to exercise caution. Bitcoin experienced its steepest monthly decline since mid-2021 during November.
At the same time, significant investment concentration in specific artificial intelligence-related companies has driven valuations to extreme heights, sparking worries about potential market bubble conditions.
The Israel-headquartered company saw its managed assets increase 11% compared to the previous year, reaching $18.5 billion.
“Our fourth quarter results reflect the strength and resilience of our multi-asset business model,” Chief Financial Officer Meron Shani said in a statement.
Recent years have witnessed the rise of innovative financial technology companies that compete with traditional Wall Street firms by appealing to younger investors through lower-cost trading, user-friendly mobile applications, and broader investment accessibility.
Despite the positive results, net contribution—calculated by subtracting cryptocurrency asset revenue costs and margin interest expenses—decreased 10% to $227 million.
For the quarter ending December 31, eToro reported adjusted earnings of 71 cents per share, exceeding analyst expectations of 63 cents per share based on LSEG compiled data.
A Massachusetts pharmaceutical company announced Tuesday that its investigational treatment for a serious eye condition outperformed an existing approved medication in advanced clinical testing.
Ocular Therapeutix revealed that their experimental drug demonstrated superior effectiveness compared to Regeneron’s established treatment Eylea in helping patients preserve their eyesight during late-stage trials.
According to the company, this marks the first instance where an investigational medication for wet age-related macular degeneration has delivered better outcomes than an FDA-approved therapy in trials conducted under rigorous regulatory standards.
This progressive eye condition represents a primary factor in vision loss among older adults, resulting in fuzzy sight or dark spots within a person’s field of vision. The disease impacts approximately 1.7 million people across the United States, the company reported.
The clinical study included 344 participants recently diagnosed with wet AMD and showed that Ocular’s medication, called Axpaxli, delivered better results than Eylea, which ranks among the most commonly prescribed therapies for this condition.
Results showed that roughly 74% of participants receiving one 0.45 mg injection of Axpaxli retained their vision after 36 weeks, while approximately 56% of those given a single 2 mg injection of Eylea achieved the same outcome. At the one-year mark, close to 66% of Axpaxli recipients maintained their vision, compared to less than half in the comparison group.
Despite gaining nearly 39% in value during 2025, Ocular’s stock price dropped approximately 25% during pre-market trading following the announcement.
Needham analyst Serge Belanger noted that eye specialists may find the data encouraging, though investors might feel let down by “the much narrower difference” between the treatments and increased rates of eye floaters and cataracts.
The experimental medication also showed improved management of eye fluid accumulation, which serves as an important indicator of disease control.
The company reported that numerous Axpaxli patients avoided needing additional “rescue” treatments for nearly twelve months, indicating the therapy could potentially decrease required medical appointments.
Ocular Therapeutix stated they intend to review the trial data with federal regulators and anticipate filing for marketing approval based on these findings.
Stock market futures traded lower Tuesday morning as investors continued to grapple with concerns about artificial intelligence potentially disrupting traditional business operations, following the Presidents Day holiday weekend.
Fears about AI’s impact on established companies triggered significant selling in software, brokerage, and transportation stocks last week, leading to the worst weekly performance for major market indices since mid-November.
“AI adoption is an overall positive rather than a negative, but it would change the business models of some industries. We continue to see the AI disruption trade as a rotation theme, rather than a risk-off,” explained Mohit Kumar, an economist with Jefferies.
Adding to market anxiety, Chinese technology giant Alibaba introduced its latest artificial intelligence system called Qwen 3.5 on Monday, which can handle sophisticated tasks independently. Despite the broader concerns, Alibaba’s American-traded shares climbed 0.8% in early trading Tuesday.
Major technology stocks faced pressure, with Nvidia dropping 0.9%, Microsoft declining 0.5%, and Alphabet falling 1.4% in premarket activity.
Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions remained in focus as Iran’s top leader dismissed U.S. efforts to overthrow his regime while both countries engaged in indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva.
As of 7:24 a.m. Eastern Time, Dow futures had fallen 64 points or 0.13%, S&P 500 futures dropped 21.25 points or 0.31%, and Nasdaq 100 futures decreased 178.25 points or 0.72%.
Market participants are eagerly awaiting this week’s personal consumption expenditure data, which serves as the Federal Reserve’s primary inflation measurement and could influence future interest rate decisions.
Last week’s inflation report showed cooler-than-anticipated price increases, slightly boosting expectations for potential rate cuts this year.
Market pricing now suggests a 52% probability of a quarter-point rate reduction in June, up from approximately 49% chances a week earlier, based on CME’s FedWatch Tool data.
The current earnings season is nearing completion, with over 73% of S&P 500 companies having reported quarterly results. Notably, 74.5% exceeded analyst expectations, compared to the typical 67% beat rate, according to LSEG information released Friday.
Investors will closely monitor remarks from Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr and San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly scheduled for later Tuesday.
In corporate developments, Warner Bros turned down Paramount’s updated acquisition proposal, providing the studio one week to present improved terms. Both entertainment companies saw their shares rise 2.7%.
Norwegian Cruise Line shares jumped 8% in early trading after reports that activist investor Elliott has accumulated more than a 10% ownership position in the cruise company.
Zim Integrated Shipping’s U.S.-listed shares soared approximately 35% following news that Germany’s Hapag-Lloyd will purchase the company for $4.2 billion.
Payment processor Fiserv gained nearly 5% after reports indicated activist investor Jana Partners has acquired a stake in the firm.
Medical device maker Masimo surged about 34% on reports that Danaher is nearing a roughly $10 billion acquisition deal for the pulse-oximeter manufacturer. Danaher shares fell 7% on the news.
Looking ahead, investors are also monitoring Friday’s Supreme Court opinion day, when the court may announce its decision regarding President Trump’s trade tariff policies.
NEW YORK (AP) — Warner Bros. Discovery has received a temporary reprieve from Netflix, giving the media company seven days to restart acquisition discussions with Paramount Skydance.
According to a regulatory document filed on Tuesday, Warner Bros. indicated the waiver provides an opportunity to address outstanding issues with Paramount’s earlier proposals.
The entertainment conglomerate has been given a deadline of February 23rd to work out a potential deal with Paramount Skydance.
Warner’s executive team has historically favored Netflix’s acquisition proposal. Last December, Netflix reached an agreement to purchase Warner’s studio operations and streaming platform for $72 billion in an all-cash deal that both companies believe will accelerate the timeline for shareholder approval by April. When factoring in debt obligations, the total enterprise value reaches approximately $83 billion, equivalent to $27.75 per share.
In contrast to Netflix’s targeted approach, Paramount is seeking to purchase Warner’s complete operations, which would encompass television networks such as CNN and Discovery. Paramount made a direct appeal to shareholders in December with a comprehensive $77.9 billion cash proposal.
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Flight services have returned to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi after airport staff ended a two-day work stoppage Tuesday following successful negotiations with Kenya’s transportation department.
The major aviation hub experienced severe disruptions Monday, with travelers facing delays stretching up to six hours as carriers advised customers to reschedule their trips.
Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority announced in a release that airport functions would restart immediately following the successful labor agreement reached with union representatives on Tuesday.
Workers had been seeking improved workplace conditions, higher wages, and enhanced benefits packages, with negotiations addressing these concerns taking place throughout Tuesday.
The facility serves as a crucial gateway for both regional African travel and international flights.
Transportation Minister Davies Chirchir emphasized the government’s dedication to maintaining stability within the country’s aviation industry.
Kenya Airways released a statement indicating the carrier was working to restore its flight schedule, noting that “normal operations will resume within the next 24 hours.”
The work stoppage began after union officials issued a strike warning the previous week, citing government failure to honor portions of a previously negotiated labor contract that included provisions for enhanced working conditions along with salary and benefit improvements.
The executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels has announced his immediate resignation following the public disclosure of his connections to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein through recently released federal documents.
Thomas Pritzker, who led the hotel chain for over two decades, issued a statement expressing profound remorse for his relationship with Epstein and his longtime accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell.
“I exercised terrible judgment in maintaining contact with them, and there is no excuse for failing to distance myself sooner,” Pritzker stated. “I condemn the actions and the harm caused by Epstein and Maxwell and I feel deep sorrow for the pain they inflicted on their victims.”
The U.S. Department of Justice recently made public a collection of documents tied to Epstein that included correspondence between the hotel executive and the disgraced financier.
Epstein took his own life in jail in 2019 while facing federal charges for sex trafficking.
The 75-year-old Pritzker’s departure takes effect right away, and he has also decided not to seek re-election to Hyatt’s board of directors during the company’s upcoming annual shareholder meeting.
This development follows similar fallout in Dubai, where logistics firm DP World recently appointed new leadership after their previous chairman was also mentioned in the Epstein documents.
Dubai’s government media office announced that Essa Kazim would take over as chairman and Yuvraj Narayan as group CEO, replacing Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, though officials did not explicitly reference the Epstein connection in their announcement.
When Mónica Ramírez discovered she was selected as an Elevate Prize recipient, the recognition represented far more than financial assistance for her organization.
The acknowledgment validates the mission of Justice for Migrant Women, her Fremont, Ohio-based nonprofit that champions the rights of migrant women and other underserved populations, particularly during a period of heightened immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.
“As immigrant and migrant community members are being threatened and attacked around our country, it’s really important to have shows of support like the Elevate Prize is providing because we’ve seen a retraction — a big retraction — in support,” Ramírez explained, noting she became emotional upon learning of her selection. “The award means we are able to do the work that we know is so urgently needed.”
Each of the ten organizations announced Tuesday as Elevate Prize recipients will obtain $300,000 in unrestricted funds, while their leaders receive guidance on expanding their operations and enhancing public awareness of their causes.
Carolina Garcia Jayaram, CEO of the Elevate Prize Foundation, emphasized to The Associated Press that maintaining a strong public presence has gained critical importance in today’s climate. Beyond supporting fundraising efforts and public education, visibility “is also a form of protection,” she explained.
“It’s more important than ever to double down on leaders like Monica,” Jayaram stated, referencing how Imran Ahmed, a previous Elevate Prize recipient who heads the Center for Countering Digital Hate, faced entry restrictions to the United States last year. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited Ahmed’s “organized efforts to coerce American platforms to censor, demonetize and suppress American viewpoints they oppose.” A federal court later prevented the Trump administration from detaining Ahmed, a British national residing in Washington.
The foundation plans to launch “Good Is Trending,” a new program designed to increase visibility for prize recipients, including displaying their work on NASDAQ’s Times Square billboards Tuesday.
Mara Fleishman, who leads the Chef Ann Foundation in Boulder, Colorado, anticipates this increased exposure will elevate her organization’s mission of bringing scratch-made meals to educational institutions. Her group has secured backing from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Waverley Street Foundation while helping schools create menus with fewer processed ingredients and more locally-sourced fresh produce.
“We’ve worked with over 17,000 schools and reached more than five million kids,” Fleishman noted. “But how do we take the work we’ve done and turn it into something digestible for legislators and advocates to understand what is possible?”
Fleishman emphasized her foundation must discover methods to mobilize the public as a “force multiplier” for their message, carrying it into school board discussions and state legislative chambers nationwide.
Much of this outreach depends on effective storytelling, according to Jayaram. The Elevate Prize selection committee considered nominees’ potential narratives when determining winners.
“People pay more attention to people than they do to issues,” Jayaram observed. “So when you can ground an issue in the story of a person, of a community, of a neighborhood, suddenly the whole world can start to engage and relate to that because it’s not that different from a community and a neighborhood and a family somewhere else.”
The foundation has championed narrative-driven advocacy for several years, establishing Elevate Studios last year to craft compelling stories about prize winners across various media, from YouTube content to theatrical documentary releases.
Ramírez expressed enthusiasm about amplifying the voices of those served by Justice for Migrant Women.
“I really think that the Elevate Prize is going to help us give a microphone to the people that we serve,” she stated. “That’s my hope.”
The complete roster of 2026 Elevate Prize recipients includes: Shabana Basij-Rasikh, president and co-founder of SOLA (School of Leadership, Afghanistan) supporting Afghan girls’ education; Hillary Blout, founder and executive director of For the People, assisting with prison releases; Manu Chopra, CEO of Karya, delivering AI technology to low-income areas; Mara Fleishman, CEO of Chef Ann Foundation, promoting scratch-made school meals; Aisha Nyandoro, CEO of Springboard to Opportunities, supporting federally subsidized housing residents; Tom Osborn, founder and CEO of Shamiri Institute, providing mental health services to underserved areas beginning in Africa; Ai-jen Poo, executive director of Caring Across Generations, advocating for care as a national priority; Mónica Ramírez, founder and president of Justice for Migrant Women, defending migrant and rural women’s rights; Krutika Ravishankar, co-founder and executive director of Farmers for Forests, protecting and restoring Indian forests; and Utkarsh Saxena, executive director of Adalat AI, creating artificial intelligence tools for court systems.
WILMINGTON, Del. — A Delaware man who was once married to First Lady Jill Biden is scheduled to appear before a judge Tuesday to enter a plea on murder charges in his current wife’s death.
William Stevenson, age 77, faces first-degree murder accusations and is expected to formally respond to the charges during his court appearance. Stevenson was wed to Jill Biden between 1970 and 1975, years before she became First Lady.
Earlier this month, a Delaware state grand jury indicted Stevenson in connection with the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson, 64. She was discovered unresponsive inside their residence on December 28. Since being formally charged on February 3, Stevenson has been held in jail, unable to secure his release on the $500,000 bond amount.
Public court documents currently available do not identify any attorney representing Stevenson in the case.
In the early 1970s, William Stevenson established the Stone Balloon, a well-known music establishment located in Newark, Delaware.
Linda Stevenson operated her own bookkeeping company and was remembered in her death notice as a devoted mother and grandmother who cherished her family and supported the Philadelphia Eagles. Her obituary made no reference to her spouse.
“One hug from her and all your worries would disappear,” Christine Mae, her daughter, shared on Facebook. “The pain of losing her is paralyzing and the emptiness in my heart is an abyss.”
Jill Biden wed then-U.S. Senator Joe Biden in 1977. Biden held the presidency from January 2021 through January 2025. A representative for Jill Biden has stated she will not be providing any statements regarding the Stevenson matter.
An Indian pharmaceutical company is working to bring a significantly more affordable version of a popular weight loss medication to market, potentially offering substantial savings for patients.
Dr Reddy’s Laboratories revealed Tuesday that it intends to offer a generic alternative to Novo Nordisk’s widely-used weight loss treatment Wegovy, with pricing approximately 60% below the brand-name version, according to co-chairman and managing director GV Prasad speaking with Reuters.
The pharmaceutical manufacturer secured authorization from India’s drug regulatory authority last month to produce and distribute a generic equivalent of the diabetes medication Ozempic, another blockbuster drug from Novo Nordisk. The company indicated it is currently waiting for similar regulatory clearance for its proposed Wegovy alternative.
The development comes as demand for these types of medications continues to grow, with many patients seeking more affordable options for weight management and diabetes treatment.
People seeking refuge in Libya, including children as young as 14, are being subjected to horrific violence including murder, sexual assault, and forced labor, according to a new United Nations report released Tuesday.
The disturbing findings have prompted UN officials to demand that the international community stop sending migrant boats back to Libya until proper human rights protections are put in place.
Since longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi was overthrown in a NATO-supported rebellion in 2011, Libya has served as a major pathway for people escaping war and economic hardship as they attempt to reach Europe by crossing the Mediterranean Sea. The nation has been divided between competing factions in the east and west since 2014.
European Union countries have provided support and training to Libya’s coastal patrol forces in recent years, which intercept migrants at sea and return them to detention facilities. The EU has also funded programs to help Libya manage its borders.
The report, issued jointly by the UN Human Rights Office and UN Support Mission, found that migrants are being captured and kidnapped by criminal smuggling organizations that often have connections to Libyan government officials and international crime groups.
“They are separated from their families, arrested, and transferred to detention facilities without due process, often at gunpoint, in what amounts to arbitrary detention,” said Thameen Al-Kheetan, a spokesperson for the UN Human Rights Office, during a briefing in Geneva.
Libya’s diplomatic mission in Geneva did not respond immediately to requests for comment. Libyan officials have previously rejected claims of widespread migrant abuse.
Researchers compiled the report by conducting interviews with nearly 100 migrants, people seeking asylum, and refugees from 16 nations across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. The interviews took place both within Libya and in other locations.
One account came from a woman from Eritrea who spent more than six weeks held captive at a smuggling operation in Tobruk, located in eastern Libya. “I wish I died. It was a journey of hell,” she told investigators.
“Different men raped me many times. Girls as young as 14 were raped daily,” the woman said. Her captors only freed her after her family paid money for her release.
The report, which examined the timeframe from January 2024 through December 2025, documented cases including a man forced into unpaid labor without adequate food, and young girls being taken away from their mothers.
“Men used humiliating methods with women, making them, for example, take their clothes off in front of other men and women migrants before raping them publicly, torturing them, and beating them,” explained Suki Nagra, a UN Human Rights representative working with the UN mission in Libya, during the Geneva briefing.
While the report acknowledged the critical importance of rescue operations to save migrants’ lives at sea, it strongly urged the global community to suspend returns to Libya until sufficient human rights protections can be guaranteed.
Defense contractor Leidos Holdings announced fourth-quarter earnings that failed to meet Wall Street revenue projections on February 17, attributing the shortfall to disruptions caused by last year’s extended federal government shutdown.
The historic six-week government closure, which concluded in November and marked the nation’s longest shutdown on record, significantly disrupted federal operations and negatively affected contractors like Leidos that deliver information technology, weapons systems, and various services to government agencies.
Following the earnings announcement, Leidos stock declined 1.6% during premarket trading sessions. The company provides air traffic control technology to the Federal Aviation Administration among its government contracts.
The shutdown’s ripple effects extended beyond Leidos, with defense contractor L3Harris Technologies reporting similar negative impacts last month, particularly affecting its space systems division.
For the fourth quarter, Leidos recorded $4.21 billion in revenue, representing a 3.6% decrease compared to the previous year and falling below analyst projections of $4.31 billion, based on LSEG data compilation.
The company’s performance was further hampered by a significant 9.3% decline in its health and civil division sales, which manages electronic health record systems for Department of Defense facilities and Veterans Affairs medical centers.
Despite revenue challenges, the Reston, Virginia-headquartered corporation exceeded profit expectations on an adjusted basis, reporting $2.76 per share compared to analyst estimates of $2.61. This earnings beat resulted from improved cost management and a 160-basis point improvement in adjusted core profit margins.
Looking ahead to 2026, Leidos projected adjusted earnings between $12.05 and $12.45 per share, with the midpoint falling 4 cents below analyst expectations of $12.29.
CNH Industrial, a major manufacturer of agricultural and construction equipment, delivered disappointing news to investors Tuesday by projecting annual earnings well below analyst expectations due to continued weakness in the farm machinery market.
The company’s stock dropped over 4% in early trading following the announcement.
CNH Industrial, headquartered in Basildon, UK, anticipates that retail sales will decline approximately 5% in 2026 compared to 2025 figures. The manufacturer plans to maintain reduced production levels while collaborating with dealerships to address surplus inventory throughout their distribution network.
Agricultural equipment manufacturers have been cutting back on factory production as demand for new machinery remains persistently weak. Declining crop values and increasing operational expenses have led farmers to postpone major equipment investments, creating a buildup of unsold inventory at dealerships and prompting a more conservative restocking strategy.
For the full year, CNH Industrial projects adjusted earnings per share between $0.35 and $0.45, falling short of the $0.54 per share that analysts had predicted, based on LSEG data.
American farmers are confronting another challenging year marked by depressed commodity prices, elevated expenses, and tough choices about continuing operations as oversupplied grain markets continue to pressure profitability.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture projected earlier this month that net farm income, a key indicator of agricultural sector health, will decrease 0.7% to $153.4 billion in 2026 compared to the previous year.
“Agricultural equipment industry demand is expected to resume growth in 2027,” CNH said.
CNH Industrial, which produces Case IH and New Holland tractor brands, posted fourth-quarter revenues of $5.16 billion, surpassing analyst projections of $4.61 billion.
The company reported adjusted quarterly earnings of 19 cents per share for the period ending December 31, exceeding analyst expectations of 10 cents per share.
MADRID – Spanish authorities have greenlit a massive relief package totaling roughly 7 billion euros ($8 billion) on Tuesday to assist those impacted by devastating storms that struck the Extremadura and Andalusia regions in recent weeks.
Multiple severe weather systems have pummeled Spain and Portugal throughout the early months of this year, resulting in extensive infrastructure destruction and crop losses while prompting officials to relocate thousands of residents to safety.
“The help will compensate more than 12,400 people evacuated because of these events and mitigate the impact of heavy rains and flooding on houses, businesses and the agricultural and fishing sectors,” Budget Minister Maria Jesus Montero explained to media representatives. Montero indicated that additional financial support remains possible pending comprehensive damage assessments from specialists.
The storm systems destroyed at least 14,000 hectares (35,000 acres) of agricultural land, affecting berry farms, citrus groves, and olive orchards, as Agriculture Minister Luis Planas reported to national broadcaster TVE during the previous week.
Weather monitoring agency AEMET has documented that Spain has experienced 38% above-normal precipitation levels since October began.
Meanwhile, Portuguese officials initially calculated reconstruction expenses exceeding 4 billion euros following Storm Kristin’s destruction three weeks ago, subsequently implementing 2.5 billion euros in financial assistance programs and rebuilding incentives.
A groundbreaking partnership between Spanish companies Sateliot and PLD Space will make history as the nation’s first entirely private satellite mission, the firms announced Tuesday.
The collaboration comes as private rocket manufacturers worldwide race to deploy thousands of internet satellites, competing for what industry experts predict could become a trillion-dollar space economy by 2030. European Union leaders are actively encouraging such partnerships to decrease the continent’s dependence on Elon Musk’s SpaceX while strengthening regional aerospace capabilities.
According to their joint announcement, PLD Space will transport two Sateliot satellites into low Earth orbit by 2027, with each satellite weighing 160 kilograms (353 pounds).
The mission will utilize PLD’s newest rocket technology, the Miura-5, a two-stage orbital launcher that features partial reusability. The rocket takes its name from a Spanish fighting bull breed.
This agreement advances Barcelona-headquartered Sateliot’s ambitions to become a major force in European satellite telecommunications. The startup counts defense contractor Indra, which is partially government-owned, among its investors with a 4% ownership stake.
“Selecting a Spanish partner helped safeguard European technological sovereignty and strengthen global 5G connectivity while improving security and defence capabilities,” stated Sateliot CEO Jaume Sanpera in the companies’ announcement.
Sateliot previously revealed ambitious expansion plans in May 2025, targeting deployment of 100 satellites by 2028 and projecting revenues of 1 billion euros ($1.2 billion) by 2030.
PLD Space achieved a European milestone in 2023 by conducting the continent’s first completely private rocket launch. The company has set its sights on eventually transporting various cargo types and human passengers to space, positioning itself as a competitor to established players like SpaceX.
Financial markets displayed a subdued tone Tuesday as trading resumed following the Presidents Day holiday weekend, with market-moving developments notably scarce compared to the active pace seen throughout 2024 so far.
Stock index futures showed modest declines before the opening bell, as traders remained cautious following last week’s dramatic fluctuations in artificial intelligence-related technology stocks that sent various sectors on a roller coaster ride.
However, underlying investor confidence remains remarkably strong. Bank of America’s latest monthly survey of global fund managers released in February indicates market participants maintain what analysts describe as “uber-bullish” expectations for both economic growth and corporate profits this year. The survey did highlight ongoing concerns about potential excessive investment in AI infrastructure as a warning sign.
International markets showed little movement, with Asian trading particularly quiet due to holiday-reduced activity. Japan’s Nikkei index declined following disappointing economic data released Monday, which revealed the country’s economy expanded at just a 0.2% annualized rate during the fourth quarter – significantly below economists’ projections of 1.6% growth.
The weak Japanese economic performance initially pressured the yen, which dropped 0.4% versus the dollar Monday after gaining nearly 3% the previous week. However, the currency recovered those losses by Tuesday’s trading session.
Tuesday’s U.S. economic calendar features limited data releases, including the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s manufacturing survey and the National Association of Home Builders Housing Index. Treasury bonds continued benefiting from Friday’s encouraging consumer price inflation report, which showed relatively modest price pressures.
Investors will receive additional insight into Federal Reserve policy direction later this week through Wednesday’s release of meeting minutes from the Federal Open Market Committee and Friday’s fourth-quarter gross domestic product figures. Inflation data from Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan will provide broader context for global economic conditions.
British unemployment climbed to 5.2%, marking the highest level in more than a decade excluding pandemic-related spikes. This development has fueled expectations for another Bank of England interest rate reduction next month, with financial markets pricing in an 80% probability of such a move.
The British pound weakened against both the euro and dollar, while the FTSE 100 stock index advanced. Two-year government bond yields in the UK fell to their lowest levels in 18 months.
Geopolitical developments provided a backdrop to Tuesday’s quiet trading environment as nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran resumed in Geneva. Oil and gold prices edged slightly lower as the diplomatic discussions began. Former President Trump stated Monday that he believes Iran is interested in reaching an agreement.
Retail giant Walmart, scheduled to report quarterly earnings this week, achieved membership in the exclusive trillion-dollar market valuation club this year, becoming the world’s 12th most valuable publicly traded company.
Key events for Tuesday include the New York Fed business surveys at 8:30 AM and the housing market index at 10:00 AM. Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr and San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly are both scheduled to speak. Corporate earnings reports are expected from medical device maker Medtronic and cybersecurity firm Palo Alto Networks.
Team Switzerland’s men’s curling squad, led by skip Yannick Schwaller, extended their flawless performance at the Winter Olympics on Tuesday, crushing Sweden 9-4 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The decisive victory keeps Switzerland’s perfect record intact while officially crushing the defending Olympic champions’ hopes for another medal.
Sweden’s title defense had already been hanging by a thread following Monday’s 7-3 loss to Germany under skip Niklas Edin’s leadership. While a narrow path to the playoffs still existed through an improbable series of outcomes, that slim possibility has now vanished completely.
The former champions find themselves tied for ninth position in the round-robin tournament with just a single victory in seven matches played. Meanwhile, Switzerland dominates the standings in first place, boasting a pristine 6-0 record.
“We worked very hard and we had a lot of very good discussions leading up to this,” Schwaller said. “I think everything is coming together nicely, and we play with so much confidence out there right now, and just enjoy each other and enjoy the moment.”
In other Tuesday action, China’s team under skip Xiaoming Xu secured an 8-5 victory against the United States in a contest that remained tied entering the final end. The Czech Republic also notched a 9-7 triumph over Germany, the reigning 2024 European champions.
The Czech victory marked a historic milestone as their first Olympic win in men’s curling competition, although the team has previously claimed victories in mixed doubles events at the Games.
The round-robin format requires each team to compete in nine total matches, with play continuing later Tuesday. The tournament’s top four finishers will advance to this week’s semifinal rounds.
Motorists traveling through a section of Bayard Avenue should plan for potential delays today due to ongoing construction activities.
According to DelDOT officials, work crews have established periodic lane restrictions along Bayard Avenue in the area spanning from Coastal Highway (Route 1) to Bellevue Street. The construction zone will remain in effect until 5:00 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when passing through this corridor and to exercise caution around work crews and equipment. Traffic may experience intermittent slowdowns as lanes are temporarily closed to accommodate the construction work.
The Delaware Department of Transportation continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as work progresses throughout the day.
Drivers in the area should expect traffic delays on Bayard Avenue as construction crews continue their work between Coastal Highway (Route 1) and Bellevue Street.
DelDOT reports that intermittent lane closures are currently affecting traffic flow on this stretch of roadway. The construction-related lane restrictions are scheduled to remain in effect until 5:00 PM today.
Motorists are advised to plan for additional travel time when using this route and consider alternate paths if possible to avoid potential delays.
Drivers using Spring Lake Drive are encountering traffic disruptions today as construction crews work along a busy stretch of the roadway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the section of Spring Lake Drive running from Old Harmony Road to Greenridge Road is subject to periodic lane restrictions while work is underway.
These construction-related lane closures are scheduled to remain in effect through 6 PM this evening, according to DelDOT officials.
Motorists are advised to plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes if possible while traveling through the affected area.
Drivers traveling on Spring Lake Drive should plan for potential delays today as construction work creates periodic lane restrictions along a section of the roadway.
According to Delaware Department of Transportation officials, the affected area spans Spring Lake Drive from Old Harmony Road to Greenridge Road. Traffic disruptions from the ongoing construction activities are expected to last until 6 p.m. today.
The lane closures are happening on an intermittent basis throughout the day as work crews complete their construction tasks. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when driving through the work zone.
Motorists traveling through a section of New Castle County should plan for potential delays this afternoon due to construction activity.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report that construction crews are working on Fowler Court at its intersection with Dutton Drive, causing periodic lane restrictions.
The temporary lane closures are scheduled to continue intermittently throughout the day, with work expected to wrap up by 6 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when passing through the area and to use caution around construction workers and equipment.
Drivers in northern Delaware are experiencing traffic disruptions on a busy stretch of Foulk Road today due to an ongoing lane closure.
According to DelDOT, the right lane of Foulk Road is currently blocked between Naamans Road (Route 261) and Grubb Road (Route 92). The lane restriction is expected to continue affecting traffic flow until 3 PM this afternoon.
Commuters using this corridor should plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes if possible. The closure impacts a heavily traveled section of roadway that connects several residential and commercial areas in the region.
Where: Unit Block of South Independence Blvd, Dover, DE
Media Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]
Details: Dover law enforcement officials are actively looking into an armed robbery that took place during the early morning hours on Sunday. Authorities were alerted to the crime when the victim contacted police from a parking area on the unit block of South Independence Boulevard. Through their preliminary inquiry, detectives learned the victim had been at a local gathering in the vicinity. Following the event, two individuals confronted the victim, with one brandishing a firearm and ordering him to turn over his belongings. The victim handed over his property as demanded, and both perpetrators drove away in a gray-colored car. Police describe both suspects as Black males wearing face coverings.
Investigators currently have no suspect information to share with the public.
The case remains active and authorities are seeking assistance from the community. Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to reach out to the Dover Police Department by calling (302) 736-7130. Those providing information may choose to remain unnamed. Additionally, tips can be shared through Delaware Crime Stoppers by dialing 800-TIP-3333 or visiting www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com online. A monetary reward may be available for information that results in an arrest.
European Union officials have launched a comprehensive investigation into popular online retailer Shein, examining allegations that the company fails to adequately prevent the sale of prohibited items and protect consumers from potentially harmful platform design elements.
The European Commission announced Tuesday it has initiated formal proceedings under the Digital Services Act, comprehensive legislation that mandates major online platforms implement enhanced protections for internet users against questionable merchandise.
Should investigators determine Shein violated regulations, the company could face requirements to modify its operations or substantial financial penalties, according to the European Commission.
Investigators are examining whether Shein maintains adequate protective measures to prevent the distribution of products banned within EU borders, including materials constituting child sexual abuse such as “child-like sex dolls,” the commission stated.
The fast-fashion retailer encountered significant scrutiny in France last year when officials discovered prohibited weapons including guns, blades and machetes, along with child-like sex dolls available through its platform. French officials attempted to block access to Shein’s website nationwide, but a court prevented this action and requested the commission pursue an investigation through the Digital Services Act framework.
Commission officials indicated they will also evaluate whether Shein operates systems to address risks associated with what they describe as the platform’s potentially addictive structure, which provides users with points and rewards “for engagement.”
Additionally, regulators are scrutinizing the transparency of Shein’s product recommendation algorithms that suggest additional purchases to shoppers. Officials express concern that the company fails to provide clear explanations to users regarding why specific products appear in their recommendations.
Shein responded that it regards its regulatory responsibilities seriously and will maintain cooperation with commission investigators.
The retailer stated it has made substantial investments in strengthening Digital Services Act compliance. These efforts include “comprehensive systemic-risk assessments and mitigation frameworks, enhanced protections for younger users, and ongoing work to design our services in ways that promote a safe and trusted user experience.”
“Protecting minors and reducing the risk of harmful content and behaviours are central to how we develop and operate our platform,” the company said in a press statement.
BEIRUT (AP) — Major thoroughfares in and around Lebanon’s capital were shut down by demonstrators Tuesday following the government’s decision to implement new taxation measures that will drive up gasoline costs and other consumer goods to finance public sector salary increases.
Lebanon’s Cabinet on Monday endorsed a levy of 300,000 Lebanese pounds (approximately $3.30) for every 20 liters (5.3 gallons) of gasoline purchased. Diesel was spared from the taxation measure, since most Lebanese citizens rely on it to operate personal generators that compensate for chronic state electrical power shortages.
Officials also decided to raise the value-added tax from 11 percent to 12 percent on all items currently subject to this fee, though parliamentary approval is still required.
These taxation measures will finance salary and pension increases for government workers, whose earnings were devastated during the 2019 monetary crisis, providing them with compensation equivalent to six additional months of pay. Information Minister Paul Morcos stated the wage increases are projected to cost approximately $800 million.
Despite sitting atop some of the Middle East’s most substantial gold deposits, this Mediterranean nation continues to battle persistent inflation and endemic corruption. The financially struggling country also sustained roughly $11 billion in destruction during the 2024 conflict between Israel and the Hezbollah militant organization.
Ghayath Saadeh, among a contingent of taxi operators who shut down a primary route into central Beirut, said the nation’s leadership “consider us taxi drivers to be garbage.”
“Everything is getting more expensive, food and drinks, and Ramadan is coming,” he said. “We will block all the roads, God willing, if they don’t respond to us.”
In 2019, when Lebanese authorities proposed additional taxes, including a $6 monthly charge for internet calling services like WhatsApp, massive demonstrations erupted that brought the nation to a standstill for months. Protesters demanded their leaders resign due to rampant corruption, governmental dysfunction and crumbling infrastructure, while also calling for an end to the nation’s religious power-sharing arrangement.
Lebanon has faced international demands to implement financial reforms for years, yet has achieved minimal advancement.
During Monday’s session, cabinet members also received an update from Lebanon’s military regarding progress on a strategy to disarm non-governmental militant organizations throughout the country, including Hezbollah.
The military announced last month it had finished the initial phase of this strategy, focusing on territory south of the Litani River near Israel’s border. The plan’s second phase will address portions of southern Lebanon between the Litani and Awali rivers, encompassing the coastal city of Sidon.
Information Minister Morcos stated after the cabinet meeting that the second phase is anticipated to require four months but might be prolonged “depending on the available resources, the continuation of Israeli attacks and the obstacles on the ground.”
This disarmament strategy follows a U.S.-mediated ceasefire that officially concluded fighting between Hezbollah and Israel in November 2024. Since that time, Israel has claimed Hezbollah is rebuilding and has maintained almost daily military strikes in Lebanon while occupying multiple elevated positions on Lebanese territory along the border.
Hezbollah maintains that the ceasefire agreement only mandates its disarmament south of the Litani River and refuses to consider disarming elsewhere in the country until Israel ceases its attacks and completely withdraws from Lebanese soil.
A French woman whose courage transformed her into an international symbol against sexual violence has published her memoir globally, hoping to inspire other survivors with her journey from victim to advocate.
Gisèle Pelicot’s book, titled “A Hymn to Life, Shame has to Change Sides,” became available Tuesday across 22 languages, chronicling her experience surviving nearly a decade of systematic assault.
“I wanted my story to help others,” Pelicot explained during a recent interview with France 5, a French television network, before her memoir’s worldwide launch.
The book represents Pelicot’s first extensive public commentary since a groundbreaking 2024 court case that made headlines internationally. Her decision to publicly identify herself during the proceedings, rather than remain anonymous, sparked global conversations about sexual violence and victim-blaming.
“Today I’m doing better, and this book allowed me to engage in self-reflection, to take stock of my life,” she explained. “I had to try to rebuild myself on this field of ruins. Today I am a woman standing strong.”
Pelicot emphasized that her memoir carries “a message of hope to all the women who are going through a very complicated period in their lives.”
Her case and public stance created ripple effects worldwide, earning recognition from prominent figures including Olympic champion Simone Biles, who has also spoken about surviving sexual abuse.
“Gisèle has demonstrated to the world that it’s not for victims of sexual abuse to feel shame — it’s the perpetrators,” Biles stated in remarks aired by the BBC. “By waiving her anonymity and refusing to feel shame, Gisèle paves the way for other victims to come forward.”
The criminal case concluded in December 2024 with convictions against Pelicot’s former husband, Dominique Pelicot, along with 50 additional defendants. The crimes occurred between 2011 and 2020, during which Dominique Pelicot secretly drugged his wife to render her unconscious before assaulting her and allowing other men to do the same.
Dominique Pelicot received a 20-year prison sentence, while co-defendants were given terms between three and 15 years. One defendant who appealed his conviction later had his sentence extended to 10 years by an appeals court.
The couple had been married for nearly five decades when Dominique Pelicot confessed to years of secretly adding sedatives to his wife’s food and beverages to facilitate the assaults.
The trial highlighted concerning connections between online pornography, internet chat groups, and misconceptions about sexual consent that can contribute to violence against women.
The case prompted legislative action in France, where lawmakers approved new rape legislation in October. The updated law characterizes rape and sexual assault as any sexual activity without consent, aligning France with neighboring European countries like Germany, Belgium, and Spain that have similar consent-focused statutes. Previously, French law required proving that rape involved “violence, coercion, threat or surprise” rather than simply lack of consent.
ISLAMABAD — Military officials report that an explosive-packed vehicle crashed into a security checkpoint in Pakistan’s northwestern region, resulting in the deaths of 11 soldiers and one child during an overnight assault.
According to military statements released Tuesday, the incident took place Monday evening in Bajaur district within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, located near the Afghan border. The attackers attempted to penetrate the checkpoint but were confronted by security personnel who had signaled the vehicle to halt.
The explosion caused sections of the military compound to crumble and severely damaged nearby residential buildings. A young girl was killed in the blast, while seven other civilians, including women and children, sustained injuries.
Local police official Zafar Khan reported that following the initial bombing, additional militants attempted to infiltrate the security facility, sparking a gun battle. Security forces ultimately eliminated 12 attackers, whom authorities refer to as “khawarij,” their term for the Pakistani Taliban, known as TTP. A manhunt continues throughout the Bajaur area.
The region has remained volatile since August 2025, when military forces initiated a “targeted operation” against militant groups, forcing thousands of residents to temporarily evacuate before returning to their homes. Intelligence-driven operations have continued in the area since that time.
While no organization has taken credit for the assault, authorities suspect the Pakistani Taliban, who frequently launch attacks against both security personnel and civilians nationwide.
Pakistani President Asif Ali Zadari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued separate condemnations of the attack. Both leaders expressed grief over what they called the “martyrdom” of the security forces and civilian victim, extending sympathies to the bereaved families. Sharif emphasized the government’s commitment to defeating terrorism and declared the nation’s support for its military forces in this battle.
The country has experienced escalating violence in recent years, with most incidents attributed to the TTP. This organization operates independently from but maintains close ties with Afghanistan’s Taliban, who regained control in 2021. The rising number of attacks has created diplomatic tensions between Islamabad and Kabul, as Pakistan claims the TTP operates without restriction from Afghan territory — allegations that both the TTP and Kabul reject.
Last month, Pakistan’s army chief General Asim Munir challenged Afghanistan’s Taliban leadership to decide between preserving relationships with Islamabad or continuing to support the Pakistani Taliban, the militant organization responsible for numerous recent deadly strikes.
General Munir delivered these statements at his headquarters in Rawalpindi, where he participated in a ceremonial honor guard from all military branches, commemorating the establishment of Pakistan’s unified military command structure.
The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, a towering figure in America’s civil rights movement, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 84. Jackson, who worked closely with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and launched two campaigns for the presidency, dedicated his life to championing causes for marginalized communities both in America and internationally.
Throughout his decades of activism, Jackson fought tirelessly for disadvantaged populations, tackling critical issues including voting rights, employment equality, educational access, and healthcare reform.
The Associated Press photo editors have compiled a visual tribute showcasing Jackson’s remarkable journey as a civil rights pioneer.
NAPLES, Italy – Flames completely destroyed the interior of Naples’ treasured Teatro Sannazaro on Tuesday, leaving the 176-year-old cultural landmark in ruins after a devastating blaze swept through the structure.
The inferno reportedly originated in a residential building located in Naples’ affluent Chiaia neighborhood before quickly spreading to the adjacent theater, which dates back to the 1800s. The intense flames caused the theater’s distinctive domed ceiling to collapse while destroying the elegant seating areas and ornate golden balconies that had defined the venue for generations.
Fire commander Giuseppe Paduano described the extensive damage to news media, stating “Very little of the theatre remains.” He added, “Inside there are still some small hotspots that we will extinguish shortly. As for the causes, it’s still too early to say.”
According to Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, preliminary findings point to the fire starting by accident rather than intentionally.
The massive blaze created thick, suffocating smoke that enveloped the surrounding area beginning at daybreak, forcing authorities to evacuate 22 families from nearby residences. Medical personnel transported four individuals to local hospitals for treatment of smoke inhalation, though officials reported no fatalities or severe injuries occurred.
When Mayor Manfredi arrived at the destruction site, he expressed profound grief over the cultural loss. He described the theater’s destruction as “a great sorrow” and “a deep wound” to Naples’ rich historical and cultural heritage.
The Teatro Sannazaro first opened its doors to audiences in 1847 and became a celebrated venue that welcomed Italy’s most renowned performers and dramatists throughout its long history. In recent years, the theater presented a diverse lineup featuring both traditional musical performances and touring theatrical productions.
The mayor pledged municipal support for restoration efforts, promising “We will do everything we can to help the owners rebuild.” He also indicated that Italy’s national government plans to provide financial assistance for the reconstruction project.
This tragedy echoes similar disasters that have struck Italy’s theatrical heritage in recent decades. Venice’s renowned Fenice opera house suffered complete destruction in a fire thirty years ago but successfully reopened in 2003 following extensive reconstruction work. The Teatro Petruzzelli in Bari met a similar fate in 1991, remaining closed until 2009 when it finally welcomed audiences again. Unlike Tuesday’s apparent accident in Naples, both previous theater fires resulted from deliberate arson attacks.
Medical device manufacturer Medtronic reported third-quarter earnings that exceeded analyst projections Tuesday, powered by increased sales of cardiac equipment and continuous glucose monitors.
The strong performance reflects a broader trend affecting medical technology companies, as healthcare facilities see growing demand for medical procedures. Insurance companies are reporting higher medical loss ratios, suggesting patients are scheduling more treatments and procedures than in recent periods.
The company kept its financial outlook unchanged for fiscal year 2026, projecting adjusted earnings per share between $5.62 and $5.66.
Key growth areas for Medtronic include its advanced pulsed field ablation technology and transcatheter aortic valve replacement systems, both representing less invasive treatment options that physicians are increasingly adopting.
The cardiovascular division, representing approximately 40% of total company sales, posted revenue growth of 13.8% reaching $3.46 billion for the quarter. Much of this increase came from strong performance in the pulsed field ablation product line.
This innovative technology delivers targeted high-energy electrical pulses to eliminate specific heart tissue areas, helping to minimize irregular heartbeat episodes in patients.
In the diabetes monitoring space, Medtronic faces competition from Abbott and Dexcom as the continuous glucose monitoring market grows. Patients are increasingly choosing these convenient devices that eliminate the need for traditional finger-stick blood testing.
Total quarterly revenue reached $9.02 billion, surpassing Wall Street predictions of $8.91 billion based on LSEG data.
The company posted adjusted quarterly earnings of $1.36 per share, topping the average analyst forecast of $1.33 per share.
Healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson, a larger competitor, also reported positive results with medical technology sales rising 7.5% year-over-year during the same period, particularly benefiting from strong electrophysiology and cardiac device sales.
The company behind Cheerios and other popular breakfast cereals announced Tuesday that it’s reducing expectations for yearly revenue and earnings, pointing to consumer concerns about the broader economy as the primary reason.
General Mills stock dropped 4% during pre-market trading hours following the announcement.
The food manufacturer now projects yearly sales will decline between 1.5% and 2%, a more pessimistic outlook than its earlier prediction of a decrease of 1% to an increase of 1%.
The Minneapolis-based company also revised downward its annual adjusted operating profit and adjusted earnings-per-share projections, now expecting decreases of 16% to 20% in constant currency terms. This represents a significant shift from the company’s prior forecast of declines ranging from 10% to 15% in constant currency.
Trade data released Tuesday revealed that Italian goods sold to the United States climbed by more than 7% throughout 2025, contradicting expectations that President Donald Trump’s tariff policies would severely damage transatlantic commerce.
The European Union’s third-largest economy saw its American exports reach 69.6 billion euros ($82.41 billion) last year, representing a 7.2% increase compared to 2024, according to Italy’s national statistics bureau ISTAT.
This growth occurred even as Italian products face a 15% tariff that Trump implemented on most EU merchandise, with pasta manufacturers confronting potential additional penalties under a U.S. Commerce Department anti-dumping investigation.
Italy maintained its biggest trade surplus with the United States at 34.2 billion euros, though this figure dropped 12% from the previous year due to a 36% surge in Italian purchases of American goods.
The country also achieved substantial trade surpluses exceeding 19 billion euros each with both Switzerland and the United Kingdom during 2025.
Trump announced the 15% tariff in a July 27 agreement with the EU following lengthy negotiations that included threats of even steeper duties, creating financial market uncertainty and concern among European exporters.
Italian business lobby leader Emanuele Orsini had cautioned in July that even a 10% tariff on EU merchandise could slash Italian exports to America by 20 billion euros in 2026 while eliminating 118,000 jobs.
December’s Italian exports to the US totaled 5.6 billion euros, showing a slight 0.4% decline from December 2024, ISTAT reported.
Italian sales to America have generally continued growing since the tariffs became effective in August, though monthly figures have shown fluctuation.
Italy recorded a worldwide trade surplus of 6.0 billion euros ($7.15 billion) in December, exceeding the 5.1 billion euro surplus from December 2024, according to ISTAT.
For the entire year 2025, Italy achieved a global trade surplus of 50.7 billion euros, up from 48.3 billion euros in the prior year.
