Putin calls new US sanctions on Cuba unacceptable after Kremlin meeting
Russian President Vladimir Putin met Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez at the Kremlin on Wednesday, using the talks to sharply criticize the latest United States sanctions on Havana and reaffirm Moscow’s support for its long-time Caribbean ally. The meeting took place against the backdrop of intensifying economic pressure on Cuba and growing geopolitical tensions over the island’s energy supplies. According to official statements, Putin described the newly imposedestrictio
Putin calls new US sanctions on Cuba unacceptable after Kremlin meeting
Russian President Vladimir Putin met Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez at the Kremlin on Wednesday, using the talks to sharply criticize the latest United States sanctions on Havana and reaffirm Moscow’s support for its long-time Caribbean ally. The meeting took place against the backdrop of intensifying economic pressure on Cuba and growing geopolitical tensions over the island’s energy supplies. According to official statements, Putin described the newly imposedestrictio
Rs 40,000 Rent For 16 Sq Ft: Inside Hong Kong’s Coffin Homes Crisis
In one of the wealthiest cities in the world, thousands of residents are living inside spaces barely larger than a mattress. Hong Kong, famous for its glittering skyline and ultra-luxury real estate, is also home to nearly 2 lakh people who survive in cramped 16-square-foot “coffin homes” hidden inside ageing buildings. For 14 consecutive years, Hong Kong has ranked as the world’s mo
Rs 40,000 Rent For 16 Sq Ft: Inside Hong Kong’s Coffin Homes Crisis
In one of the wealthiest cities in the world, thousands of residents are living inside spaces barely larger than a mattress. Hong Kong, famous for its glittering skyline and ultra-luxury real estate, is also home to nearly 2 lakh people who survive in cramped 16-square-foot “coffin homes” hidden inside ageing buildings. For 14 consecutive years, Hong Kong has ranked as the world’s mo
India France Sign 20 Deals In Defence AI And Trade During Macron India Visit 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron elevated bilateral ties to a new level by signing more than 20 agreements across defence, artificial intelligence, trade, skilling, health and critical technologies during high-level talks in Mumbai. The agreements were announced during President Macron’s three-day visit to India from February 17 to 19, where he is also attending the AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Na
India France Sign 20 Deals In Defence AI And Trade During Macron India Visit 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron elevated bilateral ties to a new level by signing more than 20 agreements across defence, artificial intelligence, trade, skilling, health and critical technologies during high-level talks in Mumbai. The agreements were announced during President Macron’s three-day visit to India from February 17 to 19, where he is also attending the AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Na
Zelensky warns of massive Russian attacks on Ukraine energy targets
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday warned that Russia is expected to continue launching large-scale strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, citing fresh intelligence assessments. The warning comes amid ongoing hostilities in the Ukraine war, now approaching its fourth year, and underscores growing concerns in Kyiv about the resilience of the country’s power grid during continued missile and drone attacks. Speaking about the latest intelligence findings, Zelensky
Zelensky warns of massive Russian attacks on Ukraine energy targets
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday warned that Russia is expected to continue launching large-scale strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, citing fresh intelligence assessments. The warning comes amid ongoing hostilities in the Ukraine war, now approaching its fourth year, and underscores growing concerns in Kyiv about the resilience of the country’s power grid during continued missile and drone attacks. Speaking about the latest intelligence findings, Zelensky
Wrong-way crash on Dallas North Tollway leaves one dead, several injured
Authorities said the collision occurred at approximately 2 a.m. in the southbound lanes of the tollway near Royal Lane. Preliminary findings from DPS troopers indicate that a Hyundai Tucson was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes when it collided head-on with a Land Rover Velar. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles and prompted an immediate emergency response. The driver of the Hyundai Tucson was transported to a local hospital following the crash but was l
Wrong-way crash on Dallas North Tollway leaves one dead, several injured
Authorities said the collision occurred at approximately 2 a.m. in the southbound lanes of the tollway near Royal Lane. Preliminary findings from DPS troopers indicate that a Hyundai Tucson was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes when it collided head-on with a Land Rover Velar. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles and prompted an immediate emergency response. The driver of the Hyundai Tucson was transported to a local hospital following the crash but was l
Russia dismisses US tariff threats while exploring oil support for Cuba
Russia has dismissed recent U.S. threats of tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, while stating it is exploring ways to assist the Caribbean nation amid a deepening fuel shortage. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the government seeks “constructive dialogue” with the United States regarding Cuba’s critical energy needs but stressed that public disputes over the matter are being avoided. He highlighted that Russia’s current trade with Cuba is limited, reducing the likelihood o
Russia dismisses US tariff threats while exploring oil support for Cuba
Russia has dismissed recent U.S. threats of tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, while stating it is exploring ways to assist the Caribbean nation amid a deepening fuel shortage. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the government seeks “constructive dialogue” with the United States regarding Cuba’s critical energy needs but stressed that public disputes over the matter are being avoided. He highlighted that Russia’s current trade with Cuba is limited, reducing the likelihood o
West Texas fentanyl trafficker sentenced to life after major federal crackdown
A federal judge has sentenced a major fentanyl trafficker to life in prison, concluding a sweeping two-year investigation that dismantled one of the most significant drug distribution networks operating in West Texas. Authorities said the sentence marks the final conviction in Operation Top Shelf, a coordinated law enforcement effort that resulted in dozens of arrests and hundreds of years in combined prison time for those involved. Kurtney Bernard Jones, 38, known by the alias “K
West Texas fentanyl trafficker sentenced to life after major federal crackdown
A federal judge has sentenced a major fentanyl trafficker to life in prison, concluding a sweeping two-year investigation that dismantled one of the most significant drug distribution networks operating in West Texas. Authorities said the sentence marks the final conviction in Operation Top Shelf, a coordinated law enforcement effort that resulted in dozens of arrests and hundreds of years in combined prison time for those involved. Kurtney Bernard Jones, 38, known by the alias “K
James Van Der Beek dies at 47 after battle with colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek, the actor widely recognized for his breakout role on television drama Dawson’s Creek and the sports film Varsity Blues, has died following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He was 47. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed his death in a message shared on social media, describing his final days as peaceful and marked by courage, faith, and grace as the family gathered around him. In her statement, Kimberly said he faced the end of his life with stren
James Van Der Beek dies at 47 after battle with colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek, the actor widely recognized for his breakout role on television drama Dawson’s Creek and the sports film Varsity Blues, has died following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He was 47. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed his death in a message shared on social media, describing his final days as peaceful and marked by courage, faith, and grace as the family gathered around him. In her statement, Kimberly said he faced the end of his life with stren
Benghazi attack suspect captured, to face trial in the United States
An alleged key participant in the 2012 Benghazi attack has been taken into custody and is expected to face federal charges in the United States, the Justice Department confirmed on Friday. The arrest marks the latest development in a long-running terrorism case stemming from the deadly assault on American facilities in Libya that left four U.S. officials dead, including Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens. Attorney General Pam Bondi, District of Columbia Attorney Jeannie Pirro, and FB
Benghazi attack suspect captured, to face trial in the United States
An alleged key participant in the 2012 Benghazi attack has been taken into custody and is expected to face federal charges in the United States, the Justice Department confirmed on Friday. The arrest marks the latest development in a long-running terrorism case stemming from the deadly assault on American facilities in Libya that left four U.S. officials dead, including Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens. Attorney General Pam Bondi, District of Columbia Attorney Jeannie Pirro, and FB
Blurred Vision Worse in Winter? Cataracts Could Be the Hidden Cause
Winter Worsens Cataract Symptoms: How Seasonal Changes Impact Vision Winter is a challenging time for many individuals suffering from cataracts, as the colder months can exacerbate symptoms and make them more noticeable. Cataracts, often associated with aging, cause cloudiness in the lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision. However, it is not just aging that can make cataracts worse—seasonal factors, such as reduced daylight and indoor
Blurred Vision Worse in Winter? Cataracts Could Be the Hidden Cause
Winter Worsens Cataract Symptoms: How Seasonal Changes Impact Vision Winter is a challenging time for many individuals suffering from cataracts, as the colder months can exacerbate symptoms and make them more noticeable. Cataracts, often associated with aging, cause cloudiness in the lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision. However, it is not just aging that can make cataracts worse—seasonal factors, such as reduced daylight and indoor
Saudi Arabia expands political and financial push to stabilize Yemen amid fragile truce
Saudi Arabia is deploying significant political influence and billions of dollars in financial support in an effort to stabilize Yemen and consolidate control over areas held by the internationally recognized government, marking a renewed regional focus after years of concentrating on domestic reforms. Officials familiar with the strategy say Riyadh aims to unify fragmented armed groups, strengthen state institutions and create conditions that could eventually pressure Houthi rebels into nego
Saudi Arabia expands political and financial push to stabilize Yemen amid fragile truce
Saudi Arabia is deploying significant political influence and billions of dollars in financial support in an effort to stabilize Yemen and consolidate control over areas held by the internationally recognized government, marking a renewed regional focus after years of concentrating on domestic reforms. Officials familiar with the strategy say Riyadh aims to unify fragmented armed groups, strengthen state institutions and create conditions that could eventually pressure Houthi rebels into nego
US government enters partial shutdown after Congress misses 2026 budget deadline
The United States government entered a partial shutdown early Saturday after Congress failed to approve a full federal budget for fiscal year 2026 before the midnight deadline. While the lapse in funding has triggered formal shutdown procedures across several federal departments, congressional leaders from both parties indicated the disruption is likely to be brief, with a Senate-backed agreement expected to move through the House early next week. As a result of the missed deadline, an estim
US government enters partial shutdown after Congress misses 2026 budget deadline
The United States government entered a partial shutdown early Saturday after Congress failed to approve a full federal budget for fiscal year 2026 before the midnight deadline. While the lapse in funding has triggered formal shutdown procedures across several federal departments, congressional leaders from both parties indicated the disruption is likely to be brief, with a Senate-backed agreement expected to move through the House early next week. As a result of the missed deadline, an estim
Catherine O’Hara remembered as holiday film icon after death at 71
Fans across the country are mourning the death of acclaimed actress Catherine O’Hara, whose work across film and television left an enduring mark on popular culture and holiday traditions. Her representative confirmed that O’Hara died Friday at the age of 71. No cause of death has been released, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, admirers, and generations of viewers who grew up watching her performances. O’Hara was widely celebrated for her portrayal of Kevin
Catherine O’Hara remembered as holiday film icon after death at 71
Fans across the country are mourning the death of acclaimed actress Catherine O’Hara, whose work across film and television left an enduring mark on popular culture and holiday traditions. Her representative confirmed that O’Hara died Friday at the age of 71. No cause of death has been released, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, admirers, and generations of viewers who grew up watching her performances. O’Hara was widely celebrated for her portrayal of Kevin
Palestine seeks India’s support for peace and reconstruction amid West Asia tensions
With renewed calls for peace, reconstruction, and an end to prolonged conflict, Dr. Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine, is on her first official visit to India. Speaking to journalists in New Delhi on Thursday, she stressed the urgency of achieving Palestinian statehood, arguing that lasting peace in West Asia cannot be realised without ending occupation and restoring sovereignty to the Palestinian people. Dr. Shahin highl
Palestine seeks India’s support for peace and reconstruction amid West Asia tensions
With renewed calls for peace, reconstruction, and an end to prolonged conflict, Dr. Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine, is on her first official visit to India. Speaking to journalists in New Delhi on Thursday, she stressed the urgency of achieving Palestinian statehood, arguing that lasting peace in West Asia cannot be realised without ending occupation and restoring sovereignty to the Palestinian people. Dr. Shahin highl
Iranian foreign minister to visit Turkey for talks on security, trade and regional tensions
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to travel to Turkey on Friday for high-level talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, as the two neighboring countries seek to strengthen cooperation across security, economic and regional issues. The visit comes amid heightened regional tensions and renewed diplomatic efforts to manage sensitive developments affecting the Middle East. According to Turkish Foreign Ministry sources cited in media reports, Fidan is expected
Iranian foreign minister to visit Turkey for talks on security, trade and regional tensions
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to travel to Turkey on Friday for high-level talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, as the two neighboring countries seek to strengthen cooperation across security, economic and regional issues. The visit comes amid heightened regional tensions and renewed diplomatic efforts to manage sensitive developments affecting the Middle East. According to Turkish Foreign Ministry sources cited in media reports, Fidan is expected
Russia, Ukraine and Us to resume trilateral peace talks in Abu dhabi on february 1
Russia, Ukraine, and the United States are set to resume trilateral negotiations aimed at ending the prolonged war in Ukraine, with the next round of talks scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on February 1. The development comes after the first round of discussions held last weekend failed to deliver a breakthrough, highlighting the deep divisions and complexity surrounding the conflict. Despite the absence of immediate results, the decision to continue talks reflects a shared understanding amo
Russia, Ukraine and Us to resume trilateral peace talks in Abu dhabi on february 1
Russia, Ukraine, and the United States are set to resume trilateral negotiations aimed at ending the prolonged war in Ukraine, with the next round of talks scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on February 1. The development comes after the first round of discussions held last weekend failed to deliver a breakthrough, highlighting the deep divisions and complexity surrounding the conflict. Despite the absence of immediate results, the decision to continue talks reflects a shared understanding amo
Ajit Pawar plane crash in Baramati sparks panic as first visuals emerge
A major incident shocked Maharashtra on Tuesday after reports emerged that a plane carrying Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar crashed while landing in Baramati. According to early inputs shared through live updates, the aircraft encountered difficulties during the landing process, leading to a crash that immediately triggered emergency protocols at the site. First visuals from the location began circulating online, showing heightened security presence and rescue teams rushing to the scene. Aut
Ajit Pawar plane crash in Baramati sparks panic as first visuals emerge
A major incident shocked Maharashtra on Tuesday after reports emerged that a plane carrying Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar crashed while landing in Baramati. According to early inputs shared through live updates, the aircraft encountered difficulties during the landing process, leading to a crash that immediately triggered emergency protocols at the site. First visuals from the location began circulating online, showing heightened security presence and rescue teams rushing to the scene. Aut
Zelenskyy says Ukraine expects EU membership by 2027 amid war and security talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine expects to become a member of the European Union in 2027, underlining that a clear accession timeline must be part of any future peace agreement. Speaking during a joint press conference with the presidents of Lithuania and Poland in Vilnius on Tuesday, Zelenskyy stressed that a fixed date for EU membership would serve as a crucial security guarantee for Ukraine and reduce the risk of political or procedural delays in the accession process. The president said that Ukraine’s integration into the European Union is not only a strategic objective for Kyiv but also an essential element of long-term stability for the continent. According to Zelenskyy, a defined accession date would reinforce confidence among international partners and help anchor Ukraine firmly within Europe’s political, economic, and security framework at a time when the country continues to face sustained military pressure from Russia. Zelenskyy also held a telephone conversation with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, during which the two leaders discussed Ukraine’s path toward EU membership and the worsening energy situation caused by repeated Russian attacks. Ukraine’s energy infrastructure has been targeted extensively in recent months, resulting in widespread disruptions to electricity and heating supplies across several regions. In a statement shared on social media, Zelenskyy said the daily strikes on energy facilities were aimed at leaving millions of Ukrainians without basic services, particularly during critical periods. He welcomed Austria’s recent decision to allocate financial assistance to support Ukraine’s energy sector, calling the move an important signal of solidarity. The discussion also covered additional measures that could help stabilize and protect Ukraine’s power system against ongoing attacks. Beyond energy concerns, Zelenskyy briefed the Austrian chancellor on recent trilateral discussions involving Ukrainian, American, and Russian representatives that took place in the United Arab Emirates. Those talks, he noted, focused primarily on military matters and potential security guarantees, reflecting continued diplomatic efforts to address the broader conflict. Reiterating his position on European integration, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine’s EU membership would strengthen not only national security but also Europe’s collective resilience. He argued that Ukraine brings significant security, technological, and economic capabilities that would contribute positively to the European Union as a whole. For this reason, he emphasized the importance of setting 2027 as a concrete target and expressed confidence that partner nations would support this goal. Zelenskyy also extended an invitation to Chancellor Stocker to visit Ukraine for in-person discussions, signaling Kyiv’s intention to maintain active diplomatic engagement despite the ongoing war. Meanwhile, Russian attacks continued to take a toll on civilians. Ukrainian regional authorities reported multiple fatalities following drone strikes and shelling in several areas. In the southern port city of Odesa, a drone barrage resulted in two deaths and left dozens of people injured. In eastern Donetsk region, a couple aged 45 and 48 were killed in the city of Sloviansk, while a 58-year-old resident was killed in a drone strike on a home in the Zaporizhzhia region. Another civilian, a 72-year-old woman, died in her home in the southern Kherson region as a result of shelling. As the conflict persists, Ukrainian officials continue to frame EU accession as a central pillar of the country’s future security and recovery, linking political integration with Europe to broader efforts to end the war and rebuild national resilience.
Zelenskyy says Ukraine expects EU membership by 2027 amid war and security talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine expects to become a member of the European Union in 2027, underlining that a clear accession timeline must be part of any future peace agreement. Speaking during a joint press conference with the presidents of Lithuania and Poland in Vilnius on Tuesday, Zelenskyy stressed that a fixed date for EU membership would serve as a crucial security guarantee for Ukraine and reduce the risk of political or procedural delays in the accession process. The president said that Ukraine’s integration into the European Union is not only a strategic objective for Kyiv but also an essential element of long-term stability for the continent. According to Zelenskyy, a defined accession date would reinforce confidence among international partners and help anchor Ukraine firmly within Europe’s political, economic, and security framework at a time when the country continues to face sustained military pressure from Russia. Zelenskyy also held a telephone conversation with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, during which the two leaders discussed Ukraine’s path toward EU membership and the worsening energy situation caused by repeated Russian attacks. Ukraine’s energy infrastructure has been targeted extensively in recent months, resulting in widespread disruptions to electricity and heating supplies across several regions. In a statement shared on social media, Zelenskyy said the daily strikes on energy facilities were aimed at leaving millions of Ukrainians without basic services, particularly during critical periods. He welcomed Austria’s recent decision to allocate financial assistance to support Ukraine’s energy sector, calling the move an important signal of solidarity. The discussion also covered additional measures that could help stabilize and protect Ukraine’s power system against ongoing attacks. Beyond energy concerns, Zelenskyy briefed the Austrian chancellor on recent trilateral discussions involving Ukrainian, American, and Russian representatives that took place in the United Arab Emirates. Those talks, he noted, focused primarily on military matters and potential security guarantees, reflecting continued diplomatic efforts to address the broader conflict. Reiterating his position on European integration, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine’s EU membership would strengthen not only national security but also Europe’s collective resilience. He argued that Ukraine brings significant security, technological, and economic capabilities that would contribute positively to the European Union as a whole. For this reason, he emphasized the importance of setting 2027 as a concrete target and expressed confidence that partner nations would support this goal. Zelenskyy also extended an invitation to Chancellor Stocker to visit Ukraine for in-person discussions, signaling Kyiv’s intention to maintain active diplomatic engagement despite the ongoing war. Meanwhile, Russian attacks continued to take a toll on civilians. Ukrainian regional authorities reported multiple fatalities following drone strikes and shelling in several areas. In the southern port city of Odesa, a drone barrage resulted in two deaths and left dozens of people injured. In eastern Donetsk region, a couple aged 45 and 48 were killed in the city of Sloviansk, while a 58-year-old resident was killed in a drone strike on a home in the Zaporizhzhia region. Another civilian, a 72-year-old woman, died in her home in the southern Kherson region as a result of shelling. As the conflict persists, Ukrainian officials continue to frame EU accession as a central pillar of the country’s future security and recovery, linking political integration with Europe to broader efforts to end the war and rebuild national resilience.
Hezbollah and Houthis warn US as Iran vows full response to any military strike
Tensions across West Asia intensified after allied militant groups aligned with Iran issued sharp warnings to the United States following the deployment of American warships to the region. Lebanon-based Hezbollah, Yemen’s Houthi movement, and Iraqi militias signaled that any military action against Iran would trigger a wider regional confrontation, underscoring the growing volatility as Washington weighs its next steps amid unrest inside Iran. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem cautione
Hezbollah and Houthis warn US as Iran vows full response to any military strike
Tensions across West Asia intensified after allied militant groups aligned with Iran issued sharp warnings to the United States following the deployment of American warships to the region. Lebanon-based Hezbollah, Yemen’s Houthi movement, and Iraqi militias signaled that any military action against Iran would trigger a wider regional confrontation, underscoring the growing volatility as Washington weighs its next steps amid unrest inside Iran. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem cautione
Newark chef redefines street dining with inventive food truck cuisine
A Newark-based chef is challenging traditional perceptions of food trucks by delivering a refined, restaurant-style experience from a mobile kitchen, blending culinary creativity with accessibility. Nyreek Aliuthmar, professionally known as Chef Hub, operates Hitting Ur Belly, a food truck that has become known for inventive combinations and a rotating menu that keeps customers returning for new flavors. Unlike conventional food trucks that rely on a fixed set of popular items, Hitt
Newark chef redefines street dining with inventive food truck cuisine
A Newark-based chef is challenging traditional perceptions of food trucks by delivering a refined, restaurant-style experience from a mobile kitchen, blending culinary creativity with accessibility. Nyreek Aliuthmar, professionally known as Chef Hub, operates Hitting Ur Belly, a food truck that has become known for inventive combinations and a rotating menu that keeps customers returning for new flavors. Unlike conventional food trucks that rely on a fixed set of popular items, Hitt









