New FBI director Kash Patel's family traces origins back to a Gujarat village

Kash Patel, an Indian-American and member of the Patidar community, has been confirmed as the first Indian-American FBI director. His family traces roots to Bhadran, Gujarat, before migrating to Uganda 70-80 years ago. Patel, born in New York, has a legal background and previously served as Chief of Staff to the Acting Secretary of Defense.

The Epic Dynastic Feud Behind the Arrest of the Former Philippine President

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte are embroiled in a political feud, escalating tensions as Duterte allegedly ordered a hit on Marcos amid corruption allegations against her. The conflict intensified with Rodrigo Duterte's arrest by the ICC for crimes against humanity related to his drug war. Sara's approval ratings have declined, and her political future is uncertain.

Trump’s $1.4 trillion tariff threat spurs companies to seek cover

Companies globally are strategizing to mitigate impacts from President Trump's tariffs, which affect $1.4 trillion in imports. While some, like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, plan to increase U.S. production, others, including Stellantis and Volkswagen, anticipate significant profit losses. The complexities of global supply chains complicate responses, leading many firms to establish "tariff task forces" to navigate uncertain costs and logistics.

G7 foreign ministers meet in Canada amid tensions with Trump

G7 foreign ministers convened in Canada amid rising tensions over U.S. tariffs and foreign policy on Ukraine. The U.S. has faced backlash from allies, particularly Canada and the EU, following its imposition of tariffs and controversial suggestions regarding Canada. Diplomats struggle to craft a unified statement, highlighting the strain in U.S.-Canada relations and uncertainty in addressing the Ukraine conflict.

China accuses New Zealand's top spy of spreading 'false information'

China's embassy in New Zealand criticized the country's intelligence chief, Andrew Hampton, for "spreading false information" regarding security risks from China's influence in the Pacific. Hampton warned that China's strategic deals with Pacific nations could pose foreign interference risks. The embassy called his remarks baseless and urged him to abandon "cold war thinking." Tensions have risen following a partnership deal between China and the Cook Islands.

Indiana woman survives 6 days in crashed car by drinking creek water

An Indiana woman, Brieonna Cassell, survived nearly a week trapped in her car with severe leg injuries by sucking water from a sweatshirt dipped in a creek. She was found conscious after her vehicle was spotted off a road. Cassell, reported missing, was hospitalized with broken legs and wrist, but her recovery outlook is positive.

Sister of US Supreme Court's Barrett target of bomb threat, police say

A bomb threat targeting Amanda Coney Williams, sister of Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett, was reported in Charleston, South Carolina. Local police found it to be a false alarm after investigating. The incident is part of rising concerns over threats against judges, which have prompted increased security measures. The investigation into the threat is ongoing.

Duterte takes responsibility for Philippines drug war, anticipates long ICC battle

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has taken full responsibility for his controversial "war on drugs" amidst facing murder charges at the International Criminal Court. In a video message, he assured supporters of his well-being and reiterated his commitment to his country. Duterte could become the first Asian leader tried by the ICC for crimes against humanity linked to thousands of killings during his presidency.

Vladimir Putin likely to prolong Ukraine truce talks to negotiate better terms

Russian President Vladimir Putin is likely to agree to truce terms with Ukraine but aims to impose his conditions first, prolonging negotiations. The Kremlin finds the recent US-Ukrainian agreement unacceptable, and Putin might demand a halt to military aid to Ukraine. Meanwhile, discussions on sanctions and monitoring of any ceasefire are ongoing among Western officials.

At US request, India arrests crypto administrator accused of money laundering

Indian authorities arrested Aleksej Besciokov, an administrator of the Russian cryptocurrency exchange Garantex, at the request of the U.S. for money laundering and sanction violations. The U.S. previously dismantled Garantex's infrastructure, which processed $96 billion in transactions. Besciokov, who was reportedly planning to flee India, faces extradition to the U.S. for charges against him.

UK watchdog rejects calls to redefine terrorism, backs new offence

Following the Southport murders, the UK's terrorism watchdog advises against redefining terrorism but calls for new laws targeting mass killings. Axel Radukabana, who killed three girls, was not classified as a terrorist due to unclear motives. The report warns of the risks of misclassifying violent acts and emphasizes the need for accurate information to combat disinformation.

Kuwait frees a group of jailed Americans, including contractors held on drug charges

Kuwait has released several American prisoners, including veterans and military contractors jailed for drug-related offenses, in a goodwill gesture between allies. This follows a visit by a U.S. hostage envoy and reflects ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to secure the release of Americans abroad. Families express gratitude, while concerns over treatment and legal processes in Kuwait remain.

Putin likely to drag out Ukraine truce talks to seek his own conditions

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to prolong discussions for a ceasefire with Ukraine, seeking favorable terms for Moscow. While he may eventually agree to a truce, he insists on including his conditions first. The Kremlin finds a recent agreement reached by US and Ukrainian officials unacceptable and may demand a halt to weapons supplies to Ukraine as a ceasefire condition.

Pope Francis remains stable, chest scan confirms improvements: Vatican

Pope Francis remains stable in hospital, with recent chest scans showing improvements in his condition as he battles double pneumonia. Admitted on February 14, he has experienced respiratory crises but is no longer in immediate danger. The Vatican has not provided a discharge timeframe, and the 88-year-old pontiff continues to receive treatment and physiotherapy.

EU-US trade tariffs in figures

The EU has announced countermeasures, including tariffs on Harley Davidson bikes and tomato ketchup, in response to the US's steel and aluminum tariffs. A trade war looms as the EU aims to protect its producers. In 2023, 31% of American exports faced EU customs duties, with varying rates on different products, while the US earned more from imports.

US stocks swing wildly as traders ponder tariff risks, CPI data

US stock markets experienced significant volatility on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 fluctuating amid concerns over a deepening trade war and disappointing inflation data. The index rose 0.7% after earlier gains. Major firms downgraded their outlook on US equities, citing economic uncertainties, as hedge funds began to reduce exposure. The market faces challenges before a potential rally can occur.