Author: Iris East

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit China next week with a large business delegation, aiming to strengthen economic ties amid rising Chinese competition for Germany’s car makers. He emphasized the importance of balancing cooperation and competition in foreign economic policy.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has accused Ukraine of sabotage, stating that Hungary will block financial assistance for Kyiv until the transit of Russian oil resumes. This development is significant ahead of Hungary’s upcoming election.

The US Supreme Court ruling raises concerns about the EU-US trade deal established last summer, impacting past tariffs and future investment pledges, according to the European Commission, which is currently reviewing the ruling.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested: Misconduct Investigation Updates — what we know so far Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct, a significant event that has drawn considerable attention. The police operation, which is ongoing, involved a search of Royal Lodge, the royal residence where he currently resides. Authorities are investigating allegations related to the prince’s conduct, with a spokesperson confirming his release under investigation. Mountbatten-Windsor has not yet commented publicly on the situation, and further developments are expected as the investigation proceeds. Quick links: What we know so far | How UK outlets are framing the story | Additional…

European steel shipments to the US fell by 30% from June to December 2025, as announced by Eurofer Director General Axel Eggert. The decline highlights the impact of the US’s 50% tariffs on EU steel, creating urgent discussions regarding trade negotiations.

UN Special Rapporteur for the Palestinian territories Francesca Albanese stated she will not resign despite calls from France and Germany following her comments on Israel. Albanese asserts she has the full backing of the UN Human Rights Council and aims to redirect focus to her findings on state support for Israel.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the United States may withdraw from the International Energy Agency if it continues its pursuit of a net-zero emissions agenda by 2050, emphasizing the need for reforms focused on energy security amid current geopolitical challenges.

The European Commission has called an emergency Oil Coordination Group meeting following Hungary and Slovakia’s suspension of diesel supplies to Ukraine, intensifying tensions concerning the Russian Druzhba pipeline. This development is significant as it impacts energy security in the region.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested Amid Misconduct Allegations — what we know so far Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a development that has emerged in the context of ongoing scrutiny surrounding allegations related to Epstein. The arrest follows the King’s statement affirming that the law must take its course, signalling the seriousness with which the monarchy is addressing the situation. This incident adds to the mounting pressures faced by the royal family, which has become increasingly scrutinised in light of past controversies. The implications of this arrest may reverberate throughout the institution, as both public…

Avalanche Tragedy: 8 Skiers Dead in Lake Tahoe Incident, Updates Here — what we know so far Eight skiers were found dead following an avalanche in the Lake Tahoe area of California, with one individual still unaccounted for. The incident occurred on the morning of February 18, 2026, when a significant avalanche swept through a popular backcountry skiing location. Local authorities, including the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue team, have been involved in recovery efforts. The deceased individuals are believed to have strong ties to the Lake Tahoe community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support from residents. Search and…