Author: Iris East

Jesse Jackson, Civil Rights Leader, Dies at 84: Tributes Pour In — what we know so far Rev. Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights activist and former presidential candidate, has passed away at the age of 84. Jackson, known for his powerful oratory and advocacy for social justice, played a crucial role in the civil rights movement, working alongside figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His efforts extended beyond civil rights; he was also a key figure in raising awareness about economic inequality and healthcare access in the United States. Tributes have been pouring in from political leaders…

US Ambassador to the EU Andrew Puzder praised Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s Munich Security Conference speech, calling it a positive step for the trans-Atlantic alliance. He noted significant European progress on migration policy alignment with the US, crucial amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.

Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne attended a eurozone meeting to address global macroeconomic imbalances, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to strengthening ties with the EU amid declining US relations. Discussions will continue at G7 and G20 meetings.

Romania’s Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare expressed strong support for proposed EU measures to enhance competitiveness and investment, including a two-speed union, during an informal EU summit. This push comes as Romania aims to improve its high budget deficit ahead of euro adoption.

A series of arrests related to the killing of 23-year-old Quentin Deranque in Lyon occurred on Tuesday evening, amidst a flood of conflicting narratives and misinformation surrounding alleged suspects, as authorities work to clarify the situation.

Four suspects have been arrested following the death of French far-right activist Quentin Deranque, who suffered a brain injury during a protest against MEP Rima Hassan, stated Lyon’s public prosecutor. Tensions rise ahead of municipal elections in March.

The United States’ Ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, met with the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs following his statement on antisemitism, prompting a strong rebuke from Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot over perceived interference in domestic affairs amid an ongoing investigation into unlawful circumcisions.

Finance ministers from eight European member states approved national defence investment plans worth €74 billion on February 17, 2026. A spokesperson for the Cypriot presidency stated this decision facilitates affordable loans under the EU’s Security Action for Europe scheme, which aims to enhance defence procurement.

The European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, will attend Trump’s Board of Peace meeting focusing on Gaza, but the European Commission remains cautious about membership due to concerns over governance, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

NATO chief Mark Rutte stated Europe must rely on the US for defence, prompting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to advocate for an independent Europe at the Munich Security Conference, referencing Article 42.7’s obligations for EU member assistance.