Three years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the conflict has become Europe’s largest since WWII, with massive casualties and destruction. Despite initial isolation, Russia is now negotiating with the U.S., as President Trump reversed U.S. policy by engaging with Putin. Trump indicated willingness to discuss Ukraine’s NATO membership, aligning with Russia’s demands, and mentioned involving Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in future talks. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 4:00 pm
Germany’s Federal Court of Justice ruled that Birkenstock sandals are not “works of applied art” and thus not eligible for copyright protection. Birkenstock had sued three competitors for selling similar sandals, claiming their designs were art and should be protected. Initially, a regional court agreed, but a higher court overturned this, stating the sandals lacked artistic achievement. The Federal Court upheld this decision, emphasizing that design must surpass technical constraints to qualify for copyright. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 4:00 pm
Macron hoped for European support for French-led peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, but Moscow rejected the idea. UK’s Starmer initially supported it but later admitted it lacked credibility without US backing, which was ruled out by Defense Secretary Hegseth. Germany’s Scholtz deemed the discussion premature, and Poland’s Tusk ruled out sending Polish troops, offering only logistical support. Macron emphasized strengthening European military forces and industries, advocating for an integrated European defense system beyond mere spending debates. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 4:00 pm
A Dutch court sentenced four men to 25 years for the “honor killing” of Roshin, a 28-year-old woman stabbed 28 times by her brother, Peshang A., in front of her daughter in Apeldoorn. The court found that the men conspired to kill her for violating family honor after she divorced and started a new relationship. The men must also pay $73,000 to the daughter. “Honor killings” are prevalent in Pakistan, where societal norms often restrict women’s choices. Noah Prescott 20/02/2025 4:00 pm
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attended a G20 meeting in South Africa, focusing on Ukraine support, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio absent due to tensions with South Africa. Lavrov’s visit followed U.S.-Russia talks on the Ukraine war, excluding European allies and Ukraine. President Trump criticized Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy and wrongly blamed Ukraine for the war. The U.S. is represented by Acting Ambassador Dana Brown. The G20 includes 19 major economies and the EU. Noah Prescott 20/02/2025 4:00 pm
German voters will elect a new parliament on Sunday, influencing the country’s governance for the next four years. As Europe’s largest economy and a key NATO member, Germany plays a crucial role in the EU and global politics, especially as the second-largest weapons supplier to Ukraine. Polls open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with postal ballots due by closing. Exit polls and vote counting will start immediately, with results expected early Monday. Ava Sinclair 20/02/2025 12:30 pm
India’s ruling Hindu nationalist party appointed Rekha Gupta as New Delhi’s chief minister, marking a significant political shift after winning local elections. Gupta, a former student leader, is the fourth female chief minister in Delhi and faces challenges like pollution and infrastructure. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured 48 out of 70 seats, ending a 27-year gap in leadership. Gupta aims to improve schools, healthcare, and support for poor women. Her appointment highlights the rarity of women in top political roles, with India aiming for 33% female legislative representation by 2029. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 9:00 am
Israel prepared for the return of the bodies of infant Kfir Bibas and his brother Ariel, the youngest captives taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Their bodies, along with their mother Shiri Bibas and Oded Lifschitz, were to be handed over under a Gaza ceasefire agreement. Prime Minister Netanyahu called it a “very difficult day” for Israel. Hundreds gathered in Khan Younis, Gaza, for the handover. Hamas claimed the Bibas family was killed in an Israeli airstrike, but their deaths were unconfirmed, leaving some hopeful they were alive. Noah Prescott 20/02/2025 9:00 am
The Indian embassy in Panama has confirmed the safety of Indian deportees held in a hotel after being deported by the US. The embassy has consular access and is working with Panamanian authorities to ensure their well-being. The deportees, from various Asian countries, were sent to Panama as the US faces challenges deporting directly to some nations. Panama is coordinating their repatriation, with some migrants awaiting further travel arrangements. The situation follows a US deportation drive under President Trump, with Panama serving as a transit point. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 9:00 am
Pope Francis is hospitalized with pneumonia, raising global alert for a potential papal death. Despite his health issues, he has planned a simplified funeral. Upon his death, a series of traditional Vatican events will unfold, including the camerlengo confirming his death and the destruction of his signet ring. This will lead to a nine-day mourning period, the Novendiale, and eventually, the election of a new pope. The process, steeped in tradition, involves progressive and conservative cardinals vying for leadership of the Catholic Church, which has a billion followers worldwide. Noah Prescott 20/02/2025 9:00 am
