Trump-backed bill to avert government shutdown fails; dozens of Republicans vote No

In Afghanistan, a British couple in their 70s, Peter and Barbie Reynolds, were arrested by the Taliban while running training projects despite a ban on women working and education for girls over 12. Their daughter has not heard from them in over two weeks and is urging the Taliban to release them. The UK government is limited in its assistance as it does not recognize the Taliban, who have banned women from working for NGOs...

The Christian Democratic Union and the Christian Social Union won the largest share of votes in the German federal election, positioning Friedrich Merz as a potential successor to Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The CDU-CSU secured 28.5% of votes, with the AfD in second place at 20% and the SPD in third at 16.5%, according to ZDF exit polls. Smaller parties' performance will be crucial for coalition building and potential constitutional reforms in the incoming government. Full...

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah scored a goal and set up another in a win against Manchester City, extending their Premier League lead to 11 points. Andy Robertson praised Salah's performance, highlighting his goal, assist, and defensive work rate. Liverpool boss Arne Slot credited a set piece routine for Salah's goal, emphasizing the importance of solid defense in defeating City. Full Article

Over the weekend, Catholics in Buenos Aires gathered to pray for the recovery of Pope Francis, who remains in critical condition in a Rome hospital with a serious lung infection. The first Latin American pope in history, Francis, a native of Argentina, has received an outpouring of support from people of faith worldwide, with masses held in his honor across the country. Known for his focus on serving the vulnerable, Francis has touched the lives...

On February 24, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed willingness to step down if it meant Ukraine could join the NATO military alliance on the third anniversary of Russia's invasion. He stated during a press conference at the "Ukraine. The Year 2025" forum that he would leave his post immediately if it led to peace for Ukraine. Zelensky's offer to resign in exchange for NATO membership was made to prioritize Ukraine's security and stability. Full...

Israel sent tanks into the West Bank for the first time since 2002, with the military preparing for "an extended stay" to combat terrorism in refugee camps, particularly in Jenin. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered increased military activity to thwart terrorism and prevent the return of residents who have fled the territory, with troops expected to remain for at least a year. This move comes amid a fragile ceasefire...