Europe

Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez reaffirmed Madrid's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty during an emergency meeting with European leaders, while opposing the deployment of troops as long as the conflict continues. Sánchez emphasized the importance of discussing independence and peace in Ukraine for the security of Europe, calling for common mechanisms within the European Union to enhance security and defense capacities. Meanwhile, US President Trump criticized Ukrainian leader Zelensky on social media, warning him about Russian influence in negotiations to end the war. Full Article

Police have confirmed that the man suspected of shooting a woman outside a Kent pub on Valentine’s Day has died after falling into the Thames. The victim, Lisa Smith, was killed in Knockholt, and the suspect, named as Edvard Stockings or Smith, is believed to have fallen from the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge 17 miles away. Despite multiple searches, his body has not been recovered, and investigations are ongoing to assist the coroner. Full Article

In "To Kill a Mockingbird," Harper Lee delves into themes of racism and justice in the American South of the 1930s, challenging readers to confront prejudices and ethical dilemmas. Set against the backdrop of the Jim Crow era, the novel explores the societal hierarchies and racial divisions that shaped the characters' moral struggles. Through the experiences of Scout and Jem Finch, the impact of racism on innocence and the importance of standing against discrimination are vividly portrayed, prompting reflection on societal values and the ongoing quest for equality. Full Article

Sir Keir Starmer has supported Volodymyr Zelensky as Ukraine's democratically elected leader, in response to Donald Trump's claims that he is a dictator and called for elections in Ukraine. The UK Prime Minister also expressed his understanding of suspending elections during wartime, citing the UK's actions during World War Two. Mr. Zelensky, elected in 2019, faced criticism from Mr. Trump for allegedly starting the conflict with Russia and having a low approval rating, leading to a response from the Ukrainian leader calling out the misinformation. Full Article

NASA has assigned the asteroid "2024 YR4" a 3.1% impact probability for 2032, the highest ever recorded for a near-Earth object, posing a "city killer" risk. With a diameter of 40-100 meters, the asteroid could unleash 8 megatons of energy upon impact, but humanity has deflection strategies in place, including kinetic impact, to potentially alter its trajectory and mitigate the threat. The Space Mission Planning Advisory Group will reconvene in 2025 to assess the situation and recommend concrete actions if necessary, marking a potential real-world test of asteroid deflection on a threatening scale. Full Article

The Food Standards Agency has issued a warning to pet owners regarding a certain brand of bone chews linked to severe symptoms in dogs, including "werewolf syndrome", which can lead to sudden behavior changes, aggression, and even death. The company Barkoo's chew bones have been associated with these symptoms, with a reported death in the Netherlands, but there has been no confirmed distribution of the products in the UK. While there is no evidence of risk to human health, dog owners are advised to avoid feeding their pets these chews as a precaution, especially if purchased online from international sellers....

Energy infrastructure companies in the UK have reportedly accumulated nearly £4bn in excess profits over the last four years, according to analysis by Citizens Advice. The consumer charity has assisted nearly 700,000 individuals struggling with utility bills, with over five million households in debt to their suppliers due to increased energy costs following the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Energy network companies, which are monopolies regulated by Ofgem, have allegedly profited from high inflation and the cost-of-living crisis by setting network charges that make up around 25% of a typical fuel bill, covering the costs of maintaining and operating crucial infrastructure. Full Article

The United Nations supports social justice through addressing economic inequality, access to education and healthcare, and protecting human rights to create a world where everyone can thrive. The UN focuses on marginalized and vulnerable communities, emphasizing equity, solidarity, and human rights, as part of the World Day of Social Justice. Promoting decent work, advancing gender equality, ensuring access to education, and protecting human rights are key components of the UN's mission to promote social justice worldwide. Full Article

British journalist Charlotte Peet, 32, has been missing in Brazil for nearly two weeks, last seen in Rio de Janeiro on 8 February. Peet, a freelancer for The Times and Al Jazeera, reportedly planned to travel from Sao Paulo to Rio before her disappearance. Local authorities are conducting an investigation, led by the 5th Missing Persons Division of Sao Paulo’s State Department of Homicides And Personal Protection, to locate the missing journalist. Full Article

A mother-of-two from Godstone, Surrey, was forced to evacuate her home after a 65ft sinkhole opened on her doorstep, causing "utter panic" as she fled with her family in the middle of the night. Noosh Miri described the terrifying experience of hearing a waterfall-like sound as she ran out of her house, with fears of an explosion from exposed cables prompting a major incident declaration by Surrey County Council. Up to 30 homes have been evacuated, and Ms Miri expects to be away from her home for several months while staying in temporary accommodation. Full Article