Chinese Lunar New Year starts as millions celebrate the Year of the Snake

In Germany's election, opposition leader Friedrich Merz vows to revive the economy and defend Europe's interests, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes for a comeback. The campaign focuses on the economy and migration, with polls showing Merz's Union bloc leading over the far-right Alternative for Germany. Merz promises a strong voice for Germany in the EU, aiming to end the country's three years in opposition and make a comeback. Full Article

France's ambassador to the Philippines emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation exercises in the South China Sea amid rising tensions, as the nuclear-powered Charles De Gaulle made its first port visit to the country. The aircraft carrier strike group conducted drills with the Philippine Navy to enhance interoperability and defense capabilities in the disputed waterway, signaling support for countries upholding international law and freedom of navigation. The visit comes as the Philippines seeks to...

Last August in Lorain, Ohio, a standoff began when police arrested a man suspected of hiding drugs in his body, leading to a dispute over a court-ordered body cavity search at a local hospital. The hospital refused, citing safety and ethical concerns, resulting in criminal charges, the dismantling of the hospital's police force, and a lawsuit against authorities. The incident highlights the tension between police and healthcare workers when forced to perform procedures that challenge...

The latest finance ministry annual report revealed that USAID funded seven projects worth $750 million in India during the fiscal year 2024, with no mention of alleged funds for voter turnout. The report detailed projects in agriculture, water, sanitation, renewable energy, disaster management, health, forests, and climate adaptation. A political controversy arose when the Elon Musk-led DOGE claimed to have revoked a $21 million grant for voter turnout, with US President Donald Trump also making...

Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, although not everyone starts their morning with it. Despite some people preferring more time before eating or feeling rushed, breakfast has been linked to better health, attentiveness, and weight management. Additionally, breakfast is believed to be crucial for athletic performance, with breakfast eaters reported to have more stamina than those who skip breakfast. Full Article

Thieves target eastbound BNSF freight trains in California and Arizona, stealing Nike sneakers worth nearly $2 million by slashing air brake hoses and unloading goods in remote areas. Transnational criminal groups are suspected, with thefts linked to valuable new releases like Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4s. Investigators make arrests following thefts, recovering stolen merchandise and charging individuals, many of whom are Mexican citizens in the U.S. illegally. Full Article