World
✈️🇺🇸 US deports Palestinians to West Bank on private flights (0.87)🎁
The U.S. has deported Palestinian citizens to the West Bank using private charter flights owned by Trump associate Gil Dezer. Two flights organized by ICE took place in January and February 2026, carrying deportees, some of whom had legal residency in the U.S. The operation has raised significant human rights concerns, with critics highlighting the lack of transparency and accountability in the deportation process. Families have been fractured, as many deportees left behind partners and children in the U.S. read → 🎁 today's freebie
🏛️🇬🇧 UK transfers Chagos Islands to Mauritius with US backing (0.87)
The UK is set to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while leasing back the Diego Garcia military base for 99 years. US President Trump has expressed support for the agreement, which is crucial for military operations. However, the deal faces domestic criticism, particularly from the Conservative Party, over national security concerns. A draft law to ratify the agreement is currently progressing through Parliament. read →
🏛️ EU approves 20th sanctions package targeting Russia's oil and banking sectors (0.83)
The EU has approved its twentieth sanctions package against Russia, targeting the country's oil exports, banking system, and various goods. Key measures include a full ban on maritime services for Russian crude oil and restrictions on 43 additional vessels in Russia's shadow fleet. The package also aims to impose new import bans on metals and chemicals, with an expected economic impact exceeding €570 million. Meanwhile, the UK is considering military options to seize Russia-linked tankers, reflecting escalating tensions in the region. read →
🏛️ Trump imposes tariffs amid US–Iran nuclear talks (0.83)
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing 25% tariffs on countries trading with Iran, coinciding with ongoing nuclear negotiations in Oman. The US also announced new sanctions targeting 15 entities linked to Iran's oil trade. Iran rejected US demands for zero uranium enrichment, asserting its right to continue its nuclear program. Further talks are scheduled for next week as both sides seek to navigate the complex diplomatic landscape amidst rising tensions. read →
🏛️ US sets June deadline for Ukraine-Russia peace talks amid electoral pressures (0.83)
The US has set a June 2026 deadline for Ukraine and Russia to reach a peace agreement, with proposals for elections and a referendum in Ukraine by May. However, significant obstacles remain, particularly regarding territorial disputes in the Donbas region. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy emphasizes the need for security guarantees before any elections can take place. The urgency of the US push is influenced by upcoming congressional elections, which may shift focus away from international negotiations. read →
🏛️🤝 US and India unveil interim trade framework and lift tariffs (0.83)
The US and India have announced an interim trade framework that lowers tariffs and reshapes energy ties. President Trump lifted a 25% tariff on Indian goods, reducing it to 18% in exchange for India's commitment to cease Russian oil imports. India will purchase $500 billion in US goods over five years, including energy products and technology. The framework aims to deepen economic cooperation and is a step toward a broader bilateral trade agreement expected to be finalized in March. read →
⚡️🇺🇦 Massive Russian attack on Ukraine's energy grid causes widespread outages (0.73)
On 7 February 2026, Ukraine experienced a massive Russian attack on its energy infrastructure, leading to widespread power outages across most regions. The Ukrainian energy operator, Ukrenergo, reported that over 400 drones and 40 missiles targeted key facilities, prompting emergency shutdowns. In response, Ukraine has requested assistance from Poland, which has scrambled fighter jets and restricted airspace. President Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, calling for enhanced military support to protect against further strikes. read →
🏛️🇨🇦 France and Canada open consulates in Greenland amid US tensions (0.73)
On February 6, 2026, Canada and France opened consulates in Nuuk, Greenland, in a show of support amid US President Trump's aggressive rhetoric regarding the territory. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and French consul general Jean-Noël Poirier attended the ceremonies, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ties and Arctic security cooperation. Local leaders expressed appreciation for this international backing, viewing it as a victory for Greenland's autonomy. The consulates aim to enhance diplomatic relations and support Greenland's quest for greater independence. read →
🛰️⚔️ Starlink access restrictions disrupt Russian military communications (0.73)
Starlink access restrictions imposed by SpaceX have disrupted communications for Russian forces in Ukraine, leading to a reported slowdown in their military operations. Ukrainian officials noted that nearly 90% of Russian units lost communication capabilities, resulting in chaos and incidents of friendly fire. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry is urging rapid registration of Starlink terminals to maintain operational effectiveness. While the immediate impact favors Ukraine, analysts warn that Russia may seek alternative communication methods. read →
France
✈️⚖️ New decree complicates airline dispute resolution for passengers (0.92)
A new decree in France, effective 7 February 2025, complicates the process for airline passengers seeking compensation for delays or cancellations. Passengers must now undergo mandatory mediation before taking legal action, extending response times and introducing bailiff fees of €150 to €250. Consumer groups argue this undermines EU regulations and limits access to justice, with plans to challenge the decree in court. The changes are expected to deter many from pursuing legitimate claims. read →
🌍 Protests erupt across France against Duplomb law and pesticide reintroduction (0.83)
Protests are scheduled across France on February 7 and 8, 2026, organized by over 80 groups opposing the Duplomb law and the reintroduction of acetamiprid, a harmful pesticide. The Nourrir collective, which includes Greenpeace and Oxfam, has mobilized against what they see as neglect of public interest in agricultural policies. A petition against the law has gathered over 2.1 million signatures, reflecting significant public opposition. A rally in Paris will coincide with a parliamentary debate on the law, which critics argue fails to address key issues in agriculture. read →
🏛️ Mayors call for legislative change on marriage officiation under OQTF (0.83)
The Association of Mayors of France (AMF) is urging the government to amend legislation regarding marriage officiation obligations, following a legal dispute in Chessy. Mayor Olivier Bourjot has faced fines for refusing to officiate a marriage involving a man previously under an order to leave France (OQTF). The Meaux court has mandated that he publish the marriage banns within 24 hours. AMF president David Lisnard emphasized the need for clear legal guidelines to assist mayors in similar situations, as previous parliamentary initiatives have not been adopted. read →
⚖️💼 Investigation into Jack and Caroline Lang over Epstein ties (0.83)
The Parquet national financier (PNF) has launched an investigation into Jack and Caroline Lang for aggravated tax fraud and money laundering linked to an offshore company associated with Jeffrey Epstein. The inquiry follows revelations from Mediapart and a complaint filed by the anti-corruption group AC!!. Jack Lang has been summoned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to explain his connections to Epstein, while both he and Caroline Lang maintain their innocence regarding any wrongdoing. No evidence has yet been found linking them to Epstein's criminal activities. read →
Spain
🌧️🏛️ Andalusia faces severe storm damage, seeks urgent aid from state and EU (0.92)
Andalusia is facing a severe crisis due to storms 'Leonardo' and 'Marta', with over 11,000 people evacuated and damage estimates exceeding €500 million. President Juanma Moreno has requested urgent financial assistance from the Spanish government and the EU to address the extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture. The situation remains critical as new storms threaten to exacerbate flooding risks, prompting ongoing emergency measures and calls for public caution. read →
🏛️⚖️ Castilla-La Mancha statute reform faces deadlock amid political tensions (0.83)
The reform of Castilla-La Mancha's Statute of Autonomy is stalled due to 97 amendments and a breakdown in consensus between PSOE and PP. Key issues include the proposed reduction of regional deputies from 55 to 35, with Vox challenging social rights and advocating for a more centralized governance model. In contrast, PSOE aims to strengthen protections for LGTBI+ rights and gender-based violence. The ongoing debate reflects significant political tensions and differing visions for the region's governance. read →
⚖️ Móstoles harassment case escalates amid political turmoil (0.77)
The political situation in Móstoles is deteriorating as former councillor accuses Mayor Manuel Bautista of harassment and files a legal complaint. The case involves allegations of email hacking linked to her harassment claims, which a judge previously dismissed. Meanwhile, Vox has called for Bautista's resignation, marking a significant shift in political alliances. Ana Millán, a key figure in the PP, is also under investigation for maladministration, raising further concerns about the party's integrity. read →
🏛️ ETA prisoners granted semi-freedom privileges amid victim backlash (0.69)
The granting of semi-freedom privileges to ETA leader Garikoitz Aspiazu Rubina, alias 'Txeroki', has sparked outrage among victims' associations. Since the Basque Government took over prison powers in 2021, around thirty ETA prisoners have received similar benefits under Article 100.2 of the Prison Regulations. Victims' groups criticize these measures as favoritism and a betrayal of justice, demanding greater transparency from the government regarding prisoner benefits. Legal experts note that while Txeroki's case allows for semi-freedom, it still requires judicial approval. read →
🏛️📱 Sánchez proposes crackdown on social media platforms (0.69)
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a series of measures targeting social media platforms, including a ban on access for users under 16 and potential criminal liability for tech CEOs who fail to remove illegal content. The proposals, presented during a campaign rally, aim to combat hate speech and protect minors online. However, concerns have been raised about potential conflicts with the EU Digital Services Act. Sánchez's initiative reflects a broader strategy to mobilize support ahead of upcoming elections. read →
🏦📉 Spain's mortgage market shifts focus to high-quality customers (0.56)
Spain's mortgage market is shifting focus towards high-quality customers, with average rates at 2.61%, among the lowest in Europe. Following a Supreme Court ruling on abusive mortgage fees, banks are expected to face increased claims. As competition cools, banks are targeting individuals earning over €4,000 monthly, making expert advice crucial for those outside this profile. read →