BERLINER ZEITUNG: Die Spannungen zwischen den USA und dem Iran spitzen sich dramatisch zu. Israelische Regierungsstellen halten einen Krieg inzwischen für wahrscheinlicher als eine diplomatische Lösung.
Israelische Regierungs- und Sicherheitskreise gehen nach Berichten der Times of Israel und der Nachrichtenagentur Reuters davon aus, dass die diplomatischen Bemühungen zwischen den USA und Iran vor dem Scheitern stehen. Die Differenzen über Irans Atomprogramm und regionale Aktivitäten seien aus israelischer Sicht nicht mehr zu überbrücken, sagten mit den Planungen vertraute Quellen.
In Jerusalem werde deshalb verstärkt mit einer militärischen Eskalation gerechnet. Israel bereite sich demnach auf ein mögliches gemeinsames Vorgehen mit den Vereinigten Staaten vor. Eine Entscheidung über einen Angriff sei allerdings noch nicht gefallen, hieß es. » | Alexander Schmalz | Samstag, 21. Februar 2026
Saturday, February 21, 2026
Is Russia Getting Ready to Wage War on Europe?
Why People in Denmark Are Fed Up with Trump | Focus on Europe
The Danes are a great people. I stand by Denmark. Indeed, we Brits stand by Denmark. And as for Trump — al sane people are all fed up with him. — © Mark Alexander
Has Andrew's Downfall Damaged Queen Elizabeth’s Legacy? | Royal Documentary
Why Poland Is Becoming Europe’s New Superpower
Michael Lambert: Nobody Is Talking About This — But They Should Be
After a lifetime of good health, a recent seizure at 30,000 feet in the air forced me to confront something I had never really thought about before — I am getting old and will very probably need medical attention and possibly care?
When I looked at the UK Care sector two facts genuinely shocked me. There is a desperate shortage of care workers. The government's cancellation of the 'Care Worker Visa' means that no one from anywhere in the world can come to the UK to work in the care sector.
There are vacancies for 168,000 care workers in the UK. At the same time 84% of care homes are now privately owned, often by big American companies so that the generous profits earned by UK care homes are transferred abroad in the form of interest payments, directors' salaries and shareholder dividends.
This is not about politics alone. It is about the future for millions of families — including yours and mine. One day, many of us will depend entirely on the kindness and skill of strangers. The question is — will they be there? Who is going to do the caring?
When I looked at the UK Care sector two facts genuinely shocked me. There is a desperate shortage of care workers. The government's cancellation of the 'Care Worker Visa' means that no one from anywhere in the world can come to the UK to work in the care sector.
There are vacancies for 168,000 care workers in the UK. At the same time 84% of care homes are now privately owned, often by big American companies so that the generous profits earned by UK care homes are transferred abroad in the form of interest payments, directors' salaries and shareholder dividends.
This is not about politics alone. It is about the future for millions of families — including yours and mine. One day, many of us will depend entirely on the kindness and skill of strangers. The question is — will they be there? Who is going to do the caring?
Bishop of Lincoln Arrested on Suspicion of Sexual Assault
THE GUARDIAN: Church suspends Stephen Conway as police investigate claim man was sexually assaulted between 2018 and 2025
The bishop of Lincoln has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.
Lincolnshire police confirmed that a 68-year-old man was arrested as part of an “ongoing investigation following an allegation that a man was sexually assaulted between 2018 and 2025”.
The Right Rev Stephen Conway has been released on conditional bail. » | PA Media | Saturday, February 21, 2026
The bishop of Lincoln has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.
Lincolnshire police confirmed that a 68-year-old man was arrested as part of an “ongoing investigation following an allegation that a man was sexually assaulted between 2018 and 2025”.
The Right Rev Stephen Conway has been released on conditional bail. » | PA Media | Saturday, February 21, 2026
Weather Tracker: Heavy Snow Brings Transport Chaos to Romania
THE GUARDIAN: Winter storm dumps more than 40cm of snow on the capital, while in France, Storm Pedro follows hot of heels of Storm Nils
While the days are growing longer and meteorological spring is just a couple of weeks away, Romania remains firmly in the grip of winter.
A powerful storm brought blizzards and heavy snowfall across much of the south-east of the country, with the capital, Bucharest, receiving 40cm of snow – far exceeding the February average of 11cm.
Public transport was severely disrupted: international airports closed and trains were delayed by up to six hours. Motorway traffic was also disrupted and a number of main routes into Bucharest were shut because of snow. The situation was exacerbated as hundreds of trees and numerous power lines collapsed under the weight of the snowfall, leaving about 200,000 households without electricity. » | Nicholas Lee and Oliver Lewis for MetDesk | Friday, February 20, 2026
While the days are growing longer and meteorological spring is just a couple of weeks away, Romania remains firmly in the grip of winter.
A powerful storm brought blizzards and heavy snowfall across much of the south-east of the country, with the capital, Bucharest, receiving 40cm of snow – far exceeding the February average of 11cm.
Public transport was severely disrupted: international airports closed and trains were delayed by up to six hours. Motorway traffic was also disrupted and a number of main routes into Bucharest were shut because of snow. The situation was exacerbated as hundreds of trees and numerous power lines collapsed under the weight of the snowfall, leaving about 200,000 households without electricity. » | Nicholas Lee and Oliver Lewis for MetDesk | Friday, February 20, 2026
‘Don’t Go to the US – Not with Trump In Charge’: The UK Tourist with a Valid Visa Detained by ICE for Six Weeks
THE GUARDIAN: Karen Newton was in America on the trip of a lifetime when she was shackled, transported and held for weeks on end. With tourism to the US under increasing strain, she says, ‘If it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone’
When Karen Newton left home in late July 2025, she knew that international travellers were being locked up in immigration detention centres in the US. “I was aware,” she nods. “But I never thought it would have any impact on my holiday.” Karen, 65, had a British passport and a tourist visa. She hadn’t been abroad for eight years, and was keen for some guaranteed sun. “I really just wanted to get away from the house.”
She and her husband, Bill, 66, had an ambitious itinerary that would take them through California, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana and then on to Canada over two months. Las Vegas wasn’t to Karen’s taste: “Way too commercialised.” She much preferred Yellowstone, where they saw Old Faithful, the famous geyser, as it shot boiling water into the air, and got up close with some extraordinary wildlife. “There was a bison right next to the car. Another time, a wolf walked past.” Her eyes sparkle at the memory. “It was just amazing.”
The dream holiday ended abruptly on Friday 26 September, as Karen and Bill were trying to leave the US. When they crossed the border, Canadian officials told them they didn’t have the correct paperwork to bring the car with them. They were turned back to Montana on the American side – and to US border control officials. Bill’s US visa had expired; Karen’s had not.
“I worried then,” she says. “I was worried for him. I thought, well, at least I am here to support him.”
She didn’t know it at the time, but it was the beginning of an ordeal that would see Karen handcuffed, shackled and sleeping on the floor of a locked cell, before being driven for 12 hours through the night to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centre. Karen was incarcerated for a total of six weeks – even though she had been travelling with a valid visa. » | Jenny Kleeman | Saturday, February 21, 2026
When Karen Newton left home in late July 2025, she knew that international travellers were being locked up in immigration detention centres in the US. “I was aware,” she nods. “But I never thought it would have any impact on my holiday.” Karen, 65, had a British passport and a tourist visa. She hadn’t been abroad for eight years, and was keen for some guaranteed sun. “I really just wanted to get away from the house.”
She and her husband, Bill, 66, had an ambitious itinerary that would take them through California, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana and then on to Canada over two months. Las Vegas wasn’t to Karen’s taste: “Way too commercialised.” She much preferred Yellowstone, where they saw Old Faithful, the famous geyser, as it shot boiling water into the air, and got up close with some extraordinary wildlife. “There was a bison right next to the car. Another time, a wolf walked past.” Her eyes sparkle at the memory. “It was just amazing.”
The dream holiday ended abruptly on Friday 26 September, as Karen and Bill were trying to leave the US. When they crossed the border, Canadian officials told them they didn’t have the correct paperwork to bring the car with them. They were turned back to Montana on the American side – and to US border control officials. Bill’s US visa had expired; Karen’s had not.
“I worried then,” she says. “I was worried for him. I thought, well, at least I am here to support him.”
She didn’t know it at the time, but it was the beginning of an ordeal that would see Karen handcuffed, shackled and sleeping on the floor of a locked cell, before being driven for 12 hours through the night to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centre. Karen was incarcerated for a total of six weeks – even though she had been travelling with a valid visa. » | Jenny Kleeman | Saturday, February 21, 2026
A Tale of Two Brothers: Could the Andrew Crisis Bring Down King Charles?
THE GUARDIAN: Former prince’s arrest was most damaging event for the family firm in centuries – and the questions keep coming
London fashion week was probably the last public place King Charles III wanted to be on Thursday, admiring the suits and costumes that no one he knows would dream of buying, and making light conversation with designers he would have difficulty in recognising at a royal garden party.
Charles must have been contemplating the crumbling of all his plans and hopes for his reign. He always knew it would be short, even before his cancer diagnosis, but he probably never thought it would be upended by the alleged behaviour of his own brother.
Thursday was the most consequential and damaging day for the family firm in centuries, perhaps since the Glorious Revolution of 1688, or the capture of King Charles I in 1647 and his execution two years later. Certainly it is worse than Diana’s death and more threatening than the 1936 abdication crisis, because it undermines the institution itself. » | Stephen Bates | Friday, February 20, 2026
London fashion week was probably the last public place King Charles III wanted to be on Thursday, admiring the suits and costumes that no one he knows would dream of buying, and making light conversation with designers he would have difficulty in recognising at a royal garden party.
Charles must have been contemplating the crumbling of all his plans and hopes for his reign. He always knew it would be short, even before his cancer diagnosis, but he probably never thought it would be upended by the alleged behaviour of his own brother.
Thursday was the most consequential and damaging day for the family firm in centuries, perhaps since the Glorious Revolution of 1688, or the capture of King Charles I in 1647 and his execution two years later. Certainly it is worse than Diana’s death and more threatening than the 1936 abdication crisis, because it undermines the institution itself. » | Stephen Bates | Friday, February 20, 2026
Trump: Alternatives Will Be Used to Impose New Tariffs | DW News
Friday, February 20, 2026
Lawrence: Nothing Has Separated Voters from Trump More Than the Epstein ‘Cover-up’
The United Kingdom has F*** ALL in common with the United States of America. We Brits are Europeans — true Europeans, though many do not yet realise it.
Europeans are different in every way from Americans; therefore, our place is in Europe and our mission should be to make Europe strong, prosperous, free, and powerful. Europe should be not only able to defend itself but it should also be able to project its strength in the world, making others fear it, just like so many fear the might of the US.
This is not a pipedream; rather, it is, in fact, doable. We need to get to work on it. With despatch! — © Mark Alexander
Affaire Epstein : le gouvernement britannique envisage une loi afin de retirer l’ex-prince Andrew de l’ordre de succession au trône
LE FIGARO : Toute modification de l’ordre de succession nécessiterait des consultations et l’accord des autres pays dont le roi Charles, frère d’Andrew, est le chef d’État, a précisé un responsable britannique.
Le gouvernement du Royaume-Uni envisage de faire voter une nouvelle loi visant à retirer Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor de l’ordre de succession au trône royal britannique, en raison de ses liens avec Jeffrey Epstein, a indiqué vendredi auprès de Reuters un responsable britannique.
Toute modification de l’ordre de succession nécessiterait des consultations et l’accord des autres pays dont le roi Charles, frère d’Andrew, est le chef d’État, a précisé ce responsable, qui a requis l’anonymat. » | Par Le Figaro avec Reuters | vendredi 20 février 2026
Le gouvernement du Royaume-Uni envisage de faire voter une nouvelle loi visant à retirer Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor de l’ordre de succession au trône royal britannique, en raison de ses liens avec Jeffrey Epstein, a indiqué vendredi auprès de Reuters un responsable britannique.
Toute modification de l’ordre de succession nécessiterait des consultations et l’accord des autres pays dont le roi Charles, frère d’Andrew, est le chef d’État, a précisé ce responsable, qui a requis l’anonymat. » | Par Le Figaro avec Reuters | vendredi 20 février 2026
Un nuevo bloqueo de EE. UU. está sofocando a Cuba
THE NEW YORK TIMES: Un análisis de los movimientos de barcos muestra que el gobierno de Trump está consiguiendo aislar a la isla en uno de sus momentos más vulnerables.
Cuba se enfrenta al primer bloqueo efectivo de Estados Unidos desde la Crisis de los Misiles y se está quedando rápidamente sin combustible, lo que empuja a la nación hacia una crisis humanitaria y a su gobierno al borde del colapso, según un análisis de The New York Times de datos de transporte marítimo e imágenes de satélite.
Desde hace meses, los buques petroleros cubanos apenas han abandonado las costas de la isla. Los aliados ricos en petróleo han interrumpido los envíos o se han negado a acudir al rescate. El ejército estadounidense ha incautado barcos que apoyaban a Cuba. Y en los últimos días, los barcos que surcan el mar Caribe en busca de combustible para la isla se han quedado vacíos o han sido interceptados por las autoridades estadounidenses.
La semana pasada, un petrolero vinculado a Cuba quemó combustible durante cinco días para llegar al puerto de Curazao, pero luego partió sin carga, según datos de navegación e imágenes de satélite. Tres días después, los guardacostas estadounidenses interceptaron un petrolero lleno de combustóleo colombiano en ruta hacia Cuba que se había acercado a menos de 112 kilómetros de la isla, según mostraron los datos.
Aunque el presidente Donald Trump ha prometido detener cualquier envío de petróleo a Cuba, el gobierno de Estados Unidos se ha abstenido de calificar su política como un bloqueo. » | Jack Nicas and Christiaan Triebert | Jack Nicas informó desde Ciudad de México, y Christiaan Triebert desde Nueva York. | 20 de febrero de 2026
Read this article in English here.
Cuba se enfrenta al primer bloqueo efectivo de Estados Unidos desde la Crisis de los Misiles y se está quedando rápidamente sin combustible, lo que empuja a la nación hacia una crisis humanitaria y a su gobierno al borde del colapso, según un análisis de The New York Times de datos de transporte marítimo e imágenes de satélite.
Desde hace meses, los buques petroleros cubanos apenas han abandonado las costas de la isla. Los aliados ricos en petróleo han interrumpido los envíos o se han negado a acudir al rescate. El ejército estadounidense ha incautado barcos que apoyaban a Cuba. Y en los últimos días, los barcos que surcan el mar Caribe en busca de combustible para la isla se han quedado vacíos o han sido interceptados por las autoridades estadounidenses.
La semana pasada, un petrolero vinculado a Cuba quemó combustible durante cinco días para llegar al puerto de Curazao, pero luego partió sin carga, según datos de navegación e imágenes de satélite. Tres días después, los guardacostas estadounidenses interceptaron un petrolero lleno de combustóleo colombiano en ruta hacia Cuba que se había acercado a menos de 112 kilómetros de la isla, según mostraron los datos.
Aunque el presidente Donald Trump ha prometido detener cualquier envío de petróleo a Cuba, el gobierno de Estados Unidos se ha abstenido de calificar su política como un bloqueo. » | Jack Nicas and Christiaan Triebert | Jack Nicas informó desde Ciudad de México, y Christiaan Triebert desde Nueva York. | 20 de febrero de 2026
Read this article in English here.
Steve Schmidt: Trump’s “Peace” Ends in War
Trump’s so-called ‘Board of Peace’ should be renamed as Trump’s ‘Board of Fascists’! What a load of bollocks! What a f***ing disgrace these people are to the free world. Who is paying for Orbán's billion dollar membership fee, I wonder. Hungarian taxpayers, I suppose. Trump has turned a once, rules-based world upside down. The world has been poisoned by him. Can there really be a god that is both loving and omnipotent? It seems to me that the existence of such a god is impossible, given what is going on in Trump's dystopic world. — © Mark Alexander
Supreme Court Rules Trump's Tariffs Illegal
Feb 20, 2026 | The Supreme Court on Friday ruled that President Donald Trump violated federal law when he unilaterally imposed sweeping tariffs across the globe, a striking loss for the White House on an issue that has been central to the president’s foreign policy and economic agenda.
The decision is arguably the most important loss the second Trump administration has sustained at the conservative Supreme Court, which last year repeatedly sided with the president in a series of emergency rulings on immigration, the firing of the leaders of independent agencies and deep cuts to government spending.
The decision is arguably the most important loss the second Trump administration has sustained at the conservative Supreme Court, which last year repeatedly sided with the president in a series of emergency rulings on immigration, the firing of the leaders of independent agencies and deep cuts to government spending.
Inside Oklahoma: Welcome to the Most Conservative Bible State | ENDEVR Documentary
Jun 27, 2025 | Located in the heart of the Bible Belt, the most religious area of the United States, Oklahoma is considered to be among the most conservative states in America. Home to the highest number of prisoners sentenced to death in the country, Oklahoma also has some of the strictest abortion laws -and there are more women in prison here than anywhere else in the USA. Furthermore, a great deal of the residents in the state are sceptical of climate change – and they are mostly white, rural and Republican. It is also in Oklahoma, where you can buy a gun at the supermarket.
In the last Presidential election, Donald Trump acquired more than 90% of the votes in various counties in Oklahoma. Travelling across the state, we met a sheriff who calls himself the toughest in the state. For him, strict punishments are the only course of action, even for minor offences. We also followed anti-abortion activists, some of whom advocate the death penalty for women who have abortions, and who also campaign to ban books which promote the rights and representation of the Black or LGBTQ+ community.
We met with staff from the last clinic practicing abortion in Oklahoma – forced to close its doors following the latest anti-abortion laws after being open for fifty years. Now, women seeking an abortion have to drive hundreds of kilometres to neighbouring New Mexico, where it is still legal.
In the last Presidential election, Donald Trump acquired more than 90% of the votes in various counties in Oklahoma. Travelling across the state, we met a sheriff who calls himself the toughest in the state. For him, strict punishments are the only course of action, even for minor offences. We also followed anti-abortion activists, some of whom advocate the death penalty for women who have abortions, and who also campaign to ban books which promote the rights and representation of the Black or LGBTQ+ community.
We met with staff from the last clinic practicing abortion in Oklahoma – forced to close its doors following the latest anti-abortion laws after being open for fifty years. Now, women seeking an abortion have to drive hundreds of kilometres to neighbouring New Mexico, where it is still legal.
Hungry Man Kichen: Circassian Chicken Salad
April 22, 2921 | Circassian chicken or in Turkish "Çerkez Tavuğu" is a classic Circassian dish, adopted by the Ottoman - Turkish cuisine. The Circassians were tribal folk historically inhabiting the land separating the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Circassian chicken made its way into Turkish cuisine during the Ottoman period when the Ottoman Empire controlled much of this region.
Poached and shredded chicken served with a creamy and spicy walnut sauce, it was typically served as a main course, but it became also popular as an appetizer or meze served for feasts. It can be also a great alternative to chicken salad and delicious filling for the sandwiches.
Click here for the recipe, and then click on ‘more’.
HUNGRY MAN KITCHEN can be supported on Patreon here.
Poached and shredded chicken served with a creamy and spicy walnut sauce, it was typically served as a main course, but it became also popular as an appetizer or meze served for feasts. It can be also a great alternative to chicken salad and delicious filling for the sandwiches.
Click here for the recipe, and then click on ‘more’.
HUNGRY MAN KITCHEN can be supported on Patreon here.
Why Orbán’s Fall Looks Inevitable
Choqué, le regard fixe : les premières images de l’ex-prince Andrew à la sortie du commissariat
MADAME FIGARO : Le 19 février, la BBC a publié une photo d’Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor quittant un commissariat du Norfolk où il avait été détenu ce jour-là après son arrestation surprise dans le cadre de l’affaire Epstein.
l aura passé onze heures en détention. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor a été libéré le 19 février, jour de son 66e anniversaire mais aussi de son arrestation surprise en raison d’allégations de «faute dans l’exercice de fonctions officielles» dans le cadre de l’affaire Epstein. Après avoir été cueilli par la police britannique dans sa nouvelle résidence de Wood Farm, à Sandringham, le prince déchu a été retenu dans un commissariat du Norfolk situé non loin de là. La BBC l’a photographié à sa sortie, offrant une image saisissante. » | Par Camille Lamblaut | vendredi 20 février 2026
l aura passé onze heures en détention. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor a été libéré le 19 février, jour de son 66e anniversaire mais aussi de son arrestation surprise en raison d’allégations de «faute dans l’exercice de fonctions officielles» dans le cadre de l’affaire Epstein. Après avoir été cueilli par la police britannique dans sa nouvelle résidence de Wood Farm, à Sandringham, le prince déchu a été retenu dans un commissariat du Norfolk situé non loin de là. La BBC l’a photographié à sa sortie, offrant une image saisissante. » | Par Camille Lamblaut | vendredi 20 février 2026
China sendet Glückwünsche: Nordkorea erlebt seltenen Kongress der Staatspartei
BERLINER ZEITUNG: Auf dem Parteitag in Pjöngjang betont Nordkoreas Machthaber wirtschaftliche Ziele. Die Volksrepublik China sieht eine „neue historische Periode“ der engen Beziehungen zwischen beiden Ländern.
In Nordkoreas Hauptstadt Pjöngjang tagt seit Donnerstag der neunte Kongress der regierenden Partei der Arbeit Koreas. Es ist das erste Treffen dieser Art seit fünf Jahren. Der Parteitag soll über mehrere Tage grundlegende politische Leitlinien in den Bereichen Verteidigung, Diplomatie und Wirtschaft festlegen.
China reagierte umgehend mit einem Gratulationsschreiben des Zentralkomitees der Kommunistischen Partei. Darin beglückwünscht Peking der Arbeiterpartei Koreas dazu, die nordkoreanische Wirtschaft entwickelt und die Lebensbedingungen der Bevölkerung verbessert zu haben und wünscht dem Volk des Nachbarlandes „anhaltenden Erfolg beim sozialistischen Aufbau“, wie die staatliche Nachrichtenagentur Xinhua berichtete. » | Peter Steiniger | Freitah, 20. Februar 2026
In Nordkoreas Hauptstadt Pjöngjang tagt seit Donnerstag der neunte Kongress der regierenden Partei der Arbeit Koreas. Es ist das erste Treffen dieser Art seit fünf Jahren. Der Parteitag soll über mehrere Tage grundlegende politische Leitlinien in den Bereichen Verteidigung, Diplomatie und Wirtschaft festlegen.
China reagierte umgehend mit einem Gratulationsschreiben des Zentralkomitees der Kommunistischen Partei. Darin beglückwünscht Peking der Arbeiterpartei Koreas dazu, die nordkoreanische Wirtschaft entwickelt und die Lebensbedingungen der Bevölkerung verbessert zu haben und wünscht dem Volk des Nachbarlandes „anhaltenden Erfolg beim sozialistischen Aufbau“, wie die staatliche Nachrichtenagentur Xinhua berichtete. » | Peter Steiniger | Freitah, 20. Februar 2026
Trump’s Claims of Imminent Threat from Iran Are ‘Bogus’ Says Former Ambassador
Feb 20, 2026 | “The danger is that the United States will try to spin a bogus narrative that Iran is contemplating an attack on its neighbours or countries further afield.”
There is “no case to make” that there’s an imminent and real threat to the US from Iran, says Sir Richard Dalton, former UK ambassador to Iran.
This very knowledgeable gentleman speaks such good sense. It is so refreshing to listen to his words of wisdom. — © Mark Alexander
There is “no case to make” that there’s an imminent and real threat to the US from Iran, says Sir Richard Dalton, former UK ambassador to Iran.
This very knowledgeable gentleman speaks such good sense. It is so refreshing to listen to his words of wisdom. — © Mark Alexander
Trump Will Unleash ‘Biggest Show of Force in a Generation’ on Iran | Hamish de-Bretton Gordon
Is Graham Out of His Mind? Imperial US Is an Ally No More!
Feb 19, 2026 | Silicon Bites Ep288 | 2026-02-18 | All the evidence points to the U.S. no longer being an ally of Europe. But it’s not a neutral or indifferent stance. It’s actively malicious, meddling, malignant and intentionally destabilising. The evidence is all around, and yet Rubio still got a standing ovation at the MSC. Could there be any greater show of craven weakness and appeasement to an increasingly tyrannical, capricious and imperial U.S.?!
This episode: the Munich Meltdown and the “Kremlin Vassal” Tour, of Hungary and Slovakia: Graham’s unseemly tantrum, Rubio’s weasel words, and the Geneva so-called ‘peace conference’ squeeze on Ukraine. The U.S. is being unfair to Ukraine, and to everyone, except Vladimir Putin and his client states. Isn’t this clear to everyone yet?
This episode: the Munich Meltdown and the “Kremlin Vassal” Tour, of Hungary and Slovakia: Graham’s unseemly tantrum, Rubio’s weasel words, and the Geneva so-called ‘peace conference’ squeeze on Ukraine. The U.S. is being unfair to Ukraine, and to everyone, except Vladimir Putin and his client states. Isn’t this clear to everyone yet?
Lawrence: Trump Thinks the Arrest of Epstein-linked Ex-Prince Andrew Is 'A Very Sad Thing'
Former Prince Andrew 'Released Under Investigation' - What Happens Next? | DW News
Affaire Epstein : une crise inédite qui menace l’image et la modernisation de la couronne britannique
LE FIGARO : DÉCRYPTAGE - Les digues élevées par Charles III ces dernières années autour de l’ex-prince Andrew n’ont pas suffi, et la tournure policière de l’affaire plonge la monarchie dans l’inconnu.
Nombre de Britanniques se disent qu’il vaut mieux que la reine Elizabeth II n’ait pas assisté à cela de son vivant. Son « fils préféré », le frère du roi, embarqué par la police comme un vulgaire malfrat. Pour celle qui était si soucieuse de l’image de la Couronne, le choc eut été immense. Comme il l’est aujourd’hui dans le royaume, avec ce qui est déjà un événement historique : la première arrestation d’un membre de la famille royale de l’époque moderne, la première depuis le XVIIe siècle, note la presse.
Depuis des mois, des années même, Charles III s’évertue à circonscrire et à contenir le problème Andrew. Isolé du cercle familial, interdit de rôles officiels, déchu de tous ses titres en octobre dernier - une mesure exceptionnelle -, obligé de quitter sa demeure du domaine de Windsor… La réponse a été graduelle. Las ! rien n’y fait, les digues érigées par le roi n’ont pas tenu. Quand, la semaine dernière, le souverain s’est dit prêt à collaborer avec la police sur les affaires touchant son frère, l’opinion a compris que l’on avait franchi un nouveau seuil. Le communiqué de Buckingham ressemblait à un message, dicté par l’impuissance et disant en substance : « Prenez-le, il est à vous… » » | Par Arnaud De La Grange, correspondant à Londres | jeudi 19 février 2026
Réservé aux abonnés
Nombre de Britanniques se disent qu’il vaut mieux que la reine Elizabeth II n’ait pas assisté à cela de son vivant. Son « fils préféré », le frère du roi, embarqué par la police comme un vulgaire malfrat. Pour celle qui était si soucieuse de l’image de la Couronne, le choc eut été immense. Comme il l’est aujourd’hui dans le royaume, avec ce qui est déjà un événement historique : la première arrestation d’un membre de la famille royale de l’époque moderne, la première depuis le XVIIe siècle, note la presse.
Depuis des mois, des années même, Charles III s’évertue à circonscrire et à contenir le problème Andrew. Isolé du cercle familial, interdit de rôles officiels, déchu de tous ses titres en octobre dernier - une mesure exceptionnelle -, obligé de quitter sa demeure du domaine de Windsor… La réponse a été graduelle. Las ! rien n’y fait, les digues érigées par le roi n’ont pas tenu. Quand, la semaine dernière, le souverain s’est dit prêt à collaborer avec la police sur les affaires touchant son frère, l’opinion a compris que l’on avait franchi un nouveau seuil. Le communiqué de Buckingham ressemblait à un message, dicté par l’impuissance et disant en substance : « Prenez-le, il est à vous… » » | Par Arnaud De La Grange, correspondant à Londres | jeudi 19 février 2026
Réservé aux abonnés
Andrew Arrested - 'Trump Should Be Concerned' Says Prof. David Cay Johnston
King's Brother Arrested for Misconduct in Public Office for Sharing Documents with Jeffrey Epstein
ANTHONY DAVIS can be supported on Patreon here.
Former Prince Andrew’s Arrest Casts Shadow Over Royal Family
THE NEW YORK TIMES: The arrest of the former prince could shake public confidence in the monarchy.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s ties to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have cast a long shadow over the British monarchy, even as King Charles III has taken strong action recently against his younger brother.
The case has the potential to shake confidence in a central pillar of the British establishment.
On Thursday morning, Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested on suspicions of misconduct in public office amid reports that he had shared confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a British trade envoy. In response to the arrest, the king said that “the law must take its course.”
Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor was later released from police custody after 7 p.m. local time, but he remained under investigation, the Thames Valley Police said in a statement.
It has been hard lately for senior royals to ignore the swirling family drama. During a recent public appearance, King Charles was heckled by a bystander about the Epstein case, a rare occurrence for a monarch who is usually greeted by polite applause from flag-waving crowds.
Even thousands of miles from Britain, on a recent visit to Saudi Arabia, there was no escape for his son Prince William. He appeared to ignore a television reporter’s shouted question about whether the royal family had done enough about the revelations about Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s ties to Mr. Epstein.
A British anti-monarchy group, known as Republic, claimed credit on Thursday for the arrest of Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor, saying in a statement that it was in response to a crime report sent to police by the group’s chief executive officer, Graham Smith. » | Stephen Castle | Reporting from London | Thursday, February 19, 2026
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s ties to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have cast a long shadow over the British monarchy, even as King Charles III has taken strong action recently against his younger brother.
The case has the potential to shake confidence in a central pillar of the British establishment.
On Thursday morning, Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested on suspicions of misconduct in public office amid reports that he had shared confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a British trade envoy. In response to the arrest, the king said that “the law must take its course.”
Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor was later released from police custody after 7 p.m. local time, but he remained under investigation, the Thames Valley Police said in a statement.
It has been hard lately for senior royals to ignore the swirling family drama. During a recent public appearance, King Charles was heckled by a bystander about the Epstein case, a rare occurrence for a monarch who is usually greeted by polite applause from flag-waving crowds.
Even thousands of miles from Britain, on a recent visit to Saudi Arabia, there was no escape for his son Prince William. He appeared to ignore a television reporter’s shouted question about whether the royal family had done enough about the revelations about Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s ties to Mr. Epstein.
A British anti-monarchy group, known as Republic, claimed credit on Thursday for the arrest of Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor, saying in a statement that it was in response to a crime report sent to police by the group’s chief executive officer, Graham Smith. » | Stephen Castle | Reporting from London | Thursday, February 19, 2026
Thursday, February 19, 2026
What Happens to Andrew Mountbatter-Windsor Now?
Andrew Arrested Over Misconduct Relating to Epstein | DW News
DJ Khaled : Wild Thoughts (Official Video) ft. Rihanna, Bryson Tiller | Reupload
Steve Schmidt: The Epstein Class Is Finished
These bastards have got far, far too much money. Tax the f***ing bastards — “until the pips squeak”! These people can play so hard—and clearly often in illicit ways—only because they have f*** all to do with their time and far too much time to do it in! Our democratic leaders have allowed this SHIT to happen simply because they haven’t had the BALLS to do the right thing. Further, they haven’t wanted to upset these WANKERS because they have wanted lucrative positions after they have either left office or have been kicked out of office. Enough of this CRAP! — © Mark Alexander
Stripped of Finery, Detained by Police as an Ordinary Citizen: Now Andrew Enters a Whole New Era – and Britain Too
THE GUARDIAN — OPINION: What happens next hardly matters: the mystique and awe surrounding the royals had been irretrievably shattered. The former prince’s arrest must change everything
The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is a seismic moment for the royal family as well as for himself. On one hand, it is hard to believe any greater harm can befall the family after weeks of drip-feed from the US Department of Justice’s Epstein files. On the other, a royal arrest of this sort is unprecedented. Enough is already in the public domain to indicate that police believe that there must be a case to answer to the charge of misconduct in public office.
King Charles, who apparently was not warned in advance that his brother was to be arrested, has been scrupulous in his response. “The law must take its course,” he said, offering prosecutors “full and wholehearted support and cooperation”. Whatever happens now, a line has been crossed in the life of the nation. A once exalted royal, facing serious judicial investigation by authorities acting on behalf of the citizenry. Stripped of status and finery, he faces the spotlight as would any other inhabitant of these isles. One cannot know the outcome, but just this arrest feels like a pivotal moment. » | Simon Jenkins | Thursday, February 19, 2026
The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is a seismic moment for the royal family as well as for himself. On one hand, it is hard to believe any greater harm can befall the family after weeks of drip-feed from the US Department of Justice’s Epstein files. On the other, a royal arrest of this sort is unprecedented. Enough is already in the public domain to indicate that police believe that there must be a case to answer to the charge of misconduct in public office.
King Charles, who apparently was not warned in advance that his brother was to be arrested, has been scrupulous in his response. “The law must take its course,” he said, offering prosecutors “full and wholehearted support and cooperation”. Whatever happens now, a line has been crossed in the life of the nation. A once exalted royal, facing serious judicial investigation by authorities acting on behalf of the citizenry. Stripped of status and finery, he faces the spotlight as would any other inhabitant of these isles. One cannot know the outcome, but just this arrest feels like a pivotal moment. » | Simon Jenkins | Thursday, February 19, 2026
La Russie facilite les coupures d’internet et de téléphonie mobile pour le FSB
LE FIGARO : La Douma d’État, chambre basse du Parlement russe, a voté mardi une nouvelle loi permettant au service de renseignement intérieur de couper plus facilement les services de communication dans tout le pays, sans justification.
La Russie donne de nouveaux pouvoirs au Service fédéral de sécurité (FSB). La Douma d’État a adopté ce mardi un texte renforçant les prérogatives du renseignement intérieur russe en matière de coupure des communications. Selon l’agence officielle TASS, la nouvelle loi autorise les services à contraindre les opérateurs à interrompre leurs réseaux « dans les cas approuvés par le gouvernement ». » | Par Maxime Dubernet de Boscq | jeudi 19 février 2026
La Russie donne de nouveaux pouvoirs au Service fédéral de sécurité (FSB). La Douma d’État a adopté ce mardi un texte renforçant les prérogatives du renseignement intérieur russe en matière de coupure des communications. Selon l’agence officielle TASS, la nouvelle loi autorise les services à contraindre les opérateurs à interrompre leurs réseaux « dans les cas approuvés par le gouvernement ». » | Par Maxime Dubernet de Boscq | jeudi 19 février 2026
Duty to Ask: Andrew Has Been Arrested. Why Hasn’t Donald Trump?
‘These Billionaires Are Going to Learn…’: Bernie Sanders Fiery Speech in California | US News
Feb 19, 2026 | US News: In a fiery speech in Los Angeles on 18 February, the Vermont senator Bernie Sanders criticizes ‘grotesque’ levels of economic inequality. Billionaires are “treading on very, very thin ice,” He warned imploring California voters to fight “grotesque” levels of economic inequality by approving a proposed tax on the state’s richest residents.
The Vermont senator railed against the “greed”, “arrogance” and “moral turpitude” of the nation’s “ruling class”, calling it “fairly disgusting” that some ultra-wealthy tech leaders have fled California – or are threatening to do so, if the proposed wealth tax becomes law.
The Vermont senator railed against the “greed”, “arrogance” and “moral turpitude” of the nation’s “ruling class”, calling it “fairly disgusting” that some ultra-wealthy tech leaders have fled California – or are threatening to do so, if the proposed wealth tax becomes law.
‘You Talk Utter Sh*t!’ Piers Morgan Losis It Over Epstein Claims | “Royal Family Could Be Swept Out”
Feb 10, 2026 | The consequences of the Epstein Files contrast starkly in the UK and US. In Britain, the scandal threatens to end the career of Keir Starmer, who decided to make Peter Mandelson the UK ambassador to the United States - a man who chose to remain friends with Jeffrey Epstein and now faces a criminal investigation for leaking government secrets to him. As well as this, the Prince and Princess of Wales have finally spoken out again the former Prince Andrew.
Meanwhile, in America, multiple VIP men have been humbled and embarrassed by the latest tranche of documents, but none are being prosecuted or have even lost their jobs.
Piers Morgan discusses all the latest fallout with California congressman Rep. Ro Khanna before moving into debate with Andrew confidante Lady Victoria Hervey, Epstein victims attorney Spencer Kuvin, royal author and commentator Katie Nicholl and commentator and an editor at The New Statesman, Oli Dugmore.
Meanwhile, in America, multiple VIP men have been humbled and embarrassed by the latest tranche of documents, but none are being prosecuted or have even lost their jobs.
Piers Morgan discusses all the latest fallout with California congressman Rep. Ro Khanna before moving into debate with Andrew confidante Lady Victoria Hervey, Epstein victims attorney Spencer Kuvin, royal author and commentator Katie Nicholl and commentator and an editor at The New Statesman, Oli Dugmore.
Stasi Files: Inside East Germany’s Secret Police | SLICE | Full Documentary
Feb 18, 2026 | Five letters came to symbolize dictatorship, terror and mass surveillance: STASI. The Staatssicherheit, East Germany’s state security service, employed 100,000 people, relied on nearly 200,000 informants and operated across 16 regional offices with their own prisons, making it one of the largest secret police systems in the Soviet bloc. After the fall of the Berlin Wall more than 30 years ago, the Stasi disappeared, but it left behind 111 kilometres of files, 41 million record cards, 1.4 million photos and countless recordings, many saved from destruction by human rights activists.
Today, historians, journalists and victims continue to examine these archives, including 16,000 sacks filled with millions of torn documents now being reconstructed by hand and with specialized software. These records have revealed the recruitment of minors, the coercion of former Nazis, the use of psychological torture known as “Zersetzung,” and contingency plans for camps designed to detain 80,000 opponents within 24 hours. Through newly uncovered documents, expert analysis, interviews with former officers and testimonies from victims, this film explores the workings and legacy of the most effective secret service in the Communist bloc. It invites viewers to consider how confronting these archives shapes both personal memory and democratic accountability today.
Documentary: Stasi : A State Against Its People (2022)
Directed by: Barbara NECEK
Production: ET LA SUITE PRODUCTIONS
Today, historians, journalists and victims continue to examine these archives, including 16,000 sacks filled with millions of torn documents now being reconstructed by hand and with specialized software. These records have revealed the recruitment of minors, the coercion of former Nazis, the use of psychological torture known as “Zersetzung,” and contingency plans for camps designed to detain 80,000 opponents within 24 hours. Through newly uncovered documents, expert analysis, interviews with former officers and testimonies from victims, this film explores the workings and legacy of the most effective secret service in the Communist bloc. It invites viewers to consider how confronting these archives shapes both personal memory and democratic accountability today.
Documentary: Stasi : A State Against Its People (2022)
Directed by: Barbara NECEK
Production: ET LA SUITE PRODUCTIONS
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