Russia and Ukraine conduct prisoner swap of under 25s

The EU is missing out on big opportunities in the Arctic—like cheaper shipping routes—because of sanctions against Russia. The Northern Sea Route could cut logistics costs significantly, but geopolitical tensions are scaring off major players, leaving the EU on the sidelines.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about trade routes—it’s a real-world example of how sanctions can backfire in unexpected ways. The Arctic is becoming a strategic hotspot, and if the EU can’t engage, it risks losing influence (and savings) to other global players willing to navigate the risks.

Starting Monday, the Trump administration will enforce a controversial travel ban affecting citizens from several predominantly Muslim countries. The policy, which has faced legal challenges and protests, restricts entry for travelers from Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Critics argue it unfairly targets Muslims, while supporters claim it’s a necessary security measure. The Supreme Court recently allowed a limited version of the ban to proceed while legal battles continue.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about airport delays or paperwork—it’s a heated debate over national security, religious discrimination, and presidential authority. Families could be separated, businesses might lose talent, and America’s global reputation hangs in the balance. Whether you see it as protection or prejudice, the ban’s ripple effects will be felt far beyond Monday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is highlighting the BRICS alliance (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) as a model for collaboration without external pressure, calling it a "dictate-free" partnership. He emphasized the group’s focus on equality and mutual benefit, framing it as an alternative to Western-dominated systems.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just diplomatic fluff—Putin’s comments reinforce BRICS’ growing role as a counterbalance to traditional Western alliances. With tensions high over Ukraine and global trade, the group’s cohesion (or lack thereof) could shape everything from energy markets to currency systems. It’s a subtle flex about Russia’s non-isolation, but also a nod to the broader shift in global power dynamics.

Wazahat Khan Qadri, the man who previously filed a complaint against Instagram influencer Sharmistha Panoli, has now been arrested by Kolkata Police. The arrest follows FIRs (police complaints) lodged by BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul and Sanjukta Samanta, accusing Qadri of making communal remarks on social media. Qadri faces multiple complaints, including one with the cyber cell, while his father insists the arrest is politically motivated and denies any religious bias.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another social media spat—it’s a high-stakes clash involving free speech, legal action, and political undertones. With both sides accusing each other of bias, the case highlights how online disputes can quickly escalate into real-world consequences, especially when politics and religion enter the mix. It also raises questions about how authorities handle hate speech complaints and whether the process is being weaponized.

A bizarre and alarming scene unfolded at London's Heathrow Airport when a man was filmed sprinting across the tarmac, dodging airport staff in a chaotic chase near active runways. Eyewitness footage captures the tense moments as security personnel try to apprehend him, raising serious safety concerns.

Editor’s Note: Airports are supposed to be tightly controlled spaces, so a breach like this isn’t just strange—it’s a major red flag. With runways full of moving planes, even a single unauthorized person could lead to disaster. This incident will likely spark questions about Heathrow’s security protocols and whether enough is being done to prevent dangerous intrusions.