

More than 400 Russian operatives have been deployed to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on a mission from the Kremlin to assassinate President Volodymyr Zelensky as Russia wages war in the country, according to a report.

European plan to donate fighter jets to Ukraine collapses
The dissolution of the deal comes as European countries lined up Monday to announce new weapons packages for Ukraine, from anti-armor and anti-air rockets to artillery and medical supplies.


Ukraine pushes for cease-fire as fighting rages and sanctions hit Russia's economy
Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, came under heavy shelling from Russian forces Monday.


Russian artillery kills 70 Ukrainian soldiers at military base, official says: Feb. 28 recap
More than 70 Ukrainian soldiers were killed after Russian artillery hit a military base in Okhtyrka, a city between Kharkiv and Kyiv. More updates.
www.usatoday.com
DC Trucker Protest Fizzles as Organizer Revises Permit Numbers Down to Below 500 People
Mario TamaThe National Park Service approved a permit late Monday evening for a right-wing protest slated to occur in Washington, D.C. midday Tuesday ahead of President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address, according to documents reviewed by The Daily Beast. In the permit application—first...

McCarthy criticizes GOP members who spoke at white nationalist conference
House Republican leaders once again are struggling to contain the nativism and ties to white nationalism in their ranks as they eye taking over the chamber’s majority this year. Reps. Marjorie…


Manchin joins with Senate GOP to block bill guaranteeing abortion access
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) joined with Senate Republicans on Monday night to oppose legislation codifying the right to an abortion. Senators voted 46-48 to move the bill toward a deb…


Frustrated Putin may order escalation of violence in Ukraine, U.S. officials say
The U.S. has solid intelligence that Putin is directing unusual bursts of anger at people in his inner circle over the state of the military campaign, officials said.


Vacuum bombs, thermobaric rockets, and nukes: Putin’s devastating arsenal - Washington Examiner
Russia appears to be willing to bring several types of controversial weapons capable of creating mass casualties to the battlefield as it wages war in Ukraine, including nuclear weapons if events escalate. Cluster bombs were used Friday in an attack that destroyed a preschool, as reported by...


Anti-Trump Republicans struggle to plot path forward
Many participants at the Principles First summit Saturday and Sunday in Washington were in one way or another casualties of the MAGA movement.


Crypto will not save Russia from sanctions, experts say
Faced with the toughest economic sanctions ever imposed on a major power, Moscow has limited options to lessen the pain.

Russia's ruble worth less than 1 cent after West tightens sanctions
A sharp fall in Russia's currency could cause inflation in the country to surge and strain its financial system.

Scoop: Biden to deny executive privilege for Flynn and Navarro
President Biden will deny the shield of executive privilege for two top advisers to former President Donald Trump — his first national security adviser, Michael Flynn, and former trade adviser Peter Navarro — in the House select committee's Jan. 6 investigation, Axios has learned.Why it matters...

Signal says hacking reports part of ‘misinformation campaign’
Signal, the encrypted messaging app, said it has not been hacked and that reports that say otherwise are part of a “misinformation campaign.” In a statement, the company pointed to an increase…


State of the Union 2022: Everything you need to know
President Biden will deliver his first State of the Union address on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, amid tumultuous events at home and abroad, namely, the Russian military invasion of Ukraine.
House centrists: Tlaib State of the Union plan is like "keying your own car"
Centrist House Democrats are unloading on Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) for her plan to give a response to President Biden’s State of the Union address on Tuesday.“It’s like keying your own car and slashing your own tires,” Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) told Axios.Why it matters: The lawmaker's...

How much is Vladimir Putin worth? Almost no one knows for sure | CNN Business
The US and its European allies on Friday announced new sanctions on Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a rare move targeting a foreign leader’s personal wealth.

Chris Christie slams Trump over Putin “genius” comments
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie said in a tweet Monday that "history is watching" former President Donald Trump's praise of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Driving the news: Last week, Trump called Putin "very savvy" and a "genius" after he recognized two breakaway republics in...

Russia in ‘tremendous financial distress’ as stock markets shuttered - Washington Examiner
The Russian economy is reeling from the international sanctions levied in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. After initial rounds of sanctions late last week, the United States, the European Union, and other countries imposed several new measures designed to squeeze the Russian economy...


U.S. officials: Russian escalation in Ukraine could lead to humanitarian crisis
Over the last several days, as many as 520,000 people have fled Ukraine, according to the United Nations.


Five ways the Russian invasion of Ukraine could impact the US economy
The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the unprecedented sanctions imposed in response by the U.S. and western allies have rattled the global economy and financial markets. They’ve also upended …


Ukrainian forces need more weapons, ambassador warns senators
Ukrainian ambassador Oksana Markarova told a bipartisan group of senators Monday that her country needs more help from the United States and could run out of military supplies to fend off a Russian…


From soccer to iPhones to cats, here are some sanctions, bans and boycotts placed on Russia
Numerous government agencies and organizations across the world have placed restrictions on Russia in wake of their invasion of Ukraine.
www.usatoday.com

People around the world show support for Ukraine
Support for Ukraine is being shown around the world from businesses, sports leagues, and even rock bands calling to end the violence. NBC News’ Zinhle Essamuah reports on the millions expressing their solidarity with a nation fighting to survive.


Europeans open their hearts — and homes — for Ukrainian refugees
Unfortunately, ugly utterances in media and by some politicians highlight racist angle

Exclusive-U.S. set to announce increased staffing at Havana embassy to process visas-sources
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Biden administration is expected to announce as soon as this week a plan to beef up its skeletal staffing in the U.S. embassy in Havana to restore visa processing for Cubans that had been largely suspended since the Trump era, people familiar with the matter told...

President Biden’s approval rating sinks ahead of State of the Union
Preparations are underway for President Biden’s first State of the Union address with enhanced police presence out of an abundance of caution. NBC News’ Leigh Ann Caldwell reports from Capitol Hill on how Biden’s address comes as his approval ratings sink.


Law enforcement factors potential protests and unrest into State of the Union security precautions | CNN Politics
Law enforcement in Washington, DC, said Monday that the Russian invasion of Ukraine, potential protests of President Joe Biden and a possible trucker convoy headed to the Washington area are all factoring into a heightened security response for the State of the Union address Tuesday night.

Senate Republicans block abortion bill as Democrats harden stance on the issue
The Senate fails to advance a bill to legalize abortion nationwide.

The Trump factor to play heavily in midterm elections, political experts say
Chances are you’ve seen attack ads on repeat with the election being Tuesday. We wanted to take a look at the ‘Trump factor’ and if the weight of the former president could impact the outcome in some races.

Protests and panic as sanctions take toll in Russia
The Russian ruble has fallen to a record low and the Russian stock market is suspended all week amid fears it could crash.

Single women in Tunisia demand reproductive rights
A Tunisian singer's announcement that she would freeze her eggs in the hope of becoming a mother has provoked a heated debate on women's reproductive rights in the North African country.

Preventing future 'wrongs': new USDA equity panel looks to expand agriculture resources to minority communities
Blacks account for 1.4% of all U.S. farmers, according to the Census Bureau, a steep drop from 1920, when they accounted for about 14% of farmers.
www.usatoday.com

New York Republicans talk inclusion with a diverse slate at convention
Within the first few hours of the GOP’s gathering, a stand-out message was that New York Republicans are not the monolithic party of exclusion their Democratic counterparts paint them as.

Social video shows 'racist' taunts of Nevada governor, wife
Nevada’s governor and his wife were accosted during the weekend by two men who followed them out of a Las Vegas restaurant shouting profanities, taunts and anti-government statements in an incident posted on the internet. In a statement released Monday by his campaign for re-election, Gov...

NY Senate Dems to approve package of sexual harassment-related measures
ALBANY, N.Y. — Lawmakers plan to vote Tuesday on a host of measures that would shield survivors from retaliation, make state and all public employers subject to the Human Rights Law, and extend the statute of limitations for some discrimination claims. “It is the right of every New Yorker to be...
Democratic retirements spark worry over holding House majority
Data: House Press Gallery; Chart: Jacque Schrag/AxiosReps. Ted Deutch (D-Fla.) and Fred Keller (R-Pa.) are the latest lawmakers to announce that they won't seek re-election this year, bringing the total number of Democratic retirements to 31, compared with 15 Republicans.Why it matters: The...

GOP blocks House bill to ban race-based hair discrimination OK
The House fell short of passing legislation on Monday that would prohibit discrimination against people with hair styles associated with a particular race or national origin. Democrats set a vote o…

As other investors leave Russia, Alaska has no plans to sell its $210 million in assets
The Alaska Permanent Fund holds about $160 million in Russian stocks, bonds and other investments; other state accounts hold about $50 million more.

House passes bill making lynching a federal hate crime
The House passed legislation on Monday that would classify lynching as a federal hate crime.Lawmakers easily passed the bill, which is named after Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy wh…


Pennsylvania Republican bows out to avoid showdown against fellow House GOP lawmaker
Rep. Fred Keller had been set to face off against Rep. Dan Meuser because of redistricting.


Russian forces shell Ukraine's No. 2 city and menace Kyiv
Russian forces are shelling Ukraine’s second-largest city, rocking a residential neighborhood, and closing in on the capital, Kyiv, in a 40-mile convoy of hundreds of tanks and other vehicles.


UN climate report: 'Atlas of human suffering' worse, bigger
A new United Nations report on how climate change harms people and the environment reads like an atlas of human and planetary suffering.


'A new Europe' united against Russia — even neutral Switzerland
Germany, Switzerland and Sweden set aside historic nonaggression policies to join a united European front against Russia's invasion of Ukraine.


Live updates: Official: Artillery kills 70 Ukraine soldiers
A regional Ukraine official says more than 70 Ukrainian soldiers were killed after Russian artillery hit a military base in Okhtyrka, a city between Kharkiv and Kyiv.


One Putin move and behold: West's unity tightens overnight
Russian President Vladimir Putin has achieved in days what remained out of the grasp of the European Union for many years and decades.


Live coverage: Russian military convoy stretching 40 miles outside Kyiv
Delegations from Kyiv and the Kremlin met near the border between Ukraine and Belarus for peace talks on Monday, one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered his country’s nucl…


Putin’s Russiagate oligarch pals lose billions, beg for peace amid Ukraine invasion - Washington Examiner
Billionaire pals of Vladimir Putin, including a pair swept up in phony claims of 2016 Trump-Russia collusion, are calling for peace in Ukraine as sweeping U.S. and international sanctions in reaction to Russia's invasion threaten their fortunes. Mikhail Fridman, a co-founder of Russia’s Alfa...

Russia-Ukraine war live updates: Russia under war crimes investigation as peace talks stall
Peace talks ended Monday without a breakthrough.


Twitter to label all state-affiliated Russia media
The latest steps come as Russian disinformation spreads.

Greene and Gosar increasingly isolated in Hill GOP after speaking at white nationalist event
The House and Senate Republican leaders spoke out after the two conservatives attended a weekend conference organized by a far-right, pro-Russia fringe figure.

'Blood Red': How Lopsided New District Lines Are Deepening America's Divide
THE WOODLANDS, Texas — Rep. Dan Crenshaw was tagged as a rising Republican star almost from the moment of his first victory: A conservative, Harvard-educated, ex-Navy SEAL who lost his right eye in Afghanistan, he bucked the 2018 suburban revolt against Donald Trump to win a House seat in the...

Ukrainian intel suggests Belarus is prepared to join Russian invasion and US suspends operations at embassy | CNN Politics
A Ukrainian government official tells CNN that Ukrainian intelligence indicates Belarusian “readiness to maybe participate directly” in the invasion of Ukraine, “in addition to allowing Russians to use their territory as well as letting them cross the border.”


Russian artillery kills 70 Ukrainian soldiers at military base, official says: Feb. 28 recap
More than 70 Ukrainian soldiers were killed after Russian artillery hit a military base in Okhtyrka, a city between Kharkiv and Kyiv. More updates.
www.usatoday.com
Republican Lauren Boebert compares Ukraine to Canadian truckers’ convoy
Congresswoman says ‘our neighbors to the north need to be liberated’, prompting widespread condemnation Lauren Boebert said: ‘We have neighbors to the north who need freedom and you need to be liberated and we need that right here at home.’ Photograph: Bloomberg/Getty Images The Republican...

Multinationals flee Russia, punishing Moscow
Large multinational companies are fleeing Russia, joining a large swath of the international community in moving to isolate the nation in response to its brutal invasion of Ukraine. Oil …


'Escalate to de-escalate': Experts say Putin's strategy may be to get more aggressive in war on Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin might escalate his war on Ukraine further to get Ukrainian leaders and the West to capitulate to him, experts say.

Unprecedented Western sanctions strangling Russian economy
Financial sanctions imposed by the U.S. and Western allies are strangling the Russian economy.As Russian President Vladimir Putin wages war against Ukraine, his country’s economy has begun to colla…


Ukraine pushes for cease-fire as fighting rages and sanctions hit Russia's economy
Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, came under heavy shelling from Russian forces Monday.


US states adding to financial pressure on Russia over war
Governors and lawmakers in numerous U.S. states are seeking to add to the financial squeeze on Russia over its war against Ukraine.


U.S. expels 12 Russian diplomats at United Nations, citing "espionage activities"
A spokeswoman for the U.S. Mission to the United Nations said the action "has been in development for several months."

Why Russia is highly unlikely to use nuclear weapons - Washington Examiner
As Russia struggles to conquer Ukraine, Vladimir Putin has moved his strategic nuclear forces to a heightened alert posture.Satellite imagery also indicates that the Russian Northern Fleet has moved more ballistic missile submarines into Arctic and Barents sea patrol sectors. While U.S. nuclear...


Zelensky signs EU membership application
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday signed a membership application formally requesting that Ukraine join the European Union (EU) amid a Russian invasion of his country.Andriy Syb…


Ukraine pushes for cease-fire as fighting rages and sanctions hit Russia's economy
Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, came under heavy shelling from Russian forces Monday.


A free-for-all but no crippling cyberattacks in Ukraine war
Russia has some of the best hackers in the world, but in the early days of the war in Ukraine, its ability to create mayhem through malware hasn’t had much of a noticeable impact.


Judge rejects in-person public access to testimony in first Jan. 6 jury trial, cites COVID
Lawyers representing a coalition of media outlets said "constitutional requirements of openness and transparency are critical in any criminal trial."
www.usatoday.com

Biden: Public shouldn’t worry about nuclear war with Russia
President Biden said Monday he does not believe Americans have reason to be concerned about nuclear war amid tensions with Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.Biden responded to the question with a…


Russia-Ukraine war: What is Putin’s endgame?
The Russian president is facing an unexpected level of resistance, but is determined to continue on a belligerent path.
GOP lawsuit looks to throw out absentee voting in Arizona
The Arizona Republican Party is asking the state Supreme Court to strike down the vote-by-mail system used by 90% of voters in a battleground state that will be crucial to determining which party controls the U.S. Senate after the 2022 election. The lawsuit filed Friday argues absentee voting...

‘Yes, He Would’: Fiona Hill on Putin and Nukes
Putin is trying to take down the entire world order, the veteran Russia watcher said in an interview. But there are ways even ordinary Americans can fight back.


Florida ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill passes final Senate committee
The bill now moves to the Senate floor for a vote.


‘I am afraid’: Ukrainian envoy reads aloud Russian soldier’s final texts to mother before death - Washington Examiner
The Ukrainian ambassador to the United Nations read what he said were the final text messages between a Russian soldier and his mother before the fighter was killed in the invasion of Ukraine. Sergiy Kyslytsya, the diplomat, shared and read screenshots of texts during an emergency special...


Russia-Ukraine live updates: EU takes bold steps to aid Ukraine forces
Live updates on the Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Ukraine survived the weekend, but Russia still has advantage


Russia didn’t expect ‘stiff and determined resistance’ from Ukraine, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby says
Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said Monday that Russia did not expect a “stiff and determined resistance” from Ukraine but cautioned against assuming that Russia will remain setback.

Russia slow to win Ukraine's airspace, limiting war gains
Russia’s failure thus far to win complete control of Ukrainian airspace has been a surprise, given Russian military strength and the importance of dominating the skies.


Climate change: IPCC report warns of ‘irreversible’ impacts of global warming
IPCC scientists outline a harrowing summary of climate impacts already hurting people and species.


Trump appeals order that he sit for NY deposition
Former President Trump on Monday appealed a New York judge’s order that he comply with the state attorney general’s subpoena for his testimony as part of a wide-ranging civil investigat…


Many Capitol riot cases could hinge on 1st trial's outcome
A Texas man charged with storming the U.S. Capitol with a holstered handgun on his waist is the first Jan. 6 defendant to go on trial.


Elon Musk providing Starlink internet service in Ukraine amid Russian invasion - Washington Examiner
The world’s wealthiest person is working to help Ukrainians stay connected to the internet amid the Russian invasion. Since the assault began last week, some Ukrainians have faced blackouts and power shortages. Given how important having access to the internet is for documenting and relaying...

Biden closes out Black History Month with White House event
President Joe Biden welcomed Black leaders to the White House Monday for a jovial Black History Month celebration, where he called on Congress to confirm Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, and pass voting rights bills. “I know progress can be slow and frustrating,” Biden said. About...

Inside the chaotic GOP primary for governor in Pennsylvania
Trump has a keen interest in the state, where the governor — not the voters — picks a secretary of state to administer elections, making it one of 2022's biggest races.


Biden State of the Union speech: What lawmakers on both sides of the aisle want to hear
Biden is slated to give his presidential address on the national outlook on Tuesday, and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have a wish list of what the president will touch on in his speech.
Poll: Ahead of State of the Union, 61% of Americans say Biden hasn’t kept most of his promises
As President Biden prepares to deliver his first State of the Union address Tuesday night, a Yahoo News/YouGov poll shows that a combination of Republican rancor and Democratic disappointment has left his approval rating near an all-time low after a tumultuous first year in office.

Estee Lauder executive forced out over racist Instagram post
Makeup company Estee Lauder has fired a senior executive over an Instagram post that contained the n-word.In a statement on Monday, Estee Lauder confirmed the firing of senior executive John Demsey…


ICC prosecutor to open probe into possible war crimes in Ukraine
A International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor announced Monday that he will open an investigation into possible war crimes perpetrated by Russia in Ukraine.“I have reviewed the Office’…


Russian people may not be able to withstand "economic siege," experts say
Long lines at ATMs in Moscow, where citizens face mounting financial woes, including not being able to use Apple Pay for bus fares.


Ukraine calls for no-fly zone to stop Russian bombardment
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy urged the West to consider a no-fly zone for Russian aircraft over Ukraine on Monday after Moscow bombarded the country's second largest city, drawing new sanctions by the United States and its allies.

2022 midterm elections: What to know ahead of Texas' primary
The 2022 midterm election season opens Tuesday in Texas, where voters will pick their nominees for governor, attorney general, congressional seats and more. With the next state primaries not coming until May, Texas will be far ahead in offering the first glimpse of whether embracing former...
Biden's high court choice defies expectations on labor cases
Labor unions and worker advocates have applauded President Joe Biden’s nomination of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson for the Supreme Court. “She’s as likely to rule for a corporation in a race discrimination claim as she is for the plaintiff,” said Ted Ruger, dean of the University of Pennsylvania...

White House working to ‘reduce the tension’ over Putin’s nuclear threats - Washington Examiner
White House press secretary Jen Psaki claimed Monday that the Biden administration is working to "reduce the tension" caused by apparent nuclear threats made by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin put Russia's nuclear capabilities on high alert over the weekend and previously threatened...


Economic backlash against Russia mounts after talks with Ukraine end with no resolution
A Ukrainian delegation has arrived near the border with Belarus to hold talks with Russian officials.

Vodka, pensions, sister cities: Governors move to punish Russia
Governors in states across the country have ordered agencies and asked businesses to cut ties with Russia in largely symbolic stands with Ukraine and against Vladimir Putin’s war of aggression.They…


How a Trump-averse Republican in Ohio is shaking up a crowded Senate primary
Matt Dolan is aiming to cobble together a plurality of GOP voters and says he's “the only one moving on” from Trump and his grievances, including election-related conspiracies.


Cold War may have ended, but the battle never did
Putin’s invasion of Ukraine has not completely erased the West’s Cold War “victory.” But one thing is certain: The West failed to curb the rise of Russia from the ashes.

What Ukraine’s lobbyists have been up to
One of Ukraine’s top lobbyists has been working the Hill to lay the groundwork for sanctions on Russia’s energy sector.


Russian economy spirals into deepening crisis as sanctions send people into panic
The West's latest round of sanctions against Russia has stoked fears of an economic depression after the ruble reached its lowest level against the dollar in history.


The U.N. climate report paints a dark picture of the future. Here are 7 key takeaways.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres called the more than 3,600-page report “an atlas of human suffering” and a “damning indictment of failed climate leadership.”


Senate begins work on confirming Jackson to Supreme Court as some in GOP voice openness
Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, called Biden’s nomination “historic,” and Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, said, “I don’t think this will be as partisan as we’ve seen in the past.”


Defendant’s wife, media and public barred from courtroom for much of first Capitol riot trial | CNN Politics
The first trial for a January 6 US Capitol attack defendant won’t have any members of the public, media or even the wife of the defendant in the courtroom to witness much of the proceedings, a federal judge decided on Monday.


Cuomo's new campaign: Trying to clear his name


'Every second counts': Global reactions to UN climate report
A panel of scientists convened by the United Nations has published a report on the impact of climate change on the planet, including on the natural world and human civilization.


Ukraine claims roughly 4,500 enemies killed ahead of ‘crucial’ period in Russian invasion - Washington Examiner
Enemy forces have suffered the loss of around 4,500 personnel over the course of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, according to Ukraine's armed forces.The estimate was released Sunday evening, four days into the conflict, while Russian military forces escalated their attack on the capital of Kyiv...


Time for Bosnia to ‘get rid of Russian influence’: Analysts
The Ukraine crisis presents opportunity for Bosnia ‘to deal a decisive blow’ to Putin-backed separatists, experts say.

Joy Behar: Trump’s support for Russia is ‘about white supremacy’
Joy Behar, a co-host of ABC’s “The View,” on Monday said that she thinks former President Trump’s stated support for Russian President Vladimir Putin amid the latter’s i…


Supreme Court justices question U.S. power to curb carbon emissions
Conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices on Monday appeared skeptical of the federal government's authority to issue sweeping regulations to reduce carbon emissions from power plants in a case that could undermine President Joe Biden's plans to tackle climate change.


Economic sanctions cripple Russian economy as ruble plunges, interest rates soar
Sanctions have restricted Moscow's access to foreign currencies and sent Russians running to withdraw cash to conserve the purchasing power.

Trumps file appeal to block depositions in NY attorney general investigation | CNN Politics
Lawyers for former President Donald Trump, Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump Jr. are appealing a New York state judge’s decision earlier this month ordering them to sit for depositions in the New York attorney general’s civil investigation into the Trump Organization.


Russia-Ukraine war in maps and charts: Live Tracker
As the Russian offensive enters its 153rd week, we track where battles are taking place and the human cost of the war.

Jury selection in first Jan. 6 trial revives D.C. residents' anger about Capitol attack
As Guy Reffitt's trial gets underway, residents of the nation's capital were questioned about their reactions to the attack.


Republican bill would allow US citizens to seize yachts, planes of Russian oligarchs amid Ukraine invasion
Rep. Lance Gooden is expected to roll out a measure Monday that would allow private U.S. citizens to seize yachts, planes or other property belonging to sanctioned Russian citizens amid the Ukraine war..

First round of Ukraine-Russia talks ends
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — An embattled Ukraine moved to solidify its bond with the West on Monday by signing an application to join the European Union (EU), while the first round of Ukraine-Russia talks…


State of the Union: Amid disputes, common cause for Ukraine
As lawmakers gather for President Joe Biden’s first State of the Union address, they are finding common ground in support of Ukraine.


Ukraine invasion: Was Biden too quick to evacuate US embassy in Kyiv? Experts weigh in
Several experts weighed in on the president’s move to close up shop in Kyiv. but were split on whether the move was a sign of prudence or weakness.

Ukrainian boxers Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko in fight of their lives
Former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger tells the brothers as they battle Russian invaders: “You were my heroes in the ring and you’re my heroes now.”


Man who pleaded guilty to entering Capitol on Jan. 6 dies by suicide - Washington Examiner
A Pennsylvania man who was awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to entering the Capitol building during the Jan. 6 riot died by suicide on Friday. Matthew Perna pleaded guilty on Dec. 9 to charges related to him entering and remaining inside the Capitol building for about 20 minutes during...


520,000+ refugees have fled Ukraine since Russia waged war
The mass exodus of refugees from Ukraine to the eastern edge of the European Union has showed no signs of stopping as they flee Russia’s burgeoning war.


US officials fear the worst is yet to come for Kyiv | CNN Politics
Ukrainian forces have so far managed to stave off Russian ground forces massed less than 20 miles north of the embattled capital Kyiv – but though they’ve defied US intelligence predictions that the city would likely fall within one to four days of a full-scale Russian assault, US officials warn...


Sarah Palin seeks new trial, judge's disqualification in NY Times case
Former U.S. vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin asked a U.S. court on Monday for a new trial after losing her defamation case against the New York Times earlier this month, and requested that the judge overseeing the case be disqualified.


Russian forces close in on Ukraine's capital as death toll mounts
As Ukraine's 2nd largest city was hammered by Russian artillery, President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed that his country wouldn't be pressured into concessions.


Prominent conservative judge who advised Pence on the 2020 election endorses Biden’s Supreme Court nominee | CNN Politics
The Biden White House is getting a major endorsement for Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson from a prominent conservative.


Russia's central bank doubles a key interest rate as sanctions spark economic turmoil
Russia's ruble collapsed on Monday as sanctions hit, forcing President Vladimir Putin to hold an emergency meeting with his economic advisers.


People, planet 'getting clobbered by climate change,' UN official says of new report
A new report from the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns climate change is impacting nearly every aspect of life on Earth.

Biden administration expands sanctions against Russia, cutting off U.S. transactions with central bank
The new sanctions effectively prohibit Americans from doing any business with Russia's central bank as well as freezes its assets within the United States.

Fleeing Ukraine: I would ‘have done anything to keep him with me’
A woman describes being separated from her 18-year-old brother at the Polish border as men were told they must remain.

TikTok will now let users post videos up to 10 minutes long
TikTok last increased its maximum video time in July, when it upped length from from one minute to three minutes.


Belarus votes to let Putin house nukes, troops as Lukashenko prepares to enter war - Washington Examiner
Voters in pro-Russia Belarus agreed Monday to let Vladimir Putin park nuclear weapons and host Russian troops in their country, which sits just north of Ukraine.The vote was part of a package of constitutional reforms that also included extending the presidency of Alexander Lukashenko, who has...


Ruble plummets as sanctions bite, sending Russians to banks
Ordinary Russians are facing the prospect of higher prices as Western sanctions over the invasion of Ukraine sent the ruble plummeting.


POLITICO Playbook PM: An exclusive new poll on Ketanji Brown Jackson
And new sanctions hit Russia’s central bank.

Bill defunding University of Wyoming gender studies advances in state Senate - Washington Examiner
The Wyoming state Senate adopted an amendment to the state budget Friday that would remove state funding from the University of Wyoming's Gender and Women's Studies department.Lawmakers in the Republican-controlled state Senate, by a 16-14 vote, adopted the amendment to defund the department...


Abortion rights bill faces dim chances in U.S. Senate
A bill to protect the right to have an abortion in the United States died in the Senate on Monday after it failed to garner enough Republican support to pass a procedural vote.


AP PHOTOS: Exit out of Ukraine: escape by foot, train, car
LVIV, Ukraine (AP) — By car, train, foot and — in at least one case — office chair, hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian war refugees have sought safety in the bordering nations of Poland, Romania, Hungary, Moldova, Slovakia and beyond.


In Denver's only Ukrainian-language church, parishioners pray for peace and for families trapped in the war back home
Mass went as it normally would on a Sunday. Reverend Valeriy Kandyuk read three passages of scripture, welcomed donations and gave out the Eucharist. But


International Criminal Court prosecutor plans to investigate potential war crimes in Ukraine
The court's chief prosecutor said he plans to open an investigation "as rapidly as possible."


New normal: Fence is up, Guard on standby for State of Union
The fencing around the U.S. Capitol is back up for the president's State of the Union address on Tuesday.


Europe welcomes Ukrainian refugees — others, less so
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — They file into neighboring countries by the hundreds of thousands — refugees from Ukraine clutching children in one arm, belongings in the other


Turkish opposition parties promise return to parliamentary system
A plan signed by six opposition party leaders aims to entirely overhaul the existing executive presidential system.

Trump consecrated at conservative gathering
At a large weekend gathering of conservatives in Florida, attendees browsed a sea of merchandise emblazoned with "Trump": Pink cowboy hats, sparkly purses, and T-shirts touting him as the 2024 presidential candidate.


Ukraine wants to join the EU. Here's how that would work
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has applied for Ukraine to join the European Union, after appealing to its leaders for immediate entry. Gaining membership is a complex process.

Russian oligarchs move yachts as U.S. looks to 'hunt down' and freeze assets
Russian oligarchs are moving their yachts as the United States and its allies look to target personal property.

Biden to announce plan to lower costs for American families during State of the Union address | CNN Politics
When President Joe Biden discusses the state of the US economy during Tuesday night’s State of the Union address, he will focus on a new plan to lower costs for American families and his administration’s efforts in the labor market’s recovery, senior administration officials told reporters on a...


Jackson to meet with lawmakers to begin Supreme Court confirmation process
Jackson's meetings with Schumer, McConnell, Durbin and Grassley will all be in person, the White House said.


Toyota stops production in Japan after a cyberattack hits one of its suppliers
The suspected attack forced Toyota, one of the world's largest auto manufacturers, to suspend operations at 14 of its Japanese plants, affecting the production of about 13,000 vehicles.


FIFA and UEFA suspend Russia from international soccer
FIFA and UEFA suspend Russia from international soccer

POLITICO Playbook: A presidency transformed
And delegations from Ukraine and Russia meet.


Ukraine: Fighting escalates despite ceasefire talks
The cities of Kharkiv and Chernihiv suffer fierce shelling despite talks between Russia and Ukraine.


Biden to host ASEAN leaders for Washington summit in March
The White House says President Joe Biden will host the leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for a special summit in Washington, D.C., next month.


6 House races to watch in Texas
The first big election of the 2022 midterm cycle is almost here.


Biden uses State of the Union to push "unity agenda" and says Russia will pay "high price" for Ukraine invasion
The president emphasized what unites the country while trying to reassure Americans worried about the Ukraine crisis, inflation and gas prices that "we are going to be OK."


Supreme Court to review Native American child adoption law
The Supreme Court has agreed to review a case involving a federal law that gives Native Americans preference in adoptions of Native children.


Supreme Court hears case that may derail Biden's climate plan
The justices heard an appeal from 19 mostly Republican-led states, led by coal state West Virginia.


White House previews Biden's economic message ahead of State of the Union
President Biden will reintroduce pieces of his domestic policy agenda when he addresses Congress during his State of the Union speech.


U.S. suspends operations at embassy in Belarus capital, approves departures from Moscow embassy
The Biden administration's actions mark the latest erosion of diplomatic ties with Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin, which has been hit with crippling sanctions.

Biden celebrates Black History Month at White House event | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden marked Black History Month with an event at the White House on Monday, celebrating his decision to nominate the first Black woman to the Supreme Court and calling on Congress to pass voting rights legislation.


Ukraine conflict: Nigeria condemns treatment of Africans
Nigeria condemns reports that citizens of African countries have been stopped from leaving Ukraine.


Fla.'s Deutch won't seek reelection; 31st House Dem to leave
U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch of Florida says he will not seek reelection in the fall. He is the 31st House Democrat to announce plans to leave the chamber as this year's midterm elections draw closer.


Pushchair passed over heads in desperate train station scenes
The BBC's Fergal Keane is in the city of Lviv where refugees are waiting for a train out of Ukraine.


Boycotts of Russian products and groups spread, but the effects may be limited
Russian vodka is being pulled from many shelves and the country's soccer team may find few willing opponents in the near term. But for the most part, experts say, the protests are largely symbolic.


‘Big Tech’ moves to defy Kremlin
Also: Ukraine is arguably defeating Russia in the online propaganda fight, where the advantage was expected to be the Kremlin’s.


They say their children are being denied transplants because of their disabilities. A new federal law may help change that.
Parents of children with disabilities across the country are leading the charge against health discrimination. But one bioethicist warns it may not be enough.


Justices wrestle with EPA power to curb carbon emissions
The Supreme Court is wrestling with the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority to curb greenhouse gas emissions from the nation’s power plants, a case that could hamstring the Biden administration’s plans to combat climate change.


The West declares economic war on Russia
Leaders in Europe, the U.S., the U.K. and Canada announced new restrictions on Russia’s central bank.


Russia facing sports isolation over invasion of Ukraine
The International Olympic Committee has made a sweeping move to isolate and condemn Russia over the country’s invasion of Ukraine

US closes embassy in Belarus, lets staff leave in Russia
The State Department has closed the U.S. Embassy in Belarus and is allowing non-essential staff at the U.S.


Ukraine crisis: The comic travelling 5,000 miles to fight
Anthony Walker left his family in Toronto to head to the Ukraine frontline. He knows he may not return.


2022 midterm elections: What to know ahead of Texas' primary
As the 2022 midterm election season opens with the Texas primary, here's everything you need to know about the biggest races.


Russia's Ukraine invasion sparks watershed moment in EU politics
Prominent politicians have been ripping up decades-old policy doctrine in just a few days.

Chef José Andrés is on the ground feeding refugees at Ukraine-Poland border
The Spanish American chef's organization, World Central Kitchen, has served more than 8,000 meals.


Meta disrupts social media misinformation campaigns targeting Ukrainians
Two social media misinformation campaigns exploiting tensions in Russia and Ukraine were identified and disabled on Facebook over the weekend.

Los Angeles sheriff to sue county over jail closure under ‘Cares First, Jails Last’ social program - Washington Examiner
LOS ANGELES — For nearly 60 years, Men’s Central Jail has been a stopover for some of the world’s most infamous inmates, including Charles Manson, "Night Stalker" Richard Ramirez, "Golden State Killer" Lonnie Franklin, and even celebrities such as OJ Simpson and Sean Penn.Now a “Care First...


U.S. expands sanctions against Russia with new action targeting Central Bank
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called the latest action by the U.S. against Russia's Central Bank "unprecedented."


Ted Deutch to resign from Congress to lead American Jewish Committee | CNN Politics
Florida Rep. Ted Deutch announced on Monday he will not seek reelection in November, the latest in a string of Democratic members of Congress who have decided to retire or seek another office in a challenging political environment.


As tensions simmer, China demands US action to improve ties
China's top diplomat has called on the U.S. to take steps to improve ties, as tensions simmer over Taiwan, trade and other issues

1st Jan. 6 trial begins with high stakes for government prosecutors
Other Jan. 6 defendants who have yet to enter into plea deals with the government will watch the trial closely.

How to help Ukraine amid Russian attacks
A guide on how to help Ukraine and Ukrainians during the Russian invasion.

American air carriers cut off Russia
Delta, UPS and FedEx move to isolate Russia over Ukraine invasion.


Supreme Court hears case that could limit EPA’s authority to regulate planet-warming emissions from power plants | CNN Politics
The Supreme Court on Monday heard what could be one of the most consequential cases for climate change and clean air in decades.


Investigators probing allegations in Turpin case lack access to records
Months after investigators began probing alleged failures in the care of 13 Turpin children, they say they still can't access needed records due to confidentiality rules.

Target seeks to entice workers with pay of up to $24 an hour
Workers at Target stores and distribution centers in places like New York, where competition for finding and hiring staff is the fiercest, could see starting wages as high as $24 an hour this year

Who will be in Biden's Indo-Pacific Economic Framework?
There is a wide expectation that Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and South Korea could meet the standards envisioned in the framework.


Texas primary is George P. Bush's biggest test yet in GOP
Republican George P. Bush of Texas is in a fight to keep himself and his family name in office. The 45-year-old son of former Florida Gov.


Boston mayor proposes limits on protests at private homes
BOSTON (AP) — Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, who has been targeted in early mornings by people outside her home protesting her city employee coronavirus vaccine mandate, filed an ordinance Monday that would limit when protesters can picket.


Australia floods: Eight dead in ‘unprecedented’ weather emergency
Residents were trapped on rooftops as floodwaters rose much quicker than expected.


MLB cancels start of baseball season as talks falter
New season in danger after players and team owners failed to reach a deal on a new labor contract.


Richard Blum, husband of California Sen. Feinstein, dies
Richard Blum, the husband of California Sen. Dianne Feinstein, has died after a long battle with cancer. He was 86.



California, Oregon, Washington to drop school mask mandates
The governors of California, Oregon and Washington have announced that schoolchildren will no longer be required to wear masks starting March 12.


Pandemic fears are fading along with omicron: AP-NORC poll
Omicron is fading away, and so are Americans’ worries about COVID-19. Fewer Americans now say they’re concerned they’ll be infected compared with January following the rise and fall of the wildly contagious coronavirus variant.


Pfizer Covid vaccine may offer little protection against infection in kids 5-11
Researchers found that the vaccine’s effectiveness dropped to 12 percent from 68 percent amid the omicron surge.


S. Korea drops proof of vaccine, test to aid virus response
South Korea will no longer require people to show proof of vaccination or negative tests to enter any indoor space starting Tuesday.


In Somaliland, COVID brings 'cutters' door to door for girls
HARGEISA, Somalia (AP) — Safia Ibrahim's business was in trouble. COVID-19 had taken hold in Somaliland, in the Horn of Africa.


California to drop school mask mandate after March 11
Gov. Gavin Newsom's announcement caps weeks of speculation over when one of the nation's strictest states would allow districts to make masks optional in the classroom.


Canada relaxes entry requirements for vaccinated travellers
Testing requirements have been relaxed for tourists and residents as Covid-19 cases fall.


'Emerging from a darkness': Mardi Gras revelers shed pandemic woes
Mark Childress wrapped his black and gold sequin-studded robe tight against a cool night wind and surveyed the thousands of revelers gathering for the city's first Carnival parade in two years.


The great Covid thaw is spreading


‘Pimping spin, not science’: Skeptics question COVID-19 starting at wet market - Washington Examiner
As researchers try to pin down where exactly COVID-19 originated, skeptics are questioning two new studies looking at a wet market in Wuhan, China, as the site from where the virus was released. The two new research papers, funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases...


Masks optional for Biden's State of the Union
The Capitol's attending physician notified congressional offices that masks are no longer required ahead of Biden's State of the Union address on Tuesday.


How long COVID sheds light on other mysterious (and lonely) chronic illnesses
Writer Meghan O'Rourke says long COVID-19 and other chronic illnesses put a heavy burden on patients, who have to "testify to the reality of their own illness." Her new book is The Invisible Kingdom.


Not quite time for a Covid victory lap
Biden is determined to avoid a repeat of his decision last July to celebrate “independence from the virus,” only to watch the U.S. get hit with the lethal Delta surge weeks later.

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