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πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026 3 min read

Winter Storm Brings Heavy Snow and Rain to California, Prompting Avalanche Warnings and Flood Concerns

A powerful winter storm has brought heavy snow and rain to California, prompting avalanche warnings in the Sierra Nevadas and flood concerns in lower elevation areas. The storm, which is expected to last through the week, has already caused road closures and power outages. Residents are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest weather updates.

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πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

US Military Strikes Kill 11 in Crackdown on Alleged Drug Traffickers

The US military has launched a series of strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats, resulting in the deaths of 11 people. The attacks, which took place in the eastern Pacific and Caribbean, are part of the Trump administration's ongoing campaign against "narco-terrorists." The latest fatalities bring the total number of deaths caused by US strikes to 145 since September.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Police Investigate Epstein's Use of UK Airport Amid Ongoing Global Scandals

Police in the UK are assessing records of private flights to and from Stansted airport, following claims that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein used the airport to traffic girls from Eastern Europe. Meanwhile, in Peru, the country's interim president has been ousted in a swift impeachment process amid a scandal over secretive meetings with Chinese businessmen.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

US Sends Mixed Signals to Europe as Tiger Woods Weighs Ryder Cup Captaincy and Marco Rubio Courts Hungary

The US is sending mixed signals to Europe this week, as golf legend Tiger Woods considers captaining the US Ryder Cup team in 2027, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio's warm words to Hungary's Viktor OrbΓ‘n raise concerns about US intentions in the region. Woods' potential captaincy is seen as a boost to US golf, but Rubio's endorsement of OrbΓ‘n has sparked fears of US disunity in Europe.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Two Unrelated Incidents Shake US Campuses and Communities

A recent wave of controversy has hit US universities in the wake of the Jeffrey Epstein files release, while a tragic shooting at a Rhode Island ice rink has left three dead and three injured. As universities take action against faculty and affiliates named in the Epstein files, officials investigate the motives behind the ice rink shooting.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Turmoil and Transition in the US: Remembering Jesse Jackson, ICE Controversies, and Commuter Chaos

The US is grappling with a mix of tributes, controversies, and disruptions, from the passing of civil rights icon Jesse Jackson to the growing outrage over ICE raids and the reliance on Microsoft technology. Meanwhile, a major rail upgrade in New Jersey is set to cause commuter chaos in Manhattan. As the Department of Homeland Security faces criticism, its top spokesperson is set to exit her role.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Clinton Accuses Trump Administration of Epstein Files Cover-Up

Hillary Clinton has accused the Trump administration of a "cover-up" over the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein's crimes, claiming that the Department of Justice is "slow-walking" the release of files. Clinton urged the administration to "get the files out" and expressed frustration over the withholding of about 3 million files. The accusation comes as Clinton and her husband are set to testify before Congress.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

USWNT's SheBelieves Cup Roster Announced Amid Media Shake-Up at CBS News

Emma Hayes has announced the US Women's National Team's 26-player roster for the 2026 SheBelieves Cup, featuring a balance of experience and young talent. Meanwhile, Anderson Cooper is leaving 60 Minutes after nearly 20 years, citing a desire to spend more time with his family amid a shake-up at CBS News under new editor-in-chief Bari Weiss.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Civil Rights Icon Jesse Jackson Dies at 84 as Nation Reflects on His Legacy and New Mexico Pursues Justice for Epstein Victims

Jesse Jackson, a prominent figure in the American civil rights movement, has passed away at the age of 84, prompting tributes from US political leaders. Meanwhile, New Mexico has approved a truth commission to investigate alleged abuse on Jeffrey Epstein's ranch, marking a significant step towards justice for victims.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Empire Building and Scandal: A Tumultuous Week in US Politics and Sports

A tumultuous week in US politics and sports has seen LA Mayor Karen Bass call for Casey Wasserman to step down as Olympics chair over ties to Jeffrey Epstein's former girlfriend, while Senator Marco Rubio's comments at the Munich security conference have sparked concerns about the resurgence of American empire-building.

4 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

A Tale of Two Worlds: Analog Revival and Global Politics

As the world grapples with the complexities of digital life, a nostalgic yearning for analog experiences is on the rise. Meanwhile, global politics continues to unfold with the US and Iran engaging in nuclear talks, and questions surrounding the ties between Ohio billionaire Les Wexner and Jeffrey Epstein spark controversy.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Mamdani's Balancing Act: NYPD Spying Admission Sets Stage for Mayoral Showdown

As New York's newest mayor, Zohran Mamdani faces his first major test in balancing his progressive values with the realities of law enforcement. The NYPD's recent admission to spying online has put the spotlight on Mamdani's previous efforts to regulate digital surveillance. Can he find a way to address the concerns of both the police department and his constituents?

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

America in Turmoil: Detention Camps, Free Speech Under Fire, and Financial Uncertainty

As the Trump administration expands its immigration detention capabilities, concerns grow over the treatment of detainees and the erosion of free speech. Meanwhile, a new Wall Street plan threatens to put small investors at risk, and a recent controversy surrounding Charlie Kirk's death highlights the dangers of online vigilantism.

4 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Civil Rights Icon Jesse Jackson Dies at 84, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Justice and Equality

Reverend Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, has passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of fighting for justice, equality, and human rights. Jackson's family remembered him as a tireless change agent who elevated the voices of the voiceless. His death was met with tributes from across the globe, celebrating his unwavering commitment to freedom and dignity.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Crunch Time at the Winter Olympics: Day 11 Highlights and Updates

The 2026 Winter Olympics are heating up as day 11 brings crucial matches in curling, slopestyle, and bobsleigh. With medals on the line, athletes are giving it their all in Milan-Cortina. Here's a rundown of the latest updates and results.

2 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Trump Pulls US Out of World Health Organization Again, Amid Criticisms of Hypocrisy

The US has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump. This move has been met with criticism, with many accusing Trump of hypocrisy given his past reliance on the WHO. The withdrawal has significant implications for global health efforts.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Europe's Digital Dependency on the US: A Growing Concern

Europe's reliance on US technology has left it vulnerable to external pressures, as evident in the case of French judge Nicolas Guillou, who was sanctioned by the US and found himself locked out of daily life. This incident highlights the need for Europe to develop its own digital infrastructure and reduce its dependence on US tech. As the European Union considers its digital future, it must prioritize sovereignty and self-sufficiency.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Trump Urges Ukraine to Reach Deal with Russia as Trilateral Talks Loom

US President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Ukraine to reach a deal with Russia "fast" ahead of US-brokered talks in Geneva. The talks, set to take place on Tuesday, aim to end the conflict that began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner will meet with delegates from Russia and Ukraine.

3 min read
πŸ›οΈ Politico Wire Feb 17, 2026

Trump Urges Ukraine to Reach Deal with Russia 'Fast' Ahead of Trilateral Talks

US President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Ukraine to reach a deal with Russia quickly, ahead of trilateral talks in Geneva. Trump's comments come as his envoy, Steve Witkoff, and son-in-law Jared Kushner prepare to meet with delegates from Russia and Ukraine. The talks aim to end the conflict that began when Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

3 min read