He said Indonesia had “never committed to contributing financially at all” and was not present at the founding donors’ meeting in Washington on February 19, where several countries made funding pledges.

Foreign Minister Sugiono had already moved to clarify the issue on March 17, saying the $1 billion figure was not a mandatory membership fee and that Indonesia’s participation in the board was not tied to any fixed financial contribution.

The Board of Peace is a 28-country coalition backing a US plan for post-war Gaza.

Earlier reports said donors at the Washington meeting had pledged an initial $17 billion for reconstruction, emergency relief and security stabilisation, including $10 billion from the United States and $7 billion from nine other countries.

Prabowo said Indonesia’s main contribution would instead be the possible deployment of peacekeeping troops, adding that Jakarta could take on a larger role once reconstruction begins. He pointed to Indonesia’s earlier humanitarian support for Palestine, including assistance channelled through the National Alms Agency and the construction of a hospital.

He also said Indonesia joined the board because it saw a pathway towards Palestinian statehood, citing parts of a 21-point US proposal that refer to statehood and dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians. Those provisions, he said, were in line with Indonesia’s long-standing support for a two-state solution.

The clarification comes as Indonesia’s support for the board faces sharper questions following the war involving the United States, Israel and Iran. The conflict has complicated Jakarta’s earlier enthusiasm for the US-backed initiative and raised pressure at home over how closely it should align itself with Washington on Middle East policy.

Indonesia not only joined the board — a coalition of 28 countries backing a US plan to rebuild the Palestinian enclave — but also pledged to contribute 8,000 troops to the proposed International Stabilisation Force tasked with eventually replacing Israeli forces in the territory.

It was one of the most proactive foreign policy decisions by Jakarta in the Middle East in years, reflecting Prabowo’s push to expand Indonesia’s diplomatic footprint and deepen ties with Washington. 

Indonesian officials argued that joining the board would allow the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation to defend Palestinian interests from within the forum, particularly as Israel was also part of the initiative while Palestinians themselves were not represented.

But this confidence has been shaken by the sudden escalation of war between the U.S., Israel and Iran, which not only disrupted regional stability but also pushed Indonesia to reassess the geopolitical implications of its alignment with a US-led platform.

This shift became evident this week during a rare high-level meeting convened by Prabowo at the State Palace in Jakarta, where the president gathered an unusually broad group of political and economic figures to discuss the crisis.

Among those present were former presidents Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Joko Widodo, former vice presidents Jusuf Kalla, Ma’ruf Amin and Boediono, senior political party leaders and prominent business figures. 

‘Recalculation’

For nearly four hours, these high-level people discussed Indonesia’s strategic posture amid escalating tensions and the potential fallout from disruptions to global energy and food supply chains.

And, of course, they also debated Indonesia’s position within the Board of Peace, particularly whether the Iran war could undermine the credibility and purpose of the U.S.-led initiative.

Former foreign minister Hassan Wirajuda warned Jakarta may need to “recalculate” its role.

“We discussed the board, particularly in light of the latest developments, including whether the war unfolding in Iran could undermine the platform’s position and mandate,” Hassan said.

Foreign Minister Sugiono has already indicated that discussions within the Board of Peace have effectively been suspended as attention shifts to the escalating conflict.

This uncertainty in stance reflects both strategic and domestic pressures Indonesia faces.

Indonesia has more than 519,000 citizens living across the Middle East, according to government data, many working or studying in the region. Ensuring their safety has become a pressing priority as the conflict spreads. 

The government began evacuating Indonesians from Iran on March 6, with dozens of citizens — most of them students in the city of Qom — expected to return home in the coming days.

At the same time, Jakarta faces pressure at home to distance itself from initiatives associated with Washington while the United States is engaged in military action against Iran.

Will Indonesia withdraw from the Board?

Several Indonesian political and religious groups have criticised the Board of Peace, arguing that participation could undermine the country’s longstanding support for Palestinian independence and entangle it in a US-led geopolitical project.

The sensitivities are heightened by Indonesia’s identity as a Muslim-majority nation and its historical sympathy toward countries in the broader Islamic world, including Iran.

Prabowo has attempted to balance those pressures by signalling that Indonesia’s participation in the Board of Peace is conditional. 

During a meeting with Islamic organisations this week, he reportedly assured leaders that Jakarta would withdraw from the forum if it ceased to benefit Palestinian interests or align with Indonesia’s national priorities.

For now, however, the Iran war has injected a new layer of uncertainty into Jakarta’s foreign policy — raising questions not only about the future of the Board of Peace but also about how far Indonesia is willing to align itself with Washington in an increasingly volatile Middle East.

Jeffers said the deployment aims to provide “the security Gaza needs for a future of prosperity and enduring peace.”

Number of troops

President Prabowo Subianto, attending the meeting, said Indonesia would deploy troops within two months, starting with an advance team to assess risks and plan operations. The country has pledged up to 8,000 troops, the largest contingent of any ISF member.

Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Sugiono explained that the deputy commander role reflects both the size of the Indonesian contingent and the military’s extensive peacekeeping experience. 

“Indonesian troops are also the largest there, this deputy commander for operations is also something that honors and appreciates Indonesia's track record," Sugiono said. 

The ISF will operate under a U.S.-led Board of Peace. Indonesia’s forces will be deployed across Gaza’s five sectors — Rafah, Khan Yunis, Deir el-Balah, Gaza City, and Northern Gaza — with an initial focus on Rafah.

Humanitarian focus, not combat

While Indonesia leads the largest deployment after the U.S., its troops are assigned strictly to humanitarian and stabilization tasks, not combat. The government has warned it will withdraw if the ISF deviates from agreed mandates.

Other countries contributing troops include Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania, while Egypt and Jordan will train Gaza’s local police. The ISF’s long-term plan calls for 20,000 troops and 12,000 police officers on the ground.

The Board of Peace also aims to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction and demilitarization, a plan opposed by Hamas, which has rejected foreign intervention and disarmament.

Trump highlighted Indonesia’s role during the meeting, praising Prabowo for his commitment and leadership. Members of the board pledged $7 billion toward Gaza relief, a fraction of the estimated $70 billion needed to rebuild after years of conflict.

Prabowo emphasized Indonesia’s readiness to contribute significantly to the international stabilization effort. 

“There will be problems, but we will prevail. We will achieve our dream of peace in Palestine , a lasting and peaceful solution for the Palestinian problem and in Gaza,” he said. 

At the landmark meeting, Prabowo also reiterated that Indonesia is prepared to provide up to 8,000 troops to the International Stabilization Force, stating, “We are prepared to contribute the troops to take part actively … to make this peace work.”

The announcement aligns with statements from the Indonesian military, which said up to 8,000 personnel could be ready for deployment by June, with an advance team of roughly 1,000 prepared by April. 

The Indonesian National Armed Forces, known as TNI, have finalized the troop structure and a timeline, though actual deployment requires presidential approval and adherence to international mechanisms.

Indonesia’s participation would mark the first formal troop commitment to the U.S.-led Board of Peace stabilization effort in Gaza . The country has long supported Palestinian statehood, provided humanitarian aid, and participated in global peacekeeping.

Prabowo framed the move as both a humanitarian and strategic mission: “The achievements of the ceasefire are real, we commend this and therefore we reaffirm our commitment.” 

“We have to make a meaningful deal. Otherwise, bad things happen,” he added.

Still, Trump appeared to leave the door ajar for reconciliation with Tehran — even the possibility of Iran joining the Board of Peace. "Now is the time for Iran to join us on a path that will complete what we're doing. If they join us, that'll be great. If they don't join us, that'll be great too — but it'll be a very different path," he said. "They cannot continue to threaten the stability of the entire region."

Trump’s remarks came as the United States continues to position military forces in the Middle East , reportedly preparing for a possible strike on Iran as soon as this weekend. 

While Trump has not made a final decision, multiple news outlets, including the New York Times, CBS News, and CNN, report that sufficient air and naval resources are in place for potential military action.

According to senior U.S. officials cited by Reuters, national security advisers have been instructed to ensure all forces are deployed in the region by mid-March. 

The Board of Peace gathering in Washington brought together representatives from more than two dozen countries to discuss reconstruction and stabilization efforts in Gaza.

Trump framed the meeting as part of his broader Middle East strategy, calling the region “the biggest thing of all — we have peace in the Middle East right now.”

Yet the juxtaposition between the diplomatic forum and his stern warning to Tehran highlights the ongoing tension between Trump’s public promotion of stability and the looming possibility of military action.

Iran is expected to submit a written proposal following indirect talks in Geneva this week. 

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described the progress as limited, emphasizing that “diplomacy” remains the administration’s “first option,” even as the timeline for potential U.S. action tightens.

Delegates are expected to commit thousands of personnel to international stabilization and policing efforts in the territory, aimed at maintaining order as humanitarian aid flows in.

Still, the Board of Peace , an initiative led by Trump, faces scrutiny over whether it can rival established multilateral organizations such as the United Nations in credibility and influence.

Dozens of world leaders gathered in Washington for the discussions, which also aim to coordinate humanitarian relief and long-term rebuilding strategies.

WATCH IT LIVE HERE:

His death was ruled a suicide, but it brought an abrupt end to criminal proceedings that many hoped would expose the full extent of his network.

His death ended the criminal case against him, but it did not end the questions. One of the most important areas of continued scrutiny has been his travel history.

Understanding where Epstein travelled, and who travelled with him, could be central to understanding how he operated for so long within elite circles.

The World in Maps has created a map that highlights countries visited by Epstein, including nations across North America, South America , Europe, Africa and parts of Asia.

The map is based largely on released flight logs from Epstein’s private aircraft and journalistic investigations.

The flight logs and the ‘Lolita Express’

Epstein owned and used several aircraft over the years, including a Boeing 727 that became widely known in media reports as the “Lolita Express” .

Flight manifests from that aircraft, along with other planes he controlled, have been entered into court records and reported on extensively by outlets including the Associated Press and The Guardian.

The logs show frequent travel between the United States, Mexico, Brazil, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Norway, Russia, Morocco and Senegal.

Influential figures named in released files

Over the years, court documents, depositions and flight logs have referenced several high-profile figures who had contact with Epstein. These include:

Although the logs provide valuable insight, they do not represent a complete record of his lifetime travel.

The above map shows a striking cultural divide. The United States , Canada and parts of Brazil lean towards Taylor Swift, while Mexico, Central America and most of Spanish-speaking South America favour Bad Bunny.

The split reflects more than fan preference. It mirrors language, streaming behaviour, touring revenue and the globalisation of pop music.

Taylor Swift dominates much of the English-speaking Americas.

The United States and Canada remain core markets for Swift, who has consistently ranked among the world’s most streamed artists. According to IFPI’s Global Music Report , Swift was the world’s best-selling recording artist in 2023, driven by the massive success of her Eras Tour and re-recorded albums.

Her commercial power is equally visible on streaming platforms. Spotify has repeatedly listed her among its most-streamed artists globally, while Billboard reported that the Eras Tour became the highest-grossing concert tour in history, surpassing $1 billion in revenue.

In Brazil, one of the largest music markets in Latin America, Swift’s strong touring presence and streaming numbers have helped cement her popularity beyond English-speaking borders.

On the other hand, Bad Bunny dominates Mexico, Central America and most of South America.

The Puerto Rican superstar has become one of the most influential Latin artists in modern history. Spotify confirmed that Bad Bunny was the platform’s most-streamed artist globally for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022, a historic achievement for a Spanish-language performer.

His album Un Verano Sin Ti became one of the most-streamed albums of all time and earned a Grammy nomination and award for Album of the Year, a rare milestone for a primarily Spanish-language release.

According to the map, Spanish-speaking countries across Latin America overwhelmingly favour Bad Bunny, whose reggaeton and Latin trap catalogue resonates culturally and linguistically across the region.

Meanwhile, English-speaking markets lean towards Swift’s pop and country-pop catalogue.

Brazil : The notable exception

Brazil stands out.

Despite being a Portuguese-speaking nation with its own vibrant domestic music industry, the map places Brazil in Swift’s column. Brazil is one of the world’s top ten music markets, according to IFPI, and international pop artists regularly perform strongly there.

Swift’s sold-out stadium shows in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro underline her commercial strength in the country.

Based on YouTube’s all-time public view counts, the current top 10 stands as follows:

At the top of the list is still the record-breaking Latin hit Despacito by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee, which continues to dominate as YouTube’s most-viewed video of all time with 8.9 billion views.

This figure is more significant as it is even bigger than the world's total population. According to Worldometer, the global population stood at roughly 8.2 billion in early 2026.

TIME previously described the song’s rise as a defining moment for the global mainstreaming of Spanish-language pop, marking a turning point in how music crosses borders in the streaming era.

These numbers underline the truly global nature of YouTube’s audience, spanning Latin pop, K-pop, devotional music, novelty animation, and international football anthems.

YouTube has become far more than a video platform. It is now one of the world’s most influential music distribution systems.

The streaming platform plays a central role in shaping modern hits, particularly outside the traditional Western music industry pipeline. Artists can break through globally without radio dominance, driven instead by algorithms, fan communities, and shareable visuals.

From ice hockey in North America to figure skating in East Asia, the breakdown highlights how geography, infrastructure and history shape winter sport identity across the world.

Here’s how it looks country by country.

Ice hockey dominates the northern powerhouses

Ice hockey stands as the most prominent winter sport across much of North America and northern Eurasia.

Countries marked for hockey include:

This comes as little surprise. Canada considers ice hockey central to its national identity , while the United States and Russia consistently field strong Olympic and professional teams. According to the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), these nations remain among the highest-ranked globally, with deeply embedded youth systems and professional leagues driving sustained popularity.

Across Scandinavia and the Baltic region, hockey’s presence is reinforced by climate, infrastructure and strong international results.

Skiing

Skiing, including alpine and cross-country disciplines, leads across much of western and central Europe.

Countries shown with skiing as their top winter sport include:

Austria and Switzerland, in particular, are synonymous with alpine skiing, producing generations of Olympic champions. The International Olympic Committee notes that skiing disciplines account for one of the largest shares of medal events at the Winter Games, reflecting their scale and global participation.

Mountain geography and winter tourism industries further reinforce skiing’s dominance in these regions.

Figure skating

Figure skating emerges as the most popular winter sport in:

Both nations have produced Olympic champions and global stars under the International Skating Union (ISU), and the sport consistently draws strong television audiences during the Winter Games. Japan ’s figure skating culture, in particular, has seen sustained growth over the past two decades.

Speed skating

Speed skating appears prominently in:

China has invested heavily in speed skating infrastructure and Olympic preparation, particularly in the lead-up to Beijing 2022. The Netherlands traditionally dominates global speed skating, and while not highlighted separately on this map, the sport remains deeply embedded in northern Europe as well.

According to ISU participation data, speed skating continues to be one of the most structured and competitive ice disciplines worldwide.

Curling

One of the more striking features of the map is curling’s prominence across parts of Africa, the Middle East and South Asia.

Countries marked for curling include:

While curling does not command the same commercial spotlight in these regions as it does in Scotland or Canada, its presence reflects expanding federation membership and Olympic engagement. The World Curling Federation has actively developed the sport beyond traditional strongholds in recent years.

Bobsleigh

Bobsleigh is shown as the most prominent winter sport in several Latin American, African and Southeast Asian countries, including:

Sled sports often gain attention through Olympic participation and high-profile qualification stories. The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) has documented growing interest outside Europe and North America over the past decade.

Luge

Luge appears as the leading winter sport in:

Though highly specialised, luge remains a core Olympic discipline governed by the International Luge Federation (FIL), with concentrated development programmes in Europe and emerging initiatives elsewhere.

Ski jumping

Ski jumping features prominently in:

Poland, in particular, has a deep ski jumping tradition, producing multiple Olympic medallists and World Cup champions. The sport enjoys significant broadcast attention across parts of Central Europe during the Winter Games.

The International Olympic Committee recognises 16 core winter sports in the Olympic programme, and this country-by-country breakdown shows how those disciplines are distributed culturally around the globe.

In everyday language, “America” and “the United States ” are often used interchangeably, even by people living inside the U.S. itself.

But geographically, America or more precisely the Americas , refers to two continents, North and South America, containing around 35 sovereign nations, including Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and many others. The United States of America is just one of those nations.

The Puerto Rican superstar reiterated this as he used his 13-minute set to champion unity across the Americas by closing his set by naming countries beyond the United States, including Canada, Brazil, Bolivia, Panama and nations in Central and South America.

For many, especially Latino and Caribbean communities in the U.S., the message was one of belonging as much as geography.

By naming those countries during the performance, Bad Bunny placed Puerto Rico and other parts of the hemisphere squarely within the story of America, challenging narrow definitions of national identity.

Here are some reactions to Bad Bunny's performance:

Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, became the first Latino solo artist and the first headliner to perform almost entirely in Spanish for the Super Bowl halftime show.

The 13-minute set was described as a “fusion of Latinx culture, social commentary, and musical celebration” with guest appearances from stars including Lady Gaga, Ricky Martin and Cardi B.

Bad Bunny’s halftime show was widely viewed as a celebration of Latin American identity on one of the world’s largest stages.

According to BuzzFeed’s detailed breakdown, the performance blended high-energy hits with strong visual storytelling, weaving Puerto Rican heritage and broader Latin culture into every part of the performance.

Celebrities asserted the claim of a good show when Grammy-award-winning artist Kacey Musgraves wrote on X, “That made me feel more proudly American than anything Kid Rock has ever done.”

Not all responses were positive. Right-wing critics, including President Donald Trump , labelled the show “terrible,” in part due to its cultural focus and political undertones.

This is not surprising as Bad Bunny’s selection as headliner stirred debate long before the performance. Critics argued that a predominantly Spanish-language show on America ’s most-watched TV stage represented a departure from tradition, a divide that reflected broader national conversations around identity and inclusion.

However, Bad Bunny tried to prove that this stance was wrong when he chose to read out countries in North and South America, including Venezuela, Guyana, Chile, Paraguay and Panama to prove that America was bigger than the United States .

With an overall score of 4.64 out of 5, Italy tops a list compiled from hundreds of thousands of verified user ratings across traditional dishes, regional specialities and local ingredients. The rankings, visualised by World Visualised and sourced from TasteAtlas, reflect real consumer sentiment rather than critic-led opinion.

Italy’s number-one ranking is driven by its deep culinary heritage and global appeal. From Neapolitan pizza and handmade pasta to regional icons like risotto, pesto, Parmigiano Reggiano and olive oil, Italian food consistently scores highly for flavour, balance and authenticity.

TasteAtlas notes that Italian cuisine stands out for its simplicity and ingredient-first philosophy, where quality produce takes precedence over complex techniques. This approach continues to resonate worldwide, from street food counters to Michelin-starred kitchens.

Second place goes to Greece, which earned a strong 4.60 rating. Greek cuisine is praised for its freshness and Mediterranean roots, with dishes such as souvlaki, grilled seafood, feta-based salads and yoghurt sauces ranking among the platform’s most loved foods.

Just behind is Peru, scoring 4.54, reflecting the country’s growing reputation as a global culinary innovator. Peruvian cuisine blends Indigenous, Spanish, African and Asian influences, with standout dishes including ceviche, lomo saltado and causa. Peru’s rise highlights how regional diversity and bold flavours are reshaping global food trends.

Both Spain and Portugal recorded scores of 4.53, underscoring the Iberian Peninsula’s strength in global cuisine.

Spanish cuisine is celebrated for its regional depth, from Valencian paella and Andalusian gazpacho to tapas culture and premium cured meats. Portugal, meanwhile, continues to gain international recognition for dishes such as bacalhau, caldo verde and seafood rice, supported by a strong tradition of home-style cooking.

France scored 4.48, maintaining its reputation for culinary technique, pastry mastery and fine dining tradition. While often associated with haute cuisine, TasteAtlas notes that everyday French dishes and regional specialities play a significant role in its ranking.

Türkiye and Japan, both rated 4.49, reflect how deeply food is tied to national identity. Turkish cuisine blends Middle Eastern, Central Asian and Mediterranean influences, while Japanese food culture continues to impress with its focus on seasonality, precision and presentation.

China and Indonesia, each scoring 4.48, highlight Asia’s growing visibility in global food rankings. China’s vast regional diversity, from Sichuan spice to Cantonese delicacy, remains a major draw, while Indonesian cuisine gains traction through dishes like nasi goreng, rendang and satay.

How TasteAtlas builds its rankings

TasteAtlas compiles its annual rankings using real user ratings, filtering out mass-produced and inauthentic entries to focus on traditional food culture . According to the platform, the goal is to document and preserve culinary heritage while offering travellers a reliable guide to local food experiences.

What this really means is that these rankings reflect how people actually eat and travel, and not just what appears on fine-dining menus.

The run-off held on February 8 saw Seguro secure roughly 67% of the vote, far ahead of his rival André Ventura of the far-right Chega party, who took around 33%. This result marks a strong mandate and returns the head of state role to a Socialist after years dominated by centre-right leadership.

The map of “most voted candidate per municipality” shows a sea of red, representing municipalities where Seguro led on the first or second round, with only a handful of areas where Ventura came out on top. This geographic distribution underlines the breadth of support for Seguro’s campaign across urban and rural Portugal.

In the first round on January 18, Seguro led with just over 31% of votes, while Ventura came second with about 23.5%, forcing the run-off as no candidate achieved the 50 per cent threshold required for first-round victory.

Turnout was notable, with just over 50% of registered voters participating in the decisive second round, the highest presidential turnout in years.

Though the presidency in Portugal is largely ceremonial, the role carries important powers, such as naming the prime minister, chairing the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, and, in some cases, dissolving parliament. These powers mean the election outcome can have a real impact on governance and policy direction.

For Seguro, the mandate is both political and symbolic. He ran as a moderate socialist, attracting support from across the centre and left, and successfully formed a broad anti-populist coalition.

Ventura, while defeated, celebrated his result as a major milestone for Chega. His 33% share is the highest ever for his party in a national election and reflects its growing influence in Portuguese politics .

President-elect Seguro is expected to take office in March, succeeding Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who has served two terms.

According to the latest available data from Eurostat and multiple national statistics agencies, unemployment rates in Europe vary widely, from as low as around 2.6% in some northern nations to more than 15% in parts of Eastern Europe and the Balkans.

Northern Europe shows strong job markets

Countries in northern Europe continued to report some of the lowest unemployment figures on the continent. For example:

Western Europe sees moderate unemployment

Across Western Europe, unemployment rates were generally moderate:

Southern and Eastern Europe face higher unemployment

Unemployment climbed noticeably higher in parts of southern and eastern Europe:

Central Europe and the Baltics

Central European countries generally showed more balanced employment figures:

While these rates are higher than Nordic counterparts, they remain below many southern and eastern peers, signalling relative resilience in post-transition labour markets.

Unemployment remains a key barometer of economic health, especially as Europe navigates inflation, energy transitions, and changing global demand. Strong job markets in the north and central regions underscore the benefits of diversified economies and active labour policies.

According to historical data compiled by Topend Sports , Norway leads the all-time Winter Olympic gold medal table with 148 golds. The Scandinavian powerhouse’s success spans Nordic skiing, biathlon, and ski jumping, reflecting decades of excellence on snow and ice.

Behind Norway, the United States sits second with 114 gold medals to its name, bolstered by strong traditions in figure skating, ice hockey and alpine events. Germany (112) and the former Soviet Union (78) follow closely, demonstrating the depth of winter sport pedigree across Europe and North America .

Top 10 countries by Winter Olympic gold medals

As athletes prepare for the Winter Olympics in the coming weeks (opening on the Febraury 6), these historical gold medal rankings offer more than trivia, but they set expectations.

Norway’s longstanding leadership makes it a favourite once again, but past Games have shown that emerging nations and breakthrough stars can reshape the medal table with surprising performances.

Milano-Cortina will introduce new events, including ski mountaineering, attract wider global participation and give nations a chance to write the next chapter in Winter Olympic history .

The games which opened on February 6, 2026, will take place in Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo and surrounding venues, bringing together thousands of competitors for what promises to be a landmark international event.

According to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), approximately 93 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) are expected to participate, reflecting the continued growth of winter sport across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America.

While traditional powerhouses such as Canada, Norway, Germany and the United States remain central contenders, more nations than ever are now qualifying athletes in skiing, skating and ice-based competitions.

The 2026 Games will also include athletes competing under a neutral flag. The IOC has maintained restrictions on Russian and Belarusian delegations following the invasion of Ukraine , though select athletes may be permitted to compete as Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN) under strict eligibility rules.

8 sports, 16 disciplines, and 116 medal events

Milano-Cortina 2026 will feature 8 core Olympic sports, divided into 16 disciplines, with a total of 116 medal events. Fans can expect major competitions across skiing, skating and ice hockey, alongside the debut of a brand-new event.

Full list of disciplines at the 2026 Winter Olympics

Athletes will compete in:

The addition of ski mountaineering marks a significant milestone, introducing a high-altitude endurance discipline to the Winter Olympic programme for the first time.

Countries and figures:

What this really means is that in some of the world’s most populous nations, a significant portion of citizens cannot consistently afford basic meals without external support.

The rise in free food programmes is being driven by a combination of inflation, unemployment, conflict, and widening inequality.

According to Pew Research, economic hardship has become a growing concern globally, with more people reporting difficulty meeting basic living costs, including food. Pew’s surveys repeatedly show that affordability and economic insecurity are shaping everyday life in both developing and wealthy nations.

Indonesia: The largest beneficiaries

Indonesia tops the list, with nearly one-third of its population reportedly receiving food support.

The country has expanded large-scale food subsidy and school feeding initiatives to reduce poverty and protect vulnerable households from rising prices.

Newsweek has reported that countries across Asia are increasingly relying on mass food distribution systems as governments try to prevent hunger from escalating into political instability.

Nigeria

Nigeria’s position on the list is deeply linked to its worsening food insecurity. Tribune Online Nigeria has published repeated reports on the country’s hunger emergency, pointing to soaring food prices, insecurity in farming communities, and the increasing number of households skipping meals.

The paper has highlighted how food relief and community feeding programmes are now essential in many regions.

With an estimated 20 million Nigerians benefiting from free food support, the country is facing one of the most serious cost-of-living crises in its recent history .

In recent months, millions of pages of investigative records, court filings, contact lists, flight logs, and correspondence linked to Epstein have resurfaced in public discussion, fuelling renewed media attention and political pressure for transparency.

While Epstein died in jail in 2019, the scale of his network and the unanswered questions surrounding who enabled him have ensured the story never fully went away.

The U.S. Department of Justice this year released more than 3 million pages of files related to investigations into the late financier and registered sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including emails, correspondence, financial records, flight logs, videos and images as part of what is now widely referred to as the “ Epstein files .”

The disclosure stems from the Epstein Files Transparency Act, passed by Congress in November 2025 and signed into law by President Joe Donald Trump , which mandates the public release of unclassified documents held by the Justice Department and FBI.

Not just names — Context also matters

A high number of mentions does not equal proof of criminal conduct.

Journalists and legal analysts emphasise that the Epstein files include a mix of contact records, flight manifests, emails, and media references, and that being mentioned in a document does not, in itself, imply guilt or illegal activity.

For example:

International reactions to the documents

Across Europe and beyond, governments have reacted differently to references in the Epstein files:

China’s export engine still runs hot

China remains the world’s largest exporter of goods , shipping an astonishing over $3.5 trillion in products globally during 2024, driven by electronics, machinery, and a vast manufacturing base.

In line with that broader picture, China’s top export categories in 2024 included:

This mix shows how deeply China has integrated into global supply chains for tech and transport goods, especially mobile devices and computer components.

China’s export strength isn’t just about scale; it’s also about global reach. The United States, Hong Kong and Vietnam are among China’s biggest trading partners, and electronics remain a dominant part of the export mix.

India ’s export basket: Energy and value-added goods

India’s export picture is narrower in scale but diversified in profile. In 2024, India shipped hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of goods worldwide, with a growing emphasis on energy, pharmaceuticals, electronics and gems.

The top export categories for India in 2024 included:

Refined petroleum products, including petrol, diesel and other fuels, have taken on greater importance in India’s export economy , making the country one of the top global suppliers of processed fuels.

India’s pharmaceutical sector continues its ascent, building on its reputation as the “pharmacy of the world” thanks to strong global demand for generic medicines and active ingredients

The numbers explain how tennis dynasties rooted in individual greatness can elevate a nation’s global standing. Spain’s haul is anchored by Rafael Nadal, who alone amassed 22 major singles titles, most of them on the clay of Roland-Garros. Emerging stars like Carlos Alcaraz have bolstered the Spanish total with multiple Grand Slam triumphs of their own.

Hot on Spain’s heels is Serbia, with 24 Grand Slam wins, all credited to Novak Djokovic, the only male player in history to hold all four major titles simultaneously and complete a triple career Grand Slam. Djokovic’s consistency at the very top of the sport has cemented Serbia’s place among the elite nations in tennis.

Switzerland ranks third with 23 Grand Slam singles victories this century, fuelled by the careers of Roger Federer and Stan Wawrinka. Federer’s elegant all-court game produced 20 major titles, while Wawrinka added three of his own, giving Swiss tennis an enduring spotlight on tennis’s biggest stages.

The above map also highlights other countries with notable contributions: the United States (6), Great Britain (3), and Australia (2), reflecting a wider spread of success across continents. Lesser-represented regions in Latin America and Oceania also appear on the map with smaller tallies.

As the 2026 season unfolds, fresh challenges from rising stars like Jannik Sinner , Carlos Alcaraz and others will shape how this map evolves, potentially redrawing the balance of national pride in global tennis.

According to 2017 data, across the country, states struggled with different pressures, each striving in its own way to make sense of a fast-moving and deeply polarised political climate.

The five issues driving frustration

Each state is coloured according to the issue most frequently cited by residents as their biggest source of political frustration on the above map.

Across much of the South, Southwest, and West Coast, immigration emerges as the leading concern. States such as California, Texas, Arizona, Florida, and New York show high levels of frustration with immigration policy.

This aligns with reporting from the Pew Research Centre , which consistently finds immigration to be one of the most polarising national issues, particularly in border states and regions with large immigrant populations. Debates over border security, asylum policy, and labour migration have kept immigration at the centre of US politics for over a decade.

Several Midwestern and Mountain states, including Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, show civil rights as the top frustration.

Civil rights concerns often include voting access, freedom of speech, gun rights, and equality under the law. According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), these issues tend to rise during periods of political polarisation or when state-level legislation directly affects personal freedoms.

States such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, Tennessee, Missouri, Illinois, and Maine are marked by frustration over racial injustice.

This reflects long-running national conversations around policing, systemic racism, and economic inequality. Data from the Pew Research Centre and Brookings Institution show that concern about racial inequality increased sharply in the years following high-profile incidents of police violence and mass protests, particularly between 2014 and 2020.

In states like Iowa, Arkansas, Kentucky, West Virginia, and North Dakota, healthcare is the most cited frustration.

These concerns often relate to access, affordability, and rural healthcare shortages. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, rural states and lower-income regions are more likely to report dissatisfaction with healthcare systems, hospital closures, and insurance costs.

A smaller number of states, including Nebraska, highlight frustration with executive leadership. This category typically reflects dissatisfaction with presidential authority, government accountability, and the balance of power between branches of government.

It is 2026, and these frustrations are yet to be nonexistent. From President Donald Trump’s repeated tariff threats to ongoing controversies around immigration enforcement, including ICE detentions and deaths in custody, many Americans are left feeling overwhelmed.

In Minnesota, protests against ICE operations have drawn national attention, particularly in and around Minneapolis, where demonstrators have gathered outside detention facilities and government buildings to oppose arrests, deportations, and what they describe as overly aggressive enforcement tactics.

Tensions escalated further following the death of Alex Pretti . On 24 January 2026, the 37-year-old intensive care nurse and U.S. citizen was fatally shot by federal immigration agents during a confrontation in south Minneapolis. Federal officials say Pretti resisted arrest and approached agents with a handgun.

But bystander video reviewed by multiple outlets shows him unarmed, holding a phone, and attempting to intervene amid a chaotic scene before agents pepper-sprayed and tackled him, then fired multiple shots. This marked at least the second death of a U.S. resident in federal immigration operations in Minnesota in January, following the killing of Renée Nicole Good earlier in the month.

Civil rights organisations and community leaders have demanded transparent investigations, while federal authorities have said the incident is under review. The case has become a focal point for wider concerns about the use of force and oversight in immigration operations.

President Javier Milei’s administration is preparing to submit Argentina’s proposed participation in former U.S. President Donald Trump’s so-called “Board of Peace” initiative to Congress, a move that could open intense political debate. The decision reflects Milei’s broader effort to realign Argentina’s foreign policy and deepen ties with conservative international partners, particularly in Washington. Lawmakers are expected to scrutinise both the legal basis and diplomatic implications of joining such a body, especially as Argentina continues negotiations with international creditors and multilateral institutions. Opposition figures are already signalling concerns about sovereignty and the country’s traditional multilateral posture, while government allies frame the proposal as part of a new global engagement strategy.

Alleged nuclear plant overpricing

A senior figure close to President Milei is under mounting political pressure following allegations that contracts linked to Argentina’s nuclear facilities were overpriced. The claims have triggered calls for transparency from opposition parties and civil society groups, who argue that the controversy undermines the administration’s anti-corruption rhetoric and fiscal discipline agenda. Government officials have responded cautiously, stressing that investigations are ongoing and that no conclusions have yet been reached. Nonetheless, the affair has complicated Milei’s efforts to portray his government as sharply different from previous administrations, especially as energy policy and public spending remain politically sensitive issues in a country battling inflation and budget constraints.

Governor protests Federal takeover of Ushuaia port

Political tensions between Argentina’s federal government and provincial leaders escalated after Milei placed the strategically located Ushuaia port under trusteeship. The governor of the southern province has publicly condemned the decision, accusing Buenos Aires of overreach and arguing that the move threatens local autonomy and economic interests tied to maritime trade and tourism. Federal authorities, however, maintain that the intervention is necessary to restore order and proper administration at the port, which is a critical gateway for Antarctic logistics and shipping routes. The dispute is likely to intensify in Congress and the courts, adding another layer to Milei’s already contentious reform agenda.

Bill to lower criminal responsibility age

President Milei has introduced legislation aimed at lowering the age of criminal responsibility, part of a broader push to tighten security policies amid public concern about crime. Supporters say the bill would modernise Argentina’s justice system and deter youth involvement in violent offences, positioning it as a necessary response to social insecurity. Critics, however, warn that the proposal risks criminalising vulnerable minors and failing to address root causes such as poverty and lack of access to education.

Overpricing claims

The nuclear-sector controversy deepened after reports that officials were removed in connection with the alleged overpricing, further intensifying scrutiny of Milei ally Reidel. The dismissals have raised questions about whether the government is attempting to contain political fallout or signalling a tougher stance on accountability within state-linked energy operations. Analysts note that the episode could have lasting implications for Milei’s governing coalition, particularly as it seeks to maintain public support for economic reforms and privatisation plans.