Preparations are reportedly underway for a face-to-face meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, according to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov. If held, this meeting would signal a dramatic shift away from the West’s policy of isolating Moscow over the Ukraine war. Speaking to Russian state media on Saturday, Ryabkov stated that the proposed meeting would cover a range of global issues beyond just the Ukraine conflict. He emphasized the need for normalizing U.S.-Russia relations, though discussions are still at an early stage. Previously, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio suggested that diplomatic normalization, an end to hostilities, and strengthening economic ties were key factors bringing the two nations closer to negotiations.

Federal employees in the U.S. have been warned that failing to submit weekly work reports by Monday night could put their jobs at risk. This directive was communicated via an email sent on February 22. According to Reuters, Elon Musk, the head of the Trump administration’s Government Efficiency Division, posted on X that employees who fail to respond to the email will be considered as having voluntarily resigned. Trump has also urged the Department of Government Efficiency (DGE) to accelerate workforce reductions, targeting a significant cut in the 2.3 million federal employees. Questions remain about the legal standing of Musk’s directive and how employees working on classified projects should respond.

Pope Francis’ health has deteriorated, with Vatican authorities confirming on Saturday (February 22) that his condition is now critical. The 88-year-old Pontiff was admitted to a hospital in Rome on February 14 for treatment of bronchitis and a medical evaluation. Further tests revealed pneumonia in both lungs, exacerbating his pre-existing asthma condition. As a result, his health has become increasingly fragile. The Vatican reports that the Pope remains conscious and alert, spending most of his time seated, but requires additional oxygen and blood circulation support. His platelet count has also dropped significantly. Amid growing concerns, discussions about a possible resignation have begun within the Church.

Bilkis Jahan Shireen, BNP leader, has accused political opponents of plotting conspiracies against her since the fall of the fascist government. In a recent press conference, Shireen denied claims regarding a 10 crore taka pond in Barisal, calling them false and fabricated. She stated her family has legitimate ownership of the land for over 70 years and rejected all allegations. Shireen believes the media is being used to tarnish her image and destroy her political career through deliberate misinformation.

Speaking at an event at Delhi University on Saturday, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar expressed concern over allegations made by the Trump administration regarding USAID. He stated that while USAID was originally allowed to operate in good faith, recent disclosures by Trump officials raise serious concerns. “It appears that certain individuals have been actively shaping a particular narrative,” Jaishankar remarked. The Indian government is currently investigating the matter. Previously, the U.S. had canceled a $21 million grant meant to influence Indian voters ahead of upcoming elections.

Mohammad Tajul Islam, the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunal, stated that Sheikh Hasina visited Pangu Hospital and ordered the cessation of medical treatment for those severely injured in the protests, saying “No Treatment, No Release.” Doctors and hospital staff have provided evidence on this matter, which has been presented to the court by the prosecution. Not only patients but also doctors have testified. He mentioned that under the administration’s instructions, the bodies of martyrs were not allowed to be examined, and in some cases, death certificates were not issued. Even when death certificates were provided, the cause of death from gunshot wounds was not mentioned.

The Bangladesh Embassy in Bahrain commemorated International Mother Language Day and Shaheed Day with a series of events on its premises. The ceremony began at 9 AM with the hoisting of the national flag by Ambassador Md. Rois Hasan Sarwar, in the presence of embassy officials, staff, and leaders of the Bangladeshi community. The message from the Chief Adviser was read out during the event. The program also featured poetry recitations, cultural performances, and traditional dances. In his speech, Sarwar emphasized the sacrifices made for the Bengali language and urged respect for other languages and cultures, stating that only through such mutual respect can the dignity of the Bengali language be further enhanced.

The Taliban government has severely restricted Afghan women’s freedom of speech and education. However, ‘Radio Begum,’ a women-run radio station that was previously shut down, is set to resume broadcasting. According to the Ministry of Information and Culture, the station has been allowed to reopen after committing to follow certain conditions. Arab News reports that the station must operate under the guidelines of journalism and the Islamic Emirate’s regulations and must not violate them in the future. The channel is entirely run by women.

The funeral of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah is set to take place today in Beirut. More than just a mourning ceremony, this event is expected to serve as a powerful demonstration of Hezbollah’s political strength, particularly at a time when the group is facing challenges. Nasrallah was killed on September 27, 2023, in an Israeli airstrike while meeting in a bunker on the southern outskirts of Beirut. A highly influential leader in the Arab world, he played a key role in expanding Hezbollah’s influence and was widely respected across the region. Thousands of people, including Iranian officials and representatives from various countries, are expected to attend the funeral.

Voting in Germany’s parliamentary elections began at 8 a.m. local time on Sunday and will continue until 6 p.m. Nearly 60 million voters will choose their representatives for the next four years. According to BBC, this election could have a significant impact on the country’s future in European politics. Preliminary results are expected to be released after 6 p.m. Surveys indicate that immigration is the biggest issue for the German public, with 37% of people considering it a top concern—an increase of 14% from last month. The election is also crucial due to concerns about the economic downturn and rising violence. However, there are fears regarding the rise of right-wing politics. Due to a decline in popularity for current Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) and Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck (Green Party), CDU-CSU leader Friedrich Merz is currently leading the race.

Hamas has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately undermining the ongoing ceasefire negotiations. The group claims that Israel has failed to initiate discussions for the second phase of the agreement, which was set to conclude on March 1. As per the ceasefire’s first phase, Israel agreed to release prisoners, withdraw forces from parts of Gaza, and allow humanitarian aid. Hamas leader Bassem Naim told Al Jazeera that Netanyahu’s actions signal preparations for renewed conflict rather than peace. Meanwhile, Hamas recently released six Israeli hostages, but Israel has yet to free 620 Palestinian detainees.

The government has officially declared February 25 as ‘National Martyred Soldiers Day’ to honor the 74 victims, including 57 army officers, of the 2009 Pilkhana massacre in Dhaka. Cabinet Secretary Dr. Sheikh Abdur Rashid announced on Sunday that a gazette notification would be issued today, formalizing the annual observance. However, the day will not be a public holiday. This decision aims to recognize the sacrifices of the fallen soldiers while ensuring the tragic event remains a significant part of national memory.

A shooting incident at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico left one airman dead and another injured on Saturday morning. The U.S. Air Force confirmed that the injured officer was treated and released from the medical center, while the deceased airman was found at the scene. The identities of both individuals remain undisclosed as local authorities investigate the incident. The Kirtland Truman Gate Pass Office has been temporarily closed.

Election Commissioner Md. Anwarul Islam has announced that the national election schedule will be set with December 2025 in mind. The commission aims to start full preparations by July-August. Typically, election schedules are announced 45-55 days in advance, and the EC is working independently without external influence. Discussions are ongoing about local elections coinciding with national polls, but no final decision has been made. The commission assures a timely schedule announcement and a swift election process while ensuring transparency and fairness.

The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has accused a certain group of deliberately attempting to disrupt unity and peaceful coexistence by inciting religious sentiments. In a statement on Sunday, Rafiqul Islam said that Bangladesh has long been a shining example of communal harmony. “Our culture, traditions, and values are built on mutual respect and coexistence among people of all religions,” he stated. The statement further alleged that a particular faction has recently been engaging in deliberate religious provocations to undermine this unity. “Especially, offensive remarks and campaigns against Islam, Allah, and the Prophet (PBUH) are attacking our social harmony,” it added. Terming the situation as unfortunate, the movement has urged the government to take action and ensure justice.