Global Pulse

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  • France seizes suspected Russian ‘shadow fleet’ oil tanker in the Mediterranean

    France seizes suspected Russian ‘shadow fleet’ oil tanker in the Mediterranean

    In a significant multinational operation, French naval forces have intercepted and seized the oil tanker ‘Grinch’ in the Mediterranean Sea, alleging the vessel constitutes part of Russia’s clandestine ‘shadow fleet’ designed to circumvent Western sanctions. The operation, conducted with British military support between the coasts of Spain and Morocco, represents the latest escalation in Western efforts to disrupt Russia’s oil revenue streams financing its war in Ukraine.

    French President Emmanuel Macron announced the seizure via social media platform X, stating the vessel was ‘subject to international sanctions and suspected of flying a false flag.’ Maritime authorities confirmed subsequent inspections validated suspicions regarding the vessel’s fraudulent registration credentials. The Grinch had been sailing under the flag of Comoros, a known practice among sanction-evading vessels seeking to obscure their true ownership and operations.

    According to French officials, the tanker originated from Murmansk, Russia’s crucial Arctic port, before being intercepted. The UK Ministry of Defence acknowledged providing ‘tracking and monitoring’ assistance through HMS Dagger, which surveilled the vessel transiting the Strait of Gibraltar. British Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the collaborative effort aims to ‘choke off the funds that fuel Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.’

    Russia’s Paris embassy reported receiving no formal notification regarding the seizure, potentially setting the stage for diplomatic tensions. This incident follows similar recent actions, including a late 2023 French seizure of another sanctioned tanker and a January 2024 joint UK-US operation against a Russian-flagged vessel in the Atlantic.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky enthusiastically endorsed the interception, calling for even more aggressive measures including confiscation and sale of illicit oil cargoes. Speaking from Davos, Zelensky challenged European nations to move beyond discussion and demonstrate concrete action against Russian sanction evasion.

    The emergence of shadow fleets has become a pervasive challenge in global maritime security, with financial intelligence firm S&P Global estimating approximately 20% of worldwide oil tankers now participate in smuggling operations for sanctioned nations including Russia, Iran, and Venezuela.

  • Daughter recalls her father’s quiet role in shaping UAE before the Union

    Daughter recalls her father’s quiet role in shaping UAE before the Union

    At the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Ayesha Mohammed Saeed Al Mulla offered a rare personal glimpse into the life of her father, Mohammed Saeed Al Mulla, a key architect behind the formation of the United Arab Emirates. Speaking on January 22, 2026, she revealed how the prominent businessman and former minister served as a trusted diplomatic messenger between the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum during the crucial pre-Union period.

    Unlike official historical accounts, Ayesha’s narrative focused on the character and values that defined her father both as a nation-builder and family patriarch. Born in Dubai’s historic Shindagha district in 1926, Mohammed Saeed Al Mulla belonged to a generation that laid the foundation for the modern UAE. His passing in 2023 drew formal tributes from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, acknowledging his considerable contributions.

    Ayesha described growing up in a household steeped in authenticity, poetry, and historical significance, shaped by family origins in Liwa. As the youngest daughter for 17 years, she developed a particularly strong bond with her father, who became her primary role model. ‘I was raised in the same home he was raised in, by the same values and principles,’ she reflected during the emotional session.

    The discussion centered on researcher Muayyad Al-Shaibani’s book ‘A Radiant Biography,’ which documents Al Mulla’s legacy through personal testimonies rather than conventional historical records. Ayesha highlighted her father’s exceptional diplomatic skills, noting that Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan had recently told her, ‘The only person who could calm matters down was your father.’

    Beyond his political role, Ayesha remembered her father’s strict integrity and discipline. He prohibited any of his children from working in government until after his retirement, maintaining a clear separation between public service and family interests. Among his most enduring lessons were the importance of accurately conveying messages from leadership without alteration and protecting family reputation above all else. ‘Money comes and goes,’ he taught her, ‘but reputation can never be replaced.’

    Ayesha concluded with simple pride: ‘He was a man of the Union, and I am proud to be the daughter of one of the men who helped shape it.’

  • Shanghai braces for record passenger numbers during Spring Festival

    Shanghai braces for record passenger numbers during Spring Festival

    Shanghai authorities are implementing comprehensive measures to manage an anticipated record-breaking travel period during the upcoming Spring Festival, with projections indicating nearly 49.15 million passenger journeys through China’s financial capital. The extended 40-day travel rush, officially scheduled from February 2 to March 13, is expected to establish new benchmarks in urban transportation management according to the municipal Spring Festival Transport Office.

    Transportation analysts predict a 5% overall increase in passenger volume compared to previous year’s figures, with rail travel demonstrating the most substantial growth at 6%. Air travel is forecast to experience a modest 1% increase, while road traffic is projected to decline by approximately 5%, reflecting shifting transportation preferences among travelers.

    The departure peak is anticipated around February 14, with an estimated 1.08 million passengers exiting the city as residents embark on homeward journeys, family visits, and vacation travels preceding the Spring Festival commencement on February 17, which heralds the beginning of the Year of the Horse. The return peak, projected for February 23, expects daily arrivals to reach 1.14 million passenger trips, representing an 8% surge over last year’s corresponding period.

    Highway traffic is forecast to achieve unprecedented levels, with average daily vehicle trips predicted to increase between 3-6%, reaching between 1.32 and 1.37 million vehicles. This potential record underscores the massive scale of seasonal migration characteristic of China’s most significant annual holiday period, presenting substantial logistical challenges for urban planners and transportation authorities.

  • German nurse jailed for murders could be linked to 100 more deaths

    German nurse jailed for murders could be linked to 100 more deaths

    German authorities have revealed that a convicted nurse serving life imprisonment for murdering 10 patients is now under investigation for potentially over 100 additional deaths. Chief Public Prosecutor Katja Schlenkermann-Pitts from Aachen confirmed to the BBC that investigators are examining “a correspondingly high number of suspicious cases” that could be linked to the former palliative care specialist.

    The unnamed defendant, previously employed at Rhein-Maas hospital in Würselen, received a life sentence in November last year after being found guilty of 10 counts of murder and 27 counts of attempted murder. The regional court determined that during night shifts, he deliberately administered lethal doses of sedatives and painkillers to critically ill patients without medical justification.

    Prosecutors established that the nurse repeatedly administered medications while fully aware of their potentially fatal consequences. Judicial authorities concluded his actions were motivated by personal discomfort and a desire to maintain control during nighttime operations, despite his trial testimony claiming he only intended to help patients sleep.

    The initial conviction covered crimes committed between December 2023 and May 2024. However, the newly suspected cases predominantly relate to earlier periods, prompting a massive expansion of the investigation. Authorities have ordered approximately 60 exhumations, with 27 already completed and 30 more pending forensic examination.

    Prosecutor Schlenkermann-Pitts emphasized that many cases remain preliminary and dependent on autopsy results, noting that some suspicions “may still be dropped” following thorough investigation. Concurrently, Cologne prosecutors are examining deaths at hospitals where the nurse worked prior to his transfer to Würselen, located 65 kilometers away.

    Two exhumations have already occurred in Cologne involving a 94-year-old woman who died in 2018 and a 78-year-old patient from 2015. Officials from both jurisdictions confirm preparations for potential new charges are underway, though any additional proceedings are unlikely to commence before 2027.

    This case bears striking parallels to that of Niels Högel, another German nurse sentenced to life imprisonment in 2019 for murdering 85 patients, making him the most prolific killer in Germany’s modern history.

  • China’s disciplinary bodies penalize over 3,700 staff in 2025

    China’s disciplinary bodies penalize over 3,700 staff in 2025

    China’s top anti-corruption authorities have demonstrated rigorous self-policing within their ranks, with latest figures revealing substantial disciplinary actions against internal personnel throughout 2025. According to official data released by the Communist Party of China Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission, disciplinary inspection and supervision organs nationwide initiated cases against 4,119 of their own cadres during the year.

    The comprehensive enforcement effort resulted in disciplinary and administrative penalties for 3,763 officials, while 234 cases involving serious legal violations were transferred to judicial organs for criminal investigation. The scale of public oversight was equally significant, with these bodies receiving more than 40,200 reports concerning disciplinary inspection and supervision officials, of which over 35,000 were formally processed through established channels.

    Notably, the enforcement actions reached across all administrative levels, including four provincial and ministerial-level officials, 116 prefectural and bureau-level cadres, and 746 county and division-level personnel. The disciplinary bodies employed China’s sophisticated “Four Forms” of supervision and enforcement mechanism to address approximately 13,900 cadres through graduated interventions.

    The tiered approach to discipline enforcement saw 9,937 cases handled through the first form (criticism, education and rectification), 3,217 through the second form (organizational adjustments or minor penalties), 465 through the third form (heavy sanctions or significant post adjustments), and 282 through the fourth form (transfer to judicial organs for serious criminal violations). This structured methodology reflects China’s systematic approach to maintaining integrity within its anti-corruption apparatus through preventive measures and graduated sanctions.

  • Global Knee Summit brings global knee care experts to Dubai

    Global Knee Summit brings global knee care experts to Dubai

    Dubai has positioned itself as the epicenter of orthopedic advancement by hosting the Global Knee Summit, transforming from a traditional medical conference into the world’s foremost platform for knee innovation and surgical excellence. Under the leadership of Course Director Dr. Kevin Plancher, this groundbreaking assembly brings together renowned surgeons and medical innovators from across six continents to challenge conventional approaches and redefine the future of knee care.

    The summit’s comprehensive program addresses the most pressing challenges in contemporary orthopedics, featuring intensive sessions on arthroplasty techniques, sports medicine applications, joint preservation methodologies, and cutting-edge biologic treatments. Unlike conventional medical conferences, the program emphasizes contrasting philosophical approaches that stimulate intellectual debate rather than seeking easy consensus, recognizing that genuine medical progress emerges from rigorous discussion.

    Practical application forms the core of the educational experience, with live surgical demonstrations, case-based discussions, and interactive panels enabling direct engagement with next-generation technologies. Participants gain hands-on exposure to robotic-assisted systems, artificial intelligence-driven surgical planning, advanced implant designs, and innovative biologic solutions, all complemented by unfiltered assessments of their clinical effectiveness and limitations.

    Dubai’s strategic location at the intersection of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas provides an ideal setting for global medical dialogue, supported by the city’s state-of-the-art infrastructure and growing reputation as a medical innovation hub. The summit fosters unprecedented networking opportunities, creating lasting professional relationships that extend beyond the conference through cross-specialty collaborations and ongoing educational initiatives.

    This gathering represents an essential educational opportunity for orthopedic surgeons specializing in knee arthroplasty, sports medicine professionals navigating evolving treatment indications, and medical leaders responsible for complex revision cases. The summit’s ultimate objective remains clear: providing every participant with immediately applicable knowledge and techniques that will directly enhance their clinical practice in the coming week.

  • Trump’s son called UK police after seeing woman ‘beat up’, court hears

    Trump’s son called UK police after seeing woman ‘beat up’, court hears

    In a dramatic development at Snaresbrook Crown Court, Barron Trump, the 19-year-old son of former U.S. President Donald Trump, has emerged as a key witness in a serious criminal case involving allegations of assault and sexual violence. The court proceedings revealed that Trump’s youngest son contacted London police from the United States after reportedly witnessing a friend being violently attacked during a video call in January 2025.

    The case centers on Matvei Rumiantsev, a 22-year-old Russian national facing multiple charges including assault, two counts of rape, intentional strangulation, and perverting the course of justice. The alleged victim, who remains anonymous under UK law, reportedly connected with Barron Trump through social media prior to the incident.

    According to evidence presented to jurors, Trump placed a call to the woman on January 18, 2025, which was unexpectedly answered by a shirtless man with dark hair. Trump described to investigators how the camera view momentarily showed the victim being struck while crying, with the entire disturbing interaction lasting approximately five to seven seconds. Recognizing the urgency, Trump immediately directed his American friends to contact London’s Metropolitan Police via emergency services.

    A transcript of the 999 call released by the Crown Prosecution Service captures Trump’s urgent plea for help: ‘I’m calling from the US, I just got a call from a girl, you know, she’s getting beat up. This was happening about eight minutes ago. I just figured out how to call someone. It’s really an emergency.’

    In subsequent written testimony provided on May 2, Trump characterized what he witnessed as ‘very brief indeed but indeed prevalent,’ noting he hadn’t expected the call to be answered due to the time difference between the countries.

    The court also heard contrasting accounts of the relationship dynamics involved. Rumiantsev acknowledged in testimony that he had become aware of the woman’s friendship with Trump in October 2024 and admitted to feeling upset about their communication. Body camera footage presented as evidence captured the alleged victim describing Rumiantsev’s behavior as ‘jealousy, controlling of who I can be friends with.’

    Rumiantsev denied all charges while acknowledging an argument in November 2024 during which he damaged the woman’s air fryer and kettle. He claimed he contacted police himself over concerns for her welfare after receiving concerning messages.

    The trial continues as prosecutors present evidence dating between November 2024 and January 2025, with Barron Trump’s testimony playing a central role in the proceedings.

  • Israel president says Iran’s future ‘can only be regime change’

    Israel president says Iran’s future ‘can only be regime change’

    Israeli President Isaac Herzog has declared that regime change represents the only viable future for Iran, following widespread anti-government demonstrations that faced severe suppression. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday, Herzog characterized Iran’s clerical leadership as “fragile” and expressed solidarity with Iranian citizens demanding political transformation.

    The protests, initially triggered by economic discontent in late December, rapidly evolved into a broader movement challenging the theocratic establishment that has governed Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. While demonstrations peaked in early January, activists report they have since diminished due to intense security measures and nationwide internet restrictions.

    Herzog emphasized international responsibility, stating that supporting Iran’s transition must involve both the Iranian people and the global community. His comments align with Israel’s longstanding opposition to Iran’s government, though he stopped short of advocating direct intervention.

    Iranian authorities acknowledged 3,117 fatalities during the unrest, though independent activists contend the actual death toll is significantly higher. This confrontation occurs against the backdrop of renewed regional tensions, including last year’s 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel that involved Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

    Tehran has previously accused Israel of attempting to destabilize national unity, particularly following statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing support for Iranian protesters. The exchange highlights the deepening geopolitical rift between the two Middle Eastern powers.

  • Sharjah property prices not ‘peaked’ yet, set to rise over 10% in 2026

    Sharjah property prices not ‘peaked’ yet, set to rise over 10% in 2026

    Sharjah’s property market is poised for another year of significant growth, with industry executives projecting price increases exceeding 10% throughout 2026. This optimistic outlook emerged during the ACRES 2026 exhibition at Expo Centre, where market leaders identified multiple factors driving the emirate’s sustained real estate expansion.

    The recent legislative reform allowing all nationalities to invest in Sharjah’s real estate market has created unprecedented momentum. Amer Al Zarooni, General Manager of Asas Real Estate Company, confirmed that 2025 delivered record transactions with property values appreciating between 10-12%. He anticipates similar performance this year, projecting approximately 10% capital appreciation driven by dramatically increased foreign investor participation.

    Market stability remains a key differentiator for Sharjah. Unlike more volatile markets, Sharjah’s growth pattern demonstrates logical, steady progression rather than wild fluctuations. Lamia Al Jewaied, Head of Studies and Research Bureau at Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, emphasized that property prices haven’t yet peaked, indicating continued strong returns for investors.

    Multiple structural advantages support this growth trajectory. The emirate’s central geographic location, family-oriented environment, and inclusive investment policies create a compelling market foundation. Government support through facilitative regulations and project encouragement further strengthens real estate company performance, according to Ali Mohammed Mousa, CEO of North Coast Real Estate.

    Specific market segments show particularly strong momentum. Raymond Khouzami, Vice Chairman of Al Thuriah Group, noted waterfront properties experiencing heightened demand with 2025 price increases reaching 20% in some cases. Construction material costs contributed to these increases, though high demand remains the primary driver.

    The convergence of demographic growth, tourism expansion, and supportive government policies creates ideal conditions for sustained market development. Noreen Nasralla, Senior Vice President for Marketing Strategy and Branding at Alef Group, highlighted market stability as a central government focus that will continue attracting both residents and investors throughout the coming year.

  • Trump says Putin accepted to join his ‘Board of Peace’

    Trump says Putin accepted to join his ‘Board of Peace’

    In a significant geopolitical development, former US President Donald Trump announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to join his proposed ‘Board of Peace’ initiative. This declaration comes despite the Kremlin maintaining that it is still evaluating the invitation.

    Trump confidently stated to international media, ‘He was invited, he’s accepted. Many people have accepted,’ referencing his vaguely defined consortium of world leaders. The initiative, which has drawn skepticism from traditional U.S. allies, reportedly requires a $1 billion contribution for a permanent seat on the board.

    Contradicting Trump’s straightforward assertion, President Putin provided a more measured response during a televised government meeting in Moscow. He revealed that he has instructed the Russian Foreign Ministry to thoroughly analyze the proposal and consult with strategic partners before formulating an official reply.

    In a strategically calculated move, Putin suggested that Russia could fund the billion-dollar membership fee using assets previously frozen by the previous American administration. Furthermore, he proposed these same frozen assets could be allocated to reconstruct territories damaged by hostilities, contingent upon the successful conclusion of a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine.

    The ‘Board of Peace,’ initially conceptualized to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction, appears to have expanded its purported scope according to its charter. The initiative now seemingly positions itself as a potential rival to established international organizations like the United Nations, drawing criticism from several European nations including France.