Global Pulse

标签： Europe

欧洲

  • Norway’s PM agrees crown princess had ‘poor judgement’ over Epstein links

    Norway’s PM agrees crown princess had ‘poor judgement’ over Epstein links

    The Norwegian royal family confronts converging scandals as newly released documents reveal Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s extensive connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, coinciding with her stepson’s impending criminal trial. Judicial files disclosed by the U.S. Department of Justice document hundreds of communications between the princess and Epstein spanning 2011-2014, including a four-day stay at his Palm Beach residence in January 2013.

    In a Saturday statement, Princess Mette-Marit acknowledged “poor judgement” and expressed profound regret for maintaining any association with Epstein. “It is simply embarrassing,” the princess stated, while extending her “deep sympathy and solidarity with the victims of the abuses committed by Jeffrey Epstein.”

    Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre endorsed the princess’s self-assessment, simultaneously criticizing former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland for similar misjudgment regarding planned travels to Epstein’s private island. The prime minister’s explicit commentary on royal conduct marks a notable departure from conventional diplomatic reserve.

    Compounding the royal family’s challenges, Marius Borg Høiby—the princess’s biological son from a previous relationship—faces 38 criminal charges including rape and sexual assault. The 29-year-old, who holds no royal status, denies all allegations, with the most severe charge involving intercourse with an unconscious victim. A conviction could result in a minimum ten-year imprisonment.

    Neither Crown Princess Mette-Marit nor Crown Prince Haakon will attend the Oslo District Court proceedings, though the prince recently expressed familial concern for “everyone affected by this case.” The royal household simultaneously navigates the princess’s serious health challenges, as she awaits lung transplantation due to pulmonary fibrosis.

    Norwegian commentators express particular alarm over the casual tone of the Epstein correspondence, including one email inquiring whether nude women carrying surfboards would constitute appropriate wallpaper imagery for her son. The revelations intensify scrutiny regarding royal advisers’ failure to recognize the dangers of sustained contact with a known sex offender.

  • Over €3m of benzodiazepine seized in Dublin

    Over €3m of benzodiazepine seized in Dublin

    In a significant blow to organized crime networks, Ireland’s national police force An Garda Síochána has intercepted illicit drugs with an estimated street value of €3.4 million during coordinated operations across Dublin. The substantial seizure occurred on Wednesday through a series of targeted searches conducted as part of Operation Tara, an ongoing strategic initiative designed to dismantle drug trafficking operations throughout the country.

    Law enforcement officials confirmed the confiscated substances consisted entirely of benzodiazepine tablets, a class of prescription psychoactive medications frequently misused recreationally. While the operation successfully removed a substantial quantity of dangerous substances from circulation, authorities noted that no arrests have been made in direct connection with Wednesday’s seizures.

    The intercepted drugs have been transferred to forensic laboratories for detailed chemical analysis, which will help investigators identify distribution patterns and manufacturing sources. An Garda Síochána emphasized that their investigation remains active and ongoing, with further operational developments anticipated as they continue to target the infrastructure supporting illegal drug distribution networks across the Irish capital and surrounding regions.

    Operation Tara represents one of Ireland’s most comprehensive law enforcement strategies against drug-related criminal activity, focusing specifically on disrupting supply chains and prosecuting those involved in drug dealing operations at various levels. Wednesday’s successful seizure demonstrates the continued effectiveness of this coordinated approach to combating the illegal drug trade.

  • France’s Capgemini to sell subsidiary working with ICE during anger at US immigration crackdown

    France’s Capgemini to sell subsidiary working with ICE during anger at US immigration crackdown

    PARIS — In a significant corporate move, French technology consulting giant Capgemini has announced the immediate divestiture of its U.S. federal government subsidiary, Capgemini Government Solutions. This decision comes amid intensifying global scrutiny of the subsidiary’s contractual relationship with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), particularly regarding the agency’s enforcement tactics during the previous administration’s immigration initiatives.

    The announcement follows sustained pressure from the French government, which had demanded greater transparency regarding the company’s engagements with ICE. Recent operations conducted by federal immigration officers in Minneapolis, which resulted in the fatal shootings of two American citizens, had generated particular concern in European diplomatic circles.

    In an official statement released Sunday, Capgemini cited regulatory constraints that limited parental oversight as the primary rationale for the divestiture. “The rules for working with U.S. federal government agencies did not allow the group to exercise appropriate control over certain aspects of the operations of this subsidiary to ensure alignment with the group’s objectives,” the company stated.

    Chief Executive Officer Aiman Ezzat revealed he had only recently become aware of the subsidiary’s contractual arrangements with ICE. Through a LinkedIn post, Ezzat acknowledged that “the nature and scope of this work has raised questions compared to what we typically do as a business and technology firm.”

    The divestment decision emerged shortly after French Finance Minister Roland Lescure publicly urged Capgemini to provide complete transparency regarding its activities and reconsider their nature. While the Minister’s office declined to comment on the specific decision, the company’s announcement represents a direct response to governmental concerns.

    According to reports from the non-governmental organization Multinationals Observatory, the subsidiary provided ICE with technical tools designed to assist in locating targets for immigration enforcement operations. Capgemini did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding these specific technologies.

    The financial impact appears minimal, with the subsidiary representing merely 0.4% of Capgemini’s projected 2025 revenue. Capgemini, which employs over 340,000 professionals across more than 50 countries, continues to position itself as a global leader in technology services and consulting.

  • Tens of thousands of Czechs rally in support of President Pavel over dispute with foreign minister

    Tens of thousands of Czechs rally in support of President Pavel over dispute with foreign minister

    PRAGUE — The Czech Republic witnessed unprecedented political mobilization as tens of thousands of citizens flooded Prague’s historic squares on Sunday, demonstrating firm support for President Petr Pavel amid a escalating constitutional confrontation with Foreign Minister Petr Macinka. The massive gathering, which overflowed from Old Town Square to Wenceslas Square, featured a sea of Czech, Ukrainian, and EU flags alongside banners proclaiming ‘Long Live Pavel’ in a striking show of public solidarity.

    The core of the dispute centers on President Pavel’s refusal to appoint Filip Turek as environment minister, a nominee from the right-wing Motorists for Themselves party. This decision came after media investigations revealed Turek’s Facebook posts containing openly racist, homophobic, and sexist content. While Turek offered partial apologies for some posts, he denied authorship of others, further complicating the nomination.

    Foreign Minister Macinka, who leads the Euro-skeptic party, has accused the president of constitutional violations and threatened legal consequences if the appointment isn’t finalized. President Pavel characterized these threats as attempted blackmail and has scheduled a critical meeting with Prime Minister Andrej Babiš for Wednesday to resolve the impasse.

    The current government, sworn in on December 15 after Babiš’s ANO movement formed a coalition with the Freedom and Direct Democracy party and the Motorists, has advocated for shifting away from Ukraine support and rejecting key EU policies. This stands in direct opposition to President Pavel’s staunch pro-Ukraine stance as a retired army general, highlighting the deepening ideological divide within Czech leadership.

    Parallel demonstrations supporting the president emerged in multiple cities across the country, signaling broad public engagement in this constitutional crisis that pits presidential authority against government ambitions.

  • Twelve killed by Russian strike near bus in Ukraine, official says

    Twelve killed by Russian strike near bus in Ukraine, official says

    A Russian drone attack targeting a civilian shuttle bus in eastern Ukraine has resulted in the deaths of twelve mine workers and left seven others wounded, according to regional authorities. The assault occurred in the Pavlohrad district, where the vehicle was transporting employees of energy provider DTEK following their shift.

    Regional military administration chief Oleksandr Ganzha confirmed the casualties via Telegram, stating that investigation into the details is ongoing while air alerts continue throughout the region. DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy firm, denounced the incident as a deliberate attack on civilian workers, initially reporting fifteen fatalities in their official statement.

    This devastating strike follows a pattern of intensified attacks across Ukraine over the weekend. In a separate incident in Zaporizhzhia, a drone strike hit a maternity hospital, injuring six people including two women undergoing medical examinations. Regional head Ivan Fedorov described the hospital attack as further “proof of a war directed against life,” sharing visual evidence of extensive damage including blown-out windows and debris-strewn medical facilities.

    Additional violence claimed three lives in Kherson and Dnipro, according to local officials. These developments occur amidst Russia’s continued targeting of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure during an exceptionally cold winter, with temperatures forecast to drop below -20°C. The attacks on power grids have severely compromised heating and electricity supplies across the country.

    Contradictory statements have emerged regarding potential ceasefires, with US President Donald Trump claiming on Thursday that Russian President Putin had agreed to halt attacks on major Ukrainian cities during the cold snap. The Kremlin later indicated this pause would extend only until Sunday, leaving the humanitarian situation precarious.

  • Bayern powerbroker Uli Hoeneß ‘appalled’ by agent’s behavior as Dayot Upamecano contract talks go on

    Bayern powerbroker Uli Hoeneß ‘appalled’ by agent’s behavior as Dayot Upamecano contract talks go on

    MUNICH — Bayern Munich’s leadership has expressed growing concern over the unresolved contract situation of French international defender Dayot Upamecano. The 27-year-old center-back’s current agreement with the German champions is set to expire at the conclusion of this season, creating mounting anxiety within the club’s hierarchy.

    Uli Hoeneß, the influential honorary president of Bayern Munich, revealed his disappointment regarding the stalled negotiations. In an exclusive interview with Kicker magazine published Sunday, the 74-year-old club legend stated: “I would be absolutely delighted if Dayot Upamecano decides to remain with FC Bayern. I am aware that both he and his family have established strong roots in Munich and feel thoroughly comfortable here.”

    However, Hoeneß voiced significant concerns about external influences potentially derailing the extension talks. “My apprehension lies with his representatives, who appear to be employing every possible tactic to facilitate his departure from our club,” he added, highlighting the contentious nature of the discussions.

    The veteran executive, whose association with Bayern spans over forty years across various roles including player and manager, indicated that the club has made considerable financial concessions to meet the demands of both player and agent. Hoeneß described himself as “appalled” by the negotiating stance adopted by Upamecano’s representatives.

    According to Kicker’s sources, Bayern’s management team plans to arrange urgent talks with the defender in the coming days to address his future prospects and encourage a definitive decision. The situation has gained additional urgency due to reported interest from European powerhouses Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, who could secure the player’s services without transfer compensation.

    Upamecano originally joined Bayern Munich from RB Leipzig in 2021 after the Bavarian club activated his €43 million release clause. His professional journey in Germany began with Leipzig in 2017, following his transition from sister club Red Bull Salzburg. During his tenure with Bayern, the French international has made 178 competitive appearances while earning 35 caps for the French national team.

  • A luge love story: These Olympics have a lot of meaning for Emily and Dominik Fischnaller

    A luge love story: These Olympics have a lot of meaning for Emily and Dominik Fischnaller

    The Olympic sliding track has become the backdrop for an extraordinary love story between American luger Emily Fischnaller and Italy’s Dominik Fischnaller. What began as a teenage romance across continents has evolved into both a marriage and a unique Olympic partnership as they prepare to compete against each other at the Cortina d’Ampezzo Winter Games.

    Their relationship endured the immense challenges of a 15-year long-distance courtship, with both athletes frequently questioning whether their transatlantic connection could survive the relentless demands of elite competition. The pivotal question that sustained them through years of separation—’Are we worth it?’—always received a resounding affirmative, culminating in their courthouse wedding last spring with just nine days’ preparation.

    Now residing in Italy near the Olympic venue, the Fischnallers represent different nations but share identical competitive aspirations. Dominik, the reigning men’s singles bronze medalist entering his fourth Olympics, and Emily, a world championship bronze medalist competing in her third Games, both arrive as legitimate medal contenders.

    Their story reflects a broader trend of Olympic power couples competing in Milan-Cortina. From U.S. alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin engaged to Norwegian racer Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, to married ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, these relationships redefine athletic camaraderie. The Fischnallers particularly relate to U.S. bobsledder Kaysha Love’s description of having a ‘secret weapon’ in a partner who provides unwavering support.

    The couple has overcome significant obstacles, including Emily’s catastrophic crash at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics that resulted in broken neck and back vertebrae. Dominik admits to experiencing ‘10,000 times more pain’ when watching his wife compete, yet both acknowledge these challenges have strengthened their bond.

    As they approach possible retirement decisions post-Olympics, the Fischnallers are building their future together while embracing the unique opportunity to share this competitive experience. ‘We’re here. We’re happy,’ Dominik reflects. ‘And we’re having a good life.’ Their story transcends typical athletic narratives, demonstrating how love can thrive amid the pressures of world-class competition.

  • French tech giant Capgemini to sell US subsidiary working for ICE

    French tech giant Capgemini to sell US subsidiary working for ICE

    French technology conglomerate Capgemini has initiated the immediate divestiture of its US subsidiary following mounting political pressure and public outrage over its contractual relationship with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The decision comes amid intensified scrutiny of ICE’s enforcement methods after two fatal shootings of US citizens by agency personnel.

    Capgemini Government Solutions, the American subsidiary, secured a $4.8 million contract with ICE on December 18, 2025, to provide ‘skip tracing services’—specialized investigative techniques to locate individuals with unknown whereabouts. This contract, one of thirteen held by the subsidiary with ICE, was scheduled to continue through March 15, 2026.

    The controversy reached critical mass following the deaths of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, both US citizens fatally shot by ICE agents during enforcement operations in Minneapolis. These incidents triggered nationwide protests and intensified examination of ICE’s practices under the Trump administration’s renewed deportation initiatives.

    Capgemini’s leadership claimed they became aware of the contract’s nature ‘through public sources’ only recently. CEO Aiman Ezzat stated on LinkedIn that ‘the nature and scope of this work has raised questions compared to what we typically do as a business and technology firm.’ The company officially cited an inability to ‘exercise appropriate control over certain aspects of this subsidiary’s operations to ensure alignment with the Group’s objectives.’

    The revelation provoked strong reactions from French politicians across the spectrum. Finance Minister Roland Lescure demanded transparency regarding the ICE contracts, while left-wing parliamentarian Hadrien Clouet called for sanctions against French companies collaborating with ICE, declaring ‘We do not accept this.’

    The ongoing situation reflects broader tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the US, where ICE has detained thousands and regularly conducted operations in public spaces, leading to numerous clashes with protesters.

  • Teenager dies from Swiss bar fire injuries, bringing death toll to 41

    Teenager dies from Swiss bar fire injuries, bringing death toll to 41

    The death toll from the catastrophic New Year’s Eve fire at Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana has climbed to 41 following the tragic passing of an 18-year-old Swiss national. The victim succumbed to injuries at a Zurich hospital on January 31st, as confirmed by Wallis canton public prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud in an official statement.

    The devastating blaze, which erupted in the popular nightspot frequented by young adults in the resort town where the legal drinking age is 16, also left 116 people injured. Many victims continue to receive intensive medical treatment for severe burns both within Switzerland and across European neighboring countries.

    Current medical statistics reveal a widespread international response to the humanitarian crisis. Switzerland’s Federal Office for Civil Protection reported that as of Monday, 44 patients were undergoing treatment abroad—18 in France, 12 in Italy, 8 in Germany, and 6 in Belgium. Additionally, the Wallis health ministry confirmed 37 patients remain hospitalized within Swiss medical facilities.

    Preliminary investigative findings indicate the fire originated when sparklers attached to champagne bottles ignited highly flammable soundproof foam lining the ceiling of the bar’s basement. Authorities have disclosed that the establishment had not undergone mandatory safety inspections for five years prior to the incident.

    Legal proceedings have been initiated against bar owners Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who face charges of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence. Criminal charges have also been brought against the municipality’s head of public safety and a former council fire safety inspector.

    The Swiss judicial system has imposed stringent measures on both proprietors. Jessica Moretti remains under travel restrictions requiring daily police check-ins and passport surrender, while Jacques Moretti is being held in custody for an initial 90-day period. Jessica Moretti previously expressed profound remorse to reporters, describing the incident as an ‘unthinkable tragedy.’

  • Swiss Alpine bar fire claims 41st victim, an 18-year-old Swiss national

    Swiss Alpine bar fire claims 41st victim, an 18-year-old Swiss national

    ZURICH — A tragic alpine bar fire that shocked Switzerland last month has claimed another life, with an 18-year-old Swiss national succumbing to injuries at a Zurich hospital this past Saturday. This development elevates the total death toll to 41, marking one of the nation’s deadliest peacetime disasters in recent history.

    The Valais public prosecutor’s office confirmed the death in a brief statement on Sunday, indicating it would refrain from releasing further details to preserve the integrity of the ongoing criminal investigation. The blaze erupted in the early hours of New Year’s Day at the densely packed Le Constellation bar, located in the prestigious Crans-Montana ski resort.

    Official investigative reports point to sparkling candles placed on Champagne bottles as the probable ignition source. It is believed these flames made contact with the ceiling’s soundproofing material, triggering a rapid and devastating fire. A critical line of inquiry for authorities is determining whether this construction material met existing safety regulations and if the use of such candles was legally permitted within the establishment. Notably, public records indicate that the last formal fire safety inspection of the venue was conducted in 2019.

    In response to the catastrophe, Swiss prosecutors have initiated criminal proceedings against the bar’s owners, French nationals Jacques and Jessica Moretti. They face severe charges, including negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm, and causing a fire by negligence. Jacques Moretti was initially ordered into pretrial detention on January 12th; however, he was subsequently released on bail just eleven days later, on January 23rd, by order of the regional court.

    The resort of Crans-Montana, famed for its high-altitude ski runs reaching nearly 3,000 meters and its status as a hub for international winter sports competitions, is now grappling with the profound aftermath of this tragedy, which has cast a shadow over its global reputation.