Global Pulse

标签： Oceania

大洋洲

  • UK govt says will release files on ‘rude’ ex-prince Andrew

    UK govt says will release files on ‘rude’ ex-prince Andrew

    The British government has pledged to disclose archival documents concerning Prince Andrew’s controversial tenure as a trade envoy, as the Jeffrey Epstein scandal continues to reverberate through the nation’s political and royal institutions. This commitment follows the arrest of veteran politician Peter Mandelson, former UK ambassador to Washington, who faces separate misconduct investigations related to his associations with the convicted sex offender.

    Minister Chris Bryant informed Parliament that vetting documents regarding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment to the trade envoy position (2001-2011) would be released, acknowledging this action as a necessary measure for Epstein’s victims. Bryant characterized the former prince as “a rude, arrogant and entitled man” during parliamentary proceedings.

    The document release was triggered through an unusual parliamentary mechanism—a “humble address”—deployed by the Liberal Democrats, which passed without opposition due to government support. Party leader Ed Davey described the associations of both Andrew and Mandelson with Epstein as a “stain on our country,” advocating for transparency as essential for accountability.

    Simultaneously, law enforcement authorities are conducting parallel investigations. Prince Andrew, stripped of royal titles in 2022, is being investigated for allegedly sharing sensitive documents with Epstein during his diplomatic service. Mandelson, arrested Monday and released on bail Tuesday, faces scrutiny over financial information allegedly passed to Epstein during his tenure as business secretary (2009-2010).

    The scandal has created significant political ramifications for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who dismissed Mandelson from his ambassadorial role after seven months following revelations about his Epstein connections. Two of Starmer’s top aides have resigned amid the controversy, raising questions about the prime minister’s judgment in appointments.

    Neither Andrew nor Mandelson has been formally charged with any offenses. Mandelson’s legal representatives at Mishcon de Reya have denied allegations that he planned to leave the country, stating his priority is cooperating with authorities to clear his name.

    Police concluded searches Tuesday evening at a Berkshire property linked to Andrew’s investigation, believed to be his former residence, Royal Lodge, on the Windsor estate.

  • FIFA boss ‘very reassured’ about World Cup in Mexico despite violence

    FIFA boss ‘very reassured’ about World Cup in Mexico despite violence

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed strong confidence in Mexico’s capability to host the 2026 World Cup matches despite recent widespread cartel violence triggered by the killing of a major drug lord. In his first public comments on the security situation, Infantino stated he felt “very reassured” about safety preparations during an event in Barranquilla, Colombia, emphasizing that the tournament would be “spectacular.”

    The violence erupted following the military operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera, leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The confrontation at a ranch near Guadalajara and subsequent clashes claimed at least 74 lives, primarily cartel members and security forces, with only one civilian casualty reported. The backlash saw cartel gunmen block roads across 20 Mexican states, burning vehicles and businesses in coordinated attacks.

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum joined Infantino in assuring international visitors, stating there is “no risk” to World Cup fans and that normalcy is gradually returning. Guadalajara, scheduled to host four group-stage matches including a highly anticipated Uruguay-Spain clash, remains confirmed as a host city despite the violence. Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus explicitly ruled out any change in venue arrangements, asserting “absolutely no risk” to the tournament lineup.

    The security operation against Oseguera, who had a $15 million US bounty, involved intelligence cooperation with American authorities though no US forces participated directly. The CJNG, formed in 2009, has grown into one of Mexico’s most violent drug cartels, surpassing even the Sinaloa cartel formerly led by Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman.

    Economic impacts are already emerging, with Japanese automaker Honda temporarily suspending operations at its Guadalajara assembly plant as a precautionary measure. Mexico’s significant automotive manufacturing sector, including facilities operated by Ford, General Motors, BMW, and Audi, represents a crucial component of the nation’s industrial infrastructure serving North American and European markets.

    With the World Cup playoff tournament scheduled for Guadalajara and Monterrey in late March, all eyes remain on Mexico’s security preparedness as the country approaches the global sporting event alongside co-hosts United States and Canada.

  • ‘Jaws’ harpoon gun and ‘Star Wars’ treasures lead LA film and TV auction

    ‘Jaws’ harpoon gun and ‘Star Wars’ treasures lead LA film and TV auction

    LOS ANGELES – A monumental collection of cinematic artifacts valued at approximately $9 million is set for auction next month, featuring iconic props from legendary films including “Jaws,” “Star Wars,” and “The Terminator.

    The three-day auction event, organized by Propstore and commencing March 25 at the Petersen Automotive Museum, will showcase approximately 1,550 pieces of film and television history. A special preview exhibition will be held at The Maybourne Beverly Hills hotel on March 11.

    Among the most anticipated items is the original fibreglass C-3PO head worn by Anthony Daniels in “The Empire Strikes Back” (1980), carrying a pre-sale estimate of $350,000–$700,000. The piece features illuminated eyes, original wiring, and a distinctive forehead antenna.

    Equally significant is the legendary “Skywalker” lightsaber hilt from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015), valued at up to $100,000. Used by both Mark Hamill’s Luke Skywalker and Daisy Ridley’s Rey, Propstore’s UK consignments manager Ibrahim Faraj described it as “arguably one of the most important pieces in ‘Star Wars’ history.”

    From the depths of cinematic terror comes the harpoon gun wielded by Quint (Robert Shaw) and Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) in Steven Spielberg’s 1975 classic “Jaws.” The prop, expected to fetch up to $500,000, is offered alongside Quint’s Fenwick fishing rod and reel (estimated at $150,000), which Propstore has branded “the most significant artifacts to ever surface from the movie.”

    The auction also features the leather jacket worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s T-800 cyborg in “The Terminator” (1984), complete with stage blood, rips, and mock bullet holes ($75,000–$150,000). Additional highlights include Russell Crowe’s helmet and mask from “Gladiator” (up to $250,000) and the Marauder’s Map from the “Harry Potter” franchise (up to $80,000).

    Faraj noted the growing global interest in film memorabilia, stating, “We’re seeing 20 to 30 percent more engagement, more registration, more people bidding. It’s growing bigger and it’s the new, modern thing people are collecting now.”

  • Rescuers search for missing after deluge kills 30 in Brazil

    Rescuers search for missing after deluge kills 30 in Brazil

    Southeastern Brazil faces a devastating humanitarian crisis following catastrophic rainfall that has claimed at least 30 lives, with rescue teams urgently searching for 39 individuals still missing. The state of Minas Gerais experienced unprecedented flooding and massive landslides after a river burst its banks during an overnight deluge, transforming streets into raging torrents of brown water.

    In the hillside neighborhood of Parque Burnier within Juiz de Fora, a devastating landslide swept away 12 homes while residents slept. Major Demetrius Goulart of the fire brigade confirmed the tragedy occurred during nighttime hours when families were indoors. Rescue operations involving firefighters, sniffer dogs, and civilian volunteers continue amid the rubble, where personal items including children’s toys and teddy bears have been unearthed, highlighting the human toll of the disaster.

    Juiz de Fora’s Mayor Margarida Salomao has declared a state of emergency, reporting the municipality’s wettest February on record with 584 millimeters (23 inches) of accumulated rainfall. The extreme weather has isolated neighborhoods, triggered at least 20 landslides, and forced approximately 3,000 residents from their homes. State authorities have suspended classes in all municipal schools as the region focuses on recovery efforts.

    President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged federal support, emphasizing the priority of humanitarian assistance, restoration of basic services, and aid to displaced citizens. This tragedy marks another chapter in Brazil’s recent history of climate-related disasters, following the 2024 southern floods that claimed over 200 lives and the 2022 Petropolis deluge that killed 241 people. Climate experts consistently link these increasingly frequent extreme weather events to the broader impacts of climate change, highlighting a pattern of intensifying natural disasters across the country.

  • NSW ‘not ready’ for First Nations’ treaty, Aboriginal Affairs Minister says

    NSW ‘not ready’ for First Nations’ treaty, Aboriginal Affairs Minister says

    New South Wales’ Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Harris has declared Australia’s most populous state unprepared for formal treaty negotiations with First Nations communities. The announcement came during a budget estimates hearing where Minister Harris revealed the state’s treaty commission is currently focused on determining whether a treaty should occur at all, rather than outlining what such an agreement might entail.

    The NSW Treaty Commission, established with appointed commissioners in late 2024, is gathering evidence from Aboriginal communities across the state. Minister Harris identified significant challenges, including ‘low literacy’ about treaty concepts among Indigenous peoples and particular confusion within urban communities regarding appropriate negotiation counterparts.

    Premier Chris Minns has already ruled out a treaty during the current government term, with Minister Harris indicating any substantial progress would likely become an election issue. ‘I would probably say pretty confidently at this stage the community itself isn’t ready for negotiation or anything leading to a formal treaty,’ Harris stated.

    The commission is expected to deliver a comprehensive report by mid-year. Should it recommend pursuing a treaty, the government would then bring the matter to cabinet and initiate public consultation processes.

    This cautious approach contrasts with Victoria’s groundbreaking Statewide Treaty Act 2025, which established Australia’s first treaty framework including a permanent Aboriginal representative body called Gellung Warl. Minister Harris noted NSW is analyzing Victoria’s process while claiming NSW is ‘actually ahead of the game’ due to existing constitutional language recognition, land rights provisions, and reparation measures.

    The national treaty landscape remains fragmented following the failed Voice referendum. Queensland, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory have abandoned treaty processes in favor of alternative approaches, while Western Australia pursues native title settlements. South Australia has legislated a First Nations Voice to Parliament, creating a patchwork of different reconciliation pathways across Australian jurisdictions.

  • AFL 2026: Collingwood coach Craig McRae on Bobby Hill, Opening Round selections

    AFL 2026: Collingwood coach Craig McRae on Bobby Hill, Opening Round selections

    Collingwood Football Club coach Craig McRae has delivered an encouraging assessment regarding small forward Bobby Hill’s potential return to AFL competition, though no specific timeline has been established for the Norm Smith Medallist’s comeback.

    The dynamic player has been on personal leave intermittently since the middle of the 2025 season and did not resume training with the squad following the Christmas break. Despite this extended absence, McRae maintains regular communication with Hill and expresses confidence in his progressive recovery.

    “Bobby is currently focusing on personal development, and we’re optimistic about his integration into our program in the near future,” McRae stated during an interview with SEN Breakfast. The coach emphasized the club’s balanced approach between emotional support and performance expectations, noting that most of last year was dedicated to providing care and support with minimal performance pressure.

    McRae described the ongoing process as “a delicate balance” between compassion and competitive preparation, acknowledging these elements “sometimes collide” but reaffirming the club’s commitment to both supporting Hill’s wellbeing and preparing him for high-level competition when appropriate.

    In addition to Hill’s situation, McRae addressed injury concerns affecting other key players. Captain Darcy Moore and defender Jeremy Howe are both managing soft-tissue injuries and are unlikely to be available for the Opening Round clash against St Kilda. Their return will be subject to weekly assessment following the season’s commencement.

    The coach indicated both defenders are progressing well but cautioned against rushing their recovery given the recurrent nature of their calf injuries, stating definitively that “they won’t play early in the season.”

  • Bodo/Glimt knock Inter out of Champions League as Newcastle, Atletico reach last 16

    Bodo/Glimt knock Inter out of Champions League as Newcastle, Atletico reach last 16

    In one of the most spectacular Champions League upsets in recent memory, Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt eliminated last season’s finalists Inter Milan with a stunning 2-1 victory at San Siro on Tuesday. The Arctic Circle club secured their passage to the last 16 with a commanding 5-2 aggregate triumph, defying all expectations against the Serie A leaders.

    The Norwegian outfit, hailing from a town of approximately 50,000 residents north of the Arctic Circle, built upon their impressive 3-1 first-leg victory with a tactical masterclass in Milan. Despite Inter’s dominance in Serie A where they hold a 10-point advantage, the Italian giants were unable to break down Bodo/Glimt’s resilient defense.

    Former AC Milan player Jens Petter Hauge broke the deadlock just before the hour mark, capitalizing on a defensive error from Manuel Akanji. The advantage was doubled when Hakon Evjen found the net, effectively sealing the tie at 5-1 on aggregate. Although Alessandro Bastoni managed a consolation goal for Inter, it proved insufficient to prevent one of Europe’s most remarkable underdog stories from continuing.

    Bodo/Glimt’s achievement marks the first time a Norwegian club has reached the Champions League knockout stages since Rosenborg’s quarter-final appearance in 1997. The club, which has won four Eliteserien titles in the past five years, now awaits Friday’s draw where they will face either Sporting Lisbon or Manchester City.

    Meanwhile, Newcastle United secured their progression with a 3-2 home victory over Qarabag, completing a 9-3 aggregate triumph. Eddie Howe’s side established an early two-goal advantage through Sandro Tonali and Joelinton within the opening six minutes, ensuring six English clubs will feature in the next round.

    Atletico Madrid advanced comfortably with a 4-1 win against Club Brugge at the Metropolitano Stadium, progressing 7-4 on aggregate. Norwegian striker Alexander Sorloth emerged as the standout performer with a spectacular hat-trick, taking his seasonal tally to 15 goals across all competitions.

    Bayer Leverkusen completed the round of 16 qualifiers with a goalless draw against Olympiacos, building on their 2-0 first-leg advantage. The newly crowned German champions now await a formidable challenge against either Arsenal or Bayern Munich.

  • ‘Faux outrage’ and ‘bullies’: MPs clash over Defence fire sale

    ‘Faux outrage’ and ‘bullies’: MPs clash over Defence fire sale

    A heated parliamentary confrontation has unfolded regarding the Australian government’s controversial plan to divest from dozens of military installations across the nation. The conflict emerged during a budget estimates hearing where state and federal officials clashed over the disposal strategy for historically significant defense sites.

    The controversy stems from Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles’ announcement earlier this year revealing plans to disinvest from 67 military facilities, predominantly located in southeastern Australia. This strategic repositioning initiative, following an independent review of defense assets, aims to redirect infrastructure investments toward northern Australia and AUKUS-related priorities. The extensive sell-off program is projected to generate approximately $1.8 billion in revenue.

    At the heart of the dispute lies Victoria Barracks in Sydney’s Paddington district, a historic military site that has become a flashpoint in the nationwide divestment scheme. NSW Veterans Affairs Minister David Harris revealed that state authorities received no prior consultation regarding the disposal plans, sparking significant concern among local officials and veteran communities.

    The parliamentary session turned confrontational when Nationals MLC Wes Fang, a former Australian Defence Force officer and pilot, aggressively pressed Minister Harris to publicly denounce the sell-off. The exchange grew increasingly tense, with Fang shouting across the committee room and declaring that “issuing a statement is not good enough” while asserting that citizens outside government were prepared to “take up this fight.”

    Minister Harris responded by accusing his counterparts of “faux outrage” and bullying tactics, stating firmly, “I don’t do well for bullies who yell at me. Well, that’s the way you do business. That’s not the way I do business.” The situation escalated to the point where committee chair Jeremy Buckingham of the Legalise Cannabis Party intervened, urging participants to “desist” from interrupting and hectoring each other.

    Opposition to the divestment program extends beyond political chambers, with concerned veterans and heritage advocates circulating petitions to protect historically significant sites. Critics argue that urban military command areas like Victoria Barracks play crucial roles in recruitment and operational effectiveness, warning that their disposal could have detrimental effects on defense capabilities.

    Departmental officials defending the sell-off maintain that maintaining under-utilized or heritage-listed sites imposes substantial financial burdens. They acknowledge that while some property disposals will be “relatively straightforward,” others present more complex challenges. The government has already completed three property sales with six additional transactions currently in progress, including notable facilities in Brisbane, Melbourne, and NSW locations such as Spectacle Island and HMAS Penguin.

  • Australian Open director Tiley named US tennis chief

    Australian Open director Tiley named US tennis chief

    In a significant leadership transition within international tennis governance, Craig Tiley has been named the new Chief Executive Officer of the United States Tennis Association (USTA). The 64-year-old South African tennis administrator concludes his impactful 13-year tenure at Tennis Australia, where he served as both CEO and Australian Open Tournament Director.

    Tiley succeeds Lew Sherr, who has departed to join Major League Baseball’s New York Mets organization. The seasoned tennis executive will formally assume his new role later this year after facilitating a seamless leadership transition at Tennis Australia.

    The appointment marks a professional homecoming for Tiley, who previously established his reputation in American collegiate tennis. From 1994 to 2005, he served as head coach of the University of Illinois men’s tennis team, achieving an unprecedented perfect 32–0 record and securing the NCAA Division I National Championship in 2003.

    ‘I’ve long admired the USTA’s leadership in growing the game across the United States and the extraordinary success of the US Open,’ Tiley stated. ‘I’m excited to return to American tennis and to work alongside our leadership locally and nationally to continue building the sport’s reach, impact, and future.’

    During his transformative tenure at Tennis Australia, Tiley championed numerous innovations including the Australian Open’s expansion to a 15-day tournament format and the introduction of the groundbreaking Million Dollar One Point Slam competition. Under his guidance, the tournament consistently shattered attendance and revenue records, with this year’s event attracting over 1.3 million spectators.

    USTA Chair Brian Vahaly emphasized the strategic importance of the appointment: ‘From the very beginning of this process, our top priority was identifying the right leader to accelerate participation growth and help us achieve our goal of reaching 35 million players by 2035. Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires.’

  • AFL to allow umpires to access a slew of key statistics before casting Brownlow Medal votes

    AFL to allow umpires to access a slew of key statistics before casting Brownlow Medal votes

    In a historic move that reshapes Australian Rules Football’s most celebrated individual accolade, the Australian Football League (AFL) has authorized umpires to consult statistical data during Brownlow Medal voting deliberations. This landmark decision introduces seventeen key performance metrics that will inform umpires’ assessments of player performances throughout the season.

    The statistical dashboard available to officials encompasses both traditional metrics and advanced impact measurements. Beyond conventional statistics like goals, behinds, disposals, and marks, umpires will now analyze game-changing contributions including clearances, score involvements, intercept possessions, and defensive spoils. This enhanced analytical framework aims to create a more comprehensive evaluation process for the league’s highest individual honor.

    This procedural evolution addresses growing concerns about voting patterns that have increasingly favored midfielders in recent seasons. The trend became particularly evident when Gold Coast Suns midfielder Matt Rowell secured the 2023 medal with 39 votes, following Carlton’s Patrick Cripps’ record-breaking 45-vote triumph in 2022. The statistical augmentation seeks to rebalance recognition across all positions and playing styles.

    AFL General Manager Greg Swann emphasized the award’s prestige, stating: “Field umpires entrusted with voting responsibilities are instructed to exercise thorough deliberation before reaching unanimous decisions to preserve the award’s integrity.” The league confirmed that officials will not receive additional data beyond the specified metrics and will remain prohibited from using mobile devices during the voting process.

    The statistical integration will extend to the AFL Women’s competition beginning with the 2026 season. This synchronized implementation across both leagues represents the AFL’s commitment to standardized recognition of athletic excellence while maintaining the Brownlow Medal’s tradition and significance within Australian sports culture.