On January 29, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany is conducting preliminary discussions with European allies to explore the possibility of establishing a “shared European nuclear umbrella” in response to the changing global security landscape and nuclear threats.

In his policy report, Merz used unusually strong language to describe Europe facing a “harsh cold wind” in a new world order of intensified great power competition. He stressed that Europe can no longer rely solely on the U.S. nuclear deterrent and must take active control of its own security. He reaffirmed that Germany will continue to comply with the Two Plus Four Treaty and the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and will not possess nuclear weapons. The proposal is not intended to replace NATO but to complement the U.S. nuclear-sharing arrangements, focusing initial discussions on integrating French and British resources.

The proposal has sparked intense debate in Germany. Supporters argue it is a necessary step toward “European strategic autonomy,” while opponents worry it could trigger an arms race and question whether France would be willing to share nuclear command authority. Thomas Roewekamp, chair of the Bundestag Defense Committee, added that while Germany lacks warheads, its technological capabilities in delivery systems and military cooperation make it a key player in a European nuclear program.

The BBC reports that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested that former royal, stripped of his titles, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, should testify before the US Congress regarding documents, photos, and communications related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Recently released documents and photos show interactions and meetings between Andrew and Epstein, including some concerning images. BBC Verify has confirmed that parts of the interior and other images match Epstein’s New York mansion, implying a connection to past cases.

Starmer stated that anyone holding key information should consider testifying in Congress, especially from the victims’ perspective, to ensure full transparency of evidence. These recommendations follow the release of a batch of documents including historical communications and photos, though Andrew himself denies any wrongdoing.

Other newly revealed documents include communications and financial transactions involving other individuals, some of whom deny wrongdoing or claim the situation has been exaggerated.

Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke recently faced reports of overdue rent and possible eviction. An online fundraising campaign initiated by a team member, which had raised over $149,000 USD (approximately 200,000 AUD), was subsequently halted, and all donations were refunded.

Rourke had been renting a property in Beverly Grove, Los Angeles, where his monthly rent increased from around $5,200 USD ($7,700 AUD) in 2025 to about $7,000 USD ($10,000 AUD), and he owed nearly $60,000 USD in back rent. The fundraiser on GoFundMe, launched by a member of his management team to help him cover the rent, quickly attracted significant support.

However, Rourke stated on social media that he felt “humiliated” and confused by the initiative, emphasizing that he did not request outside donations and did not approve of this type of “charity-style” fundraising, which he felt did not fit his style. The fundraiser page was then suspended, and all contributions were gradually returned.

Rourke’s manager said the fundraiser was intended as a goodwill effort to prevent eviction, without any malice. All donations had not been used and were being refunded to supporters.