It is February 19, 2026, and several major stories are dominating the global conversation today. Depending on whether you follow geopolitics, tech, or pop culture, here is what everyone is talking about right now:
1. The Shock Arrest of Prince Andrew
In a stunning development for the British Royal Family, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested today on his 66th birthday.
- The Charge: Suspicion of misconduct in public office.
- The Context: This follows a long-running probe into his links with Jeffrey Epstein. Police are investigating allegations regarding confidential documents and human trafficking.
- The King’s Stance: King Charles III has stated that the “law must take its course.”
2. Global AI Impact Summit in New Delhi
World leaders and tech titans like Sam Altman (OpenAI) and Satya Nadella (Microsoft) have converged in India for a massive summit.
- MANAV Vision: Prime Minister Modi introduced “MANAV” (human), a vision to make AI a global common good focused on inclusion rather than just corporate gain.
- Viral Moment: During his speech, PM Modi used real-time AI sign language translation, a move praised for setting a new standard for accessible public discourse.
3. Tensions in the Middle East & “The 68 Theory”
Geopolitics is on edge as the Trump administration’s “Board of Peace” holds its first meeting in Washington to address the Gaza conflict.
- Military Build-up: At the same time, reports of a massive U.S. naval build-up near Iran have surfaced.
- Viral Conspiracy: A theory called “The 68 Theory” is trending on X (formerly Twitter). It notes that the digits of the start dates of WWI, WWII, and the Ukraine War all add up to 68. Since tomorrow’s date—20/02/2026—also adds up to 68 ($20 + 2 + 20 + 26 = 68$), internet speculation about a new conflict has reached a fever pitch.
4. South Korea: Life Sentence for Yoon Suk Yeol
Former President Yoon Suk Yeol has been sentenced to life in prison for his role in leading an insurrection last year. This marks a historic and somber moment for South Korean democracy as the nation continues to process the political fallout.
In lighter news:
- Ranji Trophy History: Jammu & Kashmir has reached its first-ever Ranji Trophy final, a massive underdog story in Indian cricket.
- Marriott Bonvoy: The travel platform launched “1-Point Drops,” allowing members to access major music festivals for just a single point—causing a frenzy on their app.