Europe is facing a "wake-up call" and must assert itself on the world stage, according to French President Emmanuel Macron, who urged the continent to act like a "power" in the face of growing threats from China, Russia, and the US. Meanwhile, Kenya is preparing to confront Russia over reports of Kenyan citizens being recruited to fight in the war in Ukraine, calling the practice "unacceptable." These developments come as BP announced a drop in annual profits and increased cost-cutting measures, and a landmark trial began in California examining the mental health effects of social media.
Macron's call for European action, made ahead of an EU summit in Brussels, emphasized the need for strength in economy, finance, defense, security, and democratic systems. He stated, "Are we ready to become a power? This is the question in the field of economy and finance, in defence and security, and in our democratic systems."
Kenya's Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi told the BBC that Nairobi would address the issue of Kenyan nationals fighting for Russia, describing the recruitment as "unacceptable and clandestine." The Kenyan government estimates that approximately 200 of its citizens have been recruited, though the exact number remains unclear. Nairobi has already shut down illegal recruiters and plans to urge Moscow to sign a deal banning the conscription of Kenyan soldiers.
In the business sector, BP reported a decline in profits to $7.5 billion in 2025, down from $8.9 billion the previous year, due to a fall in crude oil prices. The company also announced the suspension of its share buyback program and a focus on cost-cutting measures. BP is shifting its strategy away from renewable energy projects to refocus on oil and gas operations, a trend expected to continue under new boss Meg O'Neill, who takes up her position in April.
In California, a trial has begun examining the mental health effects of Instagram and YouTube. Lawyers for the plaintiff, identified as "K.G.M.," argued that the social media companies created "addiction machines" that negatively impacted mental health. Mark Lanier, representing the plaintiff, stated, "These companies built machines designed to addict the brains of children, and they did it on purpose." Lawyers for Meta and YouTube countered that K.G.M.'s addiction stemmed from other issues.
Finally, a video from the NY Times showed how Ukrainians are coping without heat amid the ongoing crisis.
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