Talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States concluded without a breakthrough in Geneva, while a Call of Duty advertisement was banned for trivializing sexual violence, and popular streamers expressed concerns over Discord's new age verification process. These events, along with actor Jonathan Roumie's call for spiritual reflection during Lent and accounts of sexual assault from Syrian women, dominated headlines.
Negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the US, aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, ended after meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to BBC World. Despite US envoy Steve Witkoff's initial optimism, both Russian and Ukrainian representatives described the talks as "difficult." The two sides remain far apart on key issues, including territory and ceasefire terms, as stated by Kremlin negotiator Vladimir Medinsky.
In other news, the UK's advertising regulator banned an advertisement for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 for trivializing sexual violence, as reported by BBC Technology. The commercial featured a scene at an airport security check that viewers found "irresponsible and offensive." Activision Blizzard UK Ltd defended the ad, stating it was targeted at adult audiences only.
Meanwhile, actor Jonathan Roumie, known for his role in "The Chosen," encouraged believers to engage in a 40-day prayer challenge during Lent, as reported by Fox News. Roumie, a primary voice for the Hallow Catholic prayer app, emphasized the importance of spiritual growth and drawing closer to God during this holy time.
Also, women from Syria's Alawite minority shared accounts of kidnap and rape with BBC News Arabic. One woman, whose name was changed for her safety, described being dragged into a vehicle by armed men and subjected to violence and insults.
Finally, Discord's new age verification process has raised concerns among top streamers, including Eret, according to BBC Technology. Eret, a popular LGBT streamer with over a million followers, expressed concerns about the implications for user data and online communities, stating, "I do not trust them."
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