As the clock struck midnight, adults across Germany were granted the legal right to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis and cultivate up to three marijuana plants in their homes. Henry Plottke, a DHV member, expressed the sentiment shared by many attendees, stating, “We can finally show ourselves, we don’t have to hide anymore.”

The event, officially registered with the police, symbolized a significant shift in drug policy within the country. Here’s a breakdown of what the new law entails:

• Adults aged 18 and over are permitted to carry up to 25 grams of cannabis for personal consumption.
• Public consumption is allowed, with exceptions such as avoiding visibility to children or proximity to sports facilities. Consumption is prohibited in pedestrian zones between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Adults may store up to 50 grams of cannabis at home and cultivate three plants for personal use.
• Special cannabis clubs, authorized to grow and purchase limited quantities of the drug, will be established, with memberships capped at 500 individuals.
• However, the law maintains the prohibition of cannabis for minors.

While celebrated as a progressive move, the law has not been without criticism, particularly regarding its potential impact on youth health. Nevertheless, Germany joins the ranks of Europe’s more liberal countries in cannabis regulation, although it is not the first to do so.

Health Minister Karl Lauterbach championed the law, emphasizing its departure from previous failed drug policies and the reduction of black market activity. However, the German Police Union (GdP) has expressed concerns over implementation challenges. Deputy federal chairman Alexander Poitz highlighted potential conflicts between law enforcement and citizens, citing uncertainties on both sides.

The union underscored logistical hurdles, including the regulation of cannabis consumption near specific facilities and the lack of necessary equipment for police enforcement. Poitz emphasized the need for additional training and resources, urging the federal government to allocate sufficient support for effective implementation.

The image, credited to her husband Prince William, sparked intrigue when the Associated Press issued a “kill notification,” instructing against its use due to worries that “it appears that the source has manipulated the image.” The primary concern noted by some online observers is an alleged inconsistency in the alignment of Princess Charlotte’s left hand. While several internet users have pointed out other perceived discrepancies, no verification from photo experts has been provided as of now.

Notably, the photo has fueled existing conspiracy theories circulating about the royal family. Beyond the purported image manipulation, some have speculated about the absence of Kate’s wedding ring in the picture, further intensifying discussions among eagle-eyed skeptics on social media.

As of the time of reporting, the Palace has refrained from offering an official comment or response regarding the removal of the photo by news agencies.

Since the announcement of Kate’s surgery, baseless rumors have proliferated online, ranging from suggestions of cosmetic procedures to unfounded claims about her mental health. Some outlandish theories even posited that she might be in a coma or the victim of a sinister Palace cover-up. While these ideas were largely dispelled when recent paparazzi photos seemingly captured Kate riding in her mother’s car, the removal of the latest photo has reignited speculation.

Royal reporter Omid Scobie, author of the book “Endgame” about the future of the royal family, referred to the new photo as “mysterious” in light of its removal by international news agencies.

The saga began on January 17 when Kensington Palace released a statement announcing Kate’s abdominal surgery and detailing her expected recovery period. The Palace clarified that she would not resume public duties until after Easter. Meanwhile, King Charles underwent treatment for an enlarged prostate and initiated undisclosed cancer treatment around the same time, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing royal narrative.

In February 2022, both the EU and the US jointly froze an estimated $300 billion in assets linked to the Russian Central Bank, primarily held by the Brussels-based clearinghouse Euroclear. On Monday, the European Council issued an order specifically targeting depositors with €1 million ($1.08 million) or more in Russian Central Bank assets. These individuals are now required to maintain separate accounts for “extraordinary cash balances” resulting from EU restrictive measures and are prohibited from disposing of any interest or profits derived from the frozen assets.

The Council’s decision is seen as a precursor to potentially establishing a financial contribution to the EU budget, derived from the net profits on these frozen assets, aimed at supporting Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction in the future, according to a statement from the Council.

Russia has vehemently opposed the sanctions imposed by the US and the EU, labeling them as illegal. Moscow warned that any attempt to outright seize the frozen funds would be considered theft and would be met with a reciprocal response. Russian bankers have further cautioned that such actions could erode global confidence in the rule of law in the West, potentially triggering a run on European and US banks as they may no longer be perceived as safe.

While the US has been vocal in advocating for the confiscation of frozen funds to benefit Ukraine, the EU stands to face significant consequences from potential Russian retaliation. Euroclear alone holds €196.6 billion ($211 billion) in frozen Russian assets, accumulating nearly €4.4 billion in interest over the past year.

In response to reports suggesting Brussels might move to seize the interest, the Russian Foreign Ministry accused the EU of creating fraudulent schemes for the “outright theft” of income from Russian assets, aiming to mask attacks on Russian property under the guise of legitimacy.

Internally, the EU has faced skepticism about the confiscation proposal. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto expressed discomfort, likening the move to “communist heritage” last week. The decision raises questions about the economic and diplomatic repercussions within the EU and its relationship with Russia.

In his post, Kuleba emphasized the need for dogs to be both loved and kept on leashes, expressing concern over the unleashed canine that targeted his pets. Despite the commotion, Kuleba’s own dogs emerged unharmed from the encounter.

The minister, who owns three dogs, including a French bulldog adopted in 2022 from the now-Russian city of Mariupol, has frequently showcased his pets at diplomatic events. The rescued French bulldog, a loyal companion to Kuleba, has become a recognizable figure in the diplomat’s public appearances.

Following the incident, Kuleba sought medical attention at a local hospital, where he was treated for his minor injuries. Although the size of the hostile dog was not disclosed, the injuries appeared to be relatively inconsequential.

This is not the first time Kuleba has turned personal experiences into political narratives. In June 2022, he sustained a leg injury during an attempt to reengage in sports. Using his injury to his advantage, Kuleba appeared at diplomatic events wearing casts and using crutches, promoting his resilience on social media. He framed his leg injury as a symbol of perseverance and used it to garner support from the West amid the ongoing conflict with Moscow.

Known for his assertive diplomatic approach, Kuleba has been vocal in condemning critics of Kiev and those perceived as sympathetic to Moscow. Recently, he launched a sharp critique against American conservative journalist Tucker Carlson for his interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing Carlson of aiding Moscow in spreading what he termed “bloodthirsty lies.” The incident with the unleashed dog adds a unique twist to Kuleba’s eventful political journey.

Despite his health challenges, the monarch is expected to persist in receiving and reviewing crucial documents presented in the traditional red boxes used by both the monarch and government ministers. Additionally, he will continue to engage in weekly audiences with the prime minister, with the possibility of remote sessions if medical advice suggests a need to reduce in-person contact.

The King is also slated to remain available for monthly meetings of the Privy Council. However, there is no clarity yet on the status of upcoming overseas visits, particularly the planned trips to Canada in May and Australia, New Zealand, and Samoa in October for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. These tours, marking the King’s initial visits to these countries in his official capacity, remain unconfirmed by Buckingham Palace. The timeline for the King’s return to full public duties amid ongoing treatment has not been specified.

The prime minister committed to providing emergency aid to struggling wine producers and prompt payments of EU subsidies to others. He also announced fines for food retailers not complying with laws ensuring a fair share of revenues for farmers. Despite these measures, protesters, encamped on highways and armed with tents and supplies, remain skeptical, with some threatening to move towards the capital.

The government has deployed 15,000 police officers, mainly in the Paris region, to prevent protesters from entering the capital. The Rungis market, a vital source of fresh food supplies in Paris, is also being monitored by officers and armored vehicles.

Meanwhile, the farming crisis has sparked similar actions in neighboring European countries, including Belgium, Spain, and Italy. The global food crisis, exacerbated by Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, has led French farmers to assert that rising prices for inputs and over-regulation are impacting their incomes. President Emmanuel Macron is set to discuss the farming crisis with the European Commission chief in Brussels on Thursday, defending the EU farm policy as crucial for sustaining European agriculture in a globalized economy.

The bill, passed in December with an agreement between Macron’s government and the right-wing Les Républicains movement, faced criticism from left-wing opposition MPs. The unexpected alliance led to a political crisis within Macron’s camp, with dissenting voices and a quarter of coalition MPs refusing to support the legislation.

In addition to striking down certain aspects of the immigration bill, the Constitutional Court also nullified a clause granting preferential visas to British owners of vacation homes. The Brexit-related provision, added during parliamentary debates in November, had allowed automatic issuance of long-term visas to British second-home owners. The court deemed this clause unrelated to the bill’s core objectives.

Following the court’s decision, the previous rules for British citizens, allowing up to 90 days in any 180-day period on the Continent, will remain in place. Those desiring longer stays must now apply for specific long-term visas.

While Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin celebrated the court’s approval of the government’s original bill, the aftermath of the legislation’s passage has left Macron’s coalition in disarray, prompting a government reshuffle. Far-right leaders, including Marine Le Pen, have criticized the court’s decision, with calls for a referendum on immigration and demands for constitutional reforms echoing through the political landscape.

This news comes shortly after Sarah Ferguson, 64, underwent treatment for breast cancer. Despite the distressing developments, the Duchess remains in good spirits, according to her spokesperson. Sarah, also known as “Fergie,” was formerly married to Prince Andrew and is the mother of Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.

The revelation follows a series of health updates from the Royal Family, including Princess Kate’s recent abdominal surgery and King Charles III’s scheduled prostate treatment later this week.

Yellow Weather Warning Issued:

The Met Office has issued a fresh yellow weather warning for ice, effective from 3 pm today until 3 am tomorrow. The warning covers the East of England, London, the South East, South West, Wales, and parts of the West Midlands.

Potential for Slippery Surfaces:

The weather agency cautions that ice and “small amounts” of snow could result in slippery surfaces in some areas. The advisory states that parts of southern Britain may experience snow showers during Monday afternoon and the early part of the night.

Snow Accumulation and Icy Surfaces:

While most places are expected to see little or no lying snow, 1-2 cm may settle in select areas, primarily over high ground. Additionally, the warning notes the possibility of icy surfaces for a brief period. The likelihood of this diminishes by dawn on Tuesday as snow showers move westward and surfaces dry out.

Residents in the affected regions are advised to stay updated on weather developments and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the inclement conditions.

In a related development, Russia claimed to have shot down 12 missiles fired at one of its southern regions bordering Ukraine. The border city of Belgorod came under two rounds of shelling on Wednesday morning, contributing to heightened tensions in the region. The situation remains tense, with air defence systems successfully intercepting the missiles. The Russian Defence Ministry reported that Ukraine fired missiles and rockets at the region, with the attacks targeting civilian areas. Belgorod has become a focal point, with Kyiv’s forces aiming to disrupt city life, challenging President Vladimir Putin’s narrative that life in Russia is continuing normally despite the ongoing conflict. The attacks on Belgorod appear to be unsettling the public and political leaders in Russia, prompting a strong response from Putin.

The intensified attacks on Russian territory have led to power disruptions in the city of Zeleznogorsk, which was briefly cut off from the grid due to Ukrainian shelling. Russia has increased long-range attacks on Ukrainian cities, deploying Kinzhal missiles and targeting Ukraine’s defence industry. In response, Kyiv has requested further air defence support from its Western allies. NATO announced plans to assist member nations in purchasing up to 1,000 surface-to-air Patriot guided missiles, potentially costing about $5.5 billion, to enhance air defence capabilities.