The Daily Populous

Tuesday February 17th, 2026 night edition

image for Indonesia Just Banned Elephant Rides In Zoos Nationwide

Indonesia has banned elephant rides in zoos nationwide.

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry has decided to ban elephant riding at all zoos and conservation centers.

Animal welfare organizations welcomed the news and described it as a “historic step” for elephants in Southeast Asia.

According to World Animal Protection, Bali’s Mason Elephant Park halted elephant rides at the end of January after receiving multiple warnings.

It was one of the last venues in the country to still offer elephant rides, and is now reportedly transitioning to ethical, observation-based experiences instead.

“The ending of elephant rides in Indonesia sends a strong signal to the wider tourism industry that we’re entering a new chapter of more responsible wildlife tourism,” she continued.

He added, “Born Free strongly advises people not to ride elephants or to participate in other close contact activities with elephants or any other wild animal.”. »

Carney constructs a mega anti-Trump trade alliance

Authored by politico.eu

It would bring nearly 40 nations on opposite sides of the globe closer together with the aim of reaching a deal on so-called rules of origin.

A deal would allow manufacturers throughout the two blocs to trade goods and their parts more seamlessly in a low-tariff process known as cumulation.

Earlier this month, Carney dispatched his personal representative to the European Union, John Hannaford, to Singapore to solicit the views of regional leaders on the potential deal. »

Restaurants warned after diner allegedly plants hair to dodge $600 bill at popular Sydney restaurant

Authored by 7news.com.au

CCTV reviewed by the restaurant appears to show a man reaching under his arm, pulling out a hair and placing it onto his plate after finishing his meal.

According to the restaurant, the group ordered high-value dishes, including a 1.8 kg tomahawk steak, along with entrees and drinks.

“You can see my hair is not blonde, and you don’t see any blonde hair in the kitchen either,” Nolan said. »

Robert Duvall: Actor who starred in The Godfather dies aged 95

Authored by bbc.co.uk

American comedian and actor Adam Sandler posted photographs of the two from their time together shooting the 2022 film Hustle.

Such a great man to talk to and laugh with ... sending his wife Luciana and all his family and friends our condolences.".

Co-star, Robert Patrick, who played the son of Duvall's character in the 2013 film Jayne Mansfield's Car said he was "gutted". »

Rubio to Europe: We Hit You Because We Love You

Authored by thebulwark.com
image for

Secretary of State Marco Rubio holds a press conference with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in Budapest, Hungary, at the prime minister’s office.

“We made these mistakes together, and now together we owe it to our people to face those facts and to move forward to rebuild,” Rubio said.

Whatever else he is, Rubio remains a talented politician; the whole thing was artfully done. »