Thursday, February 19, 2026
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Evening news brief: PM Modi calls US ‘natural partner’; France rocked by violent protests. Read this, and more

Evening news brief: PM Modi calls US 'natural partner'; France rocked by violent protests. Read this, and more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described India and the US as “close friends and natural partners” ahead of his talks with Donald Trump. Modi expressed confidence that trade discussions will progress positively despite the ongoing tariff dispute.France has been hit by fresh unrest with over 200 arrests, public transport disrupted, and a bus set ablaze. The protests have created what officials call a “climate of insurrection,” raising security concerns nationwide.Tensions in Europe are mounting after Poland reported shooting down several Russian drones. NATO has raised alarms over the escalation, with members watching Moscow’s next moves closely.

Here are the top five stories of the evening:

PM Modi calls US a ‘close friend, natural partner’Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to US President Donald Trump’s positive comments on ongoing trade talks, saying: “India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership.” Trump had earlier said he looked forward to a “successful conclusion”. Read full storyFrance rocked by violent protests and arrestsOver 200 people were arrested in France as protests turned violent, with trains blocked and a bus set on fire. Authorities warned of a “climate of insurrection” as unrest spread to several cities. Read full storyNATO alarm after Russian drones shot over PolandPoland announced it shot down multiple Russian drones, triggering urgent discussions within NATO. The alliance has voiced concern over Russia’s escalating aggression in Eastern Europe. Read full storyInmates escape Kathmandu jail amid unrest in NepalIn Nepal, dozens of inmates fled a Kathmandu prison during unrest, with some later captured near the Indian border. The Nepalese Army has been deployed in and around the jail to prevent further escalation, as law enforcement struggles to maintain control in the capital. Read full storyKarisma Kapoor’s kids in Rs 1,900 crore estate rowThe Delhi High Court revealed Karisma Kapoor’s children hold assets worth Rs 1,900 crore. The disclosure comes during a Rs 30,000-crore family feud involving Sunjay Kapur and Priya Kapur. Read full story

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