Former EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier named new French prime minister

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – MARCH 05: European Union Chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier speaks during a conference after the first round of UK-EU negotiations in Brussels, Belgium on March 05, 2020.

Anadolu Agency

French President Emmanuel Macron has named Michel Barnier, the European Union’s former Brexit negotiator, as prime minister in a bid to end a political stalemate that has mired the nation since early July.

Macron charged Barnier with forming a government on Thursday, according to an announcement shared by the Elysee Palace.

This breaking news story is being updated.

Source

World

Oil jumps more than 2% after Vance says Iran ignored key U.S. demand, military strikes on the table

February 18, 2026

Oil prices rose more than 2% on Wednesday, after Vice President JD Vance said Iran did not address U.S. red lines in nuclear talks this week and President Donald Trump reserves the right to use military force. U.S. crude oil rose $1.56, or 2.5%, to $63.89 per barrel. Global benchmark Brent was up $1.61, or […]

World

The ‘boomcession’: Why Americans feel left behind by a growing economy

February 18, 2026

Fotostorm | E+ | Getty Images Welcome to the “boomcession.” The term is a portmanteau of the words “boom” and “recession.” It highlights how the average American doesn’t feel like they’re reaping the benefits of an economy that is — on paper — humming along, according to creator Matt Stoller. Economic output and the stock […]

World

‘Crap’: Stephen Colbert blasts CBS for denying it blocked James Talarico interview from air

February 18, 2026

“Late Show” host Stephen Colbert on Tuesday night called CBS’ denial of his claim that it blocked the broadcast of his interview with Texas state Rep. James Talarico “crap” — and urged the network and its parent, Paramount Skydance, to stand up to the “bullies” in the Trump administration. Colbert’s broadside came hours after CBS […]