World News: Rock Edition

Sirens, Sanctions & Shadow Games Verse 1 — Ukraine Cold bells ring from Brussels to the blue UN, Flags at half, names carved in the wind again. A nation holds the line through iron skies, With families torn and scattered far as trains can ride. Leaders walk the streets of Kyiv, heads high, London loads its blacklist, aiming at the oil tide. Peace talks crack and echo on a frozen line, Yet candles burn, defying night with spines of pine. Sources: NATO commemorates the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine LIVE: UN marks fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine Four years on, Russia's war in Ukraine has transformed conflict and shattered global security Devastation and frozen frontlines: Ukraine marks four years of Russia's war Chorus Headlines roar, the world’s on fire, Steel-winged shadows, courtroom choirs. We carry hope through smoke and wire, Raise your voice, turn it higher. When the ground shakes under heavy names, We won’t bow to the shadow games. Storms may howl, but we’ll remain— Hearts like drums in the driving rain. Verse 2 — Mexico In the pines of Jalisco the hillside shook, An iron ring closed in, and the kingpin fell from the book. Engines burned and highways choked with flame, Across the map they answered to a fallen name. Tourists grounded as the skies turned red, Coast to cathedral, people ran and bled. Now stadiums wait while the city holds its breath, Can a ball still roll where the streets have tasted death? Sources: Mexico cartel leader 'El Mencho' killing sparks chaos Powerful cartel unleashes wave of violence across Mexico after its leader's killing Violence erupts in Mexico after killing of drug cartel kingpin 'El Mencho' Mexico fears more violence after army kills cartel leader 'El Mencho' What to know about the Mexican army's killing of the powerful cartel leader 'El Mencho' Chorus Headlines roar, the world’s on fire, Steel-winged shadows, courtroom choirs. We carry hope through smoke and wire, Raise your voice, turn it higher. When the ground shakes under heavy names, We won’t bow to the shadow games. Storms may howl, but we’ll remain— Hearts like drums in the driving rain. Verse 3 — Iran A fleet of thunder shifts to desert light, Talks go dark, and the runway meets the night. Briefings in the halls before the speech is sung, Whispers of a strike on everyone’s tongue. Tehran calls the warnings ghost and smoke, Says choose your path—olive branch or iron stroke. Somewhere in the air, a fuse is half-alight, While mothers scan the sky and pray it stays tight. Sources: The U.S. moves more than a hundred planes to Europe and Middle East February 24-25, 2026 — Trump administration news February 20, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode Chorus Headlines roar, the world’s on fire, Steel-winged shadows, courtroom choirs. We carry hope through smoke and wire, Raise your voice, turn it higher. When the ground shakes under heavy names, We won’t bow to the shadow games. Storms may howl, but we’ll remain— Hearts like drums in the driving rain. Verse 4 — Tariffs The gavel fell on a president’s reach, High bench carved a limit in the breach. Robes wrote that emergency can’t tax the earth, And the echo rattled markets for all it’s worth. But a pen flashed again with a different law, A blanket duty pulled with a brand-new claw. Now traders count the scars, and rivals grin, While voices call the cash back in. Sources: Supreme Court Decision on IEEPA Tariffs A breakdown of the court's tariff decision What's Next for Trump's Tariffs After SCOTUS Ruling Trump says he signed a 10% global tariff after Supreme Court decision Chorus Headlines roar, the world’s on fire, Steel-winged shadows, courtroom choirs. We carry hope through smoke and wire, Raise your voice, turn it higher. When the ground shakes under heavy names, We won’t bow to the shadow games. Storms may howl, but we’ll remain— Hearts like drums in the driving rain. Verse 5 — Former Prince Andrew On a winter birthday, blue lights found a lord, Cuffs on a title, questions on a sword. They’re asking if a envoy’s secret streams Flowed to a fallen tycoon’s private schemes. He walked out under cloud, case still in flight, A king said the law must choose the light. Centuries since a crown felt this cold, Now marble halls tremble at the story told. Sources: Former Prince Andrew arrested following Epstein files revelations Former Prince Andrew arrested over suspected misconduct in public office revealed in Epstein files Ex-Prince Andrew arrested in widening fallout related to Jeffrey Epstein ties U.K. considers cutting ex-Prince Andrew from line of succession over his Epstein ties Verse 6 — Peter Mandelson Another name from London’s polished stone, Charged with shadows he may have sown. Did crisis-time whispers cross the line, Feeding a ghost with market signs? Once a friend in letters long after shame, Now freed on bond but tied to his name. Cabinet doors remember every key, And truth keeps knocking endlessly. Sources: U.K. ex-envoy to U.S. Peter Mandelson arrested in Epstein probe Former UK ambassador to US Peter Mandelson arrested amid Epstein probe Ex-UK ambassador Mandelson released on bail after arrest in Epstein probe Peter Mandelson, former U.K. ambassador, arrested amid Epstein revelations Final Chorus + Ending Headlines roar, the world’s on fire, Steel-winged shadows, courtroom choirs. We carry hope through smoke and wire, Raise your voice, turn it higher. Turn it up—let the jet trails fade, Let the gavel fall where the truth is laid. From border lines to palace gates, From factory floors to city grates, We’re not afraid, we won’t be tamed— No more bowing to shadow games. Guitars like sirens, hearts untamed, We light the night—remember the names! Hey! Hey! Raise it higher— Through storm and smoke, we burn like wire!

Sirens, Sanctions, Snow Verse 1 – Ukraine Another winter over blackened fields, the sirens know our names, UN keeps its ledger of heartbreak, counting unquiet flames. EU boots on broken platforms, vows whispered in the cold, NATO calls them heroes still, a courage bright and bold. The Assembly lifts a banner for a peace that will not yield, UK turns the screws once more, and a nation vows to rebuild. Sources: Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,462 Four years on, Russia's war in Ukraine has transformed conflict and shattered global security LIVE: UN marks fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine Marking four years since Russia's full-scale invasion, NATO Secretary General praises Ukraine as a nation of heroes Chorus World on the wire, engines pound below, From fire-lit nights to a blinding snow. Raise your voice above the wind and smoke, We hold the line and we will not choke. We are the thunder under ice and stone— In a shaking world, we make it home. Verse 2 – Mexico In Tapalpa’s shadow, the kingpin met the roar, A most-wanted name fell hard in a thunder of the corps. Eyes from the north lit the hunt through a tangled night, Then the highways burned and the markets flashed with fright. Guard columns bled, classrooms locked their doors, A country held its breath as the shock rolled shore to shore. With the world soon to gather where the stadium lights glow, The new commander must steady the aftershock’s flow. Sources: Violence erupts in Mexico after killing of drug cartel kingpin 'El Mencho' Mexico fears more violence after army kills cartel leader 'El Mencho' Violence erupts in Mexico after cartel leader 'El Mencho' killed in military operation Powerful cartel unleashes wave of violence across Mexico after its leader's killing February 23, 2026 - Mexico cartel leader 'El Mencho' killing sparks chaos Chorus World on the wire, engines pound below, From fire-lit nights to a blinding snow. Raise your voice above the wind and smoke, We hold the line and we will not choke. We are the thunder under ice and stone— In a shaking world, we make it home. Verse 3 – U.S. and Iran Steel wings crowd the desert sky, a carrier cuts the foam, The biggest drumbeat in ages, war drums close to home. Geneva sets the table for a last-chance kind of deal, Tehran says peace is reachable, the White House makes it real: Draw a line in sand and granite—no atom forged for war, Clock hands grind like teeth while the jets begin to roar. Sources: The U.S. moves more than a hundred planes to Europe and Middle East Iran says US military build-up 'unnecessary and unhelpful', deal achievable U.S.-Iran nuclear talks: Trump threatens Iran in State of the Union A timeline of tensions over Iran's nuclear program as talks with U.S. approach Verse 4 – State of the Union He spoke longer than the echoes in that marble hall could hold, Touting turns of fortune, saying we are back and bold. He guarded every border line, he warned Tehran again, But the polls grew heavy shadows on the faces of his friends. Opposition sat in silence till a cry cut through the air, Over deaths and crackdowns back home—anger raw and bare. He promised a medal’s luster to an Olympic wall in net, Connor Hellebuyck’s name rose bright while the chamber stayed unset. Sources: Key takeaways from Trump's State of the Union speech Takeaways from Trump's State of the Union speech Highlights from Trump's 2026 State of the Union speech Live Updates: Trump's 2026 State of the Union address Chorus World on the wire, engines pound below, From fire-lit nights to a blinding snow. Raise your voice above the wind and smoke, We hold the line and we will not choke. We are the thunder under ice and stone— In a shaking world, we make it home. Verse 5 – Tariffs and the Court A gavel split the stormclouds: you’ve stretched the law too far, The high bench checked the lever in a rolling trade war. But then a different statute drew a new and global line, Refunds chased by shippers, bills on Capitol’s spine. Congress claims a victory for the power of its hand, Yet walls of duty linger still across the borderland. Sources: Supreme Court ruling throws Trump administration's tariff strategy into flux The Supreme Court Clipped Trump's Tariff Powers—and Opened New Trade Battlefronts A breakdown of the court's tariff decision What's Next for Trump's Tariffs After SCOTUS Ruling Verse 6 – Blizzard Then the sky came down like a freight train made of white, Records cracked in cities where the skyline met the night. Providence wore a crown of snow, the Park became a tale, Birds of steel stayed grounded, and the coastline breathed a gale. Homes went dark and rails fell silent, losses climbed like smoke, The schoolyard bells went quiet as the heartland’s branches broke. Sources: February 2026 North American blizzard Blizzard of 2026 wallops Northeast: Over 37 inches in Providence, 9,000+ flights canceled February 23, 2026 - Northeast blizzard Winter storm: Blizzard hits Northeast with extreme weather, power outages, heavy snow Final Chorus and Coda World on the wire, engines pound below, From fire-lit nights to a blinding snow. Raise your voice above the wind and smoke, We hold the line and we will not choke. We are the thunder under ice and stone, From shattered streets to a courtroom’s tone, From desert skies to a frozen throne— Turn it up, strike the match— We ride the storm and bring it home.

Sirens, Secrets & Storms Verse 1 — Tapalpa Thunder Over pine-dark hills, the rotors carve the sky; El Mencho falls, and the streets ignite in reply. Cross-state fires, ghosted highways choked with flame, Shattered glass, black flags—vengeance took a name. Whispers crossed the border, maps lit up the night, Stores burn, roads turn, Guard ambushed in the fight. World Cup dreams in Guadalajara shake and sway, When a kingpin’s crown is buried in the clay. Sources: February 23, 2026 - Mexico cartel leader 'El Mencho' killing sparks chaos | CNN Violence erupts in Mexico after cartel leader 'El Mencho' killed | CBS News Violence erupts in Mexico after killing of drug cartel kingpin 'El Mencho' | Al Jazeera Mexico fears more violence after army kills cartel leader 'El Mencho' | NPR Powerful cartel unleashes wave of violence across Mexico after its leader's killing | NBC News Chorus Sirens wail, secrets fail, and the cold wind roars, Power bends, truth defends, beating on the doors. Hands on the wheel while the headlines storm— Hold the line, hearts up, keep the engine warm. We won’t drown in all this noise and scorn— Raise your voice, we’re louder than the war. Verse 2 — Crown of Shadows A palace clock stops—iron steps on stone, Former prince hauled in, not above the throne. They say trade secrets passed in midnight halls, Epstein’s ghost in gilded, guilty walls. The King says let the law walk where it must, A centuries-silent gavel shakes the dust. A grieving family whispers through the glare, No crown, no crest stands higher than what’s fair. Sources: Former Prince Andrew arrested following Epstein files revelations | NBC News U.K. considers cutting ex-Prince Andrew from line of succession over his Epstein ties | NPR February 19, 2026 — Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested | CNN Former Prince Andrew arrested over suspected misconduct in public office | CBS News Chorus Sirens wail, secrets fail, and the cold wind roars, Power bends, truth defends, beating on the doors. Hands on the wheel while the headlines storm— Hold the line, hearts up, keep the engine warm. We won’t drown in all this noise and scorn— Raise your voice, we’re louder than the war. Verse 3 — Union of One On the Hill, bright lights, a teleprompter grin, Brag of walls and rules, law and order wins. But the Homeland’s halls echo with a lock, Shutdown clocks still chewing through the talk. He vows to end the fires burning overseas, While the crowd divides like breaking seas. Spanberger steps up, cuts through the spin— A first for her state, let the answer begin. Sources: Live updates: Trump delivers 2026 State of the Union address | CNN Politics How to watch Trump's 2026 State of the Union address live tonight - ABC News WATCH LIVE: President Donald Trump's 2026 State of the Union address | PBS News Verse 4 — Edge of the Strait Steel wakes whisper where the gulf runs deep, Geneva candles burn while gunships creep. Deal or thunder, says the man on the stage, History tapping on a delicate gauge. House lions roar, “No war without our word,” Generals murmur of the cost they’ve heard. Choose the pen or the saber’s gleam— Either way, we’ll wear the dream. Sources: February 23, 2026 — Trump administration updates | CNN Politics The News Roundup For February 20, 2026 | NPR February 21, 2026 — Trump administration updates | CNN Chorus Sirens wail, secrets fail, and the cold wind roars, Power bends, truth defends, beating on the doors. Hands on the wheel while the headlines storm— Hold the line, hearts up, keep the engine warm. We won’t drown in all this noise and scorn— Raise your voice, we’re louder than the war. Verse 5 — Embassy Blue An envoy’s cuffs click, questions find their mark, Crisis-years whispers traded in the dark. Emails flicker with a market-moving breeze, EU tremors riding quiet pleas. Fired last fall from the marble run, Lords ring hollow—resignation done. He says he’s sorry for the company he kept, Denies the crime as the city wept. Sources: Former UK ambassador to US Peter Mandelson released after arrest amid Epstein probe | CNN British police arrest former ambassador to the U.S. Peter Mandelson in probe into Epstein ties | PBS News U.K. ex-envoy to U.S. Peter Mandelson arrested in Epstein probe | NPR Ex-UK ambassador Mandelson released on bail after arrest in Epstein probe | Al Jazeera Verse 6 — Hernando Howls They named it Hernando, a cold-fanged crown, Northeastern skylines buried, beaten down. Winds like oceans tearing steel from stone, Flights grounded, power lines moan. A fallen tree writes sorrow in the night, Congress calls time on the floor’s next fight. Records shatter, silence stings— Snow like anvils on cathedral wings. Sources: Snowstorms in Northeast: After a bomb cyclone blizzard, more snowfall looms | CNN February 2026 North American blizzard - Wikipedia Historic blizzard of 2026 smashes snow records | Fox Weather Blizzard of 2026 wallops Northeast: Over 37 inches in Providence, 9,000+ flights canceled | AccuWeather Bridge From Tapalpa’s blaze to a frozen shore, From a velvet door to a chambered war, We’re ink and iron, bone and chord, Chasing the truth like a roaring Ford. Final Chorus Sirens wail, secrets fail, and the cold wind roars, Power bends, truth defends, beating on the doors. Hands on the wheel while the headlines storm— Hold the line, hearts up, keep the engine warm. We won’t drown in all this noise and scorn— Raise your voice, we’re louder than the war. Outro — Turn It Up Let the amps catch fire, let the cold break free, We’re the spark in the wire, we’re the last downbeat. When the storm sings siege and the night runs long— We hit redline truth and end with a song.

Fault Lines and Front Lines Verse 1 — Ukraine Years roll like tank treads over winter roads, The biggest, bleakest fight Europe’s seen in a lifetime. Names are carved where the cold wind blows, Families scattered, sirens cut through the skyline. Europe strings a lifeline, leaders ride to Kyiv’s light, A coalition gathers, standing with Zelensky through the night. Sources: Russia-Ukraine War Enters Fifth Year. Here's Where Things Stand Myriad fragments, one tragedy: How four years of war changed Ukraine President Costa to travel to Kyiv on the fourth anniversary Four years on: Europe stands with Ukraine Chorus We’re living on fault lines and front lines tonight, War drums, courtrooms, blackouts, and byte. When the sky goes dark and the headlines bite, Turn up the amps, hold the line, light the night. Verse 2 — Supreme Court Tariffs A gavel falls, and the engine of trade backfires, Court says the reach went farther than the law. The president roars, sets fresh global wires, A quick-burn tariff with a ticking clock’s claw. He blasts the bench, while boardrooms press rewind, “Cut us a check,” say the ledgers left behind. Sources: Supreme Court strikes down most of Trump's tariffs in a major blow to the president Trump to raise US global tariff to 15% after Supreme Court ruling Supreme Court tariff ruling: What is IEEPA, the law that Trump broke A breakdown of the court's tariff decision Verse 3 — U.S.–Iran Talks Geneva’s glass reflects a wary dawn, Oman whispers between guarded doors. Tehran says the signals glow head-on, Guiding lines sketched, maybe peace in the cores. But carriers prowl while the hawks take aim, Students fill the streets, chanting the fallen’s name. Sources: Iran hails 'encouraging signals' from US before nuclear talks on Thursday U.S.-Iran talks expected Friday if Iran sends nuclear proposal soon Oil pulls back as U.S.–Iran talks set to resume Iran says US military build-up 'unnecessary and unhelpful' Chorus We’re living on fault lines and front lines tonight, War drums, courtrooms, blackouts, and byte. When the sky goes dark and the headlines bite, Turn up the amps, hold the line, light the night. Verse 4 — DHS Shutdown Homeland hums on half-lit power, Parties brawl on the borders of the law. Roving stops, tighter warrants, body cams in the hour, After a life was taken, a nation feels the raw. Most hands work on without a wage, PreCheck flickers back, FEMA holds the stage. Sources: DHS reverses course on TSA PreCheck suspension after confusion A partial government shutdown has hit the Department of Homeland Security How a DHS shutdown affects different components and employees Verse 5 — Northeast Blizzard A bomb cyclone with a hard-edged name, Turns avenues to arctic, the coastline to foam. Record crowns claimed in snowbound fame, City sirens quiet, runways turned to stone. Rare warnings scream, governors hit stop, Lines sag low, the grid begins to drop. Sources: Blizzard live updates: Bomb cyclone batters Boston, NYC, Philadelphia Live updates: Deadly blizzard 'bomb' paralyzes Northeast See the forecast for 12 cities that will be blasted by a bomb cyclone February 2026 North American blizzard Chorus We’re living on fault lines and front lines tonight, War drums, courtrooms, blackouts, and byte. When the sky goes dark and the headlines bite, Turn up the amps, hold the line, light the night. Verse 6 — AI Shocks the Street On the ticker, a blue giant slips, As Claude Code points at COBOL’s bones. Legacy halls feel aftershocks and rips, ATMs whisper in that old machine tone. “Seasons not ages,” say the coders at the gate, Markets shake as AI redraws fate. Sources: IBM is the latest AI casualty. Shares tank 13% on Anthropic programming language threat IBM Shares Plunge as Anthropic Touts COBOL Modernization Efforts Anthropic AI Tool Triggers Historic IBM Stock Plunge Anthropic touts AI for COBOL, IBM stock takes a hit Final Chorus and Coda We’re living on fault lines and front lines tonight, War drums, courtrooms, blackouts, and byte. If the world goes wild and the wires ignite, Crank up the gain, make darkness take flight— Hold the line, hold the line, From Kyiv to the coast, through code and the cold, Hold the line, hold the line, Raise a roar so fierce it breaks the mold— Light the night! Light the night! We won’t fade, we’ll amplify— Light the night! Light the night! On the fault lines, we rise and electrify!

Shockwaves on the Wire Verse 1 Marble thunder from the highest room, A gavel cuts through tariff gloom. A split court says the line was crossed, Emergency powers, balance lost. Two of his own broke ranks that day, He raged at robes, then found a way— A brand-new levy under older code, Now importers crowd the legal road. Sources: Trump mulls Iran options as U.S. forces move into position Trump warns of 'bad things' if Iran doesn't make a deal Trump has discussed timeline for Iran strikes Iran says US risking 'crisis' as Trump sets deadline for deal Trump's Threatened Strikes to Compel Iran Deal Risk Backfiring Chorus Headlines hit like lightning on a frayed high line, Sirens in the feedback, truth and power collide. Turn the volume up, let the drums decide— We won’t go quiet through the static and the lies. Hold the line. Hold the line. Verse 2 Palm trees shiver in a sleepless hour, A stranger breaches gilded power. Agents move, the night goes still, A shotgun’s echo fades against the hill. He was missing on a desperate run, Bought his fire on the way to the sun. The boss was north, not in that glow, Now the Bureau hunts what drove the blow. Sources: Violence erupts in Mexico after killing of drug cartel kingpin 'El Mencho' Mexican army kills leader of Jalisco New Generation Cartel Violence erupts in Mexico after cartel leader 'El Mencho' killed Mexican army kills Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader 'El Mencho' Mexican army kills leader of Jalisco New Generation Cartel Verse 3 Steel on the water, flags in the wake, Carriers prowl where the red lines shake. Jets circle tight as the desert sighs, The largest shadow since old war skies. A deadline hangs over Geneva’s light, Tehran vows a decisive bite. Drills with Moscow thrum the floor, Europe pulls people back from the door. Sources: Secret Service says an armed man was shot and killed at Mar-a-Lago Law enforcement shoots and kills armed man trying to enter Mar-a-Lago Armed man shot, killed after breaching Mar-a-Lago secure perimeter Armed man who entered Mar-a-Lago perimeter fatally shot Chorus Headlines hit like lightning on a frayed high line, Sirens in the feedback, truth and power collide. Turn the volume up, let the drums decide— We won’t go quiet through the static and the lies. Hold the line. Hold the line. Verse 4 High country hush, Tapalpa pine, The hunter fell on a faulted line. El Mencho down, the convoy rolls, He died halfway to the capital’s tolls. Westward roads burned black and closed, Guadalajara ghosted, windows froze. Flights to the coast went dark in the sky, Washington nodded: a ruthless kingpin’s tie. Sources: Former Prince Andrew arrested following Epstein files revelations Former Prince Andrew arrested over suspected misconduct in public office Ex-Prince Andrew arrested in widening fallout related to Jeffrey Epstein ties U.K. considers cutting ex-Prince Andrew from line of succession February 19, 2026 — Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested Verse 5 At Sandringham gates on a storied day, A fallen royal led away. Ties to a darkness, questions blaze, Alleged misdeeds from envoy days. Hours of talk, then out on bail, Emails whisper through a paper trail. First in modern memory, crown on ice— The king says law must roll its dice. And voices long unheard ring through: No one above it—old or new. Sources: Supreme Court strikes down Trump's tariffs Supreme Court strikes down most of Trump's tariffs February 20, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode Trump imposes new tariffs, denounces Supreme Court justices Can Trump still impose tariffs after the Supreme Court ruling? Chorus Headlines hit like lightning on a frayed high line, Sirens in the feedback, truth and power collide. Turn the volume up, let the drums decide— We won’t go quiet through the static and the lies. Hold the line. Hold the line. Verse 6 Another hard mark on a wintered land, A market shattered, ash in hand. Clustered steel in eastern air, Families flee from the front-line glare. Crowds in distant squares ignite, Prague and Paris, candlelight. Zelenskyy honors a mayor’s stand, While captains ferry sanctioned brand. Sources: Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,459 Portal:Current events/February 2026 - Wikipedia Bridge Gavel crack—jet roar—city lights dim, Desert wind—neon hymn. Wires hum, the headlines scream, We ride the surge, we keep the beam. Final Chorus Headlines hit like lightning on a frayed high line, Sirens in the feedback, truth and power collide. Turn the volume up, let the drums decide— We won’t go quiet through the static and the lies. Hold the line, set the sky on fire, From court to coast, from crown to wire— We are the chorus, we are the choir, Turn it up—higher, higher!

Sirens, Crowns, Moonlight, and Snow Verse 1 — Sirens over sand and stone A fleet of iron birds lines Jordan’s hardened runway, Engines hum like thunder, dusk turns battle-gray. Talk of narrow strikes hangs heavy in the air, Evacuations down in Qatar say the stakes are laid bare. On the Hill they’re warning, Constitution in their hands, No fire without the people’s voice, no war without the plans. And after a bruising court day, the fuse feels set to blow— Experts say the pressure’s rising; everyone can feel the undertow. Sources: Trump mulls Iran options as U.S. forces move into position February 20, 2026 — Trump administration news, SCOTUS tariffs ruling, US-Iran negotiations February 20, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode Chorus World on edge, hearts of steel, truth against the roar, Crowns and courts and rockets rise, and winter tests the shore. We won’t break, we won’t bow, through the highs and lows, Turn it up, hold the line—feel the storm, see it glow. Verse 2 — Crown in the cold light Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor meets the glare of a new dawn, Led away on questions no palace veil could keep withdrawn. Old files, dark names, and whispers of a trade, Secrets from a time when handshakes paved the way. Released but not absolved—now the law will find its course, A monarch speaks of duty while tradition feels the force. First in centuries, a headline shakes the throne, And broken hearts say finally, no one stands alone. Sources: Former Prince Andrew arrested following Epstein files revelations Epstein files: Former prince Andrew released by police Former Prince Andrew arrested over suspected misconduct in public office February 19, 2026 — Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested Chorus World on edge, hearts of steel, truth against the roar, Crowns and courts and rockets rise, and winter tests the shore. We won’t break, we won’t bow, through the highs and lows, Turn it up, hold the line—feel the storm, see it glow. Verse 3 — Gavel and the tariff wall Roberts pens the ruling, draws a boundary in the sand, Two of the president’s own cross the aisle, take a stand. The emergency was broken, the scaffold couldn’t hold, Refunds like a tidal wave, a story still untold. The bench absorbs the fury, the dissents strike a chord, Policy unravels as the markets watch the board. But even as the echoes fade from marble hall and dome, A new lever’s pulled to rebuild the tariff throne. Sources: Supreme Court strikes down Trump's tariffs Supreme Court strikes down most of Trump's tariffs in a major blow to the president Supreme Court strikes down Trump tariffs, rebuking president's signature economic policy Takeaways: Supreme Court stands up to Donald Trump on emergency tariffs Verse 4 — Ratchet the rate He turns the dial higher, under older, narrower law, A countdown on the calendar, a temporary claw. Ports whisper caution—weak hiring, stalled plans, Cargo cranes move slower with uncertain hands. Economists are warning, the checkout lines will sting— When walls go up on prices, it’s the people who they ring. Steel strings bite the chorus, cash registers complain, Another round of shockwaves rolling through the chain. Sources: February 21, 2026 — Trump administration updates Trump previously said he would implement 10% global tariffs President responds to Supreme Court ruling Chorus World on edge, hearts of steel, truth against the roar, Crowns and courts and rockets rise, and winter tests the shore. We won’t break, we won’t bow, through the highs and lows, Turn it up, hold the line—feel the storm, see it glow. Verse 5 — Moonshot in quarantine In Houston’s quiet rooms, the crew steels for the climb— Wiseman, Koch, and Glover, Hansen crossing time. Firsts on the horizon, breaking barriers in flight, A woman, a Black trailblazer, a partner from the North’s light. The dress rehearsal’s shining, the checks still find a seam, A whisper in the helium, a pause within the dream. Roll back or light the candle? The pad keeps breathing slow— But the Moon is calling loudly from the ancient, silver glow. Sources: NASA eyes March 6 to launch 4 astronauts to the moon on Artemis II mission Artemis II Crew Enters Quarantine Ahead of March Launch Opportunity Artemis II: NASA's First Crewed Lunar Flyby in 50 Years NASA is sending Artemis II to the moon. Here's what to know Verse 6 — Bombing out the coast The nor’easter finds its heartbeat, deepening off the line, Emergency declarations before the storm can dine. Blizzard flags for city streets, for islands in the spray, For bridges, bays, and boardwalks braced for winter’s sway. Winds are set to wrestle wires, tides to test the piers, Warming doors swing open wide to shelter frozen fears. A mayor warns it’s meaner than the last one we survived, While through the whiteout howl, the will to care arrives. Sources: Blizzard warnings for millions as blockbuster nor'easter takes aim at New York City, Northeast Blizzard conditions and high winds forecast for NYC, East coast A powerful storm will hit some cities with a foot of snow February 2026 nor'easter Breakdown Sirens in the desert sky, Crowns under a reckoning eye, Gavels fall and markets cry, Rockets reach and snow replies. Final Chorus World on edge, hearts of steel, truth against the roar, Crowns and courts and rockets rise, and winter tests the shore. We won’t break, we won’t bow, through the highs and lows, Turn it up, hold the line—feel the storm, see it glow. Outro — Ignite the night Light the fuse, ride the gale, Kiss the Moon, trim the sail. Through the blast, through the blow— Hold the line—and let it go.

Sirens, Crowns, and Deadlines Verse 1 — The Crown on the Line Blue lights on a palace shadow, Trade stamps on a tarnished name. They say secrets crossed a dark horizon, Now the cuffs kiss royal fame. Released to a colder daylight, King says, let the gavel swing. First in ages, gates are shaking, After files burst everything. Sources: Former Prince Andrew arrested following Epstein files revelations Live updates: Former Prince Andrew arrested after Epstein files revelations Former Prince Andrew arrested over suspected misconduct in public office U.K.'s ex-Prince Andrew is released after his arrest over Epstein revelations Chorus Turn up the truth till the wires ignite, Drums like thunder, cut through the night. No one above it, no one below, We ride this reckoning, let the spotlight show. Hold the line, don’t look away, From crowns to code to wars at bay. Turn up the truth, don’t dim the signs— These are sirens, crowns, and deadlines. Verse 2 — Flood of Names A tide of pages, a broken silence, Faces flicker in a brutal reel. Experts call from a higher vantage: Bring the hidden to the wheel. They say the net was wide and ruthless, Bodies bought and borders crossed. No gold halo for the faithless— Law for all, or we are lost. Sources: US Military Buildup in Middle East Expands Trump's Options Against Iran US increases military pressure on Iran as countries discuss a deal Iran builds concrete shield at military site amid acute US tensions Verse 3 — The Gulf’s Cold Pulse A countdown written in smoke, Steel cities ride the foam. Engines hum in the strait’s black throat, Distant thunder, distant home. Talks in a careful Geneva whisper, No handshake seals the night. One side fortifies the mountain, The other flexes for a fight. Sources: Epstein files: UN experts demand accountability Chorus Turn up the truth till the wires ignite, Drums like thunder, cut through the night. No one above it, no one below, We ride this reckoning, let the spotlight show. Hold the line, don’t look away, From crowns to code to wars at bay. Turn up the truth, don’t dim the signs— These are sirens, crowns, and deadlines. Verse 4 — Cold Rooms, Hot Maps Maps bleed at a quiet table, Words march, no flags unfurled. Guns inch back in measured footsteps, But borders haunt the world. A nuclear shadow chills the doorway, Land and loss refuse to bend. They promise more hard midnights talking, Chasing daylight round the end. Sources: Former South Korean President Yoon receives life sentence for imposing martial law Former South Korean President Yoon gets life sentence for rebellion Yoon Suk Yeol: Former South Korean President handed life sentence for leading insurrection Ex-South Korean president Yoon found guilty of insurrection Verse 5 — Iron Verdict Boot steps echoed in the chamber, Parliament under steel command. Judge drew lines through failed thunder, Gavel fell on a shaking land. Life behind an iron morning, Old ghosts finally named. First in long and bitter memory, Power answers, power shamed. Sources: Meta's Zuckerberg testifies about social media's effects on children Mark Zuckerberg grilled about underage Instagram users Mark Zuckerberg said he reached out to Tim Cook to discuss wellbeing of teens Mark Zuckerberg takes the stand in landmark trial Verse 6 — The Feed on Trial Fluorescent courtroom, glass reflections, Blue glow under oath. He swears the gears aren’t built to hook you, Says they’ve walked a careful road. Kids and filters, age gate questions, Who’s left to face the choir? Some bowed out behind the curtains, The rest stand close to fire. Sources: 'Difficult' Russia-Ukraine talks conclude without breakthrough Ukraine-US-Russia talks: 'Progress' on military track Land in focus at new Geneva peace talks between Russia and Ukraine Bridge Hear the jets, hear the whispers, Hear the keys clack down the halls. Hear the boots, hear the gavel, Hear the names crash through the walls. If the peace is just a rumor, If the screen becomes a chain— Turn the amp past breaking point, Let the truth distort the frame. Final Chorus Turn up the truth till the wires ignite, Drums like thunder, cut through the night. No one above it, no one below, We ride this reckoning, let the spotlight show. Hold the line, make it resound, From shaking thrones to battlegrounds. Turn up the truth, we won’t resign— Sirens scream through crowns and deadlines. Outro Raise your voice, light the fuse, Let the old rules face the blues. Count no days—make it right: Justice loud, and mercy bright.

Headlines on a Razor Wire Verse 1 — The Epstein Files A new law cracked the vault and the lights burned white, Justice sent the Hill a list that hums all night. Donald and Melania Trump, Bill Gates in the tide, Names in black ink, nowhere left to hide. UN voices thunder: a global ring exposed, Crimes of flesh and power, doors finally closed. From Turkey to Lithuania, sirens start to rise, A former Norwegian leader charged beneath the skies. Sources: Epstein files: 'No one is too wealthy or too powerful to be above the law' Justice Department lists hundreds of prominent people named in Epstein files Powerful people, random redactions: 4 things to know about the latest Epstein files The Epstein files have brought a wave of resignations and investigations Chorus Turn it up, let the floodlights roar, Truth beats down like a cannon at the door. From courtrooms to war rooms, we won’t tire, We’re walking these headlines on a razor wire. Raise your hands, make the ceiling shake, We break what breaks us before it breaks. Hold the line, hearts catching fire, Singing the news on a razor wire. Verse 2 — The Addiction Trial In Los Angeles the architect took the stand, They say the feed was built to catch a child’s hand. Kaley found a mirror that lied about her skin, A maze of hearts and likes that pulled her thin. Memos on the table, preteens in the fray, He admits the gates stood open, kids slipped through the gray. They’re calling it Big Tobacco’s modern stage, A verdict that could ripple far beyond the page. Sources: Zuckerberg grilled about Meta's strategy to target 'teens' and 'tweens' Mark Zuckerberg grilled about underage Instagram users, social media addiction during landmark trial Meta's Zuckerberg testifies about social media's effects on children in landmark trial Zuckerberg testimony: Meta CEO said he reached out to Apple's Tim Cook Verse 3 — Russia and Ukraine Geneva’s quiet corridors taste like iron and frost, Difficult words traded, no bridges crossed. Kyiv says the other side is stalling the clock, Maps of Donbas laid like a loaded rock. One hand grips territory, the other guards its name, Ceasefire just a whisper in a grinding game. Another round ends, the calendar holds its breath, While the border’s rhythm drums of life and death. Sources: Russia-Ukraine talks live: 'Difficult' negotiations end, more planned U.S.-Brokered Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks Cut Short in Geneva Talks break in Geneva with no end to Russia's war or hard-line demands First day of Ukraine-Russia talks to end war conclude in Geneva Verse 4 — The U.S. and Iran Another table hums with measured breaths, Oman in the middle, guiding lines sketched. Both sides say progress, ink not yet dry, Carriers prowl oceans, jets carve the sky. Hormuz narrows briefly under thunder drills, A warning in the water: talk, or metal wills. If words can carry further than a missile’s flame, Sign here, not with ashes, but with name. Sources: Iran says 'good progress' made in nuclear talks with US in Geneva U.S. and Iran say progress made in Geneva nuclear talks U.S. and Iran tout progress in nuclear talks as supreme leader warns Trump over military buildup Iran, US Set for Second Round of Nuclear Talks in Geneva Chorus Turn it up, let the floodlights roar, Truth beats down like a cannon at the door. From courtrooms to war rooms, we won’t tire, We’re walking these headlines on a razor wire. Raise your hands, make the ceiling shake, We break what breaks us before it breaks. Hold the line, hearts catching fire, Singing the news on a razor wire. Verse 5 — DHS Shutdown Homeland at half-light, paychecks turned to stone, Duty still marching with a hungry phone. A tragedy in Minneapolis scars the scene, Demands for cameras, tighter patrols, cleaner routines. Old funding keeps the border wheels in play, But airports, coasts, and storms feel the delay. An offer slides across the West Wing floor, Congress on vacation while the clock wants more. Sources: Democrats send counteroffer on ICE reforms to Republicans as DHS shutdown continues 5 things to know about the shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security A partial government shutdown has hit the Department of Homeland Security Democrats send Trump DHS funding counteroffer as agency shutdown grinds on Verse 6 — The SAVE America Fight On marble floors a voting bill stands tall, Proof of who you are before you’re on the roll call. It cleared one house and found a Senate tide, But the filibuster towers on the other side. Mike Lee wants voices talking through the night, Thune guards the brake, says the rules hold tight. Collins backs the bill, not the wrecking ball, And the president’s echo rattles through the hall. Sources: Trump's election bill, the SAVE America Act, has 50 Senate votes but Democrats could block it Final Chorus and Ending Turn it up, let the floodlights roar, Truth beats down like a cannon at the door. From courtrooms to war rooms, we won’t tire, We’re walking these headlines on a razor wire. Raise your hands, make the ceiling shake, We break what breaks us before it breaks. Strike the chords, set the night on fire— If the world’s the stage, we are the choir. No more hush, no more choir of liars— Turn it to eleven, ride the wire!

Riffs for a Broken, Burning, Healing World Verse 1 He marched beside a dreamer and carried on the flame, Built a rainbow out of struggle, gave the voiceless a name. Illness dimmed the body, but the thunder never waned, Laid to rest with loved ones near, the legacy remains. From the South Side to the ballot, he shook the nation’s core, Leaders hailed his firebrand heart from every kind of shore. Sources: Reverend Jesse Jackson dies at age 84 Jesse Jackson, civil rights leader who ran for president, dies at age 84 Longtime civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson dies at 84 Rev Jesse Jackson, civil rights leader and Rainbow PUSH founder, dies at 84 Civil rights icon Jesse Jackson dies at 84 Chorus Turn it up, the world’s on edge, but we won’t fade to grey, From mourning into marching, we will rise and say: Truth won’t drown, hope won’t rust, even when the night is long— Turn it up, turn it up, make justice our song. Verse 2 Across the frost and wire, a verdict crossed the sea, Labs lit up the darkness with a jungle chemistry. They said the state had motive, and the means to make it sting, His widow cried to heaven, named the hand behind the thing. The courthouse of the Kremlin called it all a bitter lie— But the frog-born shadow lingers where the fearless learn to die. Sources: Alexei Navalny likely killed by toxins from poison dart frog, Europeans say Russia accused of killing Navalny with dart frog toxin. What we know about the rare poison 5 European nations say Navalny was poisoned by the Kremlin Alexey Navalny: Russian opposition figure killed by toxin found in poison dart frogs Russia rejects claims of poisoning Navalny with dart frog toxin Chorus Turn it up, the world’s on edge, but we won’t fade to grey, From mourning into marching, we will rise and say: Truth won’t drown, hope won’t rust, even when the night is long— Turn it up, turn it up, make justice our song. Verse 3 In Geneva’s cold-lit rooms, they circled words like fire, An envoy from the desert, and a prince of deals and wire. Oman held the middle while the drafts began to cross, Strait gates briefly shuttered, carriers cut their gloss. They called it real momentum, but the devil guards the seam— Pages yet to barter in the half-light of a dream. Sources: Amid threat of U.S. attack, Iran nuclear talks proceed without breakthrough U.S. and Iran say progress made in Geneva nuclear talks U.S. and Iran to hold a second round of nuclear talks in Geneva Iran Says It Temporarily Closed the Strait of Hormuz as It Held More Indirect Talks With the US Verse 4 In a capital of stalemate, a fortress lost its pay, Most still stand in duty lines to keep the storms at bay. Shots in northern streets ignited fury, sharpened laws, While agents keep on moving through the loopholes and the flaws. Congress took a breather, speeches brewing in the wings— A Union waits for thunder and the shift that justice brings. Sources: Democrats send Trump DHS funding counteroffer as agency shutdown grinds on DHS government shutdown is underway. Here are the services affected. 5 things to know about the shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security What to know on the DHS government shutdown Chorus Turn it up, the world’s on edge, but we won’t fade to grey, From mourning into marching, we will rise and say: Truth won’t drown, hope won’t rust, even when the night is long— Turn it up, turn it up, make justice our song. Verse 5 A brand-new board in Washington, bright banners, lofty claims, Vast pledges for a shattered coast, rebuilt from ash and flames. Nations sign in gilded ink—UAE, Amman on line, Riyadh, Tel Aviv in chorus, while some allies decline. Skeptics see a shadow of the blue flag’s crowded hall— Is it help or is it power when the giants make the call? Sources: Board of Peace members pledge more than $5bn for Gaza aid and reconstruction Trump's new Board of Peace to convene in Washington this week on Gaza reconstruction Trump says Board of Peace members promise $5 billion for Gaza rebuild Trump Says Board of Peace Members Pledge $5 Billion for Gaza Reconstruction Verse 6 Moonrise called the faithful and the city lights went still, Dates and dawn and whispered prayers, a turning of the will. From Doha’s quiet kitchens to the courts of Paris stone, Ash and crescent meeting where the sacred seeds are sown. Scholars sail from Maghreb winds to teach and break the fast— A chorus of forgiveness for a world that burns too fast. Sources: Saudi Arabia Announces Wednesday as First Day of Ramadan 2026 Ramadan in Qatar begins tomorrow, February 18, 2026 France Marks Start of Ramadan 2026 on Wednesday Final Chorus Turn it up, the world’s on edge, but we won’t fade to grey, From mourning into marching, we will rise and say: Truth won’t drown, hope won’t rust, even when the night is long— Turn it up, turn it up, make justice our song. Outro Strike the chord for saints and rebels, let the skyline shake, From closed straits to open hearts, feel the levees break. Raise the lights, roll the drums—let the final crash belong To the living and the fallen— Turn it up, we are the song!

Sirens, Wires, and Ink Verse 1 — Board of Peace, Broken Streets They lit a hall with a new-name crown, a promise in the glare, A Board of Peace holds out its hands to bones and dust and prayer. They talk of cranes above the ruins, boots ready for the sand, But old allies cross their arms at a chairman’s iron hand. With Moscow at the table and the ledger stacked so steep, The vows sound bright, but the reckoning runs deep. Sources: Trump Says Board of Peace Members Pledge $5 Billion for Gaza Reconstruction Board of Peace to unveil $5 billion in Gaza reconstruction at inaugural meeting, Trump says Trump Announces $5 Billion in Gaza Commitments From Board of Peace Member States Chorus Build it back, hold the line, turn the cameras to the night, Wire the sky, write the truth, talk till the fuse burns white. We’re a planet in the red, still the drum finds a beat— Raise your hands, don’t look away, make the broken streets believe. Verse 2 — Shut Doors, Open Wounds In halls of homeland half asleep, the lights are thin and cold, Most still work for empty checks while orders take their hold. Two names echo through the snow where sirens used to fade, Now there’s talk of eyes on uniforms and badges on display. They argue over shadows, over roving, over blame, While raids roll on with borrowed cash and Congress stays away. Sources: Government Shutdown 2026: No clear path to ending DHS funding standoff A partial government shutdown has hit the Department of Homeland Security 5 things to know about the shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security DHS shutdown begins as funding expires without a deal in Congress Chorus Build it back, hold the line, turn the cameras to the night, Wire the sky, write the truth, talk till the fuse burns white. We’re a planet in the red, still the drum finds a beat— Raise your hands, don’t look away, make the broken streets believe. Verse 3 — Geneva Sparks Geneva hums like midnight wires, the ink not dry from Oman’s air, Tehran says bite the sanction chains and maybe there’s a share. The atom’s on the table; the rockets are not touched, The watchdog’s in the lobby and the strait’s waters are roughed. Envoys lean on careful words, a bargain laced with thorns, Peace with teeth, or just a truce that wilts before the dawn? Sources: Iran meets UN nuclear watchdog in Geneva ahead of a second round of US talks Iran open to compromises to reach nuclear deal with U.S., minister tells BBC Iran says missile programme non-negotiable as Tehran, Washington eye talks Chorus Build it back, hold the line, turn the cameras to the night, Wire the sky, write the truth, talk till the fuse burns white. We’re a planet in the red, still the drum finds a beat— Raise your hands, don’t look away, make the broken streets believe. Verse 4 — Ink on the Floor A newsroom older than our storms falls quiet, blinds half drawn, Sports and stories lost to dust, whole worlds of pages gone. From Cairo to the harbor lights, the foreign desk goes black, They blame the search that starved the clicks and code that bites the back. The union counts the faded names; the owner swears he’ll stay— But history’s heaviest scissors cut the truth away. Sources: Washington Post lays off one-third of its newsroom Jeff Bezos remains committed to Washington Post amid brutal layoffs, top editor Matt Murray says Inside one of the 'darkest days in the history' of The Washington Post Sweeping layoffs at The Washington Post will do 'enormous damage,' former editor says Verse 5 — Silicon Drought The data temples drink it all, the memory, the spark, Prices climb like thunderheads, the factory floors run dark. A car king dreams of forging chips with steel and salted fire, Phones feel tighter margins, cloud gods build higher spires. New foundries crawl toward the light while orders choke the air— In the hum of hungry servers, scarcity is prayer. Sources: AI Boom Driving a Global Memory Chip Shortage, Sending Prices Soaring Rampant AI demand for memory is fueling a growing chip crisis Memory chip shortage to last through 2027, semiconductor boss says How and When the Memory Chip Shortage Will End Verse 6 — Munich Echo In Munich, softer boots on stage call West to stand as kin, A gentler chord than last year’s flame, a smile to draw them in. He blesses bonds, then scolds the gates on migrants and the skies, Europe nods, calls it a calm, reassuring lullaby. But not a word for eastern ghosts, no anchor, just the breeze— A choir without the drummer, a promise on its knees. Sources: Rubio tries to ease tensions with Europe with message of unity Marco Rubio wants to build a 'new Western century'. Will Europe join? Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Munich Security Conference Bridge Sirens in the harbor, wires in the rain, Pressrooms bleeding letters, steel that learns our pain. Talk in mirrored cities, deals that bend and sway— If we’re counting on tomorrow, let tomorrow hear us play. Final Chorus Build it back, hold the line, turn the cameras to the night, Wire the sky, write the truth, talk till the fuse burns white. We’re a planet in the red, still the drum finds a beat— Raise your hands, don’t look away, make the broken streets believe. Ending Turn it up—let Gaza breathe, let Geneva keep the light, Let the ink find its chorus and the circuits win the fight. From shut doors to open air, from silence into steel, We are amps against the darkness— Make the broken streets feel real.