News

Brittney Griner-Viktor Bout exchange leaves former U.S. Marine in Russia

Published

3 years ago

December 9, 2022

Former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan left behind by Biden administration during two separate prisoner exchanges with Kremlin

The United States government on Thursday completed a prisoner exchange with Russia after months of negotiations that resulted in the release of Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout for American women’s basketball athlete Brittney Griner.

The professional athlete was arrested in Russia in February 2022 after airport officials discovered cannabis oil in her vape cartridges.

Meanwhile, Bout is known as the ‘Merchant of Death’ and many critics say he is still a very dangerous man and was too great a prize to give Russia.

Additionally, former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan has been left behind by the Biden administration for a second time. Initially, the Biden administration was working to release both Griner and Whelan for the Bout who has served 11 years of a 25-year conviction.

But, the Kremlin ultimately handed the U.S. the choice of only Griner’s return or no deal at all.

In Russian custody for nearly four years, Whelan was convicted on charges of espionage and spying for the U.S. government. The 52-year-old was sentenced to 16 years in prison and remains imprisoned at a labor camp.

Both Whelan and the U.S. deny the charges.

U.S. President Joe Biden was asked about why Whelan was left behind. He said, “

Whelan’s brother told media outlets he is hopeful the Biden administration will also secure the release of his brother soon.

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Veronica Dudo

Veronica Dudo is the U.S. Correspondent for Ticker News covering America’s biggest headlines. As an Emmy® Award nominated global journalist, Veronica has traveled across the country and around the world reporting on historical events that connect all citizens. Lauded as an award-winning international journalist, Veronica has executed stellar news coverage for NBC News, CBS News, The Hill, ME-TV Network and AOL. Her stories have highlighted a plethora of topics ranging from breaking news and politics to economic affairs across the USA, European Union, and Asia; cultural affairs; globalization; governance; education; and sustainability.

News

U.S. and Israel attack Iran, escalating regional conflict

U.S. and Israel strike Iran, escalating war fears and risking wider regional conflict for the second time in eight months

Published

3 hours ago

February 28, 2026

Ahron Young

U.S. and Israel strike Iran, escalating war fears and risking wider regional conflict for the second time in eight months

In Short:
– U.S. and Israel launched strikes against Iran amid fears of a broader regional conflict.
– Iranian officials warn that attacks could lead to full-scale war as they prepare for retaliation.

The attack marks the second war between the U.S., Israel, and Iran within eight months, raising concerns about a wider regional conflict in a critically important economic area.Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the strikes and declared a state of emergency across all areas of Israel.

The U.S. also carried out strikes as part of the operation, according to a U.S. official.

The military operation followed a month of U.S. military buildup, ignited by President Trump’s commitment to support Iranian protesters who demonstrated against the regime in January.

The President consistently warned Iran could face military action if it continued its nuclear program. Vice President JD Vance stated that Iran’s responses in two negotiation rounds failed to meet U.S. expectations.

Escalating Tensions

Iranian officials cautioned that any attack would provoke retaliation, warning that even minor strikes could escalate into a full-scale regional war.

The nation has prepared for conflict by mobilising its forces, reinforcing its nuclear facilities, decentralising decision-making, and tightening internal security measures.

News

Australia issues evacuation advisory for diplomats and citizens in the Middle East

Australian diplomats’ families in Israel and Lebanon urged to evacuate amid rising tensions; all Australians advised to leave soon.

Published

2 days ago

February 26, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Australian diplomats’ families in Israel and Lebanon urged to evacuate amid rising tensions; all Australians advised to leave soon.

Families of Australian diplomats in Israel and Lebanon have been ordered to evacuate as tensions in the region continue to rise. The government is prioritising the safety of its personnel and their families.

All other Australians have been urged to leave while commercial flights and other travel options are still available. Authorities are emphasising the importance of acting quickly before options become limited.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has warned that the security situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable and volatile.

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News

Trump signals possible action on Iran nuclear threat

Trump warns Iran on nuclear weapons and highlights threats, as US boosts military presence amid stalled talks.

Published

2 days ago

February 26, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Trump warns Iran on nuclear weapons and highlights threats, as the US boosts military presence amid stalled talks.

President Donald Trump laid out a strong warning to Iran during his State of the Union address. He labelled Tehran as the world’s biggest sponsor of terrorism and signalled that the U.S. might take action if Iran continues its nuclear ambitions.

Trump emphasised that Iran’s missile and nuclear programs, along with its backing of militant groups, pose serious threats to regional stability.

This comes amid growing concerns over Iran’s nuclear developments and the stalled diplomatic efforts to curb them.

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