Why have Rwanda-backed rebels seized 2 Congolese cities; Is there an end in sight?

Associated Press – Chinedu Asadu Feb 18 6:52am

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized Goma and Bukavu in Democratic Republic of Congo in a position to gain political and economic control. The Congolese government claims that Rwanda is supporting the rebel troops, raising concerns of regional conflict and stability reminiscent of past wars. 

White South Africans gather in support of Trump and his claims that they are victims of racism

CNN – Jerome Delay Feb 15 11:25am

Many white South Africans, mostly Afrikaners, came together to support President Trump outside the US Embassy in Pretoria and chanting, “Thank God for President Trump.” This demonstration questions the apparent racism between white and black South Africans, furthermore expressing agreement with Trump’s policies surrounding the land expropriation law, reflecting divisions within South Africa.

Mexico threatens to sue Google over name change of Gulf of Mexico on US maps

CNN – Michael Rios, Billy Stockwell and Karol Suarez Feb 17 1:23pm

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has threatened legal action against Google after Google Maps labeled the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Sheinbaum asserts the renaming should not apply to Mexican waters as it violates Mexico’s sovereignty and demands the original name be restored.

Workshop producing fake Picassos and Rembrandts found in Rome

The Guardian – Angela Giuffrida Feb 19 12:18pm

Authorities in Italy have discovered a secret workshop producing forged artworks such as  paintings by Rembrandt and Picasso. The operation uncovered 71 incomplete paintings and forged authenticity documents, demonstrating an ongoing challenge in the fight against art fraud. The police are unsure of how long the scam has been active due to a similar incident that occurred a couple months ago, when the police dismantled a Europe-wide forgery network.