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Brussels – A diplomatic dispute has erupted between Belgium and the United States, centering on remarks made by US Ambassador to Belgium Bill White regarding a legal case in Antwerp and critical comments made by Belgian politicians about former US President Donald Trump. The escalating tensions involve Federal Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke and Vooruit party leader Conner Rousseau, with accusations of antisemitism and interference in Belgian legal processes being exchanged.

The conflict began after Ambassador White publicly criticized what he termed the “anti-Semitic prosecution” of three mohels – Jewish ritual circumcisers – in Antwerp. He demanded that Minister Vandenbroucke ensure Jewish circumcisers could continue their work without harassment and even threatened a US travel ban for Rousseau after the Vooruit leader compared Trump to Adolf Hitler. This prompted a strong rebuke from Belgian officials, who accused White of overstepping his diplomatic bounds and interfering in Belgium’s judicial independence. The core of the dispute revolves around the balance between respecting religious practices and upholding the rule of law within a sovereign nation.

Ambassador’s Outburst Draws Condemnation

Ambassador White’s comments, delivered via a lengthy post on X (formerly Twitter), were described as “very rude” by Minister Vandenbroucke. The ambassador called for an end to the “unacceptable harassment” of the Jewish community in Antwerp and Belgium. He also announced plans to visit Antwerp next week to meet with the mohels and their families, inviting Vandenbroucke and Rousseau to join him. Belgian politicians have widely condemned White’s social media attack, viewing it as an inappropriate interference in Belgian affairs.

Rousseau responded sharply, stating that no one is above the law, not even a US ambassador. He emphasized that Belgium operates as a constitutional state where courts are allowed to function independently. “He has no business interfering in our legal proceedings,” Rousseau said in a written statement. He further suggested that Belgium’s Minister of Foreign Affairs should remind the ambassador of the principles of Belgium’s constitutional state. According to the Belga News Agency, Rousseau also dismissed any need for lessons from the US regarding healthcare.

Vandenbroucke Defends Rousseau, Criticizes White

Minister Vandenbroucke has publicly and emphatically supported Rousseau’s stance, stating he “100 percent” agrees with Rousseau’s criticism of Trump and would reiterate the same statements himself. VRT News reported Vandenbroucke’s support, noting that a historian had previously made similar comparisons between Trump’s policies and those of Nazi Germany. Vandenbroucke also defended the principle of free speech, arguing that White’s actions were “very strange.”

Vandenbroucke characterized the actions of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as “storm troops politically deployed,” warning of a “democratic decay” and a slide towards authoritarianism in the United States. He drew parallels between current events in the US and the situation in Nazi Germany in 1933.

Escalating Rhetoric and Diplomatic Fallout

The situation has escalated with reports that Vandenbroucke declined a selfie with Ambassador White. Le Soir reported Vandenbroucke’s strong reaction, quoting him as calling White’s statements “a disgrace.” Ambassador White, however, has shown no signs of backing down, stating, “I think Frank Vandenbroucke has been in politics for far too long. He would do better to do something else.”

The US ambassador’s actions have sparked a broader debate about diplomatic protocol and the limits of foreign interference in domestic legal matters. The Belgian government is now considering its response, and the situation is being closely monitored by diplomatic observers.

What comes next remains to be seen, but the immediate focus will be on Ambassador White’s planned visit to Antwerp and whether Belgian officials will accompany him. The long-term implications for US-Belgian relations will depend on whether a path to de-escalation can be found and whether both sides can reaffirm their commitment to mutual respect and diplomatic norms.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.

Milan, Italy – A significant blow to Team Canada’s hopes for Olympic gold: captain Sidney Crosby will not play in Sunday’s gold medal game against the United States. The news, confirmed by multiple sources, comes after Crosby sustained an injury during Wednesday’s quarterfinal win over the Czech Republic.

The 38-year-traditional Crosby, a two-time Olympic gold medalist (2010, 2014), attempted to return to the ice, even skating in a closed practice on Saturday, but ultimately couldn’t overcome the injury. This likely marks the end of Crosby’s Olympic career, leaving a void in Canada’s lineup as they pursue a championship against their rivals.

Crosby’s Injury and Recovery Attempt

The injury occurred during the quarterfinal match against the Czech Republic when Crosby’s right leg bent awkwardly after a hit from defenseman Radko Gudas. He subsequently missed Friday’s semifinal victory over Finland. Despite the setback, Crosby remained determined to play in the gold medal game, a testament to his leadership and dedication to Team Canada.

Head coach Jon Cooper acknowledged Crosby’s efforts but emphasized the importance of not risking further injury. “He won’t put himself in harm’s way,” Cooper said, as reported by TSN. “He’s not gonna put the team in harm’s way. Obviously, we’d love to have him. That determination will be made.” Cooper also ruled out the possibility of dressing Crosby as a 13th forward simply for inspirational purposes, stating the need for a player capable of contributing on the ice.

Impact on Team Canada’s Lineup

With Crosby sidelined, Nick Suzuki will slot into the second line alongside Mitch Marner and Mark Stone, according to TSN. Team Canada will be without defenseman Josh Morrissey, who is also unable to play due to a lower-body injury sustained earlier in the tournament, and goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who is scratched for the final game.

The loss of Crosby, Canada’s all-time leading scorer in best-on-best Olympic competition, is a significant challenge. He has recorded two goals and six points throughout the tournament. The team will need to rely on its depth and remaining star power to overcome the absence of their captain.

Here’s a seem at Team Canada’s projected lines for the gold medal game:

Last look. 🇨🇦Trios et duos pour ce dernier affrontement. 🇨🇦#MilanoCortina2026 pic.twitter.com/YsWWOYBQko

— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) February 22, 2026

USA-Canada Rivalry Heats Up

The gold medal game sets the stage for a highly anticipated clash between Canada and the United States, two hockey powerhouses with a long-standing rivalry. The United States enters the game with momentum, having secured a 1-0 lead in the second period as of 9:11 AM EST, according to CTV News. The game promises to be a physical and emotionally charged contest, with both teams vying for Olympic glory.

As NBC Olympics reports, Crosby was injured after a hit from Czech defenceman Radko Gudas.

The absence of Crosby adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling matchup. Canada will need a collective effort to overcome this adversity and secure the gold medal. The game is scheduled to continue, with the United States currently leading 1-0.

What comes next is a battle for Olympic supremacy. All eyes will be on the ice as Canada and the United States fight for the gold. Share your thoughts on the game and Canada’s chances without Crosby in the comments below.