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On February 14, 2026, the UK, France, Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands announced that analysis of samples from Alexei Navalny's body confirmed poisoning by epibatidine, a lethal toxin from South American poison dart frogs. The countries blamed Russia, citing its means, motive, and opportunity, and reported the case to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Russia denies involvement.
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Recent articles highlight a complex global energy transition. China and India reduce coal use amid rising renewables, while the US expands gas capacity driven by AI data centers, raising climate concerns. Romania decouples from pollution, contrasting with China's coal buildout and US fossil fuel surge. The story underscores the ongoing energy shift.
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As of February 15, 2026, tensions over Greenland's sovereignty continue despite U.S. President Trump's retreat from threats to seize the island. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen confirmed Trump's interest remains, while a U.S.-Denmark-Greenland working group has been formed to address Arctic security concerns. Canada and France have opened consulates in Nuuk, signaling diplomatic support amid Greenlanders' anxiety over sovereignty and climate change.
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Since the October 2025 ceasefire in Gaza, violence has persisted with Israeli forces killing over 580 Palestinians and Hamas militants attacking Israeli troops. Recent clashes include Israeli strikes on Hamas commanders and militants emerging from tunnels near Rafah. Indonesia is preparing up to 8,000 troops for a potential peacekeeping mission in Gaza, while the Rafah crossing with Egypt has reopened, allowing limited civilian movement.
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Japan's GDP grew by 0.1% quarter-on-quarter in October-December, marking its first positive growth in two quarters and a 1.1% increase for 2025, the highest since 2022. Private consumption rose, but exports declined, reflecting ongoing economic challenges.
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Donald Trump has repeatedly called for the federal government to take over election administration in at least 15 states, claiming widespread voter fraud and election corruption. His remarks, unsubstantiated and at odds with the Constitution, have raised concerns among election officials and lawmakers about potential threats to electoral independence, especially ahead of upcoming midterms.
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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security faces a government shutdown over funding disputes, with Democrats demanding reforms to ICE following fatal shootings in Minneapolis. Congressional hearings are underway to investigate use of force by federal immigration agents amid protests and political tension.
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On February 16, 2026, US Senator Marco Rubio visited Hungary to meet Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, endorsing a "golden era" in US-Hungary relations tied to Orbán's leadership. With Hungary's April 12 election looming, Orbán faces a strong challenge from opposition leader Péter Magyar amid concerns over democratic backsliding and EU tensions. Rubio emphasized the strategic importance of Hungary to US interests.
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The US military launched a strike in the Caribbean, killing three suspected drug traffickers. The operation, part of a broader campaign, has resulted in at least 130 deaths since September 2025. Critics argue the strikes are illegal extrajudicial killings, with no evidence provided for the targets' involvement in trafficking.
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As of February 16, 2026, French authorities have intensified investigations into financial and personal ties between former Culture Minister Jack Lang, his daughter Caroline, and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Lang resigned from the Arab World Institute amid allegations of tax fraud and offshore dealings. French prosecutors have also opened inquiries into diplomat Fabrice Aidan, while the fallout from the US Justice Department's release of Epstein files continues to implicate European figures.
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Zubayar al-Bakoush, linked to the 2012 Benghazi attack that killed four Americans, has been extradited to the US to face murder, arson, and terrorism charges. The attack was initially seen as a spontaneous protest but was later identified as a deliberate extremist assault. This marks a significant step in US justice efforts.
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On February 19, 2026, the inaugural Board of Peace meeting chaired by former US President Donald Trump will convene in Washington, D.C., with delegations from over 20 countries including Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The meeting aims to raise billions for Gaza's reconstruction and discuss deploying an international stabilization force amid ongoing ceasefire violations and political tensions.
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Iranian security forces arrested over 50,000 people following nationwide protests against the government crackdown. Reports indicate at least 6,854 deaths, with many protesters retreating into fear and isolation. The government denies using live fire, while international groups report severe repression and internet blackouts.
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Several US athletes at the Milan Winter Olympics expressed mixed feelings about representing the US amid political and social issues at home. Their comments sparked backlash from political figures, social media, and fellow athletes, raising questions about patriotism and free expression during international sports events.
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Israel has resumed military operations in Gaza amid ongoing tensions, citing continued Hamas attacks and tunnel activity. The IDF emphasizes Hamas's refusal to disarm despite a US-brokered ceasefire and peace plan, with plans for potential offensive actions. The situation remains volatile as diplomatic efforts continue.
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Iran's deputy foreign minister announced willingness to discuss limits on its nuclear program, including uranium enrichment, as indirect talks with the US resume in Geneva. Iran seeks sanctions relief and rejects linking nuclear issues to missile capabilities, amid regional tensions and US military posturing. The US has increased military presence in the region.
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Since early February, US sanctions and military actions have targeted Russia's energy sector and shipping, including seizing Russian oil tankers and blocking Starlink access. Russia criticizes these moves as illegal and aims to deepen ties with BRICS, while Ukraine peace talks remain stalled with a deadline set for June.
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As of mid-February 2026, measles outbreaks are intensifying globally, notably in north-east London, South Carolina, and Australia. Declining vaccination rates and rising vaccine hesitancy have led to increased infections, hospitalizations, and risks to vulnerable populations. Health officials urge immediate vaccination to curb spread and protect children, especially those too young for immunization.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom spoke at the Munich Security Conference, criticizing Donald Trump’s policies and praising their unintended effect of uniting Europe. He highlighted California’s environmental leadership and announced a partnership with Ukrainian regional leaders, emphasizing climate and economic resilience. The speech aims to boost his profile ahead of a potential 2028 presidential run.
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U.S.-brokered negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are scheduled for February 17-18 in Geneva, amid ongoing fighting, drone strikes, and diplomatic tensions. Recent attacks include drone strikes killing civilians in Odesa and Bryansk, with Ukraine seeking security guarantees and Western support ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion.
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Former US President Trump publicly criticized Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not granting a pardon to Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption trials. Trump, a supporter of Netanyahu, called on Herzog to act, amid tensions over Israel's legal proceedings and US-Israel relations. The story is current as of Sun, 15 Feb 2026.
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The Biden administration's vehicle emissions standards are effectively eliminated following the Trump administration's regulatory rollbacks, including the end of greenhouse gas regulations and credits for start-stop technology. California plans to sue to maintain stricter standards amid industry support for deregulation.
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Mass protests supporting Iran's opposition are planned worldwide, with large rallies in LA, Berlin, and other cities. The protests follow Iran's deadly crackdown on recent unrest, with estimates of over 6,000 killed. Organizers aim to pressure international action and highlight ongoing repression.
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The US Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against Harvard, demanding five years of admissions data to investigate potential race-based discrimination following a Supreme Court ruling. The case highlights ongoing tensions over affirmative action and federal oversight of university policies.
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UN human rights rapporteur Albanese, known for her criticism of Israel, faces condemnation from Germany, France, and Italy over alleged remarks calling Israel a 'common enemy of humanity.' Albanese denies making these comments, but her past statements and US sanctions have intensified the controversy. She is set to speak at the Geneva Rights Council next month.
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On February 5, 2026, President Trump’s Truth Social account posted a video falsely alleging 2020 election fraud, ending with a brief clip showing Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. The post sparked bipartisan condemnation, including from Republican senators. The White House initially defended the post as a meme, then deleted it, blaming a staffer. Trump denied seeing the full video and refused to apologize.
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Britain announced plans to deploy a carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and High North, led by HMS Prince of Wales, to demonstrate NATO commitment amid US threats over Greenland. Sir Keir Starmer emphasized European independence and NATO's importance, calling for closer EU-UK defense ties. The move follows US President Trump's threats to annex Greenland and questions about US-European NATO solidarity.
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U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns ordered the government to bring back 19-year-old Babson College student Any Lucia López Belloza, who was deported in November despite a court order. The judge cited a government acknowledgment of a mistake and gave the Department of Homeland Security two weeks to comply.
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The US is escalating military preparations amid renewed diplomacy with Iran. Officials reveal plans for sustained operations, raising fears of regional conflict. Talks in Oman aim to revive nuclear negotiations, but US military buildup signals potential for escalation. The situation remains highly tense and uncertain.
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President Trump has called for regime change in Iran, citing ongoing protests and military buildup. The US is deploying aircraft carriers to the Middle East as indirect talks with Iran continue over nuclear and regional issues, amid fears of escalation and potential conflict.
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At a Munich security conference, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the importance of revitalizing the transatlantic alliance amid recent tensions, including Trump's Greenland remarks and European concerns over NATO and Russia. Rubio stressed shared civilization and mutual strength, avoiding culture-war issues and focusing on common security goals.
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Iranian protests against regime repression continue, with major rallies in Munich, Los Angeles, and Toronto. Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi calls for increased international pressure and US intervention amid ongoing deadly crackdown, with over 7,000 killed since December.
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The US men's hockey team, featuring NHL stars, defeated Denmark 6-3 in Milan, marking their second win in the tournament. The game was notable for its political backdrop, with tensions surrounding US efforts to annex Greenland, a Danish territory. Denmark, with NHL talent, was an underdog but performed strongly.
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Ukraine, Russia, and the US are preparing for trilateral talks in Geneva amid ongoing military clashes and diplomatic tensions. Zelenskyy expressed skepticism about progress, citing differing priorities and Russia's delegation change. The talks aim to resolve the conflict, now entering its fifth year, with significant disagreements over territorial and security issues.
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Indonesia's military has finalized plans for a humanitarian troop deployment to Gaza, with about 8,000 personnel prepared for possible dispatch. The government has yet to give formal approval, and deployment depends on political and international decisions. The mission focuses on civilian aid, not combat.
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Iran and the U.S. have renewed negotiations over Tehran's nuclear program, aiming to prevent conflict. The U.S. has sent a second aircraft carrier to the region and is preparing for possible military action if talks fail. Iran signals willingness to compromise for sanctions relief, but key issues remain unresolved.
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Former US President Donald Trump announced a new international peace body, the 'Board of Peace,' aiming to oversee Gaza's reconstruction and global crises. Indonesia commits up to 8,000 troops for Gaza, with pledges exceeding $5 billion. The initiative faces skepticism from allies and questions over disarmament and international cooperation.
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Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Geneva to prepare for indirect negotiations with the US, mediated by Oman, amid heightened regional tensions and US military build-up. The talks aim to address Iran's nuclear program, with Iran seeking sanctions relief and the US demanding limits on Iran's missile and proxy activities.
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Iran and the U.S. have renewed indirect negotiations in Geneva over Iran’s nuclear program, with Iran rejecting zero uranium enrichment and demanding sanctions relief. The U.S. has deployed a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East amid heightened regional tensions. Talks include discussions with the IAEA and regional mediators, but progress remains uncertain.