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Four years into the Ukraine conflict, drones dominate the battlefield, making traditional tactics obsolete. Small FPV drones now threaten armored vehicles, causing casualties and complicating evacuations. Ukraine is adapting its military strategy, with increased drone use and production, reflecting a shift driven by technological innovation and declining industrial capacity.
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On the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the UK announced nearly 300 new sanctions, including targeting Transneft and Russia's shadow fleet of oil tankers, aiming to weaken Moscow's energy revenues and pressure Putin's war effort.
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As of February 2026, tensions sparked by President Trump's threats to acquire Greenland have softened following a 'framework' deal with NATO. Canada and France opened consulates in Nuuk, signaling diplomatic support amid Greenlanders' concerns. Negotiations continue between the US, Denmark, and Greenland on Arctic security, while European leaders call for stronger unity and economic resilience against US and Chinese pressures.
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As of February 2026, SpaceX and Ukraine have implemented a whitelist system requiring registration of Starlink terminals to block unauthorized Russian military use. This move has disrupted Russian drone operations and frontline communications, significantly weakening Moscow's ability to coordinate attacks. Ukrainian forces have regained territory, leveraging the disruption of Russian communications.
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Newly released Epstein files reveal his extensive contacts with Russian officials, including attempts to meet President Vladimir Putin and connections to Russian intelligence-linked figures. Poland has launched an investigation into possible Epstein ties to Russian secret services. The documents also detail Epstein's network recruiting young Russian women, raising questions about his influence and espionage allegations.
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On February 16, 2026, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio visited Budapest to publicly endorse Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of the April 12 parliamentary election. Rubio emphasized the close personal and political ties between Orbán and former U.S. President Donald Trump, pledging U.S. support conditional on Orbán's continued leadership. Orbán faces a strong challenge from opposition leader Péter Magyar amid concerns over democratic backsliding and EU tensions.
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Millions of Asians travel to their homelands for Lunar New Year, with record domestic trips in China and increased international travel to destinations like Australia and Russia. Meanwhile, Australian diaspora in China and Korea celebrate with gifts and food, highlighting cultural connections amid economic concerns.
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Ukraine seeks increased military and energy aid from European allies as Russian attacks intensify, targeting Kyiv's energy infrastructure and launching thousands of drones and missiles. Ukrainian athletes, including figure skater Marsak and ice dancer Kolesnik, continue competing internationally despite war hardships, symbolizing resilience amid ongoing conflict.
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The U.S. has let the New START treaty expire, prompting fears of an arms race. The Trump administration is considering expanding nuclear arsenals and resuming testing, while also exploring waste management and new nuclear technologies amid global tensions.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky states elections will only occur after a ceasefire and security guarantees are in place, amid ongoing Russian attacks. He rejects holding elections on February 24, emphasizing the need for stability before political processes resume. Diplomatic efforts and military strikes continue as negotiations stall.
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Ukraine has intensified its long-range drone attacks on Russian energy facilities, striking oil terminals and chemical plants in Russia's Krasnodar, Perm, and Komi regions. The attacks aim to weaken Russia’s war effort by disrupting energy supplies and military logistics, with recent strikes causing fires and damage to key infrastructure.
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Since 2022, Russia has unlawfully moved nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children, with some being returned through efforts led by the U.S. First Lady and intermediaries. Kyiv reports 1,984 children have been repatriated, but many remain in captivity amid ongoing accusations of forced deportations and indoctrination.
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As of February 2026, over 1,780 African nationals from 36 countries have been identified fighting for Russia in Ukraine, many reportedly deceived with false job offers and lacking military training. South Africa has repatriated 15 men lured into combat, while Ghana seeks the release of two prisoners of war. Governments across Africa warn against illegal recruitment schemes.
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China's recent Lunar New Year celebrations featured highly advanced humanoid robots performing complex stunts, highlighting rapid progress in robotics and AI. Experts see this as a strategic display of technological strength, raising questions about AI's future role in society and industry.
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At the Munich Security Conference in February 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a conciliatory yet firm speech emphasizing the enduring ties between the US and Europe. He warned against mass migration and economic complacency, urging Europe to strengthen its defenses and supply chains. European leaders welcomed the tone but remained cautious about underlying policy differences, especially on migration and security commitments.
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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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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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Recent Olympic performances highlight how high-stakes pressure affects athletes' performance. Neuroscientific research shows that extreme pressure causes overcaution in the brain, leading to mistakes. Stories include U.S. skater Vadim Naumov dedicating his performance to his late parents, and Russian-born skater Volodin competing for Germany amid geopolitical shifts.
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Recent tests suggest Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a highly toxic compound, likely Epibatidine, originating from poison frogs or laboratory synthesis. The presence of this toxin indicates deliberate administration, potentially violating international treaties. The story raises questions about Russia's involvement and the methods used in poisoning cases.
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Five European nations confirmed that samples from Alexei Navalny's body contained epibatidine, a toxin from South American dart frogs, implicating Russia in his 2024 death. Moscow denies involvement, calling the findings propaganda. The UK suggests further sanctions and increased pressure on Russia amid ongoing tensions.
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The UK announced plans to deploy a carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and High North, involving NATO allies, to demonstrate commitment to security amid rising tensions from Russia, China, and US threats over Greenland. Leaders emphasize strengthening defence and closer EU ties.
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Ukraine and Russia are holding two-day negotiations in Geneva, focusing on territorial issues and security guarantees, amid ongoing Russian attacks and international pressure. The talks follow recent military escalations and previous rounds in Abu Dhabi, with key demands including Ukraine's territorial integrity and Russia's recognition of annexed regions.
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At the Munich Security Conference, EU officials, led by Kaja Kallas, rejected US claims of civilizational erasure and emphasized Europe's resilience. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reassured allies of trans-Atlantic ties but stressed the need for Europe to defend its borders and values amid ongoing tensions over migration, defense, and sovereignty.
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US forces have intercepted and seized the Panamanian-flagged tanker Veronica III, which was attempting to evade sanctions and US blockade efforts. The vessel, linked to Iran and Venezuela, was tracked from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean. This marks ongoing US efforts to control Venezuela's oil exports amid sanctions enforcement.
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North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russia in Ukraine, with an estimated 2,000 casualties. Kim Jong Un unveiled a new street in Pyongyang, symbolizing military sacrifice and political loyalty, amid preparations for a major party congress.
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Ukrainian and Russian delegations meet in Geneva amid ongoing conflict, with little progress expected. Talks focus on territorial disputes, ceasefire monitoring, and security guarantees, as both sides remain firm on key issues. Recent Russian strikes and Ukrainian drone attacks highlight the ongoing war's intensity.
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Laboratory analyses from multiple countries confirm Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned with epibatidine, a rare toxin found in poison dart frogs. Russia denies involvement. The findings revive longstanding concerns over Moscow's use of poisons against critics, with implications for international relations and political repression.
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Britain is exploring ways to increase its defense budget to 3% of GDP by 2029, ahead of previous plans. Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the need to 'step up' spending amid ongoing security threats, with discussions ongoing about the timing and funding of this increase.
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Ukraine regained 201 sq km from Russia between Wednesday and Sunday, aided by a Starlink outage that disrupted Russian communications. Zelensky warns of Russian energy strikes ahead of US-brokered peace negotiations in Geneva, where Ukraine and Russia will discuss territorial demands and broader issues.
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French authorities have ordered the departure of the tanker Grinch from French waters after it paid a multimillion-euro fine and was detained for three weeks. The vessel, suspected of being part of Russia's shadow fleet evading sanctions, was diverted to Marseille following an investigation into flag violations. Russia's fleet of over 400 ships continues to challenge sanctions over Ukraine.
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U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held diplomatic talks in Geneva on Tuesday, aiming to address Iran's nuclear program and Ukraine conflict. Experts question their prospects for success amid rapid negotiations and unclear motives, raising concerns about the effectiveness of this unconventional approach.
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Laboratory analysis confirms opposition leader Navalny was poisoned with epibatidine, a rare neurotoxin linked to Russian state activities. Multiple countries' governments point to Russia as the prime suspect, reviving fears of Moscow's use of poisons against opponents. The Kremlin denies involvement.
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President Trump delivered a speech amid ongoing military tensions, highlighting recent foreign policy wins like Gaza ceasefire and Maduro's capture, while addressing concerns over Iran, Ukraine, and the economy. The speech aims to bolster his foreign policy record and influence upcoming elections.
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A bomb attack near Savyolovsky station in Moscow resulted in the death of a police officer and injuries to two others. The attacker approached a traffic police vehicle and detonated an explosive, with the incident occurring on the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Authorities launched a criminal investigation, but motives remain unclear.
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China's Commerce Ministry announced export bans on dual-use items to 20 Japanese companies, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and JAXA, citing concerns over Japan’s military capabilities and Taiwan support. Japan condemns the move, which follows recent tensions over Taiwan and Japan’s security policies. The restrictions impact trade and diplomatic relations.
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On February 24, 2026, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) launched a criminal investigation into Telegram founder Pavel Durov, accusing him of aiding terrorist activities. The probe follows Russia's recent restrictions on Telegram, citing security risks and refusal to cooperate. Durov, living abroad, denies wrongdoing and criticizes Russia's push for a state-controlled app designed for surveillance.
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Four years into Russia's invasion, Ukraine faces ongoing battles, infrastructure destruction, and public fatigue. Despite territorial gains, Russia maintains a slow advance, while Ukraine resists with widespread public support. U.S. aid has sharply declined under Trump, complicating Kyiv's defense efforts amid worsening conditions.
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On February 24, 2026, Ukraine commemorated four years since Russia's full-scale invasion. President Zelenskyy declared Ukraine's independence defended and Russia's goals unmet. Despite ongoing peace talks, territorial disputes persist, with Russia controlling 19% of Ukraine. European leaders reaffirmed support amid stalled sanctions and aid due to Hungary's veto. The war remains a costly stalemate with severe humanitarian impacts.
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Israel backed a UN resolution supporting Ukraine's sovereignty, breaking from the US which abstained. The resolution calls for an immediate ceasefire and lasting peace. Meanwhile, the US emphasizes support for Ukraine amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and recent votes reflecting shifting alliances.
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Ukrainian President Zelenskyy held a phone call with US envoy Kushner and Witkoff, ahead of Geneva talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the US. The discussions focused on a post-war recovery plan, prisoner exchanges, and preparations for upcoming trilateral negotiations, amid ongoing conflict and stalled peace talks.
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Ukraine plans to install 4,000 km of anti-drone nets across frontline roads by the end of 2026, amid ongoing conflict with Russia. The move follows a significant reduction in Russian drone attacks after Elon Musk cut off Starlink access in occupied areas. Ukraine also seeks trilateral peace talks involving the US and Russia.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signaled willingness for dialogue with the US, contingent on Washington respecting North Korea's nuclear status. This comes amid speculation of a potential meeting with Donald Trump during a visit to China in late March or early April. Kim reaffirmed his country's nuclear stance at the recent Workers’ Party congress.