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Over the past two days, Ukraine has experienced multiple Russian missile and drone strikes targeting energy infrastructure, civilian areas, and military sites. Casualties and damage have increased, with Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Dnipro among the hardest hit. International efforts continue to focus on security guarantees and diplomatic negotiations amid ongoing hostilities.
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U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a surprise operation in Caracas, marking a significant shift in Venezuela's political landscape. Ukraine and Russia react, with Kyiv cautiously welcoming the move, while Moscow condemns it as a violation of sovereignty. The event signals potential shifts in global alliances and power dynamics.
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In early February 2026, Russia intensified attacks on Ukraine, targeting energy workers and civilian infrastructure with drones, missiles, and cluster munitions. These strikes killed dozens, including miners and civilians, and damaged homes and power grids. The violence coincided with US-brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi, which have yet to yield a breakthrough, as both sides remain deadlocked over territorial demands.
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FIFA president Gianni Infantino has suggested lifting the ban on Russia's international football participation, citing frustration and the lack of progress in ending the Ukraine war. Ukraine strongly opposes this, citing Russian military actions that have killed Ukrainian athletes. The debate highlights ongoing tensions over sports sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict, with Russia's return supported by Moscow and opposed by Kyiv.
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Ukraine experienced intense Russian missile and drone strikes targeting energy infrastructure during a brief ceasefire period, which was reportedly requested by Trump. Despite claims of a pause, Russia continued attacks, especially on energy facilities, as temperatures plunged below -20°C, risking a humanitarian crisis.
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Russia launched extensive missile and drone strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts amid harsh winter conditions. Meanwhile, a senior Russian military officer was wounded in an assassination attempt linked to Ukraine, with a suspect detained in Dubai and extradited to Russia. US efforts to broker peace continue despite stalled negotiations.
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Ukraine aims to accelerate peace negotiations with Russia before the US mid-term elections, with Ukrainian officials urging US support. Russia continues drone strikes targeting energy infrastructure, while Ukraine vows to retaliate. Recent talks in Abu Dhabi saw prisoner exchanges but no breakthrough on key territorial issues.
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On February 6, 2026, Lt. Gen. Vladimir Alekseyev, deputy head of Russia's military intelligence (GRU), was shot multiple times by an unidentified assailant in his Moscow apartment building and hospitalized in serious condition. Russia blames Ukraine for the attack amid ongoing conflict and recent peace talks in Abu Dhabi. Alekseyev is a key figure in Russia's military operations and intelligence.
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As of February 2026, over 1,780 Africans from 36 countries, including South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, have been deceived into joining Russian forces in Ukraine, often without military training. South Africa has repatriated 15 men lured into fighting, with two still in Russia. Investigations and diplomatic efforts continue amid rising concerns over illegal recruitment and exploitation.
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Russia has charged three men with terrorism over an attempted assassination of Lieutenant General Vladimir Alexeyev in Moscow. The attack, linked by Russia to Ukraine, involved arrests in Dubai and Moscow, with allegations of Ukrainian involvement. Ukraine denies any role, citing internal Russian conflicts. The incident follows a series of attacks on Russian military leaders.
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On February 27, 2026, the US Embassy in Jerusalem began providing passport services in Efrat, an Israeli settlement in the West Bank, marking the first time consular services were offered in an Israeli settlement. The move has sparked controversy, with Israeli officials welcoming it as legitimizing settlements, while Palestinians and international actors condemn it as violating international law.
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In March 2026, Hungary detained seven Ukrainian bank employees and seized $40 million, €35 million, and 9 kg of gold en route from Austria to Ukraine, citing money laundering suspicions. This incident intensified Hungary's dispute with Ukraine over halted Russian oil shipments via the Druzhba pipeline. Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán, facing April elections, accuses Ukraine of delaying pipeline repairs; Ukraine condemns Hungary's actions as illegal and politically motivated.
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Hungary is blocking a €90 billion EU loan to Ukraine and sanctions against Russia, citing delays in repairing the Druzhba pipeline. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's opposition is linked to upcoming elections and his broader political strategy amid tensions with the EU and Ukraine.
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African countries including Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya are confronting reports of their citizens being deceived and recruited to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Despite official denials, evidence suggests thousands have been lured with false promises, with some killed or captured. Governments are working to counter illegal recruitment schemes amid diplomatic tensions.
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Belgian forces intercepted and seized the Russian-operated tanker Ethera in the North Sea, part of efforts to enforce EU sanctions on Russia's shadow fleet. The vessel was sailing under false flags and documents, with authorities confirming it was on the sanctions list. The operation involved Belgian, French, and allied forces, marking a significant move against covert Russian oil exports.
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At the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics, Russia and Belarus competed under their national flags for the first time since 2014, following bans due to doping and the 2022 Ukraine invasion. Their participation sparked boycotts by seven countries, including Ukraine, and boos from some spectators. Russian athletes have won multiple medals, marking a contentious return amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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President Zelensky visited Gulf countries to seek support for Ukraine's war effort, offering defense expertise and drone technology. He discussed security partnerships with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Jordan, as regional tensions rise due to Iran's drone attacks and the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Ukraine aims for strategic alliances to bolster its defense.
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European foreign ministers visited Kyiv to mark the fourth anniversary of the Bucha massacre, reaffirming support for accountability for Russian war crimes. The visit highlights ongoing efforts to seek justice, despite political hurdles like Hungary's blocking of Ukraine's EU loan and stalled peace negotiations.