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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans a visit to Beijing next week to revive economic and diplomatic relations. The trip aims to deepen trade cooperation, especially in services, green tech, and science, despite ongoing tensions over embassy plans and global geopolitical shifts. Canada also seeks to diversify away from US reliance during this period of trade disruption.
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Three weeks after US forces removed Maduro, interim leader Delcy Rodríguez is rapidly liberalizing Venezuela's economy, redirecting oil exports to the US, and promising economic reforms. The US has seized and begun selling 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, aiming to control the country's vast reserves and influence global markets.
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As of late January 2026, nearly 8 million Venezuelans have fled political repression and economic collapse since 2014, forming one of the world's largest diasporas. While Venezuelans abroad in the US, Colombia, and Spain express cautious hope following the US-led ouster of Nicolás Maduro, those inside Venezuela face ongoing repression, economic hardship, and uncertainty under interim leader Delcy Rodríguez.
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The US government has enacted a law allowing schools to serve full-fat and 2% milk, reversing a policy from 2012 that mandated only low-fat options. This aligns with new dietary guidelines promoting whole dairy products, sparking debate over childhood nutrition and health impacts.
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President Trump is intensifying his foreign policy ambitions, including efforts to acquire Greenland, while facing growing domestic criticism over his handling of immigration, the economy, and international alliances amid rising global tensions and internal unpopularity.
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Tanya Tafoya, a former sports journalist, announced her run for Minnesota Senate as a Republican, emphasizing fighting corruption, supporting law enforcement, and opposing progressive policies. Her campaign emerges amid a competitive primary following Senator Tina Smith's retirement and ongoing political unrest, with tensions over immigration enforcement and state issues.
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Elon Musk highlighted AI and robotics advancements at Davos, including Tesla's humanoid robots and SpaceX's space reusability plans. He also joked about aliens and global peace, amid discussions on AI regulation and economic impacts. The event showcased Musk's vision of a robot-driven future.
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On January 29, 2026, Venezuela's National Assembly passed a bill reforming the oil sector to allow private and foreign companies operational control, reversing decades of state monopoly. The Trump administration eased sanctions on Venezuelan oil, signaling increased US involvement following the January 3 US military capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez supports the reforms amid ongoing political tensions and US pressure.
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Since September, the U.S. military has conducted at least 36 strikes targeting suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific, killing 125 people. The campaign, justified by the U.S. as combatting narco-trafficking, faces criticism over legality and civilian casualties, especially after reports of follow-up strikes killing survivors.
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Recent US threats to seize Greenland and questions over NATO's unity have weakened the alliance's deterrence. President Trump claims advanced weapons were used in Venezuela to disable Maduro's defenses, raising legal and ethical concerns. The story highlights growing transatlantic tensions and military developments.
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As of February 2026, the United Nations faces imminent financial collapse due to unpaid dues, primarily from the United States, which owes over $2.19 billion for the regular budget and $1.8 billion for peacekeeping. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warns cash could run out by July, threatening key operations. The US plans a significant payment soon amid ongoing tensions and reforms.
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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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The U.S. plans to reopen its embassy in Venezuela, with officials preparing for diplomatic normalization amid ongoing political tensions. The move follows recent efforts to restore relations and includes sending staff to Caracas, while the U.S. considers further measures in the region.
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Recent U.S. threats to take over Greenland have strained NATO allies and European relations. The Biden administration is engaging in diplomatic talks to de-escalate tensions after former President Trump’s controversial calls for annexation, which prompted European and Danish officials to create a working group. Meanwhile, U.S. focus on Venezuela’s regime change continues with military and diplomatic efforts, amid congressional debates on authority and legality.
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Mexico has suspended oil shipments to Cuba following US threats and Cuba's reliance on Mexican and Venezuelan oil. The move comes amid escalating US sanctions and diplomatic tensions, with Mexico balancing its traditional support for Cuba against US pressure. The situation risks a humanitarian crisis in Cuba.
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The US has intensified efforts to weaken Cuba by blocking oil supplies following the abduction of Venezuela's Maduro. Cuba's government warns of a potential economic collapse, while international allies call for lifting sanctions. The story highlights ongoing US efforts to destabilize the island amid regional tensions.
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The US has finalized the transfer of $200 million from Venezuela's oil sales, following the capture of Maduro. The funds are now overseen by the US Treasury to stabilize Venezuela's economy, with plans for future sales to benefit the Venezuelan people amid ongoing political upheaval.
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On January 28, 2026, a Satena-operated Beechcraft 1900 turboprop crashed shortly after takeoff from Cúcuta, Colombia, killing all 15 onboard, including congress member Diogenes Quintero and congressional candidate Carlos Salcedo. The crash occurred in the conflict-ridden Catatumbo region near the Venezuelan border. The cause remains under investigation, with adverse weather suspected.
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Steve Bannon, convicted of contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena related to the Jan. 6 attack, is now seeking to have his case dismissed after the Justice Department announced it would drop the charges. The move follows a pattern of the Trump administration's efforts to influence legal proceedings involving allies.
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On February 12, 2026, Panama's Supreme Court upheld a January ruling declaring the concession held by Hong Kong's CK Hutchison subsidiary to operate the Panama Canal's Balboa and Cristóbal ports unconstitutional. The decision halts Chinese management of these strategic terminals, temporarily transferring operations to Denmark's A.P. Moller-Maersk amid ongoing legal disputes and geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China.
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Cuba's deputy foreign minister indicated the island is open to dialogue with the US, amid escalating tensions over sanctions, oil shortages, and recent threats from Washington. The US has signaled interest in negotiations, but conditions remain complex, with Cuba emphasizing certain issues are off-limits.
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On February 2, 2026, the US announced it would reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%, rescinding an additional 25% duty imposed over India's Russian oil imports. India agreed to buy over $500 billion in US products and reportedly to stop purchasing Russian oil, aiming to ease tensions and support ending the Ukraine war. Modi welcomed the tariff cut but did not confirm halting Russian oil purchases.
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Former US President Donald Trump met with Honduran President Asfura at Mar-a-Lago, emphasizing security cooperation against cartels and migration. The meeting follows recent Honduran elections and Trump's controversial pardon of ex-president Hernandez, highlighting ongoing US-Honduras relations amid regional security concerns.
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Venezuela released at least 35 political prisoners on Sunday, including opposition figures Juan Pablo Guanipa and María Oropeza, following international pressure and a visit from UN human rights representatives. The government also announced plans to close the notorious El Helicoide prison and propose a broad amnesty law covering political violence since 1999.
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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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Support for Venezuela's ruling party is declining at the grassroots level, with reports of falling participation and support, amid economic uncertainty and internal fractures following Maduro's detention. The opposition and interim government face challenges in maintaining unity and influence.
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On February 4, 2026, Presidents Trump and Xi held a nearly two-hour virtual call covering trade, Taiwan, Iran, and global security. China pledged to increase U.S. soybean purchases to 20 million tons this season. Xi emphasized Taiwan as a core issue, warning against U.S. arms sales. Xi also spoke with Putin, reaffirming China-Russia ties amid global tensions.
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EU leaders are debating whether to relax regulations to boost the economy amid geopolitical tensions and internal disagreements. While some push for deregulation and strategic leverage, campaigners warn this risks undermining climate goals. The EU is also reassessing its role in global climate negotiations after setbacks at COP30.
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As of February 2026, a new Human Rights Watch report reveals a global decline in democracy, with 72% of the world’s population living under autocratic regimes. Sudan’s civil war has intensified gender-based violence and famine, while Uganda faces systematic sexual violence and political repression. The US, China, and Russia are criticized for eroding human rights and weakening international institutions.
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Several major corporations released their 2025 financial results, showing varied performance. Tui reported stable revenue and growth in cruises and holiday experiences. AstraZeneca and Novo Nordisk faced challenges with sales forecasts amid pricing pressures. Shell and BP experienced profit declines due to falling oil prices, with Shell increasing debt to sustain shareholder payouts. Exxon posted a solid quarter despite lower revenue. The results highlight ongoing industry shifts and economic pressures as 2026 begins.
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Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado estimates a 9-10 month timeline for a democratic transfer via manual voting, following her recent meetings with US officials and the capture of Maduro. US interest in Venezuela's political future is increasing amid questions about Rodriguez's support.
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Residents near Pascagoula, Mississippi, worry that increased Venezuelan heavy crude oil processing at Chevron's refinery will worsen pollution. A local buyout proposal aims to create a green buffer zone to reduce health risks and flooding, amid ongoing debates over industrial pollution and oil imports.
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Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez has approved an amnesty law, releasing hundreds of political prisoners and moving towards US-backed reforms. The law, still under debate, excludes those convicted of serious crimes and aims to foster peace amid ongoing political tensions.
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The US Southern Command conducted three military strikes in the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean, killing 11 individuals suspected of drug trafficking. The campaign, initiated in September 2025, has resulted in at least 144 deaths amid widespread legal and human rights criticism over its legality and transparency.
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The US has issued a license to explore oil in Venezuela, while Russia's investments face US sanctions and US-backed actions. Moscow and Caracas maintain strategic ties, but US pressure threatens Russia's energy interests in the country amid geopolitical tensions.
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Kenya's government launched a campaign to restore 10.6 million hectares of degraded land by 2032, logging 738 million trees. However, experts warn that survival rates are uncertain due to inadequate tracking and care, raising questions about the campaign's true ecological impact.
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Cuba's informal peso exchange rate has surged to 500 to the dollar amid worsening energy shortages, blackouts, and economic turmoil. The crisis follows US sanctions, Venezuela oil cuts, and Mexico halting shipments, severely impacting daily life and tourism. The situation signals a potential return to 1990s-style depression.
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Cuba's ongoing economic crisis worsens as US sanctions cut off oil supplies from Venezuela and Mexico, leading to power outages, transportation disruptions, and government rationing measures. The government has implemented reduced working hours and limited fuel sales to preserve essential services amid severe shortages.
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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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The US has intensified efforts to seize Venezuelan oil tankers following the January raid that ousted Maduro. Recent operations include a maritime interdiction of the Panamanian-flagged tanker Aquila II, which was operating in defiance of US sanctions. The US military has also conducted strikes on vessels linked to drug trafficking, resulting in fatalities. These actions aim to control Venezuela's oil exports and pressure Cuba economically.
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As of February 10, Cuba faces a severe jet fuel shortage due to U.S. sanctions blocking oil supplies from Venezuela and Mexico. Airlines including Russia's Rossiya and Canada's Air Canada have suspended or limited flights, prompting evacuation plans for tourists. Cuba's energy crisis has led to widespread power outages, transport cuts, and economic disruptions, with Moscow pledging support amid escalating tensions.
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Recent reports show a global decline in perceived corruption levels, with the US and UK slipping in rankings. While some countries improve, many democracies face setbacks due to weakened institutions, political influence, and funding cuts, raising concerns about governance and transparency worldwide.
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The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index shows a global decline, with the average score dropping to 42, the lowest in over ten years. Rwanda improved slightly, ranking 41st, while regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East continue to struggle with entrenched corruption. The US and Europe face rising risks.
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U.S. officials, including high-ranking envoy Wright, visited Venezuela amid efforts to restore relations and boost oil production. The U.S. lifted sanctions, and Venezuela's government aims to increase oil output, signaling a significant shift after Maduro's ousting and recent reforms to attract foreign investment.
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On February 13, 2026, President Donald Trump announced plans to visit Venezuela, marking a historic thaw after the US military's January 3 operation that captured former President Nicolás Maduro. The Trump administration has eased sanctions on Venezuela's oil sector, fostering cooperation with interim leader Delcy Rodriguez and encouraging foreign investment to revive the oil industry.
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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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Cuba's government mandated the use of the Ticket app for refueling appointments amid fuel shortages. Drivers report waiting weeks or months for slots, with the government only selling expensive fuel in U.S. dollars. The app is now the primary way to refuel, replacing black market reliance.
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Berkshire Hathaway increased its holdings in Amazon, the New York Times, Chevron, and Chubb in late 2025, while trimming stakes in Bank of America and Apple. This marks Warren Buffett's final quarter as CEO, with notable shifts in investment strategy amid geopolitical and market developments.
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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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Venezuela has released over 3,200 individuals, including some political prisoners, under a new amnesty law enacted on February 20. The law aims to ease political tensions, but critics highlight exclusions for serious offenses and ongoing detention of hundreds. The releases follow recent US-led actions and international calls for justice.