Politics
Indirect talks between the US and Iran on the nuclear programme have begun in Oman amid threats of escalation
In Muscat, the parties began talks amid growing tensions and mutual demands, with Washington calling for Tehran to have zero nuclear capability and Iran insisting on protecting its sovereignty.
China has announced the creation of a compact microwave weapon capable of disabling Starlink satellites.
Chinese scientists are positioning the new 20-gigawatt development as the world`s first compact microwave system that could seriously disrupt the operation of low-orbit satellites, including Starlink.
US Republicans concerned: Trump's unpopularity could cost them control of the Senate
There is growing concern within the Republican Party ahead of the midterm elections in November due to Donald Trump's falling ratings, dissatisfaction with the economy and tough immigration policies. Party members recognise the risk of a Democratic wave that could shift the balance of power in Congress.
The US has urged Americans to leave Iran immediately ahead of planned talks in Oman
The virtual US embassy in Tehran warned of the risks of interrogation and detention and advised leaving the country by land via Armenia or Turkey. The statement appeared on 6 February, the day Washington and Tehran are due to discuss the nuclear programme and missiles in Oman.
Russia`s banking system has lost stability: intelligence reports the onset of a systemic crisis
The financial performance of Russian banks deteriorated sharply in 2025 amid tight monetary policy and rising non-performing loans. Even analysts close to the Kremlin acknowledge that the apparent stability is sustained only by state support and regulatory easing.
The IRGC detained two tankers in the Persian Gulf on suspicion of fuel smuggling.
The Iranian Navy has announced the detention of two foreign tankers in the strategic Persian Gulf region. According to Tehran, the vessels were carrying more than a million litres of contraband fuel, and the crew members have already been handed over to law enforcement agencies.
The US announced the destruction of a drug traffickers vessel in the Pacific Ocean: two dead
The US military reported striking a vessel in the eastern Pacific Ocean that, according to intelligence reports, was travelling along known drug trafficking routes and was involved in drug smuggling operations.
Svyrydenko and Tusk discussed military aid, energy and preparations for Ukraine's recovery
During a meeting with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Kyiv, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko discussed the continuation of military support, the protection of energy infrastructure, and the deepening of economic cooperation between the two countries.
Estonia to close night traffic at two border crossing points with Russia for three months
From 24 February, Estonia will temporarily suspend night-time car traffic through the Luhamaa and Koidula border crossing points due to security risks and a sharp drop in passenger traffic. The authorities explain the decision by the need to redirect resources to strengthen border security.
Zelensky: New round of peace talks may be held in the US
After two days of meetings in the UAE, Ukraine is preparing for the next round of talks with the US and Russia, which are likely to take place in America. The president stressed that Kyiv is ready for all working formats, but the fundamental condition remains that Russia should not receive any reward for its aggression.
The US and Russia are close to an informal extension of the START III nuclear treaty
Washington and Moscow are engaged in intensive negotiations on compliance with the terms of the START III treaty after its expiry, considering a temporary format without legal extension and with the prospect of a new agreement.
Mechanisms for a ceasefire and monitoring the cessation of hostilities were discussed in Abu Dhabi
During the second trilateral talks between Ukraine, the United States and Russia in Abu Dhabi, the parties focused on ways to implement a ceasefire, monitor the silence and agreed on the first exchange of prisoners of war in five months.
