Author: tut0ugh
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Germany and Poland have called for joint action to revitalise Europe’s economy amid slow growth compared to the US and China. The finance ministers of both countries outlined their plans during a press conference in Warsaw on Monday (2 February). Key points from the meeting: • Polish Finance Minister Andrzej Domanski stressed the need to…
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A new War Watch report by the Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights warns that international humanitarian law (IHL) is under unprecedented strain. Surveying 23 armed conflicts from July 2024 to December 2025, the study highlights over 100,000 civilian deaths annually, widespread torture, and sexual violence. In Gaza the total population “fell…
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Norway’s Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, has described the current international environment as a period of accelerated change rather than systemic collapse, speaking at the Oslo Security Conference 2026. He said the world is experiencing a strategic “rupture”, noting that history is defined by repeated transformations now unfolding at unprecedented speed. Støre argued that elements…
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Laura Fernández, a political scientist and former senior official, has won Costa Rica’s presidential election, securing an apparent first-round victory, according to preliminary results released by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal. At 39, Fernández becomes the country’s second female president, benefiting from the popularity of outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, who is constitutionally barred from re-election. Key…
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China and Russia have reaffirmed their strategic partnership amid growing strains on the global order. During talks in Beijing on Sunday (1 February), Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, met Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council, just two months after their previous meeting in Russia. Wang warned that the post-World War II international…
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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said the UK will ‘look at schemes like SAFE’ in spite of talks breaking down last year after the EU proposed a reported entry fee of around €2bn. Speaking during a visit to East Asia, Starmer said, “Europe, including the UK, needs to do more on security and defence.…
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Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned that “the Americans must be aware that if they wage a war this time, it will be a regional war.”, stressing that Iran is “not the instigator” and does not plan to attack any country, but would deliver “a heavy blow” if it is attacked or harassed, as…
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The United States has begun limited contact with Cuban officials, US President Donald Trump said, as Washington intensifies pressure on the communist-run island by restricting oil supplies. Speaking while travelling to Florida, Trump said recent US actions could push Havana towards negotiations, adding: “We’re starting to talk to Cuba.” He offered no details on the…
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government presented the 2026-27 budget, aiming to sustain economic growth amid global market volatility and trade uncertainty. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted investment in infrastructure, domestic manufacturing, and fiscal prudence. Key developments: • Economic growth forecast: 6.8–7.2% in FY 2026-27, driven by domestic consumption. • Fiscal targets: deficit aimed at 4.3%…
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Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill has said a referendum on a united Ireland, or border poll, could take place by 2030. Speaking on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips, she described it as an opportunity for citizens to “take control of our own fortunes” and called for planning and preparation ahead of any vote. O’Neill…
