Trump Revokes Endangerment Finding, Eases Climate Regulations
US President Donald Trump has revoked the 2009 'endangerment finding' that classified greenhouse gases as a threat to public health, effectively dismantling the legal foundation for federal climate regulations, including vehicle emission standards. The White House claims this rollback will save automakers $2,400 per vehicle and reduce regulatory burdens, while environmental groups warn it could lead to significant health impacts, including 58,000 additional premature deaths and 37 million more asthma attacks. Trump's administration describes the move as the largest deregulation in American history, aimed at promoting fossil fuel development.
Western Allies Commit $35 Billion Military Aid to Ukraine
Western allies have pledged approximately $35 billion in military aid to Ukraine for 2026, according to UK Defense Minister John Healey. This commitment follows a significant shift in support dynamics, with U.S. military assistance dropping by 99% in 2025, while European countries increased their military aid by 67%, totaling around €29 billion. Germany and the UK were the largest contributors, providing €9 billion and €5.4 billion, respectively.
Iran Fortifies Underground Complex Near Nuclear Facility
Iran has been fortifying an underground complex near its nuclear facility at Mount Kolang Gaz La, as revealed by new satellite images analyzed by the Institute for Science and International Security. This development occurs amid ongoing negotiations with US officials, with President Donald Trump warning of potential military action if a new nuclear deal is not reached. The satellite images show fresh concrete laid at tunnel entrances, suggesting preparations to protect Iran's uranium enrichment activities.
US Launches $20 Million AI Fund at APEC Meetings
The Trump administration is promoting a US$20 million fund for artificial intelligence exports and maritime surveillance technology at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in southern China, aiming to counter Beijing's influence. Casey Mace, the US senior official to APEC, stated that these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to enhance US leadership in emerging technologies ahead of President Trump's upcoming visit to China in April and the APEC leaders' summit in November. The US is also addressing illegal fishing practices linked to China's extensive distant-water fleet, which poses challenges for smaller coastal states.
Kim Jong Un's daughter positioned as North Korea's heir
South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) reported that Kim Jong Un's 13-year-old daughter, Kim Ju Ae, is being groomed as the heir apparent to the North Korean leadership. The NIS noted her increasing public presence at significant events, including her recent trip to Beijing and participation in military parades, suggesting she is now at the stage of 'successor designation.' This assessment comes ahead of North Korea's upcoming party congress, where Kim is expected to outline key policy goals.
Trump to unveil Gaza reconstruction and stabilization plan
President Donald Trump is set to announce a multi-billion dollar reconstruction plan for Gaza and outline the deployment of a U.N.-authorized stabilization force at the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace on February 19 in Washington, D.C. Delegations from at least 20 countries, including heads of state, are expected to attend the meeting, where Trump will detail contributions from participating nations to the fund. The stabilization force aims to disarm Hamas fighters and facilitate a peaceful transition in the region.
Tarique Rahman to Become Bangladesh's Next Prime Minister
Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is set to become the country's next prime minister after his party won more than two-thirds of the seats in the Jatiya Sangsad during the first election since the 2024 student-led uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina. The BNP's victory, confirmed by local media, comes amid claims of election irregularities from the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami party, which secured only 68 seats. A simultaneous referendum indicated voter support for constitutional reforms aimed at preventing future authoritarianism.
