Thursday, 19 February 2026
Peace talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the US in Geneva concluded after just two hours without a significant breakthrough, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow of stalling negotiations. While some progress was reported on military issues, key disputes over the status of occupied territories and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remain unresolved, with both sides' positions still far apart.
The United States is withdrawing all of its approximately 1,000 troops from Syria, marking the end of a decade-long military campaign against the Islamic State, according to American officials. The withdrawal, which includes the closure of U.S. outposts in northeastern Syria and along the borders with Jordan and Iraq, is described as a "conditions-based" process, allowing for reassessment if the Islamic State regains strength. This decision follows the consolidation of control by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa over former Kurdish-held territory and a shift in U.S. policy towards supporting the Syrian government.
A South Korean court sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to life imprisonment with labour for leading an insurrection during a failed martial law declaration in December 2024. This ruling marks Yoon as the first elected head of state in South Korea's democratic era to receive the maximum custodial sentence, following prosecutors' claims of a severe breach of constitutional order. Yoon, who has maintained his innocence and described the investigation as a political conspiracy, is already serving time for another conviction related to the martial law crisis and faces two additional trials.
The United States has increased its military presence in the Gulf region, amassing a significant fleet of aircraft and warships amid ongoing negotiations with Iran over nuclear talks. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reported progress on guiding principles, though he acknowledged that substantial work remains to finalize an agreement. Vice President JD Vance noted that while the talks showed some promise, President Trump has established red lines that Iran has yet to address, raising concerns about the potential for military action.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that German fighter jets could potentially carry British and French nuclear weapons, emphasizing a shift towards European nuclear deterrence amid concerns over reliance on the US. Merz, in a podcast interview, confirmed that while Germany will not pursue its own nuclear arsenal, discussions with France and the UK about strengthening European nuclear capabilities are necessary, especially following the expiration of the New START treaty. He noted that Germany's current Tornado jets, which can carry US nuclear weapons, will be replaced by 35 F-35s, capable of similar roles.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced plans to pursue strategic partnerships with China in response to U.S. tariff policies, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation. Speaking at an event in Bavaria, Merz criticized the Trump administration's tariff approach while highlighting the need for Europe to maintain prosperity through alliances. He plans to discuss future cooperation with Chinese leaders during an upcoming trip to China.
Hamas is reasserting its control in Gaza, extending its influence over security, tax revenue, and government services following significant losses in its conflict with Israel. This comes as Israeli military operations have reportedly killed 11 people in Gaza in response to alleged violations of a ceasefire by Hamas, with over 550 Gazans reported dead due to Israeli attacks in recent months, according to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.
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