US stalls $22bn Lukoil divestment to leverage Russia peace negotiations

The United States has opted to decelerate the sale of Lukoil’s international assets, aiming to amplify pressure on Moscow during ongoing peace negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict.

Six dead and 20 injured in Kazakhstan cafe gas explosion

Six people have died and approximately 20 others were injured following a gas explosion at a cafe in Kazakhstan. The regional emergency situations department reported the incident on February 26, according to official statements.

Zelenskyy signals March summit with Trump and Putin in UAE

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced plans for a high-level trilateral summit involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates in early March.

Pakistan launches airstrikes on Kabul and Kandahar as defense minister declares 'open war'

Pakistan launched extensive airstrikes and ground assaults against Taliban government targets in major Afghan cities overnight on Friday, February 27, marking a drastic escalation in regional tensions.

Ukraine reports 90,000 missing persons four years into Russian invasion

Approximately 90,000 Ukrainians have been reported missing since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion four years ago. Artur Dobroserdov, the State Commissioner for Persons Missing under Special Circumstances, disclosed the figure on Thursday.

The number of Ukrainians who fled equals the population of three Republics of Moldova

The war sparked by Russia has led to an unprecedented exodus, with the number of Ukrainians leaving the country resembling the population of three Republics of Moldova. This significant demographic loss is having a profound impact on Ukraine's economy and future, as noted by experts.

EU 20th sanctions package stalled by Hungary as experts warn of long-term frozen conflict in Ukraine

The European Union’s 20th sanctions package against Russia hit a deadlock on February 23 during the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels. Hungary conditioned its approval on the resumption of Russian oil flows via the "Druzhba" pipeline, a move described by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas as unrelated to the package’s core objectives.

EU financial aid to Ukraine hits €193 billion surpassing US contributions amid strategic pivot

The European Union has emerged as Ukraine’s primary financial benefactor, providing €193.3 billion in total aid as of December 31, 2025. This figure significantly exceeds the $150 billion contributed by the United States.

Russia-Ukraine War at four years: Territorial stagnation and the high cost of attrition

Four years since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022, Russia maintains control over approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory. However, Moscow’s offensive has slowed to a crawl following the rapid initial seizures of the east and south.

Four years of defiance: Zelensky marks anniversary as Moldova recalls first hours of invasion

Marking the fourth anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion on February 24, 2026, President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a powerful video message from his Kyiv office. He emphasized that Russia has failed to achieve its strategic objectives or break the spirit of the Ukrainian people.

EU faces €90 billion deadlock as Hungary blocks 20th sanctions package against Russia

The European Union faces a critical test of solidarity as Hungary blocks a vital €90 billion financial aid package for Ukraine. This obstruction comes as the continent marks the four-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Seven killed in India air ambulance crash in Jharkhand forest

Seven people died on Monday after a medical extraction flight crashed in eastern India. The aircraft was transporting a critical burn patient from Ranchi to New Delhi when it went down in the Chatra district of Jharkhand state on February 23.