Israel launches pre-emptive strike on Tehran; sirens sound in Jerusalem as retaliation looms

The Israeli military launched a "pre-emptive strike" against Iran on the morning of Saturday, February 28. Iranian media reported at least three explosions in the center of Tehran.

Zelenskyy identifies window for peace ahead of critical US elections

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signaled a readiness to engage in direct negotiations with Vladimir Putin, identifying a strategic "window of opportunity" to conclude the war before the US elections in November.

The Hungary Dilemma: Why the European Union cannot expel Viktor Orbán

The European Union currently faces a strategic impasse as it seeks to approve its 20th sanctions package against Russia and a vital €90 billion financial aid package for Ukraine’s 2026-2027 defense needs. Viktor Orbán, maintaining a controversial alignment with Moscow, continues to block both initiatives, demanding the restoration of Russian oil flows via the Druzhba pipeline.

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.