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Geneva talks on Ukraine enter second day with core disputes unresolved

Negotiations in Geneva continued into a second day as Russia pressed for control over Ukrainian-held eastern territories as the price of peace — a demand Kyiv has rejected as a nonstarter. The talks underscore the gulf between the parties and the high stakes for European security as diplomats search for a viable framework to halt the war.

Source: NYT World


U.S. and Iran resume nuclear talks amid heavy military buildup

Washington and Tehran returned to the table in Geneva as the U.S. surged air and naval assets across the Middle East to pressure Iran and preserve strike options if diplomacy fails. With President Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner leading the U.S. team, the talks carry significant escalation risk if they collapse.

Source: WashingtonPost


U.S. offers new details on alleged secret Chinese nuclear test

A senior administration official provided additional evidence to support claims that a 2020 seismic event was linked to a covert Chinese nuclear test, seeking to counter skepticism. The disclosure comes as President Trump vows to restart U.S. nuclear testing, signaling rising strain on global arms control norms.

Source: WashingtonPost


Russia advances powers for FSB to shut down telecom services

The State Duma passed legislation granting the FSB authority to turn off telecom services, with criteria for shutdowns to be determined by the government. The move centralizes control over critical communications, raising concerns about civil liberties, information access, and the conduct of cyber and electronic warfare.

Source: TASS Diplomacy


Israel steps to expand control over West Bank as U.S. stands by

Despite stated White House opposition to annexation, Israel has taken administrative steps to extend control over parts of the West Bank that analysts say could facilitate future land seizures. The actions risk inflaming tensions, complicating diplomacy with Washington, and destabilizing a fragile regional security environment.

Source: WashingtonPost


Argentina clears U.S. oceanographic mission amid “dual-use” data debate

Argentina’s Federal Fisheries Council approved the R/V Roger Revelle’s marine research cruise inside the Argentine EEZ from March 5–30, 2026, while requiring full data sharing and pre-publication review. The authorization has sparked criticism over the potential dual-use value of collected data, highlighting South Atlantic strategic sensitivities.

Source: MercoPress Argentina


Peru ousts president four months into term, deepening instability

Peru’s Congress impeached interim President José Jerí, making him the third consecutive leader forced from office and the seventh since 2016. The move adds fresh uncertainty to an already volatile political landscape ahead of key electoral milestones.

Source: BBC LATAM


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World affairs — February 18, 2026 | Briefing24