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UN Chief Warns of Global Instability as US-Russia Nuclear Treaty Ends

UN Chief Warns of Global Instability as US-Russia Nuclear Treaty Ends

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has expressed grave concerns over the expiration of the New START treaty between the United States and Russia. The treaty, which limited the nuclear arsenals of both countries, expired without a successor agreement, raising fears of a new global arms race. Guterres emphasized the importance of returning to negotiations to establish a new framework for arms control. The expiration comes at a time of heightened global tensions, particularly with Russia's recent actions in Ukraine and the growing nuclear capabilities of other countries like China.
Reuters Reuters
Clashes intensify in remote east Congo, challenging US mediation

Clashes intensify in remote east Congo, challenging US mediation

Feb 6 (Reuters) - Nurses at the general hospital in Fizi, a town ringed by steep highlands in eastern Congo’s South Kivu province, hurried the wounded soldier into surgery after he was brought in slumped on the back of a motorbike.
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Ukraine and Russia Swap 314 Prisoners After Abu Dhabi Talks

Ukraine and Russia Swap 314 Prisoners After Abu Dhabi Talks

Following two days of negotiations in Abu Dhabi, Ukraine and Russia have exchanged 314 prisoners of war, with 157 individuals from each side being released. The exchange was confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. This marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict, as it is the first exchange since October. The talks, mediated by the US, also addressed broader peace efforts, although significant challenges remain. Russia's demands for territorial control and recognition of certain regions as Russian territory continue to be major sticking points.
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Iranian Drones Pose Increasing Threat to US Forces in the Middle East

Iranian Drones Pose Increasing Threat to US Forces in the Middle East

Iran's use of drones, particularly the Shahed-139, poses a significant threat to US military assets in the Middle East. Recent incidents, including the launch of a drone towards the USS Abraham Lincoln, highlight Tehran's strategy of using drones as a form of asymmetric warfare. These drones, often referred to as 'kamikaze drones,' are designed to overwhelm defense systems by functioning as low-cost cruise missiles. The Iranian regime's tactics are seen as a test of US resolve, with experts warning of the potential for swarm attacks that could challenge US and Israeli defenses.
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Israeli Security Forces Anticipate Houthi Attacks if US Strikes Iran Amid Nuclear Talks

Israeli Security Forces Anticipate Houthi Attacks if US Strikes Iran Amid Nuclear Talks

Israeli security forces are preparing for potential retaliatory attacks from Yemen's Houthi terrorists if the United States initiates a strike on Iran. This development comes as nuclear talks between Iran and the US are set to commence in Muscat, Oman. According to KAN News, a source within a Yemenite faction opposing the Houthis has informed Washington about the possibility of renewed attacks on US ships in the Red and Arabian Seas. The Houthis have reportedly started mobilizing military resources, including missiles and drones, in anticipation of future strikes on US targets should an attack on Iran occur. The situation is further complicated by ongoing diplomatic efforts, with Arab mediators reportedly convincing the US to focus the upcoming talks solely on nuclear issues, despite broader concerns remaining on the table.
Reuters Reuters
Ukraine agrees to multi-tiered ceasefire enforcement plan with Europe and US, FT reports

Ukraine agrees to multi-tiered ceasefire enforcement plan with Europe and US, FT reports

Feb 3 (Reuters) - Ukraine has agreed with Western partners that any persistent Russian violations of a future ceasefire agreement would trigger a co-ordinated military response from Europe and the U.S., the Financial Times reported on Tuesday, citing people briefed on the discussions.
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Airbus Sees Increased Demand for MRTT Tankers Amid Global Tensions

Airbus Sees Increased Demand for MRTT Tankers Amid Global Tensions

Airbus Sees Increased Demand for MRTT Tankers Amid Global Tensions
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Russia Launches Major Attack on Ukraine's Power Grid Ahead of Peace Talks

Russia Launches Major Attack on Ukraine's Power Grid Ahead of Peace Talks

Russia has launched a significant attack on Ukraine, firing approximately 450 long-range drones and 70 missiles targeting the country's power grid amid freezing temperatures. This assault comes just a day before scheduled U.S.-brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi between Russian and Ukrainian officials. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that the attack aimed to deny civilians essential services like light, heating, and running water during one of the coldest winters in years. The bombardment affected at least five regions, causing injuries and significant damage to infrastructure. Zelenskyy has called for increased air defense support from allies and emphasized the need for maximum pressure on Russia to end the conflict.
Reuters Reuters
Trump and Colombia's Petro, foes exploring a thaw, to meet on Tuesday

Trump and Colombia's Petro, foes exploring a thaw, to meet on Tuesday

By Bo Erickson, Luis Jaime Acosta, Gram Slattery and Nelson Bocanegra WASHINGTON/BOGOTA, Feb 3 (Reuters) - U.S.
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China's Ambitious Military Expansion Raises Concerns Over Taiwan Conflict

China's Ambitious Military Expansion Raises Concerns Over Taiwan Conflict

China is reportedly accelerating its military expansion efforts, with plans to develop a new superweapon as part of its strategy to potentially invade Taiwan. The Chinese military is enhancing its capabilities across various branches, including the navy, air force, and ground forces. A recent video released by Chinese state media outlines plans for a futuristic aircraft capable of launching unmanned fighter jets and hypersonic missiles. This development is part of China's broader military modernization agenda, which aims to strengthen its position in the region amid rising tensions over Taiwan.
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Polish Secretary of State Highlights Russia's Continued Aggression in Ukraine Amid Peace Talks

Polish Secretary of State Highlights Russia's Continued Aggression in Ukraine Amid Peace Talks

Polish Secretary of State for European Affairs, Ignacy Niemczycki, expressed concerns over Russia's continued aggression in Ukraine, particularly targeting civilian energy infrastructure in Kyiv. Despite ongoing trilateral peace talks in Abu Dhabi, Niemczycki noted that Russia appears to be prolonging discussions rather than seeking resolution. The talks, which involve the United States, aim to find a peaceful solution to the conflict. Niemczycki emphasized the importance of these negotiations for global peace and expressed hope for a beneficial agreement for Europe and the U.S. He also highlighted the harsh winter conditions in Ukraine, exacerbated by Russian strikes, as a critical humanitarian concern.
AP News AP News
US shoots down Iranian drone that 'aggressively' approached an aircraft carrier, military says

US shoots down Iranian drone that 'aggressively' approached an aircraft carrier, military says

U.S. Central Command says a U.S. Navy fighter jet shot down an Iranian drone that was approaching the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea