February 18, 2026

Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks Resume in Geneva; Zelenskyy Slaps Sanctions on Belarus Leader

US-mediated Russia-Ukraine peace talks continue in Geneva. Ukraine’s Zelenskyy calls out Russia’s sincerity and sanctions Belarus’s Lukashenko. Both sides dig in despite hopes for peace.

February 18, 2026

Oscar-Winning Director’s Family Attacked Again in West Bank Amid Rising Tensions

Hamdan Ballal, co-director of Oscar-winning film No Other Land, says settlers attacked his family home in Masafer Yatta, West Bank. The army intervened and detained relatives. The violence follows a court ban on non-residents and ongoing land disputes.

February 18, 2026

Galgotias University Asked to Vacate AI Summit Stall Over Chinese Robodog Controversy

Galgotias University faces backlash for showcasing a Chinese-made robodog as their tech at AI Summit 2026. The government orders their immediate stall removal. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticizes the summit for promoting Chinese robots over Indian innovation.

February 18, 2026

Japan’s Takaichi Skips Liancourt Rocks Event, Easing Tensions with South Korea

Japan’s Takaichi has chosen not to send a cabinet minister to the annual Liancourt Rocks event. This move signals a softer approach towards South Korea and aims to protect the fragile bilateral ties amid increasing regional tensions.

February 18, 2026

Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman Forms Cabinet, Names Former Commerce Minister to Revive Economy

Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman announced his first cabinet. Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury returns as finance minister to fix the economy. Rahman keeps defence for himself. New foreign minister faces regional challenges. India congratulates the new government.