February 9, 2026

Brenton Tarrant Appeals Conviction Over 2019 New Zealand Mosque Attack

Brenton Tarrant, who killed 51 in New Zealand mosques in 2019, is appealing his conviction. He claims harsh jail conditions affected his guilty plea. The Court of Appeal is hearing the case with limited public access.

February 9, 2026

Australia Funds Major Military Upgrades in Philippine Bases to Boost Regional Security

Australia is funding eight military infrastructure projects at five Philippine bases in Luzon this year. The move strengthens Canberra's security ties with Manila, reflecting shared regional concerns beyond US interests. Australian experts say the Philippines could become a key front line in future regional conflicts.

February 9, 2026

Parliament to Debate Union Budget 2026-27 Amid Opposition Protests Over Indo-US Trade Deal

Both Houses of Parliament begin discussion on Union Budget 2026-27 on February 9. Last week, PM Modi skipped response amid protests over Indo-US trade deal and Rahul Gandhi's speech denial.

February 9, 2026

Russia launches massive attacks in Ukraine; Zelenskyy presses for peace, sanctions, and US support

On day 1,446 of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russia hit Odesa and key energy sites. Zelenskyy calls Russian energy a target and seeks peace talks. US offers security backing if a ceasefire is reached.

February 9, 2026

Labour Chief Resigns Over Mandelson Appointment, Starmer Faces Leadership Crisis

Morgan McSweeney, Keir Starmer's chief of staff, resigned after backing Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US. The move rises tensions and questions Starmer's future.