News
Abkhazia presidential election goes to runoff after no candidate secures majority
Kremlin-backed Badra Gunba will face opposition leader Adgur Ardzinba in the second round.
Serbs hold mass protest in Kragujevac on Statehood Day
Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Kragujevac, central Serbia, as anti-corruption demonstrations show no signs of abating.
Argentina’s Milei faces impeachment calls over alleged massive crypto scam
Argentina's President Javier Milei could be subjected to impeachment proceedings after promoting a cryptocurrency that spectacularly crashed hours after his endorsement, wiping billions from its value.
Kyrgyzstan’s anthem “too difficult to sing”, contest called to compose another
$17,000 prize awaits winning entry. Don’t be shy.
Saudi NHC and PIF sign supply chain cooperation agreement
The National Housing Company (NHC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) to strengthen real estate supply chain initiatives.
US aid cutoff raises fears of Afghan economic collapse
Afghanistan's economy is in freefall as the new Trump administration pulls the remaining US aid to the country.
US and Israel vow to prevent nuclear Iran as Rubio makes first Middle East visit
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Tel Aviv on the evening of February 15, marking his first visit to the Middle East since taking office, as negotiations continue for the release of six remaining hostages and tackle Iran's influence.
Poland to play key role in EU Paris meeting to counter Trump’s Ukraine talks exclusion
Poland was the poor second cousin to its EU peers when it first joined the EU two decades ago. But a flourishing economy, its frontline position and growing military might means it’s been promoted to the top table in EU affairs.
Europe out of Ukraine ceasefire talks
When asked if Europe will be at the table in the upcoming US-Russia negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine, US special envoy to Ukraine retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg said “no.”
Trump's USAID freeze threatens Mexico's refugee support network
US President Trump's decision to freeze USAID funding for 90 days from January 23 has dealt a severe blow to humanitarian organisations supporting refugees in Mexico.
US deportation of asylum seekers to Panama condemned by Iran
The United States has deported 119 asylum seekers of various nationalities to Panama, including Iranian nationals who claim they were transferred without notice or deportation documentation.
Israel releases Palestinians in sixth prisoner swap
Israel begins release of sixth group of Palestinian prisoners from Ofer prison, as stories of decades-long imprisonment emerge.
Saudi Arabia spearheads counter-proposal to Trump's Gaza displacement plan
Saudi officials are rushing to counter US-Israeli efforts to remove Palestinians from Gaza.
Hamas in Gaza releases American, Russian and Argentine-dual national Israelis in sixth prisoner swap under ceasefire deal
Hamas has released three Israeli hostages in Gaza's southern city of Khan Yunis on February 15 under a continuing ceasefire agreement with Israel.
Business attacks Erdogan
Tusiad association, known in recent years for keeping its head down, launches into stinging state-of-the-nation criticisms of Turkey's government at AGM.
Brazil drops BRICS currency plan in favour of local payment push
Brazil will not pursue a common BRICS currency during its presidency of the bloc this year, focusing instead on facilitating trade in local currencies despite warnings from US President Donald Trump about challenging dollar dominance.
Trump Gaza plan backed by “murderer” Netanyahu “major threat to world peace”, says Erdogan
On visit to Pakistan, Turkish leader asserts: “The homeland for which the Palestinians have sacrificed tens of thousands of their children is not up for bargaining.”
Trump hosts India’s Modi at White House in a coming together of MAGA and MIGA
Donald Trump meets Narendra Modi, and MAGA meets MIGA, as two of the world's leading economies come together in Washington
European Parliament calls for sanctions on top Georgian officials
MEPs pass crucial resolution on Georgian political crisis, urge EU not to recognise Georgia Dream government.
Armenia's economic growth slows as sanctions boost fades
EFSD reports slowdown in Armenia's growth, citing a decline in re-export volumes and reduced tourist inflows from Russia.