Global Powers Convene, Alliances Shift Amidst Rising Tensions
UK Carrier Strike Group deploys to North Atlantic to deter Russia. US Secretary Rubio meets Syrian FM and China's FM in Munich, stressing stability and results-oriented communication. Canada signs defense pacts with Denmark and AI accords with Germany. China expands global ties, vowing deeper ties with Serbia and urging EU collaboration. Italy's PM Meloni addresses the African Union Assembly. Nigeria's VP attends the AU Summit, as UN chief urges African leadership. India boosts infrastructure and water research. Argentina celebrates Sarmiento's birthday and busts 65kg cocaine. Australia boosts fire services and tourism. Brazil's President Lula hails Olympic gold and launches a gas program. Russia's Putin greets ski race participants.
Argentina News Brief
Hospital Posadas saves Nerea with complex heart surgeries. Gendarmería busts 65kg cocaine in Salta, arresting two adults and saving two minors. Defense Ministry marks 51 years since Río Pueblo Viejo combat. ENRE promotes responsible energy use on World Energy Day. Domingo Faustino Sarmiento's 215th birthday celebrated, remembering the educator and ex-President.
Sources (5)
- Cardiopatías Congénitas: Nerea y las cirugías que le permiten mejorar su calidad de vida ↗
Hospital Posadas performs complex surgeries on Nerea, a baby with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Procedures like the Norwood and Glenn surgeries aim to improve her quality of life. The hospital's role in the National Congenital Heart Disease Program is key.
- A 51 años del Combate de Río Pueblo Viejo ↗
Argentina's Defense Ministry marks 51 years since the Combat of Río Pueblo Viejo. The engagement saw Lt. Héctor Cáceres killed while rescuing a wounded comrade, Lt. Rodolfo Richter.
- Domingo Faustino Sarmiento: a 215 años de su nacimiento ↗
Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, born 1811 in San Juan, Argentina, was a writer, educator, and President (1868-1874). He founded schools, including the first teacher-training institute in Latin America. His legacy spans politics and literature.
- Salta: Una familia viajaba en una camioneta rellena con 65 kilos de cocaína ↗
Gendarmería seized 65 kilos of cocaina in Salta, Argentina. A family, including two minors, was traveling in a Toyota Hilux. A drug dog, "Anny", helped find 85 packages hidden in the vehicle. Two adults were arrested.
- El Día Mundial de la Energía, una buena ocasión para abogar por un consumo responsable ↗
Argentina's ENRE urges responsible energy use on World Energy Day, Feb 14. Save power by unplugging devices, using fans over AC, and calibrating thermostats.
NSW Boosts Fire Services, Revives Bondi Tourism
New South Wales commits $34.5 million to six new RFS centres and 18 stations. Meanwhile, the 'Back to Bondi' initiative targets 12.3 million visitors to aid businesses impacted by the terror attack.
Sources (2)
- Building a better future for RFS Brigade Volunteers ↗
Minister for Emergency Services
NSW invests $34.5 million in RFS facilities. Six new centres and 18 new stations are planned, with construction underway for facilities in Cooma, Clarence Valley, and Namoi-Gwydir. Minister Jihad Dib stated, "We are planning for the future and investing in firefighting facilities."
- Minns Labor Government brings business back to Bondi ↗
The Premier; Minister for Jobs; Minister for Recovery; Minister for Tourism
The Minns Labor Government launches 'Back to Bondi' initiative to boost tourism. Sydney.com takeover targets 12.3 million visitors. Events include Sydney Roosters junior clinic. Recovery efforts continue for businesses impacted by the terror attack.
Lula Celebrates Olympic Gold, Launches Gas Program
President Lula hailed Lucas Pinheiro Braathen's historic giant slalom gold at the Milão-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. He also sanctioned the Gás do Povo program, providing free 13kg cooking gas refills to 15 million families starting March.
Sources (2)
- Lula celebra ouro inédito de Lucas Pinheiro nas Olimpíadas de Inverno: “O esporte brasileiro não tem limites” ↗
President Lula celebrated Lucas Pinheiro Braathen's historic gold medal in giant slalom at the Milão-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. "Brazilian sport has no limits," Lula stated, highlighting the achievement as inspiration for new generations.
- Presidente Lula sanciona programa Gás do Povo ↗
President Lula sanctions Gás do Povo program. 15 million families get free 13kg cooking gas refills. Eligibility: CadÚnico enrollment, income under half minimum wage. Program starts March.
Canada Boosts Alliances, Sanctions Iran
Canada signed defense pacts with Denmark and AI accords with Germany at Munich Security Conference. Minister Anand reaffirmed support for Ukraine and added 7 individuals to Iran sanctions, citing transnational repression.
Sources (5)
- Canada strengthens Defence Cooperation with the Kingdom of Denmark ↗
National Defence
Canada and Denmark signed a Defence Cooperation MOU in Munich. Minister David McGuinty met with Danish, Faroese, and Greenlandic counterparts. The pact boosts innovation, logistics, and training, reinforcing NATO security in the High North.
- Minister Anand meets with Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs ↗
Global Affairs Canada
Minister Anand met Ukraine's Andrii Sybiha in Munich. Canada reaffirmed unwavering support, commitment to security guarantees, and economic pressure on Russia. Discussed peace, POWs, and reconstruction.
- Canada and Germany sign AI joint declaration and launch Sovereign Technology Alliance ↗
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
Canada and Germany signed an AI Joint Declaration and launched the Sovereign Technology Alliance at the Munich Security Conference. Ministers Evan Solomon and Karsten Wildberger aim to boost secure AI, compute infrastructure, and talent.
- Minister Anand announces additional sanctions against Iran ↗
Global Affairs Canada
Canada imposes additional sanctions on 7 individuals linked to Iran's transnational repression. Minister Anand stated Canada will not tolerate Iran's attempts to intimidate or silence critics. This brings total sanctions to 222 individuals and 256 entities.
- Backgrounder: Canada imposes additional sanctions against Iran ↗
Global Affairs Canada
Canada sanctions 7 more individuals linked to Iran's destabilizing actions. Total sanctions now 478 individuals/entities. Measures target Iran's security, intelligence, and economic sectors.
China Expands Global Ties, Domestic Focus
China issued new water supply rules. Xi Jinping lauded China-Africa cooperation at the AU Summit. China's FM urged EU collaboration on global issues. China and Serbia vowed deeper ties. A new rural revitalization fund was also announced.
Sources (5)
- China unveils regulation on water supply ↗
China issues new water supply regulation. Aims to ensure safe, reliable drinking water for citizens. Details on quality standards and management responsibilities are outlined.
- China to establish regular financial support mechanism for rural revitalization ↗
China will create a regular financial support system for rural revitalization. This aims to boost agricultural development and improve rural living standards. Details on funding and implementation are forthcoming.
- Xi sends congratulatory message to 39th African Union Summit ↗
Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to the 39th African Union Summit. He emphasized China-Africa cooperation and mutual support. The message highlighted the importance of solidarity and common development for Africa.
- Chinese FM urges joint efforts with EU to address global challenges ↗
China's FM calls for EU cooperation on global issues. Focus on shared interests, mutual respect. Aims to boost dialogue, practical collaboration.
- China, Serbia vow to boost ties, deepen cooperation amid global uncertainties ↗
China and Serbia pledge to strengthen ties and cooperation amid global uncertainty. Leaders met, emphasizing a shared commitment to bilateral relations and addressing international challenges.
India Boosts Infrastructure, Focuses on Water, Finance
PM Modi opened Assam's first Emergency Landing Facility in Dibrugarh and the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu in Guwahati, enhancing connectivity and disaster response. Meanwhile, Secretary V. L. Kantha Rao reviewed NIH's water research, with a ₹6,800 lakh budget proposed. Finance Ministry met in Coorg to discuss Viksit Bharat@2047 and financial inclusion. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla extended Mahashivratri greetings.
Sources (5)
- Secretary, DoWR, RD & GR Chairs 86th Governing Body Meeting at National Institute of Hydrology in Roorkee ↗
Ministry of Jal Shakti
Secretary V. L. Kantha Rao chaired the 86th NIH Governing Body Meeting. NIH managed 111 R&D studies and 28 projects in 2024-25. Proposed budget: ₹6,800 lakh for 2026-27. Focus on climate change, glacier monitoring, and digital water management.
- Two-day Chintan Shivir of DFS , M/o Finance organised at Coorg, Karnataka concludes successfully today ↗
Ministry of Finance
Finance Ministry held a two-day Chintan Shivir in Coorg, Karnataka, on Feb 13-14, 2026. Discussions focused on Viksit Bharat@2047, enhancing the Credit-GDP ratio, and financial inclusion. Secretary M. Nagaraju urged agile institutions and new financing methods.
- LOK SABHA SPEAKER EXTENDS GREETINGS TO THE NATION ON THE EVE OF MAHASHIVRATRI ↗
Lok Sabha Secretariat
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla greeted the nation on Mahashivratri. He called it a festival of faith, devotion, and self-reflection, symbolizing Lord Shiva's compassion and strength. Birla urged celebration with peace and restraint.
- Prime Minister inaugurates the first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) of the northeast in Dibrugarh, Assam ↗
Prime Minister's Office
PM Modi inaugurates Northeast's first Emergency Landing Facility in Dibrugarh, Assam. He called it strategically important and vital for natural disaster response.
- Prime Minister inaugurates Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu in Guwahati, Assam ↗
Prime Minister's Office
PM Modi inaugurates Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu in Guwahati, Assam. The bridge over the Brahmaputra will boost connectivity, commerce, and ease access to Kamakhya Temple. “Connectivity, comfort and commerce will be significantly enhanced,” Modi stated.
Meloni Addresses African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa
PM Meloni addressed the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa. She spoke at the 39th ordinary session of Heads of State and Government.
Sources (1)
- President Meloni attends Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union ↗
PM Meloni addressed the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa. She spoke at the 39th ordinary session of Heads of State and Government.
Tinubu hails Argungu, AU summit convenes, UN urges African leadership.
President Tinubu sees Argungu Festival as stability sign. VP Shettima at AU Summit as Burundi's Ndayishimiye takes chair. UN's Guterres calls on Nigeria to lead Africa's push for a new global order.
Sources (3)
- PRESIDENT TINUBU: ARGUNGU FESTIVAL SHOWS RETURN OF STABILITY, PLEDGES STRONGER SUPPORT FOR AGRICULTURE AND TOURISM ↗
President Tinubu hails 61st Argungu Festival as sign of stability. He pledges support for agriculture and tourism, noting the event's 83-year history and 50,000+ attendees. “This festival has endured...a powerful symbol of unity,” he stated.
- VP SHETTIMA ATTENDS 39TH AU SUMMIT’S OPENING SESSION AS BURUNDI PRESIDENT TAKES OVER AS NEW CHAIRMAN ↗
VP Shettima attended the 39th AU Summit in Addis Ababa. Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye is the new AU Chairman for 2026. 49 heads of state attended. Theme: water and sanitation.
- GUTERRES TO VP SHETTIMA: NIGERIA MUST LEAD AFRICA’S CHARGE FOR NEW GLOBAL ORDER ↗
UN Sec-Gen Guterres urged Nigeria to lead Africa's charge for a new global order, citing its population, democracy, and resources. He praised President Tinubu's reforms. VP Shettima reiterated calls for UN reform and a permanent seat on the Security Council.
Putin Greets Ski Track of Russia Participants
Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the 2026 Ski Track of Russia mass ski race. Hundreds of thousands will participate Feb. 14. The event promotes fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
Sources (1)
- Greetings to participants, organisers and guests of the 2026 Ski Track of Russia open nationwide mass ski race ↗
Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the 2026 Ski Track of Russia mass ski race. Hundreds of thousands will participate Feb. 14. The event promotes fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
UK Carrier Strike Group heads to North Atlantic to deter Russia
UK Carrier Strike Group deploys to North Atlantic & High North in 2026. Operation Firecrest, led by HMS Prince of Wales, will deter Russian aggression & protect undersea infrastructure. Includes F-35 jets, exercises with US, Canada, and NATO allies.
Sources (1)
- UK Carrier Strike Group to deploy to North Atlantic to keep UK safe ↗
Ministry of Defence
UK Carrier Strike Group deploys to North Atlantic & High North in 2026. Operation Firecrest, led by HMS Prince of Wales, will deter Russian aggression & protect undersea infrastructure. Includes F-35 jets, exercises with US, Canada, and NATO allies.
Rubio Navigates Global Diplomacy in Munich
Sec. Rubio met Syrian FM al-Shaibani and China's FM Wang Yi at Munich. He stressed Syria stability, anti-ISIS efforts, and results-oriented communication with China ahead of Trump's visit. Rubio also highlighted US-Europe ties, calling for a strong alliance against China.
Sources (3)
- Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister al-Shaibani ↗
Bureau Of Near Eastern Affairs
Sec. Rubio met Syrian FM al-Shaibani & SDF Commander Abdi at Munich Security Conference. US supports a stable Syria, peace, minority rights. Rubio welcomed Syria's cooperation vs. ISIS, stressed ceasefire implementation in northeast Syria.
- Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with Director of the Office of the CCP Central Foreign Affairs Commission and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi ↗
Bureau Of East Asian And Pacific Affairs
Secretary Rubio met China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on February 13. They discussed results-oriented communication and President Trump's April visit to China. The meeting was described as positive and constructive.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio with John Micklethwait of Bloomberg News ↗
Bureau Of East Asian And Pacific Affairs
Secretary Rubio tells Bloomberg the US and Europe share a common civilization, worth defending. He stresses the need for a capable European alliance to face challenges like China, drawing parallels to the Cold War. “Our own fate will be intertwined with what happens with Europe.”