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📅February 5, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Global headlines feature US-China diplomatic talks on trade and Taiwan, EU's €90B Ukraine loan, New START treaty expiry, tech market rout, and Spain's social media ban for minors.
1

Trump and Xi Hold Key Phone Call on Trade, Taiwan, and Soybeans

U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed stabilizing relations, with China considering more U.S. soybean purchases boosting markets. They also addressed Taiwan, trade, and security issues ahead of a potential White House meeting.Source 1Source 2 The call follows Xi's back-to-back discussions with Putin.Source 1

2

EU Agrees €90 Billion Loan for Ukraine's 2026-2027 Needs

European Union countries finalized a 90 billion euro loan to support Ukraine's financial and military requirements for 2026 and 2027, with first payments targeted for early April.Source 3Source 5 This comes amid debates on direct talks with Russia, backed by France, Italy, and others but rejected by Germany due to ongoing bombardments.Source 3Source 7

3

New START Nuclear Arms Treaty Between US and Russia Expires

The last nuclear arms control treaty, New START, expired on February 5, ending limits on strategic nuclear warheads and inspections for the first time since the Cold War.Source 6 UN officials warn of rising mistrust without transparency measures, despite pledges of responsible action from both sides.Source 6

4

Tech Selloff Triggers Trillion-Dollar Wipeout in Markets

Asian stocks slid as a rotation out of tech shares accelerated on Wall Street, fueled by AI disruption fears, erasing a trillion dollars in value.Source 1 Maersk forecasts a 2026 dip while Shell announces buybacks amid the rout.Source 1 Exclusive insights from Taiwan's Silicon Motion highlight memory chip outlook.Source 1

5

Spain Bans Social Media for Children Under 16

Spain will prohibit social media use for those under 16, requiring platforms to verify ages and holding executives accountable for illegal content like hate speech and pornography.Source 3Source 7 The government announced five measures targeting digital platforms to combat manipulation and violence.Source 3

6

Xi Jinping's Back-to-Back Calls with Putin and Trump

Chinese President Xi held consecutive calls with Russian President Putin and U.S. President Trump, focusing on diplomacy amid global tensions.Source 1 Discussions covered trade, military issues, and Taiwan, signaling a diplomatic blitz.Source 1Source 2

7

French Authorities Detain Four for Alleged Chinese Spying on Starlink

French cybercrime units arrested four, including two Chinese nationals, accused of spying for China by targeting Elon Musk's Starlink satellite data.Source 1 The detentions highlight escalating espionage concerns in Europe.Source 1

8

North Korea Enters 2026 with Economic Stability and Expanded Options

A wealthier North Korea boosts Kim Jong-un's strategic choices through state-controlled economy, greenhouse farming, and imported goods, while curbing private businesses.Source 2 Reports note stable food provision and price controls enhancing regime security.Source 2

9

Thailand's Ex-PM Abhisit Vejjajiva Returns Boosting Democrat Party

Former Thai PM Abhisit rejoins frontline politics ahead of February 8 elections, reviving conservative support for the Democrat Party in potential coalitions.Source 2 Polls indicate a key role in post-election talks.Source 2

10

Indonesian President Prabowo to Visit Iran for Cooperation Deals

President Prabowo Subianto accepted an invitation to Tehran to meet Iran's President, preparing economic, political, and people-to-people agreements.Source 2 It marks his first such trip and Indonesia's since 2016.Source 2

11

Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Nears

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina feature over 100 events across 16 disciplines, with the opening ceremony on February 6 themed 'Harmony' at San Siro stadium.Source 8 Para-alpine skiing World Cup finals are underway in Tignes.Source 4

12

Indian Teacher Rouble Nagi Wins $1M Global Teacher Prize

Rouble Nagi, who established hundreds of learning centers, received the $1 million Global Teacher Prize at the World Governments Summit in Dubai.Source 10 The award recognizes transformative educational impact worldwide.Source 10