Politics

Latest Politics News

đź“…February 18, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Global politics sees US-Iran nuclear progress in Geneva, Ukraine-Russia peace talks on Zaporizhzhia, ECB's Lagarde exit rumors, and Trump's diplomatic maneuvers amid tariffs and alliances.
1

US and Iran Hail Progress in Nuclear Talks

US and Iran negotiators in Geneva reported progress toward a nuclear deal, with Tehran announcing a 'general agreement' and planning to return with a new proposal in two weeks.Source 1 This marks a potential breakthrough after years of tension.Source 10 Details remain limited as parameters are still unclear.Source 1

2

Ukraine Tasks Negotiators on Zaporizhzhia Plant in Russia Talks

President Zelenskiy directed Ukraine's team to discuss the future of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant with Russia during US-brokered peace talks in Geneva.Source 1 Meetings described as 'difficult' by Russian delegation, set to continue.Source 10 Witkoff and Kushner to meet delegations again.Source 10

3

Lagarde Reportedly to Leave ECB Before Term Ends

ECB President Christine Lagarde is set to depart before her 8-year term concludes, per FT, giving a chance to pick her successor amid economic pressures.Source 1 ECB states she remains focused on her mission.Source 1 UK CPI falls in related economic news.Source 1

4

Trump Pushes for Ukraine Talks Including Zelenskyy

President Trump hopes Friday's meeting leads to a second sit-down with Putin and Zelenskyy, testing US shift closer to NATO on Ukraine.Source 8 Administration sees Putin signals of seriousness despite past criticisms.Source 8 Peace talks in Geneva just ended after difficult sessions.Source 10

5

Macron Strengthens India Ties, Pushes Fighter Jet Deal

French President Macron hailed closer economic ties with India after Mumbai meeting with Modi, announcing double taxation avoidance agreement amid global uncertainty.Source 1 Pushes for fighter jet deal to bolster defense relations.Source 1 India eyes $200 billion AI investments separately.Source 1

6

Countries Push Back on US Weapons Purchases Over Tariffs

Nations question American arms buys amid Trump's large tariffs, effectively sanctions, marking biggest pushback yet.Source 8 US-Taiwan tariff deal noted earlier; Philippines to get more US missile launchers despite China alarm.Source 10 Ties to broader trade tensions.Source 8

7

UN Security Council Extends Taliban Sanctions Monitoring

The UN Security Council extended for 12 months the mandate of the team monitoring sanctions against the Taliban and associates.Source 9 Members disagreed on human rights references and women's situation in Afghanistan.Source 9 Aims to track compliance amid ongoing concerns.Source 9

8

Syria Government, SDF Reach Comprehensive Agreement

UN welcomes agreement between Syrian Government and Syrian Democratic Forces, urging inclusive political transition.Source 9 Follows shock government offensive reshaping Syria's map earlier.Source 2 Multiple assassination attempts reported on President al-Shaara.Source 2

9

South Sudan Peace Agreement at Risk of Collapse

The 2018 South Sudan peace deal faces serious risk, with fears of relapse into full-scale civil war.Source 9 Security Council speakers warn of deteriorating situation.Source 9 Calls for renewed inclusive political process.Source 9

10

Trump Ties Tariffs to Brazil's Negotiations

Trump links massive tariffs, effectively sanctions, to an issue Brazil's Lula government refuses to negotiate.Source 8 Restrictions target officials from Brazil and others.Source 8 Part of broader US tariff strategy pushback.Source 8

11

US Plans More Missile Launchers in Philippines

US to deploy additional missile launchers to Philippines despite China's concerns.Source 10 Heightens tensions in South China Sea region.Source 10 Follows maritime disputes and naval activities.Source 6

12

Peru Congress Removes Interim President JerĂ­ Over Corruption

Peru's Congress ousted interim President JerĂ­ amid corruption allegations.Source 10 Adds to political instability in the region.Source 10 Developments unfolding rapidly.Source 10