WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL NEWS REVIEW – Feb.21st – 27th 2026

SUDAN

MEDICAL FACILITIES UNDER ATTACK

On February 21, 2026, World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reported that 5 attacks on medical structures occurred in Sudan since the start of 2026. These strikes resulted in 69 deaths and 49 injuries. The most recent attack targeted Al-Mazmoum hospital in Sennar State on February 15, killing 3 patients and wounding 7 people, including 1 employee. In early February, over 30 people died during 3 attacks on health centers in Kordofan. Since the conflict began in April 2023, 206 attacks on medical facilities have caused nearly 2000 deaths. Currently, more than 1/3 of the country’s health facilities are non-operational.

RSF CAPTURES STRATEGIC BORDER TOWN

On February 21, 2026, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claimed total control of Al-Tina, a strategic town in North Darfur on the border with Chad. The RSF released a video on Telegram showing fighters celebrating under a city banner after seizing the location from the Joint Forces, who are allies of the governmental armed forces. Minni Minnawi, the pro-army governor of Darfur, denounced the repeated criminal behavior and abuses against innocents.

FATAL MINE EXPLOSION IN KORDOFAN

On February 22, 2026, an anti-tank mine exploded on a road in South Kordofan, killing 9 people, including 3 children. The victims were traveling in a tuk-tuk that was reduced to a metallic carcass. Witness reported hearing the explosion while walking behind the vehicle on the way to the market. A medical source at Al-Abbasiya hospital confirmed the death toll. The region is a major battleground between the regular army and the RSF, with the army controlling the north, center and east while the RSF dominates parts of the south and the west.

RSF CHIEF VISITS UGANDA

On February 22, 2026, the Sudanese government condemned the visit of General Mohamed Daglo, head of the RSF, to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni in Entebbe. The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the invitation as an affront to humanity, citing RSF atrocities documented by the UN and the African Union. Daglo claimed he was invited after Museveni was asked by the army to mediate, noting the President had also received Malik Agar, the right-hand man of General Abdel Fattah al-Burhane. Daglo called for African-led mediation by the AU.

CHAD CLOSES BORDER WITH SUDAN

On February 23, 2026, the Chadian government announced the closure of its border with Sudan following repeated incursions by armed groups. Communication Minister Gassim Mahamat Chérif stated the measure aims to prevent the expansion of the Sudanese conflict into Chad. He warned that Chad reserves the right to retaliate against any violation of its territory. Exceptions will be made for humanitarian reasons to allow Sudanese refugees to continue seeking asylum.

RSF ATTACKS FORMER ALLY IN MUSTARIHA

On February 24, 2026, the RSF attacked Mustariha in North Darfur, leaving 28 people dead according to witnesses. Mustariha is the fief of tribal leader Moussa Hilal, a former Janjaweed chief who recently expressed support for the regular army. The RSF claimed control of the town following drone strikes on Hilal’s residence. The UN reported that 2690 people fled the area due to insecurity. A medical source at Kabkabiya hospital confirmed receiving 39 wounded people suffering from bullet and shrapnel injuries.

ROCKET EXPLOSION IN TINE CITY CENTER

On February 25, 2026, local authorities reported that a rocket fired from Sudan hit the Chadian town of Tiné on the previous day, destroying houses and part of the central police station. Youssouf Hachim Abdoulaye, secretary general of the Tiné prefecture, indicated the explosion occurred at 17:30 but caused no casualties. The RSF recently claimed control of the neighboring Sudanese town of Tina. Gassim Chérif Mahamat confirmed the border closure.

UN SANCTIONS RSF COMMANDERS FOR GENOCIDE

On February 25, 2026, the UN Security Council announced sanctions against 4 high-ranking RSF officers for atrocities in El-Fasher. The targeted individuals are General Elfateh Abdullah Idris Adam, also known as Abou Loulou, commanders Gedo Hamdane Ahmed Mohamed and Tijani Ibrahim Moussa Mohamed and Abdelrahim Hamdane Daglo, the brother of the RSF chief. Abdelrahim Daglo was filmed ordering his troops to kill all prisoners. Idris Adam was filmed killing people who begged for mercy. Sanctions include asset freezes and international travel bans.

DISABLED CIVILIANS TARGETED IN DARFUR

On February 25, 2026, Human Rights Watch (HRW) published a report accusing the Rapid Support Forces of killing and mistreating disabled people in El-Fasher. Deputy director Emina Cerimovic stated that fighters treated disabled civilians as suspects or burdens, summarily executing amputees accused of being wounded soldiers. One witness reported the murder of over 10 people, most of whom were disabled. A 29-year-old nurse recounted the killings of a young man with Down syndrome and a blind teenager. The report also highlighted the confiscation of wheelchairs and hearing aids by RSF members.

UN DEPLORES ESCALATION OF CIVILIAN DEATHS

On February 26, 2026, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk reported that the number of civilians killed in Sudan more than doubled in 2025. Addressing the Human Rights Council in Geneva, he noted a 2.5-fold increase in fatalities compared to 2024. Türk condemned the use of long-range drones and the instrumentalization of sexual violence, with over 500 victims of rape and sexual slavery recorded. He mentioned a carnage in the Zam Zam camp in April 2025 and called for an arms embargo across the entire Sudanese territory to stop the logic of profit. Massad Boulos, the US envoy, recognized that international mediation by the Quad is stalling.

SOUTH SUDAN

MASSACRE ACCUSATIONS IN JONGLEI

On February 23, 2026, the opposition party SPLM-IO, led by Oyet Nathaniel Pierino, accused government forces of murdering at least 25 civilians in Pankor. Most victims were women and children who were allegedly arrested, tortured and killed during a village gathering on February 21. Images sent by a diplomatic source showed bodies with bullet wounds and some with hands tied behind their backs. Army spokesperson Lul Ruai Koang declined to comment. The UN reported that 280.000 people have been displaced in Jonglei where General Johnson Olony was previously filmed ordering troops to spare no lives. Salva Kiir and Riek Machar remain rivals in the ongoing conflict.

NIGERIA

RANSOM PAID TO BOKO HARAM

On February 20, 2026, intelligence sources revealed that the Nigerian government paid a ransom to Boko Haram for the release of 230 children and staff from St. Mary’s Catholic school. The money was delivered by helicopter to Ali Ngulde, a commander in Gwoza. The deal, negotiated by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, also included the release of 2 Boko Haram commanders. Researcher Vincent Foucher confirmed the involvement of a jihadist named Sadiku. While the government officially denies paying ransoms, sources estimate the payment at 7 million dollars.

DEADLY RAID IN ZAMFARA

On February 21, 2026, police and local officials reported that gunmen killed at least 38 people in Dutse Dan Ajiya. Local official Hamisu Faru, who estimated the death toll at 50, stated that bandits opened fire on residents attempting to flee on motorcycles. Police spokesperson Yazid Abubakar indicated that patrols were continuing in the remote area. Bandits in the region frequently coordinate with jihadist groups like Iswap and Boko Haram. President Tinubu recently declared a security state of emergency to combat these criminal networks.

JIHADIST ATTACKS IN ADAMAWA STATE

On February 26, 2026, jihadists suspected to be from Boko Haram killed at least 25 people in Adamawa State. In Shiwari, gunmen on motorcycles killed 21 people at a market and looted livestock according to a local official. In the neighboring town of Hong, residents discovered the bodies of soldiers and civilians. Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri condemned the violence and warned the perpetrators of a collective military response.

DEADLY MOSQUE ATTACKED BY LAKURAWA

On February 26, 2026, jihadists from the Lakurawa group attacked a mosque in Dadin Kowa, Kebbi State, killing at least 5 worshippers during Ramadan. A UN security report suggested the death toll could be 10. This group is active near the border with Niger and has links to the Islamic State in the Sahel. On February 22, the same group ambushed a convoy belonging to General Bemgha Koughna near Dadin Kowa, though the army killed 5 jihadists while repelling the attack. The government is recruiting self-defense militias to counter the rising insecurity.

BURKINA FASO

JNIM OFFENSIVE SURGE IN NORTH AND EAST

On February 27, 2026, reports indicated a significant escalation of attacks by the JNIM group in northern and eastern Burkina Faso. Analyst Héni Nsaibia from ACLED stated that over 130 people, including soldiers and civilians, were killed between February 12 and February 22. Security experts suggest the group, now partly led by Sekou Muslimu, is using the dry season to secure smuggling routes and gold sites near the borders.

ETHIOPIA-ERITREA

ERITREAN REFUGEES DETAINED IN EGYPT

On February 23, 2026, the NGO Human Rights Concern–Eritrea (HRCE) reported that over 3000 Eritrean refugees have been arrested in Egypt since January 10. The organization documented cases of torture, sexual violence and refusal of medical care against detainees. Some registered refugees were forcibly returned to Eritrea despite risks of life-long military conscription under leader Issaias Afwerki. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi and Eritrea have recently strengthened ties. HRCE called on the UN to intervene and urged Egypt to respect international refugee law.

TIGRAY ELECTORAL REDISTRICTING CONTROVERSY

On February 23, 2026, the Ethiopian National Election Board (NEBE) announced that 5 contested districts between Amhara and Tigray will vote as separate entities outside the Tigray region in June. Tadesse Werede, head of the Tigray interim administration, firmly condemned the decision, warning of grave consequences. Federal minister Getachew Reda also criticized the move, stating it could destabilize the peace process. Amanuel Assefa, a TPLF official, accused the parliament of violating the constitution by redrawing borders.

INDEPENDENT MEDIA LICENSE REVOKED

On February 24, 2026, the Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA) revoked the license of Addis Standard, a prominent independent online news outlet. The EMA accused the publication of repeatedly undermining journalistic ethics and national interests. Ethiopia currently ranks 145th in the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) press freedom index. Authorities also refused to renew accreditations for Reuters, AFP, BBC and Deutsche Welle correspondents. 4 other journalists currently face terrorism charges. Restrictions on the press occur ahead of the June legislative elections.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

BURUNDI BORDER REOPENS AT KAVIMVIRA

On February 23, 2026, the land border between the DRC and Burundi reopened at the Kavimvira post near Uvira. South Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi and an anonymous Burundian migration agent confirmed the reopening, which follows a two-month closure caused by an M23 offensive in December. Over 80.000 people fled to Burundi during the fighting. A resident of the Busuma refugee camp expressed a desire to return home due to inhumane conditions. Approximately 5000 Burundian soldiers remain deployed in South Kivu to support the Congolese army against the M23 and its allied militias. M23 previously took Bukavu in February 2025.

CEASEFIRE MONITORING PREPARATION IN UVIRA

On February 24, 2026, Monusco announced that a joint evaluation team arrived in Uvira to prepare for a ceasefire monitoring mechanism. This mission, involving the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), aims to assess security and logistics before a permanent ceasefire is implemented. The M23 withdrew its troops from Uvira in January, claiming to place the city under international responsibility. Monusco stated that future deployments would depend on security guarantees.

ARMY DRONE STRIKES NEAR RUBAYA

On February 25, 2026, the Congolese army used drones to strike M23 positions near the strategic mining site of Rubaya, which produces up to 30% of the world’s coltan. Local sources confirmed that militias allied with the army captured the town of Kazinga. An M23 official and an anonymous resident reported that the strikes caused panic in Rubaya on February 24. Kinshasa uses Chinese and Turkish drones to maintain air superiority.

LEBANON

REFUGEE CAMP AND BEKAA STRUCK

On February 20, 2026, an Israeli drone strike hit the Ain el-Helweh refugee camp in southern Lebanon, killing at least 1 person and wounding several others. A photographer on-site saw smoke rising from a small house in the densely populated camp. Simultaneously, strikes in the Bekaa Valley killed at least 10 people and wounded 24, including 3 children. The Israeli army claimed to have targeted Hezbollah and Hamas command centers. Hezbollah confirmed the death of a commander in the raids. President Joseph Aoun denounced the raids as flagrant aggression intended to undermine diplomatic efforts. This escalation occurred despite the ceasefire.

US EMBASSY EVACUATES

On February 23, 2026, the United States ordered the evacuation of non-essential personnel and their families from the Beirut embassy due to security concerns. A US official confirmed the measure was a precaution following Israeli strikes and Hezbollah’s calls for resistance. A Lebanese security source reported that 40 people were evacuated from Beirut international airport on Monday. The embassy remains operational with essential staff. This decision coincides with Donald Trump’s deployment of naval and air forces in the Region.

LEBANESE ARMY TARGETED

On February 24, 2026, the Lebanese army accused Israel of firing at the perimeter of a new military checkpoint being installed in the Marjeyoun region near the border. The army command issued a communiqué stating that it had ordered troops to reinforce the position and retaliate against the sources of the fire. This incident occurred while international efforts are being prepared in Cairo and Paris to provide financial aid to the Lebanese army to support its plan to disarm Hezbollah.

CIVILIAN CASUALTIES IN ISRAELI STRIKES AGAINST HEZBOLLAH BASES

On February 26, 2026, the Israeli army announced it had struck 8 Hezbollah military bases belonging to the Al-Radwan elite unit in the Baalbek region. Israel claimed the complexes contained firearms and rockets and were being used for planning attacks. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that the strikes killed a 16-year-old Syrian teenager and injured another person. The Lebanese national news agency (ANI) reported raids near Boudai, Chmistar and Harbata.

PALESTINE

HAMAS RESUMES ADMINISTRATION IN GAZA

On February 20, 2026, reports indicated that Hamas has resumed daily administrative control in areas of Gaza evacuated by the Israeli army since the October ceasefire. Uniformed police officers are managing traffic and markets in Gaza City and Khan Younes. Local resident confirmed that the local Ministry of Economy continues to collect taxes. Another resident noted that business currently only operates in Hamas-controlled zones.

PROTESTS OVER US AMBASSADOR’S COMMENTS

On February 22, 2026, several Arab and Muslim nations condemned statements by US Ambassador Mike Huckabee, who suggested Israel has a biblical right to lands between the Nile and the Euphrates. The comments were made during an interview with Tucker Carlson. Over 10 countries, including Turkey, Egypt and Indonesia, expressed deep concern over these inflammatory declarations. The Palestinian Authority stated that Huckabee’s comments contradicted Donald Trump’s official rejection of the annexation of the West Bank. The Arab League noted that such extremist views incite religious sentiment during the ongoing peace process.

SETTLERS SET FIRE TO MOSQUE NEAR NABLUS

On February 23, 2026, the Palestinian Authority accused Israeli settlers of setting fire to the Abu Bakr al-Siddiq mosque in the village of Tell. An AFP journalist observed burned carpets and racist slogans written on the walls. The Palestinian Ministry of Religious Affairs reported that 45 attacks on mosques occurred in the West Bank during 2025. Governor Ghassan Daghlas condemned the barbarity of the act.

SMOTRICH ISSUES ULTIMATUM FOR GAZA OCCUPATION

On February 23, 2026, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that Hamas would soon receive an ultimatum to disarm, or the army would reoccupy the entire Gaza strip. Speaking to the Kan public broadcaster, he claimed the army is already preparing plans for this scenario with American support. The second phase of the US-sponsored ceasefire, launched in mid-January, requires the progressive withdrawal of Israeli troops and the disarmament of Hamas. Smotrich added that any international stabilization force would have to withdraw quickly to allow Israeli military operations if the ultimatum is ignored.

INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY DEMANDS SANCTIONS AGAINST ISRAEL

On February 24, 2026, Hamas called on the international community to impose deterrent sanctions on Israel following new measures to increase control over the West Bank. Nearly 20 countries, including France, Spain, Brazil and Saudi Arabia, had issued a joint declaration condemning Israel’s strategy of de facto annexation. The group urged the signatory States to exercise real pressure on the government of Benjamin Netanyahu to stop illegal colonization and forced displacements of civilians.

ETHNIC CLEANSING

On February 26, 2026, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warned that Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank appear aimed at creating permanent demographic changes. He reported that military operations in the northern West Bank have displaced 32.000 Palestinians since January 2025. Türk stated that 1020 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli security forces since October 2023, while 45 Israelis died in Palestinian attacks. He also noted that over 600 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire began on October, in addition the +70.000 deaths during the war, expressing serious concerns regarding ethnic cleansing.

CIVIL DEFENSE REPORTS DEADLY STRIKES

On February 27, 2026, the Gaza Civil Defense reported that Israeli strikes killed at least 5 people Friday morning despite the official ceasefire. A drone strike killed 3 people in the south, while 2 others were killed in the center of the territory. Both Israel and Hamas continue to accuse each other of violating the truce.

SYRIA

RAMADAN DRAMAS DEPICT PRISON ATROCITIES

On February 21, 2026, several television series depicting the atrocities of the former Assad regime’s prisons began airing for Ramadan. The show directed by Mohammed Lutfi and starring Jamal Souleiman, recreates the Saydnaya prison. Another series focuses on the torture documented by the whistleblower code-named Caesar.

ISIS SPOKESPERSON CALLS FOR REBELLION

On February 21, 2026, the Islamic State (ISIS) released its first audio message in 2 years featuring spokesperson Abou Houdhayfah Al-Ansari. He called on fighters to prioritize combat against the new Syrian government and its national army. ISIS maintains sleeper cells in desert regions despite its territorial defeat in 2019. The new president, Ahmad al-Chareh, formerly of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has been trying to distance himself from his jihadist past.

AL-HOL CAMP CLOSED AFTER MASS ESCAPES

On February 22, 2026, interim official Fadi al-Qassem announced the closure of the Al-Hol camp after thousands of relatives of ISIS jihadists escaped. The remaining families were relocated to the Akhtarin camp north of Aleppo for reintegration assistance. Human rights organizations like Human Rights Watch warned that prisoners transferred to Iraq face risks of torture. Humanitarian teams have reportedly dismantled all equipment and evacuated the site.

US BEGINS TOTAL MILITARY WITHDRAWAL

On February 23, 2026, sources reported that US forces have begun a final one-month withdrawal from Syria. A column of dozens of trucks carrying armored vehicles was seen leaving the Qasrak base in Hassaké toward the Iraqi border. Bases at al-Tanf and al-Chaddadi were reportedly evacuated in the previous 2 weeks. A Syrian official stated that no military presence would remain in the bases within 30 days. This withdrawal follows President Ahmad al-Chareh’s decision to join the anti-jihadist coalition.

US MEDIATES DRUZE PRISONER EXCHANGE

On February 24, 2026, a Druze source revealed that the United States is mediating a prisoner exchange between the Syrian government and the Druze minority in Soueïda. The negotiations involve Druze spiritual leader Hikmat al-Hijri and aim to release 61 civilians held by Damas since the violence in July. In exchange, 30 members of the Syrian interior and defense ministries held by the Druze National Guard would be freed. Hijri has recently called for the creation of a separate region for the Druze community. The ICRC facilitated the exchange of detainees between Damas and Druze factions. ICRC head Stephan Sakalian confirmed that 61 detainees were sent to Soueïda and 25 to Damas. The OSDH reported that the July 2025 violence in the region killed over 2000 people, including 789 Druze civilians who were victims of summary executions.

IRAN

ANTI-GOVERNMENT STUDENT PROTESTS AT SHARIF

On February 21, 2026, Iranian students held anti-government rallies at Sharif University of Technology in Tehran. Videos showed protesters chanting « death to the dictator, » a slogan targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Fars news agency reported that clashes broke out between students and government supporters. These demonstrations coincide with the 40-day mourning period for those killed in the January protests. HRANA reported that over 7000 people have been killed and 53.000 arrested since January.

KURDISH OPPOSITION FORMS COALITION IN IRAQ

On February 22, 2026, 5 Iranian Kurdish groups based in Iraq announced the formation of a political coalition aimed at overthrowing the Islamic Republic. The « Coalition of political forces in Iranian Kurdistan » includes the PAK, PDKI and PJAK. They called for coordinated efforts between political parties and civil society to support the ongoing protest movement. The Ministry of the Interior of the autonomous Kurdish region in Iraq protested the move, stating it would not allow its territory to be used against neighbouring countries. These groups previously called for a general strike.

IRAQI KATAEB HEZBOLLAH PREPARES FOR WAR

On February 27, 2026, the pro-Iranian Iraqi group Kataëb Hezbollah called on its fighters to prepare for a war of attrition against the United States. The group threatened the US with immense losses if it strikes Iran. An anonymous commander stated that Iraqi armed groups would likely intervene if an offensive aims to overthrow the Iranian government. In Lebanon, a Hezbollah official said that while they might not react to limited strikes, any attack on Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei would be a red line.

AFGHANISTAN-PAKISTAN

PAKISTAN CONDUCTS DEADLY STRIKES ON AFGHAN BORDER

On February 22, 2026, the Pakistani army launched air strikes against 7 TTP and ISIS camps along the Afghan border. A Pakistani security source claimed over 80 militants were killed, though a Taliban government source called this figure imaginary. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid reported that the strikes hit civilians in Nangarhar and Paktika, killing dozens including women and children. A resident recounted losing his father and sons. The Afghan Ministry of Defense warned it would provide an appropriate response. Police spokesperson Sayed Tayeeb Hammad and Amin Gul Amin assisted in recovering bodies.

DEADLY ATTACKS IN PESHAWAR

On February 26, 2026, a senior police official in Peshawar reported that 19 people, including 15 police officers and 4 civilians, were killed in attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over 48 hours. Two other officers were kidnapped and remain missing. Most attacks were claimed by the Pakistani Taliban (TTP). In response, the army killed 26 insurgents during 4 separate counter-insurgency operations. Islamabad continues to accuse the Afghan Taliban of allowing the TTP to use Afghan soil to plan raids, an allegation that the government in Kabul denies.

AFGHAN ARMY ATTACKS PAKISTANI BORDER POSTS

On February 26, 2026, the Afghan army launched massive attacks against 15 Pakistani border outposts in Nangarhar and Kunar. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that dozens of Pakistani soldiers were killed and others were taken prisoner. This offensive was a retaliation for earlier Pakistani bombings that killed 13 civilians according to the UN. Afghan official Qureshi Badlun reported that 7 civilians were injured at the Torkham border crossing. Hamdullah Fitrat confirmed the offensive while Shehbaz Sharif denied the loss of any Pakistani outposts.

PAKISTAN DECLARES OPEN WAR ON TALIBAN

On February 27, 2026, the Pakistani government declared « open war » on the Taliban authorities and launched air strikes against Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stated that Pakistani patience had reached its limit. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif affirmed that his troops have the capacity to crush any aggression. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described the strikes as a response to Afghan attacks. Gander Khan reported injuries to women and children at the Omari camp. China and Iran have both offered to mediate.

EASTERN EUROPE

RUSSIAN GULAG MUSEUM CLOSED

On February 20, 2026, the Moscow mayor’s office announced the permanent closure of the Gulag History Museum. The facility will be replaced by a museum dedicated to the memory of Nazi crimes during the “Great Patriotic War”. A source close to the former museum’s direction reported that the collection, founded by Anton Antonov-Ovseïenko in 2001, will be entirely dismantled. The Gulag museum had been officially closed for “fire safety” since November 2024.

MASSIVE RUSSIAN MISSILE ATTACK ON UKRAINE

On February 22, 2026, Russia targeted Ukraine with missiles and drones, hitting energy and railway infrastructures. In Lviv, explosions killed a police officer and injured 25 people. In Kiev, resident Meanwhile, Hungary announced it would block the 20th European sanctions package and a 90 billion euro loan for Ukraine, accusing Kiev of oil delivery blackmail.

CIVILIAN DEATHS IN ZAPORIJZIA AND ODESSA

On February 23, 2026, local authorities reported that Russian strikes killed 3 people in the Zaporijjia and Odessa regions. Ivan Fedorov, head of the Zaporijjia military administration, stated that a drone strike on an industrial site killed a 33-year-old man. In Kharkiv, Mayor Igor Terekhov reported a missile attack. The UN reported that nearly 15.000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed since the invasion began in 2022.

REFUGEE INDEMNIFICATION REGISTRY OPENED

On February 23, 2026, the Council of Europe announced that Ukrainian refugees can now file claims for compensation for « moral prejudice » caused by the war. Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, stated that responsibility is the foundation for lasting peace. The Registry of Damages for Ukraine has already received 110.000 claims related to the destruction of homes, torture or the death of relatives. According to the UNHCR, 6.8 million Ukrainians remain outside the country. The registry aims to quantify future reparations that will be demanded from Russia.

GHOST FLEET AGENTS IDENTIFIED

On February 23, 2026, reports identified 2 Russian security agents, Aleksander T. and Maksim D., aboard the ghost fleet oil tanker Boracay arraisoned by France. Maksim D. is a former Wagner group member. Both were employed by Moran Security Group, a firm led by Alexey Badikov and founded by former FSB officers like Vyacheslav Kalashnikov. Attorney Henri de Richemont confirmed the presence of the Russians but denied his client’s involvement.

VIOLENCE AGAINST UKRAINIAN WOMEN REFUGEES

On February 24, 2026, the European Union Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) reported that Ukrainian women refugees face high levels of physical and sexual violence in the EU. Director Sirpa Rautio noted that 1 in 4 refugees has experienced violence since the war began. The report, based on an inquiry with 1200 women in Poland, Germany and the Czech Republic, revealed that 62% suffered violence in their host countries. Additionally, 51% experienced sexual harassment. Many women reported abusive job or housing offers.

DRONES TRANSFORMING THE UKRAINIAN FRONT

Minister of Defense Mykhaïlo Fedorov stated that drones cause 80% of damage on the front. Expert Kateryna Bondar explained that maintaining connections is the primary challenge, leading to the use of fiber optic cables. Companies like General Cherry, led by Marko Kouchnir, and SwiftBeat, led by Eric Schmidt, are developing AI-guided drones. Companies like The Fourth Law, with employee Maksym Savanevsky, also develop guiding systems. Despite the technology, infantrymen argued that soldiers remain indispensable for taking positions.

CASUALTIES IN ZAPORIJZIA RESIDENTIAL AREAS AFTER DRONE STRIKES

On February 24, 2026, Russian drone strikes on Zaporijjia injured 5 people, including 1 child. National emergency services reported that a drone hit a factory building near a nine-story residential complex, sparking a fire that spread over 200 square meters. Another strike damaged 5 buildings and several cars in a residential courtyard. The city remains under almost daily bombardment.

RAMAPHOSA THANKS PUTIN FOR RECRUIT RETURNS

On February 24, 2026, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa thanked Vladimir Putin for facilitating the return of South Africans recruited to fight in Ukraine. Pretoria received calls for help from 17 men who claimed they were duped into enlisting. Four returned last week and 11 others are expected shortly. Ramaphosa confirmed an investigation is ongoing into the recruitment activities. Reports suggest they were recruited by the MK party, led by Jacob Zuma, for a security guard training program. Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, recently resigned from parliament following accusations of involvement. On February 25, 2026, 11 South Africans who were allegedly trapped into fighting for Russia arrived in Durban. Journalists saw the men being escorted by police, with one individual in a wheelchair.

GHANA MINISTER MEETS ZELENSKY IN KYIV

On February 25, 2026, Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa met with President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv to request the release of 2 ghanaians prisoners of war. These men were captured while fighting for the Russian army. Zelensky stated they discussed how Russia recruits Africans and how to counter these networks. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriï Sybiga reported that over 1780 Africans from 36 countries are currently fighting against Ukraine. Ablakwa thanked Ukraine for treating the prisoners humanely and confirmed they were victims of criminal trafficking networks.

CIVILIAN DEATHS IN UKRAINE STRIKE ON SMOLENSK

On February 25, 2026, a Ukrainian drone attack on a fertilizer factory in the Smolensk region killed 7 people and injured 10 others. The Russian Investigative Committee reported that at least 30 drones were used in the strike. Governor Vassili Anokhine confirmed that the attack caused fires at the facility in Dorogobouj and damaged a fire station and a vehicle. This is one of the deadliest strikes on a Russian industrial site since 2022.

GERMAN FIRMS SEARCHED FOR EMBARGO BREACH

On February 26, 2026, customs police in Essen searched 3 companies in Hamburg for allegedly violating the embargo against Russia. One company director is suspected of importing goods worth over 4 million euros in more than 900 separate violations. A freeze on 3.5 million euros in assets was executed. The European Union has implemented strict import and export restrictions on Russia since the 2022 invasion. The specific nature of the goods imported in this case has not been disclosed yet.

MYANMAR

REBELS TRACK REDEPLOYED ARMS FACTORIES

Reports revealed that Burmese rebels have established a human intelligence network to monitor the relocation of the junta’s arms factories. Resistance groups like the PDF and Arakan Army are tracking Russian engineers to identify the site of a future drone and munitions factory. The junta has reportedly evacuated stocks from « Kapasa » factories threatened by the Arakan Army’s advance. General Sergueï Choïgou’s recent visit to Myanmar triggered this increased intelligence effort.

DEADLY AIR RAID ON RAKHINE MARKET

On February 25, 2026, the Burmese junta conducted an air raid on a village market in Yoe Ngu, Rakhine State, killing at least 17 civilians. Pyae Phyo Naing of the Ponnagyun Youth Association reported seeing bodies and buildings in flames. The Arakan Army (AA) confirmed the death toll and noted that the military uses Russian and Chinese jets for such strikes. The AA has recently encamped near the regional capital Sittwe. The World Food Program warned that the military blockades in the region are causing a dramatic rise in hunger.

THAILAND-CAMBODIA

THAILAND ACCUSES CAMBODIA OF CEASEFIRE BREACH

On February 24, 2026, the Thai army accused Cambodian forces of firing a 40 mm grenade at a patrol in Sisaket province, violating the December ceasefire. Thailand reported that its troops retaliated by firing a M79 grenade. Army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree suggested the incident might have been caused by a Cambodian troop rotation. Cambodian Information Minister Neth Pheaktra denied the allegations, calling them fabrications.

CAMBODIAN PM SEEKS DESCALATION IN BRUSSELS

On February 25, 2026, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated in Brussels that his country seeks a peaceful resolution and de-escalation of the border conflict with Thailand. He expressed concern over the fragile stability of the border and denied Thai accusations of ceasefire violations. Hun Manet claimed Thai forces had ventured beyond the recognized border line but affirmed a commitment to using historical maps to resolve the dispute.

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

PERU EX-MILITARY CHIEF’S CONVICTION ANNULLED

On February 20, 2026, Peru’s Constitutional Court annulled the 12-year prison sentence of Daniel Urresti for the 1988 murder of journalist Hugo Bustios. The court ordered his immediate release, applying a 2024 law stating that war crimes and crimes against humanity can only be applied to facts occurring after July 1, 2002. Urresti, a 69-year-old former intelligence officer and minister, had been incarcerated since 2023. His wife, Juanita de Urresti, praised the decision while Sharmeli Bustios, the victim’s daughter, and the National Association of Journalists (ANP) condemned it as a blow to justice. The National Human Rights Coordination also denounced the ruling as a retreat in the fight against impunity.

AMNESTY FOR POLITICAL PRISONERS GRANTED IN VENEZUELA

On February 21, 2026, the Venezuelan government announced the release of 379 political prisoners following an amnesty law promulgated by interim president Delcy Rodriguez. Parliamentary author Jorge Arreaza stated the measure followed requests from the public prosecutor. The amnesty was promised under US pressure after the capture of Nicolas Maduro on January 3. While Rodriguez called the move a step toward a more democratic Venezuela, NGOs like Foro Penal and Acceso a la Justicia, led by Alfredo Romero and Ali Daniels, criticized the law for excluding many detainees.

LETHAL US STRIKE ON ALLEGED DRUG TRAFFICKERS

On February 21, 2026, the US military carried out a drone strike against a suspected drug trafficking vessel in the Pacific Ocean, killing 3 people. The US Southern Command released a video of the explosion, marking nearly 150 fatalities since the campaign began in September under Donald Trump’s administration. Experts and UN officials have raised concerns regarding the legality of these extrajudicial executions. The US administration has not provided specific evidence that the targeted vessels were involved in cartels.

FATAL MIGRANT SHIPWRECK OFF CRETE

On February 21, 2026, a wooden boat carrying approximately 50 migrants capsized south of Crete, resulting in at least 3 deaths. Greek port police reported that 20 people, including 4 minors from Sudan and Egypt, were rescued by a commercial ship. The vessel reportedly overturned when passengers rushed toward the rescue ladders. Four patrol boats and a Frontex aircraft were deployed for the ongoing search operations. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) noted that over 16.770 asylum seekers arrived in Crete in 2025, with 107 people recorded dead or missing in Greek waters that year.

RADICAL RIGHT EVENT TRIGGERS INVESTIGATION IN FRANCE

On February 21, 2026, the Rhone prefecture announced legal action following reports of Nazi salutes and racist insults during a march in Lyon. Approximately 3.200 people participated in the tribute to 23-year-old nationalist activist Quentin Deranque, who was killed by antifascist militants on February 12. Prefect Fabienne Buccio stated that all reprehensible gestures detected on social media videos would be reported to the prosecutor. The march, which included many far-right members, was authorized by the ministry of the Interior, under police surveillance.

GAMBIA ALARMED OVER FOREIGN ENLISTMENTS

On February 21, 2026, the Gambian Ministry of Information expressed deep concern over citizens traveling abroad to participate in armed conflicts. The government stated it does not authorize Gambians to join foreign wars and noted that several nationals have tragically lost their lives. This warning follows similar alarms from Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa regarding citizens being recruited by Russia under false pretenses. In November, Ukraine claimed to have identified 1436 citizens from 36 African countries fighting in the Russian ranks. The Gambian government warned that those who join these conflicts do so at their own risk. On February 27, 2026, Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced that approximately 272 Ghanaians were lured into the war and 55 have likely been killed. He stated the government is committed to dismantling recruitment networks on the dark web. A report by « All Eyes on Wagner » identified Egypt, Cameroon and Ghana as the countries with the largest contingents of African recruits.

DUTERTE TRIAL AT ICC

On February 23, 2026, deputy Prosecutor Mandiaye Niang accused Duterte of personally selecting victims and authorizing murders during his anti-drug campaign. Prosecutor Julian Nicholls showed videos of Duterte threatening to kill criminals. Duterte’s lawyer Nicholas Kaufman claimed the charges are politically motivated.

EX-SRI LANKA INTELLIGENCE CHIEF ARRESTED

On February 25, 2026, police in Colombo arrested former intelligence chief Suresh Sallay for complicity in the 2019 Easter bombings that killed 279 people. Investigators alleged that the retired general was in contact with individuals involved in the attacks, which favored the election of Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Sallay was promoted to director of the State Intelligence Service after the election. Church spokesperson Father Cyril Gamini Fernando welcomed the arrest. The government of Anura Kumara Dissanayaken opened a new investigation after previous failures to publish UN-requested reports and the sentencing of Maithripala Sirisena.

MODI AND NETANYAHU PLEDGE TO FIGHT TERRORISM

On February 26, 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a two-day visit to Jerusalem by affirming that India and Israel will fight terrorism together. In a joint declaration with Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi stated there is no place for terrorism in the world. The visit included the signing of protocols for cooperation in space, agriculture and artificial intelligence. Modi emphasized the natural base for partnership between Indian growth and Israeli innovation.

SWISS LEGAL COMPLAINT AGAINST IRANIAN VICE-MINISTER

On February 26, 2026, an Irano-Swiss citizen filed a criminal complaint in Switzerland against Iranian Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi. The plaintiff, who spent 10 years in Iranian jails, accused the official of crimes against humanity. The complaint alleges that Gharibabadi was at least responsible for, or a co-author of, crimes under international law.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING SUSPECT LINKED WITH RUSSIA ARRESTED IN KENYA

On February 26, 2026, Kenyan authorities arrested Festus Omwamba for human trafficking related to the recruitment of 1000 Kenyans for the Russian army. Omwamba, the founder of Global Face Human Resources, is accused of using deception to send young men to Russia for exploitation. Deputy Kimani Ichung’wah identified him as the mastermind associated with agents in Moscow. Police also identified Edward Gituku as an accomplice. Omwamba’s lawyer, Bonaventure Otieno, claimed the case is empty and based on speculation.

UN REPROACHES CHINA OVER UYGHUR RIGHTS

On February 27, 2026, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk criticized China for failing to improve the situation of the Uyghurs in Xinjiang. During a session in Geneva, he deplored the lack of follow-up on recommendations from the 2022 Michelle Bachelet report regarding religious freedoms. Türk also expressed concern over the repression of Tibetans and Protestant communities. He urged Beijing to release individuals detained arbitrarily and criticized the use of vague security laws.