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Ukraine

North Korea Builds Housing for Soldiers Killed Fighting in Ukraine

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief February 16, 2026

written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Pyongyang, North Korea – North Korea has completed construction of a recent housing district in Pyongyang intended for the families of soldiers who died fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, state media reported Monday. The move, spearheaded by leader Kim Jong Un, represents the latest effort to honor those killed in action and appears aimed at bolstering domestic support amid increasing international scrutiny.

The new district, named Saeppyol Street, was showcased in state media photos depicting Kim Jong Un touring the area and visiting the homes of bereaved families, accompanied by his daughter, believed to be Kim Ju Ae. Kim pledged to support the families of these “young martyrs” who “sacrificed all to their motherland,” according to reports from the Independent.

This construction comes as North Korea intensifies propaganda efforts glorifying troops deployed to support Russia’s war in Ukraine, including the establishment of memorial walls and museums. Analysts suggest this is a deliberate strategy to foster internal unity and potentially mitigate any public discontent regarding the country’s involvement in the conflict. The move also occurs as North Korea prepares for a major ruling party congress later this month, where Kim is expected to outline his domestic and foreign policy objectives for the next five years and further consolidate his control.

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) estimates that approximately 6,000 North Korean troops have been killed or wounded during their deployment in Ukraine, the Associated Press reported. While a precise breakdown of fatalities remains unavailable, the NIS previously estimated around 600 deaths last year. This represents a significant loss for North Korea, and the scale of casualties underscores the extent of its military support for Russia.

North Korean Military Gains and Russian Support

The NIS believes that North Korean forces are benefiting from their involvement in the war through gaining valuable modern combat experience and receiving technical support from Russia, which could enhance the performance of their own weapons systems. This exchange of expertise represents a strategic advantage for North Korea, potentially bolstering its military capabilities. The RBC Ukraine reports that this support isn’t solely technical, but also includes financial transfers from Moscow.

The construction of Saeppyol Street is, in effect, being “built on the blood of young Koreans” sent to support Russian aggression, according to reports. Western intelligence suggests that for each North Korean soldier deployed to Russia, Pyongyang receives not only technology but also substantial financial compensation.

Expanding Military Ties Between North Korea and Russia

In recent months, Kim Jong Un has reportedly sent thousands of troops and significant quantities of military equipment, including artillery and missiles, to Russia to aid in its war effort in Ukraine. This deepening alliance between North Korea and Russia is largely seen as a response to both countries’ strained relationships with the United States. The Mid-Day also reported on the completion of the housing district.

The scale of North Korea’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict remains a subject of ongoing investigation and analysis. The NIS estimates that around 14,000 North Korean troops have been dispatched to Russia, with over 6,000 reported as killed or wounded. The exact nature and extent of the military assistance provided by North Korea continue to be monitored by international intelligence agencies.

As North Korea prepares for its upcoming ruling party congress, the country’s continued alignment with Russia and its military support for the war in Ukraine are likely to be key topics of discussion. The congress will provide further insight into Kim Jong Un’s strategic priorities and his vision for the future of North Korea.

What comes next will be closely watched as the ruling party congress unfolds, and further details emerge regarding North Korea’s military cooperation with Russia and the implications for regional security. Share your thoughts in the comments below.

February 16, 2026 0 comments

world

US Envoys in Geneva: Ukraine & Iran Talks Aim for Breakthroughs

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor February 16, 2026

written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Geneva is poised to turn into a central hub for international diplomacy this week, as US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are scheduled to engage in separate negotiations concerning the conflicts in Ukraine and Iran. The dual-track effort, beginning Tuesday, aims to secure limitations on Iran’s nuclear program in the morning and address the ongoing war in Ukraine with Ukrainian and Russian negotiators in the afternoon, with discussions continuing into Wednesday.

The timing and location of these talks underscore the urgency with which the US administration, under President Donald Trump, is pursuing resolutions to these complex geopolitical challenges. While the specific venue remains undisclosed, Switzerland is facilitating the discussions, offering its traditional role as a neutral host for international negotiations. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAE) confirmed its support for both sets of talks, stating its readiness to “offer its solid offices to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran” and reiterating its availability to support any diplomatic initiative aimed at de-escalation.

The first set of meetings will focus on Iran’s nuclear program. The US seeks to re-establish limitations on the program, a key objective of the Trump administration’s foreign policy. These efforts come after years of strained relations following the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, in 2018.

Later Tuesday, Witkoff and Kushner will meet with negotiators from Ukraine and Russia. This follows initial in-person negotiations between Ukrainian and Russian delegations held in Abu Dhabi last Friday and Saturday, driven by a US peace plan. The Ukrainian team was led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, alongside Presidential Office chief Kyrylo Budanov, lawmaker David Arakhamia, and Chief of the General Staff Andriy Hnatov. Russia was represented by a delegation headed by Igor Kostyukov, the head of the GRU, Russia’s military intelligence service, with Alexander Zorin, the GRU’s first deputy head for information, also participating, according to investigative outlet Agentstvo.

Whereas, the future involvement of Witkoff and Kushner in subsequent rounds of negotiations is uncertain. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated on January 28, 2026, that the two envoys would not participate in the next round of talks, stating, “[Russia and Ukraine] are going to follow up talks again this week. In that regard, bilateral. There might be a US presence, but it won’t be Steve and Jared.”

The primary obstacle to a peace agreement between Kyiv and Moscow remains the status of Donetsk, according to Rubio. This highlights the complexities involved in reaching a lasting resolution to the conflict, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The war has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, and has had a profound impact on the geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe.

Prior to these meetings, Witkoff and Kushner met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin on January 22, 2026, to discuss the latest developments in the conflict. A YouTube video documents this meeting, showing the US envoys engaging in discussions with the Russian leader.

The involvement of Witkoff, President Trump’s special envoy, and Kushner, the president’s son-in-law, in these negotiations has drawn attention, particularly given their backgrounds in business rather than traditional diplomacy. Their presence signals a willingness by the Trump administration to explore unconventional approaches to resolving these international crises.

As these negotiations unfold in Geneva, the international community will be closely watching for signs of progress. The outcome of these talks could have significant implications for regional stability and the broader global order. The next few days will be critical in determining whether a diplomatic solution can be found to these pressing challenges.

What comes next will depend on the outcomes of these initial discussions. Further rounds of negotiations are anticipated, and the role of other international actors, such as the European Union and the United Nations, will likely become more prominent as the process moves forward. The situation remains fluid, and the path to a lasting resolution is far from certain.

Share your thoughts on these developments in the comments below, and please share this article with your network.

February 16, 2026 0 comments

Technology

Ukraine War: Rubio Cancels EU Meeting at Munich Security Conference

by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor February 14, 2026

written by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor

Munich – A planned meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and representatives from Germany, Finland, Poland, and the European Commission regarding Ukraine has been abruptly cancelled, raising concerns among European officials. The cancellation, first reported by the Financial Times, comes as Rubio participates in the Munich Security Conference, where he delivered a keynote address focusing on Western security and defense spending. European sources reportedly described the move as “crazy,” signaling growing frustration with perceived shifts in U.S. Commitment to the region.

The timing of Rubio’s cancellation coincides with increased pressure on European nations to bolster their defense capabilities, a message echoed in his Saturday speech. He urged Europe to accelerate defense spending and army building, warning of a potential “civilizational erasure” if commitments aren’t met – a sentiment consistent with messaging from the Trump administration. Even as the tone of Rubio’s address was reportedly softer than that of Vice President JD Vance’s speech at the 2025 Munich Security Conference, the core message regarding national sovereignty and the importance of nations over institutions remained consistent.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, also attending the Munich Security Conference, emphasized the importance of individual support for his country, stating, “Medals are important for Ukraine and for you, but the most important thing is who you are.” Zelenskyy was speaking at a ceremony where he presented the Ukrainian Order of Freedom to individuals supporting Ukrainian athletes, referencing the ongoing debate surrounding the participation of Ukrainian athletes in international competitions. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) continues to reject appeals against the exclusion of athletes, according to reports from the conference.

The situation is further complicated by escalating conflict within Ukraine and across borders. According to Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor of Russia’s Belgorod region, a Ukrainian rocket attack resulted in the deaths of two people and injuries to five others. Gladkov stated, via a video posted on Telegram, that the casualties were part of teams working to repair damaged heating and power networks in the city.

Marco Rubio Keynote Speech | Munich Security Conference 2026

Rubio’s speech at the Munich Security Conference didn’t deviate from the themes associated with the current U.S. Administration, emphasizing the require for nations to grab the lead in addressing global challenges. DW Chief International Correspondent Richard Walker noted that Rubio appeared to be attempting to “create a Trumpian narrative of what the West actually is,” focusing on a vision of security linked to a distinct understanding of Western values. This approach, while less confrontational than Vance’s previous remarks, still underscores a potential shift in U.S. Foreign policy priorities.

The cancellation of the Ukraine meeting raises questions about the level of coordination between the U.S. And its European allies. While Rubio’s speech sought to reassure Europe of continued U.S. Engagement, the abrupt cancellation of the meeting suggests underlying tensions. Concerns have been mounting over the past year regarding the U.S.’s long-term commitment to Europe, fueled by reports of President Trump’s interest in territories like Greenland and a potential refocusing of U.S. Influence towards the Americas.

Day 2: Rubio, v.d. Leyen, Wang Yi, Zelensky | BR24live – YouTube

Adding to the diplomatic complexities, Rubio also skipped a separate “Berlin Format” meeting on Ukraine at the Munich Security Conference, according to reporting from the Kyiv Independent. This further fueled anxieties among European leaders regarding U.S. Engagement with the ongoing crisis. However, Rubio did meet with German CDU leader Friedrich Merz in Munich to discuss Ukraine, NATO, and European defense, as reported by ZDFheute live.

Looking ahead, the outcome of the discussions at the Munich Security Conference, and the extent to which the U.S. And Europe can bridge the apparent gap in strategy, will be critical in shaping the future of support for Ukraine. The coming weeks will likely reveal whether the softer tone of Rubio’s speech translates into concrete commitments, or if the cancelled meeting signals a more fundamental shift in transatlantic relations.

What are your thoughts on the evolving dynamics between the U.S. And Europe regarding the conflict in Ukraine? Share your perspectives in the comments below.

February 14, 2026 0 comments

world

Ischinger: Germany Must Fill Ukraine Support Gap After US Aid Cuts

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor February 14, 2026

written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

As the war in Ukraine continues, calls are growing for increased international support, particularly following concerns about the potential reduction of aid from the United States. Wolfgang Ischinger, chairman of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), has urged Germany to step up its assistance to Ukraine, filling a potential gap left by shifting US priorities. This comes as European leaders increasingly discuss the require for greater strategic autonomy and bolstering the continent’s defense capabilities.

Ischinger emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady flow of weapons, armor, and ammunition to Ukraine, stating that Germany must “much more strongly fill the gap that has arisen due to the failure of the USA to supply Ukraine with weapons, armored goods, and ammunition,” according to a report from ARD’s “Morgenmagazin” on Friday. He believes a successful Ukrainian defense is crucial for achieving a lasting peace that doesn’t further fragment the country.

The discussion around increased European support for Ukraine comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension and a reevaluation of transatlantic security arrangements. The potential for a shift in US foreign policy, particularly in the context of an upcoming presidential election, has prompted European leaders to consider how to strengthen their own collective defense and reduce reliance on the United States. This debate extends to discussions about increasing Europe’s conventional military capabilities and even revisiting the role of nuclear deterrence.

Ischinger highlighted the need for a unified European approach to major strategic challenges, warning that a fragmented Europe risks being “divided” by the United States, China, and Russia. He argued that greater cohesion is essential for the continent to assert its interests and maintain its influence on the global stage.

Germany’s Role in Supporting Ukraine

Germany has already taken a leading role in providing military and financial aid to Ukraine, becoming a key supplier of armored vehicles and other essential equipment. However, Ischinger’s call for increased support suggests a recognition that more will be needed to offset any potential decline in US assistance. The exact level of future US aid remains a subject of ongoing debate in Washington, with potential changes depending on the outcome of the November elections.

The debate over aid levels underscores the complex dynamics at play in the conflict. Even as the US has provided substantial assistance to Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022, there is growing domestic political pressure to reassess the level of involvement. This has led to uncertainty about the future of US aid, prompting European allies to consider how to mitigate the potential impact.

European Security and Nuclear Deterrence

Beyond immediate aid to Ukraine, Ischinger also raised the issue of European security more broadly, suggesting a need to consider strengthening the continent’s nuclear deterrent. He argued that exploring options such as increased utilization or expansion of the nuclear arsenals of France and the United Kingdom could enhance Europe’s ability to deter potential aggression. This proposal reflects a growing concern among some European policymakers about the reliability of US security guarantees and the need for greater strategic autonomy.

The discussion about nuclear deterrence is a sensitive one, given the risks associated with nuclear weapons. However, proponents argue that a credible nuclear deterrent is essential for maintaining peace and stability in a volatile geopolitical environment. France and the United Kingdom are the only European countries with independent nuclear capabilities, and any discussion about strengthening these capabilities would likely involve complex negotiations and strategic considerations.

What to Watch Next

The coming months will be critical for Ukraine as it seeks to maintain its defense against ongoing Russian aggression. The level of support provided by the United States and European allies will be a key factor in determining the outcome of the conflict. The Munich Security Conference, scheduled to take place in February, will likely provide a platform for further discussions on these issues, with a focus on strengthening European security and coordinating international efforts to support Ukraine. The evolving political landscape in the US, particularly as the presidential election approaches, will also be closely watched for any indications of a shift in policy towards Ukraine.

What are your thoughts on the future of European security? Share your comments below.