China warned Friday of possible “live fire” naval drills in international waters off Australia’s east coast, giving minimal notice and disrupting flights, Australian officials said. Beijing called the exercises “safe, standard, and professional,” adhering to international law but did not confirm the use of live ammunition. Australia’s defense forces, along with New Zealand, have been closely monitoring the Chinese naval fleet—comprising a frigate, a cruiser, and a supply tanker—since their presence was detected last week. The sudden announcement has raised concerns over regional security and potential risks to commercial air traffic in the area.
INDIA’S JAISHANKAR MEETS CHINA’S WANG YI, CALLS FOR CONSTRUCTIVE COOPERATION
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) during the G20 Foreign Ministers’ summit. They discussed bilateral ties and global challenges. Wang emphasized China’s commitment to improving relations, highlighting the importance of cooperation between the two Asian neighbors. He stated that the most significant development last year was the summit between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kazan. Both leaders reaffirmed their countries’ shared vision for fostering mutually beneficial collaboration and strengthening diplomatic engagement amid ongoing regional and global challenges.
WASHINGTON TO ZELENSKY: ‘TONE IT DOWN’ AS FRICTION WITH TRUMP ADMINISTRATION GROWS
White House national security adviser Mike Waltz addressed tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, urging Ukraine to “tone it down” and seriously consider signing a deal. Waltz emphasized that high-level U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, which excluded Ukraine, underscored the need for Ukraine to negotiate. Zelensky has firmly opposed any agreements made without Ukraine’s involvement. Amid ongoing Russian attacks, Trump’s administration is pressing Ukraine to accept a minerals deal, granting the U.S. access to its resources in exchange for economic aid and security guarantees. Waltz called the agreement a “historic opportunity” for Ukraine.
SWEDEN LAUNCHES INQUIRY INTO LATEST BALTIC SEA CABLE DISRUPTION
Swedish authorities are investigating a damaged undersea cable in the Baltic Sea, amid growing concerns over potential Russian sabotage. The rupture, discovered between Germany and Finland near Sweden’s Gotland island, follows similar recent incidents. The Swedish coast guard is responding, while police have launched a preliminary sabotage investigation to determine the cause. Authorities emphasized cooperation with relevant agencies but provided no further details. The incident adds to regional fears of espionage and infrastructure attacks, as tensions with Russia remain high. Officials are working to assess the damage and ensure the security of critical communication networks in the area.
MOSCOW HAILS G20 FOREIGN MINISTERS’ SUMMIT IN SOUTH AFRICA AS HISTORIC
The G20 foreign ministers will convene in Johannesburg, South Africa, on February 20-21, marking a historic event for both the country and the African continent, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced. She emphasized that this is South Africa’s first time hosting a G20 event. Russia’s delegation, led by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, plans to engage in multiple diplomatic discussions. The summit is expected to bring together most G20 members alongside invited states and international organizations, ensuring high-level representation. The meeting will address key global issues, highlighting Africa’s growing role in international diplomacy.
