India joined growing number of countries including South Korea, Australia, the U.S., and Italy, have banned the use of Chinese AI DeepSeek over national security concerns. South Korea’s industry ministry recently issued a temporary ban, joining India, which cited confidentiality risks in government use. The U.S. Department of Defence has restricted DeepSeek, warning of cybersecurity threats. Taiwan and Italy also cited risks of data transmission leaks. Additionally, Belgium, France, and Ireland have imposed restrictions. Governments fear foreign influence and exploitation of AI technology, while DeepSeek remains under investigation in several regions.
MARCO RUBIO BOYCOTTS G20 TALKS
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he will boycott the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, on February 20-21, citing the host nation’s “anti-American” agenda. His decision follows President Trump’s criticism of South Africa’s land reforms. Rubio accused the G20 presidency of promoting “DEI and climate change” over national interests. South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola rejected the claims, defending the land reform law as similar to U.S. eminent domain laws. The U.S. absence from the G20 could impact global diplomacy, including Russia-Ukraine discussions, where Rubio was expected to meet Sergei Lavrov.
PAKISTAN SETS REFUGEE DEADLINE
Pakistan has issued a March 31, 2025 deadline for Afghan refugees awaiting U.S. resettlement, following President Donald Trump’s decision to pause the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). Many Afghans who worked with the U.S. military and NATO fear deportation, calling it a death sentence due to Taliban reprisals. The United Nations warns of severe risks, especially for women, journalists, and activists. Pakistan’s government insists refugees must leave or face forced repatriation. With 10,000 to 15,000 Afghans stranded in limbo, humanitarian groups urged the U.S. and Pakistan to find a solution before the deadline.
ARGENTINA TO LEAVE WHO
Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), following a similar decision by U.S. President Donald Trump last month. President Javier Milei claims the move will protect national sovereignty and prevent external influence over health policies. His administration criticizes WHO for economic harm during COVID-19, citing prolonged quarantines. The withdrawal aligns with broader shifts in Argentina’s foreign policy, mirroring Trump’s stance on global institutions. WHO has not yet responded, but critics warn of potential health funding and coordination challenges. Argentina insists the exit will bring policy flexibility and greater control over its healthcare system.
AUSTRALIA MANDATES JAIL FOR NAZI SALUTES
The Australian Parliament has passed new hate crime laws enforcing mandatory jail sentences for displaying Nazi symbols or performing a Nazi salute. The amendments, introduced after a surge in antisemitic attacks, include minimum sentences of one year for hate symbols, three years for financing terrorism, and six years for terror acts. The ruling Labor Party faced criticism for reversing its opposition to mandatory sentencing, while opposition parties accused it of acting too slowly. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke defended the move, stating it targets hate-fueled violence. Recent antisemitic incidents, including arson attacks, intensified calls for stricter legislation.
