Russian President Vladimir Putin, while supporting a ceasefire in Ukraine, emphasised that any agreement must ensure long-term peace. Speaking alongside Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Putin highlighted concerns about Ukraine using the pause to rearm. He also questioned how the truce would affect Russian-occupied areas, particularly in Kursk, where Moscow’s forces recently reclaimed 86% of Ukrainian-held territory. Key issues, including verification mechanisms and security guarantees, still require discussion with the U.S. A potential meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump was mentioned as part of negotiations. The ceasefire proposal raises geopolitical stakes as both sides assess their next moves.
PUTIN VISITS KURSK AMID CEASEFIRE TALKS
As Russian forces retake Sudzha in Ukraine-held Kursk, President Vladimir Putin visited the region, reinforcing Moscow’s strategic stance ahead of ceasefire talks. Meanwhile, a U.S. envoy arrived in Moscow to discuss Washington’s proposed 30-day truce, which Ukraine has accepted. Russian officials argue the ceasefire may allow Kyiv to regroup militarily. Analysts suggest Putin’s visit signals strength domestically and to the West. The Kremlin is reviewing the U.S. proposal but demands security assurances. While a temporary truce remains possible, fundamental disputes over Ukraine’s NATO ambitions and Russian-controlled territories remain unresolved, raising doubts about a lasting peace agreement.
BELGIAN POLICE RAID HUAWEI OFFICES
Belgian police raided Huawei’s Brussels headquarters and multiple locations in connection with a European Parliament corruption probe. Authorities suspect the Chinese tech giant bribed current and former MEPs to influence EU decision-making. Police conducted 21 searches across Belgium and Portugal, seizing documents and electronic devices. The investigation follows previous corruption scandals, raising concerns over EU integrity. No European Parliament offices have been searched yet, but officials have pledged full cooperation. With Huawei already under scrutiny over security risks, the scandal could damage its reputation further. The European Commission has reiterated its concerns about Huawei’s role in Europe’s 5G networks.
ISRAELI JETS STRIKE DAMASCUS
Israeli jets launched an airstrike on the outskirts of Damascus, targeting what officials described as terrorist positions. Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the operation aimed to disrupt terror activities against Israel, referencing Syrian interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani. While Israeli sources did not specify the exact target, reports suggest it may have been a Palestinian national or an Islamic Jihad headquarters. Syrian media confirmed the strike, though official responses remain limited. The situation continues to develop as tensions in the region persist, with international observers closely monitoring the escalation.
IRAN BOOSTS GOLD RESERVES
Iran has significantly increased its gold imports, bringing in over 81 metric tonnes by January, marking a 300% surge compared to the previous year. The move comes as Iran attempts to shield its economy from US sanctions and economic instability. The government has also encouraged citizens to invest in gold, with state-backed coin sales and digital platforms promoting gold purchases. Reports suggest that part of Iran’s gold may have come from Russia in exchange for drones, though officials deny it. Economists warn that while gold provides short-term stability, it cannot resolve Iran’s deeper economic challenges.
