US President Donald Trump suggested that Ukraine was responsible for the ongoing war, despite Russia’s 2022 invasion. Speaking from Mar-a-Lago, he criticized Kyiv for not preventing the conflict and defended US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, which excluded Ukraine and European allies. Trump’s comments risk damaging transatlantic relations and NATO’s credibility. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy postponed his Saudi visit in response. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured that Ukraine would be included in future negotiations. Experts warn the talks seem favorable to Russia, raising concerns about potential US concessions in the peace process.
CHINESE HELICOPTER ENDANGERS PHILIPPINE AIRCRAFT
A Chinese Navy helicopter flew dangerously close – within three meters – to a Philippine government aircraft patrolling Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on February 17, 2025. The incident, captured on video and circulated widely, occurred during an aerial reconnaissance flight with journalists on board a BFAR Cessna. The Philippine Coast Guard immediately warned the Chinese helicopter over the radio, stating that its reckless maneuver endangered crew and passengers and violated safety standards. This encounter adds to escalating tensions in the disputed South China Sea, where similar close calls have been reported in recent weeks, causing widespread concern.
EU IMPOSES FRESH RUSSIA SANCTIONS
The European Union has agreed to impose a fresh round of sanctions on Russia amid calls for negotiations led by Donald Trump. The new measures include banning imports of Russian primary aluminium and extending restrictions to vessels of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ to prevent oil trade circumvention. Additional actions target Russian banks and media outlets, further isolating Moscow. Despite Trump’s suggestions that sanctions relief may be on the table through negotiations, the EU remains firm, vowing to maintain pressure on the Kremlin. Formal adoption of the measures is expected when foreign ministers meet in Brussels. It marks a continued commitment to pressure.
BOLSONARO CHARGED OVER COUP PLOT
Brazil’s prosecutor-general has formally charged former President Jair Bolsonaro for orchestrating a coup to remain in power after his 2022 electoral defeat. Authorities allege that Bolsonaro, along with 33 co-conspirators, devised a plot codenamed “Green and Yellow Dagger” aimed at poisoning President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and assassinating Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. The investigation, supported by documentation including digital files and message exchanges, accuses Bolsonaro of inciting violence and undermining Brazil’s democratic institutions. Bolsonaro denies the allegations, vehemently claiming ignorance of any coup plan. The Supreme Court will soon review the charges, potentially leading to a trial.
NASA RAISES CITY-KILLER ASTEROID RISK
NASA has raised the risk of a “city-killer” asteroid, 2024-YR4, colliding with Earth on December 22, 2032. The latest estimates indicate a 3.1% probability, up from a previous 1 in 64 chances, or about 1 in 32 odds. Measuring between 130 and 300 feet wide, the asteroid could unleash an impact equivalent to 7.7 megatons of TNT, creating a 3,000-foot-wide crater. Although not a global threat, the impact could devastate major cities. NASA’s updated risk corridor spans potential impact zones from South America through Africa to India, prompting urgent monitoring and preparedness measures to mitigate potential catastrophic consequences, ensuring resilience.
