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Defense Policy / Programs

• Statement by Performing the Duties of Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert G. Salesses DoD 19 Feb 2025 -- "President Trump's charge to the Department is clear: to achieve peace through strength. We will do this by putting forward budgets that revive the warrior ethos, rebuild our military, and reestablish deterrence."
• Department of Defense Chief of Staff Joseph Kasper Statement on U.S. NORTHCOM Commander Gen. Gregory M. Guillot's Meeting With General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Secretary of National Defense of Mexico (Defensa) Regarding Cooperative Activities Along the United States and Mexico Border DoD 19 Feb 2025 -- General Gregory M. Guillot, Commander, US Northern Command, and General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Secretary of National Defense of Mexico (Defensa), met recently to discuss cooperation on security along the Mexico and U.S. border.
• Readout of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's Call With Thailand Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Phumtham Wechayachai DoD 19 Feb 2025
• Tanzania conducts opening ceremony for Justified Accord 2025 Army News 19 Feb 2025 -- U.S. Army soldiers with the East Africa Response Force (EARF), assigned to Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), alongside the Tanzanian People's Defense Force ( TPDF)and military leaders, officially launched exercise Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) with an opening ceremony at Msata Military Training Base, Tanzania, on Feb. 11, 2025.
• USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) Deploys to Fourth Fleet US Navy 19 Feb 2025 -- The Arleigh-Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) departs Naval Station Mayport, Florida to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations, Feb. 18.
• USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. rescues seven mariners US Navy 19 Feb 2025 -- Crewmembers of the U.S. Coast Guard fast-response cutter USCGC Clarence Sutphin, Jr. (WPC-1147) and the mine countermeasures ship USS Devastator (MCM 6) rescued seven mariners from a disabled vessel in the international waters of the central Arabian Gulf, Feb. 18.
• Minuteman III test launch showcases readiness of US nuclear force's safe, effective deterrent USAF 19 Feb 2025 -- A joint team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen and Vandenberg Space Force Base Guardians launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with a single telemetered joint test assembly re-entry vehicle Feb. 19 fom Vandenberg SFB.
• NATO Allied Air Command hosts pioneering Industry Day NATO Allied Air Command 19 Feb 2025 -- On 11-12 February 2025, NATO's Allied Air Command (AIRCOM) hosted a pioneering Industry Day. Small businesses, start-ups, academia, and industry leaders connected at Ramstein Air Base to explore advancements in software, robotic processes an artificial intelligence.
• NATO Allies discuss energy security with the Executive Director of the IEA and the European Commissioner for Energy NATO 19 Feb 2025 -- On Wednesday (19 February 2025), Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the Executive Director of the International Energy Agency, Fatih Birol and the European Commissioner for Energy, Dan Joergensen, to the NATO Headquarters for a meeting with the North Atlantic Council.
• 73rd Anniversary of Türkiye Joining the NATO Alliance Republic of Turkey Ministry of National Defence 19 Feb 2025
• One year since accession: Sweden announces first contribution to NATO Air Policing NATO SHAPE 19 Feb 2025 -- Many of us grew up playing Counter-Strike, lurking in hidden spots, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. But in real life, a military sniper is far more than just a character in a video game. Silent and unseen, they operate in the heart of the battlefield, where a single shot can determine the line between life and death. Behind the rifle and camouflage lies a strategist—an expert in patience and self-control.
• Answers to questions from media representatives President of Russia 19 Feb 2025 -- During his visit to Radar MMS, the President answered a number of questions from Russian media representatives.
• Visit to Radar MMS President of Russia 19 Feb 2025 -- In St Petersburg, Vladimir Putin visited Radar MMS, a research and production enterprise specialising in the development of guidance systems for precision-guided weapons, radar systems, and military and civilian unmanned aerial vehicles.
• After Joining Russia's War In Ukraine, Captured Central Asians Are In Limbo RFE/RL 19 Feb 2025 -- Last month, Russia and Ukraine exchanged 25 prisoners of war each, the first of two exchanges this year so far and one of dozens since the war began.
• Zelenskyy: Cooperation with US must be 'constructive' VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- After U.S. President Donald Trump had lashed out at Ukraine's leader on Wednesday, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was preparing for a meeting on Thursday with Trump's envoy in Kyiv to work toward "a lasting peace" with Russia.
• Excluded From Talks, Bruised By Trump, Zelenskyy Calls For 'More Truth' RFE/RL 19 Feb 2025 -- With the most consequential talks his country has faced in decades proceeding without his country's involvement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy punched back -- at doubters, at Russia, and, most notably, at U.S. President Donald Trump.
• Ukrainian president accuses Trump of 'disinformation' campaign IRNA 19 Feb 2025 -- A war of words is intensifying between the Ukrainian and U.S. presidents as Volodymyr Zelensky has hit back at Donald Trump's accusation that Ukraine started the ongoing war with Russia.
• I Count on Ukrainian Unity, on Ukrainian Courage, on Our Relations with Partners, on European Unity, and on America's Pragmatism - Address by the President President of Ukraine 19 Feb 2025
• U.S. Talks with Russian Representatives Helped Putin Break Out of Isolation - Volodymyr Zelenskyy President of Ukraine 19 Feb 2025
• The United Kingdom's Participation in All Efforts to Protect Europe Is Important to Us - President in Conversation with Keir Starmer President of Ukraine 19 Feb 2025
• Trump Appears To Blame Ukraine For War But 'Confident' Of Reaching Peace Deal RFE/RL 19 Feb 2025 -- U.S. President Donald Trump seems to have blamed Volodymyr Zelenskyy for Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, saying he was "disappointed" that the Ukrainian president complained about being frozen out of U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia on ending the war.
• Trump Calls Zelenskyy 'Dictator Without Elections,' Urges Him To 'Move Fast' RFE/RL 19 Feb 2025 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, calling him a "dictator" who risks losing his country if he does not "move fast."
• Trump, Zelensky trade accusations after US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia Global Times 19 Feb 2025 -- US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky traded accusations after high-level talks between Russia and the US in Saudi Arabia, with Trump saying Ukraine "should have never started" the conflict and that Ukraine "could have made a deal earlier," while Zelensky hit back by saying Trump is trapped in a "disinformation bubble" and that Ukraine is not for sale.
• Trump's comments on Ukraine draw mixed reaction from US lawmakers VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- U.S. President Donald Trump's comments this week claiming Ukraine was responsible for starting the three-year conflict with Russia and calling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy "a dictator without elections" drew criticism from congressional Democrats and pushback from some members of the Republican Party.
• Europe frozen out of peace talks as Russia's war on Ukraine enters fourth year VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- Russia's tanks rolled across the Ukrainian border three years ago this month, triggering the worst conflict on European soil since World War II. Ukraine has resisted the full-scale invasion largely thanks to the support of the United States and Europe.
• Finland, Sweden stress Europe's interests in Ukraine peace efforts amid U.S.-Russia talks People's Daily 19 Feb 2025 -- Finnish and Swedish politicians on Tuesday underscored Europe's interests in ongoing peace efforts as the United States and Russia held closed-door talks on ending the war in Ukraine.
• Finland's Prime Minister Orpo attended Ukraine meeting hosted by France Finnish Government 19 Feb 2025 -- President of the Republic Alexander Stubb and Prime Minister Petteri Orpo participated remotely in a Ukraine meeting on Wednesday 19 February. French President Emmanuel Macron convened the high-level meeting to discuss Ukraine and European security.
• How Realistic Is A European Peace-Keeping Force In Ukraine? RFE/RL 19 Feb 2025 -- Diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine have been turbocharged in recent days, prompting European countries to speak with new urgency about sending a peacekeeping force.
• US figures do not support Trump claims on Ukraine spending VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- President Donald Trump on Wednesday repeated a claim that the United States has spent $350 billion on Ukraine's war — a figure that far eclipses the amount recorded by the Department of Defense and the interagency oversight group that tracks U.S. appropriations to Ukraine.
• Lithuania has transferred to Ukraine sights with thermal imaging equipment and trucks Lithuania MND 19 Feb 2025 -- As Lithuania firmly stands by Ukraine by providing military aid, a new batch including trucks, thermal imaging sights and more aid for the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been delivered.
• PLA Air Force integrates AI in pilot recruitment program Global Times 19 Feb 2025 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force has integrated new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), into its annual pilot recruitment program for 2025 to boost precision in selection. An expert expressed hope that AI will help recruit more capable pilots.
• U.S. silent on rumored multibillion-dollar Taiwan weapons purchase CNA 19 Feb 2025 -- A U.S. government spokesperson on Tuesday refused to confirm a Reuters report stating Taiwan is planning a multibillion-dollar weapons purchase from the United States to appease the Donald Trump administration.
• High stakes in Exercise Red Flag over Las Vegas Australia DOD 19 Feb 2025 -- The Royal Australian Air Force has joined the United States military and Royal Air Force (RAF) in Exercise Red Flag at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, showcasing seamless multinational air operations.
• Black Hawk fleet bolsters Australia's security Australia DOD 19 Feb 2025 -- The Albanese Government has again demonstrated it is rapidly getting crucial defence capability into the hands of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), with the achievement of initial operating capability of the Australian Army's UH-60M Black Hawks, marking one of the fastest initial phases of a capability acquisition in recent times.
• Canadian Armed Forces Recruitment Process Modernization update Canada 19 Feb 2025 -- The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is improving its recruitment process to meet the security threats of the future and to achieve the goals of our current defence policy, Our North, Strong and Free.
• INDIAN NAVY'S FIRST TRAINING SQUADRON DEPARTS SIHANOUKVILLE PORT, CAMBODIA India PIB 19 Feb 2025 -- Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS) comprising - INS Sujata, and ICGS Veera departed from Sihanoukville, Cambodia on 17 Feb 25 marking the conclusion of a successful visit
• Defence Secretary co-chairs 13th Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur India PIB 19 Feb 2025 -- The 13th meeting of Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee (MIDCOM) took place in Kuala Lumpur on February 19, 2025
• IRGC unveils advanced military equipment in ongoing military drill IRNA 19 Feb 2025 -- The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Ground Force has unveiled a wide range of missiles, drones, and artillery equipment during the Payambar-e Azam (Great Prophet) 19 war games in Iran's southwestern regions.
• IRGC Ground Force unveils new indigenous smart missiles, drones during major drill Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Ground Force has unveiled a series of domestically-developed smart missiles and combat drones in the course of an ongoing large-scale and specialized operational readiness exercise in the country's southwestern province of Khuzestan.
• North Korea's 'largest' warship under construction with Russian aid: report Radio Free Asia 19 Feb 2025 -- North Korea is building a second large naval combatant at Chongjin Shipyard, which is possibly its largest warship, new satellite imagery shows, with experts saying it suggests Pyongyang is strengthening its conventional naval capabilities in collaboration with Moscow.
• A look at the Defence news 10 - 16 February Netherlands Ministry of Defence 19 Feb 2025
• Government proposes 50 billion DKK package to accelerate the build-up of the Danish Defence Danish Ministry of Defence 19 Feb 2025 -- The Danish Government proposes to accelerate the build-up of Danish Defence fighting capability. An additional 50 billion DKK allocated over the coming two years and a reorganization of the Danish Ministry of Defence will help speed up investments. With the increased funding Denmark will allocate more than 3 pct. of GDP on defence
• Dace Melbārde: strengthening of Europe's security must be a priority in the next EU multi-annual budget Latvia MFA 19 Feb 2025 -- On 18 February 2025, at the informal meeting of the European Union (EU) Ministers for European Affairs held in Warsaw, Poland, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dace Melbārde, discussed topics related to Europe's security and resilience and priorities for the EU's Multiannual Financial Framework, MFF (2028-2034).
• PH Army, ULAP ink pact to beef up reserve forces Philippine News Agency 19 Feb 2025 -- The Philippine Army (PA) on Wednesday announced that it would beef up its reserve force and develop the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) with the assistance of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP).
• Secretary Rubio's Call with Angolan Foreign Minister Antonio US Dept. of State 19 Feb 2025
• Secretary Rubio's Call with Prime Minister Holness of Jamaica US Dept. of State 19 Feb 2025
• Secretary Rubio's Meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan US Dept. of State 19 Feb 2025

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Feb. 19, 2025

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News


• 19 February 2025 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 19 Feb 2025
• Wang Yi on How the U.N. Security Council Better Fulfills Its Duties PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi answered questions from the media on the spot after chairing the United Nations (U.N.) Security Council high-level meeting themed "Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance".
• Wang Yi on the U.N. Security Council High-level Meeting Reaching Consensus on Revitalizing Multilateralism PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi made remarks to the media after chairing the United Nations (U.N.) Security Council high-level meeting themed "Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance".

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• Prime Minister's Office announcement Israel - Prime Minister 19 Feb 2025
• Statement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Israel - Prime Minister 19 Feb 2025
• Far-right Israeli minister calls for 'forced' relocation of Gazans Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- A far-right Israeli minister has called for immediate execution of a controversial plan to forcibly remove Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, rejecting the idea of "voluntary" evacuation.
• Israel prepares for 'very difficult day'; bodies of youngest hostages to be returned VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- Hamas is scheduled to turn over the bodies of four slain hostages Thursday, including those of the youngest captives - infant Kfir Bibas, who was 9 months old when he was kidnapped, and his 4-year-old brother, Ariel Bibas.
• Hamas says ready to free all Israeli captives at once in phase two of truce Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- A senior Hamas official says the Palestinian resistance movement is willing to free all the remaining Israeli captives held in Gaza in a single swap during the next phase of the ongoing ceasefire agreement.
• Doubts remain as Gaza conflict marks 500 days People's Daily 19 Feb 2025 -- The conflict between Palestinians and Israelis has marked 500 days with more uncertainty, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a visit to Riyadh on Monday, focused on US President Donald Trump's controversial proposal for Gaza, a plan that has drawn strong condemnation from Arab states but Israel is "committed" to it.
• Israel must end occupation of south Lebanon: President Aoun tells US envoy Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun urges the United States to press Israel to end its occupation of the country and completely withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon.
• Israel kills one, injures two in southern Lebanon: Media Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- An Israeli airstrike has killed one person and injured two others in Lebanon's southern towns of Ayta ash-Shab and Wazzani.
• Children and young people in East Jerusalem denied of their right to education in UNRWA schools UNRWA 19 Feb 2025
• UN to continue Gaza vaccination campaign against polio UN News 19 Feb 2025 -- The UN World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Wednesday that the mass polio vaccination campaign in Gaza which began successfully last year, will continue in the coming days.
• Mass polio vaccination campaign to continue in the Gaza Strip WHO 19 Feb 2025
• WHO: Gaza children are in danger of polio outbreak Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- The World Health Organization (WHO) says mass polio vaccination will resume in Gaza after the virus has been detected again in the war-ravaged territory.
• US halts funding for Palestinian Authority security forces Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- US and Palestinian officials say the administration of US President Donald Trump has entirely cut off funding for the security forces of the Palestinian Authority.
• Araghchi says Israeli regime failed to achieve any of its goals IRNA 19 Feb 2025 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says the Israeli regime has failed to achieve any of its sinister goals despite committing most severe crimes and killing tens of thousands of defenseless Palestinian women and children.
• Iran's supreme leader says U.S. "foolish" plans for Gaza to lead nowhere People's Daily 19 Feb 2025 -- Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said here Tuesday that U.S. "foolish" plans for Gaza and Palestine "will lead nowhere."
• 'Gaza is rightful land of Palestinians': Iran rebukes US plan for forced relocation of Gazans Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Iran's permanent ambassador to the United Nations has rebuked the US colonial plan to forcibly displace Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, describing the plot as a flagrant violation of international law and blatant disregard for human rights.
• Israel must be held accountable for genocide in Gaza: Iran's UN envoy Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Iran's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations has strongly condemned the Israeli regime's brutal military attacks against the Palestinian people, particularly in the Gaza Strip, calling for the occupying regime to be held accountable for the genocide in the besieged territory.
• OIC Condemns the Decision of the Government of Fiji to Move its Embassy to Occupied Al-Quds Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) 19 Feb 2025 -- The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed its rejection and condemnation of the decision of the Prime Minister of the Government of Fiji, Sitiveni Rabuka, to move his country's embassy to occupied Al-Quds
• China calls on all parties to accelerate two-state solution: Chinese FM Global Times 19 Feb 2025 -- China calls on all parties to accelerate the two-state solution and support the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday.
• China sends humanitarian aid to Gaza through Jordan People's Daily 19 Feb 2025 -- The Chinese embassy in Jordan and the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization held a departure ceremony on Tuesday for a humanitarian aid shipment to the Gaza Strip.
• Wang Yi on China's Position on the Gaza Conflict PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi answered questions from the media on the spot after chairing the United Nations (U.N.) Security Council high-level meeting themed "Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance".
• Egypt, Spain reaffirm opposition to US plan to displace Palestinians Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez have reaffirmed their opposition to US President Donald Trump's controversial plan to "take over" Gaza and displace Palestinians from the war-ravaged strip.
• The Spanish Government calls for full compliance with the cessation of hostilities agreement between Israel and Lebanon Spain MFA 19 Feb 2025 -- On 18 February the deadline set in the cessation of hostilities agreement between Israel and Lebanon passed.
• UAE says it rejects any attempt to displace Palestinian people VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan told U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the UAE rejects "any attempts to displace the Palestinian people from their land" as Rubio made a visit Wednesday to Abu Dhabi.
• US, France want mercenaries deployed in south Lebanon: Report Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- The United States and France have reportedly suggested that mercenaries called private contractors should be deployed in south Lebanon in a bid to encourage Israel into a full withdrawal of its forces from the country.

Other Conflicts

• U.S. Support for the Philippines in the South China Sea US Dept. of State 19 Feb 2025 -- "The United States stands with its ally the Philippines to condemn the unsafe and irresponsible actions by the Chinese People's Liberation Army-Navy (PLAN) to interfere with a Philippine maritime air operation in the vicinity of Scarborough Reef."
• Philippines to hold large military drills as China tensions simmer VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- Philippine defense officials say they will hold a large, 10-day military training exercise next month, aiming to strengthen the country's ability to respond to any crisis caused by an "external threat."
• PCG slams China PLA Navy helicopter's 'dangerous maneuvers' in WPS Philippine News Agency 19 Feb 2025 -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday condemned the dangerous maneuvers of a China People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy helicopter against a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aircraft in a recent encounter in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
• PAF: Chinese helicopter maneuver 'unsafe, extremely dangerous' Philippine News Agency 19 Feb 2025 -- The maneuvers conducted by the Chinese Harbin Z-9 helicopter against a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 208B Grand Caravan EX aircraft were "unsafe and extremely dangerous", the Philippine Air Force (PAF) said Wednesday.
• PH patrols to continue in BdM despite Chinese Navy's dangerous acts Philippine News Agency 19 Feb 2025 -- Despite China's continued illegal, coercive and aggressive behavior, the Philippines will not give up its "routine maritime operations" in Bajo de Masinloc, the National Maritime Council (NMC) said Tuesday night.
• China stands ready to actively advance the consultations of South China Sea COC: FM Global Times 19 Feb 2025 -- A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Wednesday said that China stands ready to work with ASEAN countries to fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, actively advance the consultations of the code of conduct in the South China Sea (COC), strive to conclude the COC at an early date, and jointly keep the South China Sea peaceful and stable.
• China opposes construction on illegally-occupied islands, reefs: FM responds to Vietnam's reclamation on Bai Jiao Global Times 19 Feb 2025 -- In response to a question about Vietnam expanding Bai Jiao 10 times by land reclamation, dredging a 299-meter-wide waterway located at the western end of Bai Jiao wide enough to host large vessels including warships, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday that the Nansha Qundao are China's inherent territory, and Bai Jiao is a part of the Nansha Qundao, according to CCTV News.
• China denounces Vietnam's island building in South China Sea Radio Free Asia 19 Feb 2025 -- China on Wednesday voiced opposition to Vietnam's recent developments in the Spratly archipelago in a rare public protest.
• Taliban confirm Pakistan's new plan for swift mass eviction of Afghan refugees VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- Diplomats from Afghanistan's ruling Taliban reported Wednesday that neighboring Pakistan is implementing a plan for the "imminent" and swift mass deportation of nearly three million Afghan refugees from its territory.
• FM spokesperson responds to claim of three Chinese warships sailing in Australia's 'exclusive economic zone' Global Times 19 Feb 2025 -- In response to a media question about "three Chinese warships sailing in Australia's 'exclusive economic zone'," Guo Jiakun, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said at a regular press conference on Wednesday that he is not familiar with the situation.
• Israel launches drone strikes against several sites in southern Syria Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Israeli military aircraft have launched a series of strikes against several weapons sites inside Syria, in the latest act of aggression against the Arab country since Bashar al-Assad's fall in December.
• Rohingya in limbo as some aid groups suspend health services at Bangladesh camps Radio Free Asia 19 Feb 2025 -- At a Rohingya refugee camp in southeastern Bangladesh, Mohammed Hasan cast doubt over whether he'd ever walk again.
• 'Fragile stability' in Libya increasingly at risk, Security Council hears UN News 19 Feb 2025 -- The dream of a civil, democratic and prosperous Libya remains unfulfilled 14 years after the revolution that led to the overthrow of the Gaddafi regime, the head of UN Political and Peacebuilding Affairs told the Security Council on Wednesday.
• New UN Mediator for Libya — Tenth in 14 Years — Must Avoid Past Failures, Delegate Warns Security Council UN Security Council 19 Feb 2025 -- Libya's leaders and security actors are prioritizing political and personal gain over national interests, the United Nations' top political official told the Security Council today, as the country's delegate blamed proxy wars for its instability.
• The UK supports UNSMIL's call for a full investigation into mass graves of migrants: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 19 Feb 2025 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.
• Statement of the International Contact Group (ICG) on the situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo Germany Federal Foreign Office 19 Feb 2025
• As Regional Tensions Escalate, M23 Rebel Group Advances Further in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Top UN Officials Urge Warring Parties to Restart Negotiations UN Security Council 19 Feb 2025 -- Amid rising regional tensions and the continuous advance of the 23 March Movement, or M23, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, senior UN officials told the Security Council today that the warring parties must return to the negotiating table and seriously work towards peace, while also welcoming regional efforts to resolve the conflict.
• Civilians at breaking point in eastern DR Congo warns top aid official, in call to resume talks UN News 19 Feb 2025 -- As the Security Council prepared to gather on Wednesday to debate the international community's response to the growing emergency in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UN's top aid official there urged all warring parties to allow lifesaving relief supplies to reach the most vulnerable.
• The continued advance into DRC of M23 and the Rwandan Defence Forces is a breach of the UN charter: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 19 Feb 2025 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan UNOCHA 19 Feb 2025 -- Remarks at the joint launch of the 2025 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan and Regional Refugee Response Plan

News Reports

• Second Round of Pakistan-UK Counter Terrorism Dialogue (London, 17-18 February 2025) Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Feb 2025 -- The 2nd Round of Pakistan-United Kingdom Counter Terrorism Dialogue took place in London from 17-18 February, 2025. The Pakistan delegation was led by Mr. Abdul Hameed, Director General for Counter-Terrorism, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the United Kingdom's side was headed by Ms. Kitty Jenkins, Joint Director for National Security, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
• Trump says to "probably" meet Putin this month People's Daily 19 Feb 2025 -- U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he will "probably" meet Russian President Vladimir Putin this month.
• Putin Praises Friendly Russian-US Negotiations in Riyadh Sputnik 19 Feb 2025 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that he had been briefed on the results of talks between Russian and US delegations in Riyadh and gave a positive assessment of the negotiations.
• No specific date set for Putin-Trump talks: Kremlin aide People's Daily 19 Feb 2025 -- No specific date has been set yet for a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, local media reported Tuesday, citing Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov following talks with U.S. officials in Riyadh.
• U.S., Russia reach consensus on normalizing bilateral ties, ending Ukraine conflict People's Daily 19 Feb 2025 -- The United States and Russia agreed to normalize bilateral ties and begin working on ending the Ukraine-Russia conflict, the State Department said following Tuesday's meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Saudi Arabia.
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to questions during the Government Hour at the State Duma, Moscow, February 19, 2025 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Feb 2025
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's comments for media members following Government Hour at the State Duma, Moscow, February 19, 2025 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Feb 2025
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's participation in the State Duma of Federal Assembly meeting within 'Government Hour' Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Feb 2025
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's upcoming participation in the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Feb 2025
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun's Regular Press Conference on February 19, 2025 PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025
• Wang Yi Chairs U.N. Security Council High-Level Meeting "Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance" PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, under the initiative of China as the rotating President of the United Nations (U.N.) Security Council for February, the Security Council held a high-level meeting themed "Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance".
• Wang Yi Meets with Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi met with Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó at the United Nations (U.N.) headquarters in New York.
• Wang Yi Meets with Ugandan Foreign Minister Odongo Jeje Abubakher PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi met with Ugandan Foreign Minister Odongo Jeje Abubakher at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
• Wang Yi Meets with Bolivian Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi met with Bolivian Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda at the United Nations (U.N.) headquarters in New York.
• Wang Yi Elaborates on China's View on Improving Global Governance PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi elaborated on China's view on the reform and improvement of global governance when chairing the United Nations (U.N.) Security Council high-level meeting in New York.
• Remarks by H.E. Wang Yi at the United Nations Security Council High-Level Meeting "Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance" PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025
• Chinese FM responds to Donald Trump Jr.'s remarks: Hope US will meet China halfway Global Times 19 Feb 2025 -- On the issue of China-US relations, China's position is consistent and clear. We are willing to resolve our respective concerns with the US through dialogue and consultation, based on the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, while firmly safeguarding our national sovereignty, security, and development interests, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday.
• China condemns 'unilateral and arbitrary' US tariffs Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- China has firmly condemned the sweeping tariffs threatened or imposed by US President Donald Trump on its products, saying they disrupt global trade.
• 'Time is running out' for jailed pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai Radio Free Asia 19 Feb 2025 -- The son of jailed pro-democracy media magnate Jimmy Lai has warned that "time is running out" for his father's health, and called on Britain and the United States to push for his release.
• Chinese state firms win billions as Hong Kong splurges on cross-border development Radio Free Asia 19 Feb 2025 -- The Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee Xia Baolong, center, inspects the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, with officials, Feb. 9, 2025.
• HKSAR gov't defends High Court ruling on Ted Hui's asset confiscation People's Daily 19 Feb 2025 -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government issued a robust defense on Tuesday regarding a High Court ruling that permits the confiscation of assets belonging to former lawmaker Ted Hui Chi-fung, who has absconded overseas and is currently a wanted individual facing charges for breaching the national security law in Hong Kong.
• China unveils action plan to stabilize foreign investment Global Times 19 Feb 2025 -- China on Wednesday unveiled a new action plan to stabilize foreign investment, with 20 specific measures in four aspects, including further expanding market access in various sectors and increasing efforts to promote investment.
• Taiwan 'a chess player, not a chess piece': Lai CNA 19 Feb 2025 -- Taiwan is "a chess player, not a chess piece" in the shifting geopolitical climate, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Wednesday, reaffirming his administration's commitment to strengthen the country's defense through increased spending and reforms.
• INTERVIEW/Trump claim on 'stolen' chips a misunderstanding: Presidential advisor CNA 19 Feb 2025 -- A senior advisor to Taiwan's president said the claim by U.S. President Donald Trump that Taiwan "stole" the United States' chip business is a misunderstanding, stressing that Taiwan's semiconductor success has been a crucial element in helping the U.S. maintain its technological edge.
• Ministry of National Defense Press Release on "Chinese Communist Party Conducting Joint Combat Readiness Patrols" ROC MND 19 Feb 2025
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 19 Feb 2025
• North Korea's 'Day of the Shining Star' dimmer this year Radio Free Asia 19 Feb 2025 -- The "Shining Star" wasn't quite as lustrous this year in North Korea, as celebrations for the birthday of supreme leader Kim Jong Un's late father and predecessor came and went without much fanfare, residents told Radio Free Asia.
• Iran launches pilot project to extract, purify helium from natural gas for first time Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) says the Islamic Republic has launched a pilot project for extracting and purifying helium from natural gas for the first time, praising the move as a "strategic step" for the country.
• Qatari Emir arrives in Tehran for deeper cooperation talks Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has arrived in Tehran on an official visit for talks with Iranian officials.
• Russia affirms strong ties with Iran amid possible thaw with U.S. IRNA 19 Feb 2025 -- Mikhail Ulyanov, Russia's permanent envoy to international organizations in Vienna, says Moscow's relationship with Tehran remains strong and will not be influenced by any potential improvement in Russian-U.S. relations.
• Exclusive: Russia aims to help resolve Iran's nuclear issue, says Kremlin spokesperson IRNA 19 Feb 2025 -- Dmitry Peskov, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office and Presidential Press Secretary, has emphasized the importance of strong relations and partnership with Iran for Russia, adding that Russian officials are eager to assist in resolving significant issues, including the nuclear program.
• Pezeshkian: Iran-Russia strategic partnership deal significant manifestation of mutual cooperation Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement signed between Iran and Russia is a significant manifestation of mutual cooperation between the two countries.
• IRGC dismantles Israeli-US linked networks in northern Iran IRNA 19 Feb 2025 -- The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) intelligence forces have successfully dismantled networks linked to the U.S. and the Israeli regime, and other hostile nations in Mazandaran province, northern Iran.
• IRGC dismantles multiple US, Israeli spying networks in northern Iran Press TV 19 Feb 2025 -- Intelligence forces with Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) have dismantled multiple espionage networks linked to the United States and Israel in the country's northern province of Mazandaran.
• Myanmar adopts law for foreign firms to provide armed security Radio Free Asia 19 Feb 2025 -- Myanmar's military government has adopted a law allowing foreign companies to provide armed security services, which analysts suspect will lead to former military personnel from China protecting its extensive economic interests in its southern neighbor.
• Immigration, cost of living frustrate voters as German elections loom VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- Germany is set to hold a general election on Sunday, with voter frustrations over migration at the forefront of a heated campaign.
• Wang Yi Meets with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan Mohammad Ishaq Dar PRC MofA 19 Feb 2025 -- On February 18, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan Mohammad Ishaq Dar at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
• Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister's Meeting with the Saudi Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs in New York Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Feb 2025 -- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met with the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Eng. Waleed Abdul Karim El-Khereiji, in New York today.
• Meeting of the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister with the UN Secretary-General António Guterres in New York Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Feb 2025 -- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a meeting with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in New York today.
• South Africa: Press remarks by High Representative Kaja Kallas after the EU-South Africa Ministerial Political Dialogue European External Action Service (EEAS) 19 Feb 2025 -- We, the European Union and South Africa, discussed cooperation in multilateral and regional fora, focusing in particular on our joint efforts to promote human rights and sustainable development to address climate change.
• South Africa: Opening remarks by High Representative Kaja Kallas at the EU-South Africa Ministerial Political Dialogue European External Action Service (EEAS) 19 Feb 2025 -- Thank you. I am really happy to be here. This is my first visit as High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the European Union to Africa since I took office in December.
• Joint Press Release: 16th European Union - South Africa Ministerial Political Dialogue European External Action Service (EEAS) 19 Feb 2025
• Doorstop interview - Sydney Prime Minister of Australia 19 Feb 2025
• "Türkiye continues to write a brand-new success story in foreign policy" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 19 Feb 2025 -- Addressing AK Party's parliamentary group meeting, President Erdoğan recalled his official visits to Malaysia, Indonesia and Pakistan, and said: "We closely witnessed the greatness of Türkiye and the Turkish nation during all our three visits. We see that Türkiye continues to break the mold, go beyond the ordinary, and write a brand-new success story that befits its historical heritage in foreign policy."
• Armenia: 14th Human Rights Dialogue held in Brussels European External Action Service (EEAS) 19 Feb 2025 -- On 17 February, the European Union and Armenia held their 14th Human Rights Dialogue in Brussels.
• Minister for Foreign Affairs meets with Lithuanian counterpart Government Offices of Sweden 19 Feb 2025 -- On Wednesday 19 February, Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard received Lithuania's Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys.
• Budrys in Stockholm: "Time for Europe to do more and do it now" Lithuania MFA 19 Feb 2025 -- On 19 February, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Kęstutis Budrys, met with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden, Maria Malmer Stenergard, in Stockholm.
• Multiple disease outbreaks heighten public health emergencies for children across Eastern and Southern Africa UNICEF 19 Feb 2025 -- Public health emergencies, including outbreaks of cholera, mpox and, more recently, viral haemorrhagic fevers, are posing significant threats to the safety and wellbeing of millions of children in Eastern and Southern Africa, UNICEF said today.
• Vietnam law clears way for Starlink entry amid US trade concerns Radio Free Asia 19 Feb 2025 -- Vietnam has passed legislation that would allow tech billionaire and senior U.S. presidential adviser Elon Musk's Starlink telecommunications company to begin offering satellite internet services in the Southeast Asian country.
• Vietnam parliament approves $8 billion railway with loan from China VOA 19 Feb 2025 -- The Vietnam National Assembly on Wednesday gave a near-unanimous approval to a railway bill that allows the country to utilize Chinese loans for the construction of a new $8.3 billion link aimed at improving transport connections between the two neighboring countries.