US-Iran tensions escalate as negotiations begin in Oman on Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missiles, and proxy support, amid a US military buildup including an “armada” off Iran’s coast and a fighter jet shooting down an Iranian drone; President Trump warns of strikes if no deal is reached.[2][3][4][6]
Gaza aid flotilla launches with thousands of participants from multiple countries in a non-violent response to alleged genocide, siege, and starvation; South African anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela plans to join a March flotilla after prior abduction by Israeli forces.[1]
Humanitarian crises intensify in Sudan with famine spreading, RSF paramilitaries bombing Aluake Hospital (killing 22, including the medical director), and acute malnutrition rising; Cuba faces fuel shortages, blackouts, and food price spikes due to Trump administration pressure on Venezuelan oil; Nigeria deploys troops after gunmen massacre at least 170 in a western village, while 166 abducted last month in Kaduna are rescued.[1]
Europe battles Storm Leonardo with torrential rain, floods, and mass evacuations in Spain’s Andalucía and Portugal; EU agrees on €90bn loan for Ukraine via joint debt.[6]
Other developments include New START nuclear treaty expiration (with Putin offering extension, unanswered by Trump); FBI $50,000 reward for info on Savannah Guthrie’s mother; Trump launches discount drug website; Winter Olympics flame lit in Milan; and 157 Ukraine-Russia prisoner swap.[4][5][6]
