Top world news stories as of February 12, 2026, include a deadly school shooting in Canada’s Tumbler Ridge, ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine amid a failed energy truce, NATO’s new Arctic security initiative, and escalating U.S.-related tensions in Cuba and Greenland.[2][3][4]

Canada School Shooting

A mass shooting at a school in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, killed at least 8-9 people, including 5 teens, a teacher, and members of the suspect’s family; the suspected shooter is also dead.[3][4] The community is in shock, with federal leaders like Carney expressing mourning and solidarity; a girl escaped, saying “it could have been me.”[3] Politicians are united in grief, questioning school safety.[3]

Ukraine-Russia Conflict

Russia launched 244 drones and missiles overnight, including a drone strike in Kharkiv that killed a father and his three children, injuring their pregnant mother; the house was destroyed by fire.[2][4] This follows the expiration of a U.S.-brokered “energy truce” requested by President Trump from Putin to aid Ukraine’s energy sector during winter; Zelenskyy condemned it, declaring a state of emergency in Kharkiv.[2] Zelenskyy says Ukraine is ready for talks as “Russia is hesitating.”[4]

Europe and NATO Developments

The EU addressed drone incursions violating airspace in Poland and Belgium, disrupting airports and infrastructure.[2] Portugal’s presidency role will be temporarily filled by PM Luis Montenegro amid criticism over storm response killing 7 and causing €4 billion damage.[2] Poland’s PM Tusk declined Trump’s “Board of Peace” inaugural meeting on February 19, citing UN conflicts, but left the door open.[2] NATO launched “Arctic Sentry” to bolster high-north security after Trump’s Greenland threats; allies push transatlantic cooperation.[2][4]

Americas and Other Global Stories

Mexico sent two navy ships with aid to Cuba amid a U.S. blockade worsening its energy crisis; airlines are flying empty planes to retrieve stranded travelers.[3][4] El Paso’s airspace shut down over cartel drone concerns from Mexico.[3] In Haiti, UNICEF reports child recruitment by armed groups tripled last year due to poverty and violence.[4] South Korea’s spy agency says Kim Jong Un’s daughter is nearing designation as North Korea’s future leader.[4] Iran condemned U.S. demands in nuclear talks.[3]

U.S.-Related Politics

Democrats forced a vote on Trump tariffs after Republican defections; clashes over Epstein files redactions involve Reps. Massie, Lieu, and Jayapal criticizing Pam Bondi.[3] Super Bowl LX saw the Seahawks defeat the Patriots.[3]