Congo's government will engage in peace talks with the M23 rebel group in Angola, marking a shift from its previous refusal for direct negotiations. The conflict in mineral-rich eastern Congo has escalated significantly, causing massive displacement and humanitarian crises. Mediation efforts are ongoing amid international involvement.
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Trump's decree to freeze most US foreign aid has severely impacted humanitarian support in Somalia, causing immediate halt to critical services provided by USAID partners. Tens of thousands of displaced individuals now lack basic necessities including food, medication, and shelter, further exacerbating their vulnerabilities.
Chinese officials have admitted to conducting cyber attacks on US infrastructure, known as "Volt Typhoon," during a private meeting. This operation, linked to China's military, targeted critical sectors and maintained covert access to the US electric grid. The US also identified another campaign, "Salt Typhoon," targeting American telecommunications networks.
Under Elon Musk's leadership, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) utilizes AI to determine the necessity of federal employees' roles based on their weekly accomplishments. Employees who fail to respond may be considered for termination, sparking legal challenges alleging the directive was unlawfully issued.
Chinese authorities have accused three US National Security Agency (NSA) agents of orchestrating cyberattacks on critical infrastructure during the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin. The alleged operatives, reportedly from the NSA's Office of Tailored Access Operations, targeted systems for information release, entry-exit management, and card payments.
Melania Trump accuses the Obamas of withholding information during her first term transition, while Jill Biden sent her a supportive note this time. Melania declined the Bidens' invitation for tea and did not attend Jill Biden's event. But later as they met at Jimmy Carter's funeral, Jill Biden said Melania thanked her for her note.
Meghan Markle returned to Montecito from the Invictus Games, leaving Prince Harry to continue their Canada visit. The Duchess reunited with their children, celebrating Valentine's Day separately. Prince Harry remains committed to the Games, participating in events and supporting competitors.
A Kentucky woman, Noora Shalash, has been charged with a hate crime after being captured on video making antisemitic slurs and assaulting a Jewish man in a Midtown Manhattan office building. The incident, which occurred at 950 Third Ave, involved Shalash hurling offensive language and physically attacking the man. She faces charges of aggravated harassment as a second-degree hate crime.
Germany's mainstream conservatives led by Friedrich Merz won the national election, positioning him as the next leader. Merz emphasized uniting Europe amidst global challenges and aimed to maintain a strong transatlantic relationship while enhancing European defense capabilities. Negotiations with the Social Democrats are expected to begin soon.
US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Bill Briggs as the deputy administrator of the small business administration for his second term. Briggs, who previously oversaw the Paycheck Protection Program, will work with Kelly Loeffler to support small businesses, which are crucial to the US economy.
The CIA is offering buyouts to its entire workforce, making it the first intelligence agency to implement Donald Trump's voluntary redundancy program for federal employees. This includes halting the hiring of certain candidates. The initiative aims to align the CIA's workforce with national security priorities and Trump's government efficiency goals. This development follows Trump's proposal regarding the Gaza Strip.