US Air Force to Launch Readiness Drills in CENTCOM Area of Responsibility

 US Air Force Central (AFCENT) said on Tuesday that Washington will be conducting extended readiness drills in CENTCOM's area of responsibility amid tensions around Iran.

US to send ICE agents to Winter Olympics, prompting Italian anger

The US immigration agency whose officers have been involved in two fatal shootings in Minneapolis has said it is sending agents to help support American security operations during the Winter Olympics, which start in Italy on 6 February.

French MFA criticizes NATO chief's remarks on Europe's inability to defend itself

 French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot rejected NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s words that Europe cannot defend itself without the United States.

Trump threatens to raise tariffs on South Korean goods to 25 percent

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he would raise tariffs on South Korean goods including autos, lumber and pharmaceuticals, taking aim at the country for “not living up to” an earlier trade pact struck with Washington.

UAE says not to allow use of its territory for attacks on Iran

The United Arab Emirates will not allow its territory and airspace to be used for military operations against Iran, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Former Philippine President Duterte fit for pre-trial hearings, ICC judges rule

Former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte will face a hearing at the International Criminal Court next month, judges ruled on Monday, rejecting arguments the 80-year-old was unfit to take part.

Ferry carrying over 350 people sinks in Philippines, killing at least 15

A ferry carrying more than 350 people has capsized off the southern Philippine province of Basilan, killing at least 15 people, according to officials.

Russian ambassador does not rule out that Maduro was betrayed by law enforcement

Russian Ambassador to Caracas Sergey Melik-Bagdasarov believes it’s well within the realm of possibility that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was betrayed by the country’s law enforcement.