Donald Trump's repeated threats of tariffs and his proposal for Canada to become the "51st state" have stirred nationalistic sentiment in Canada. While his threats target Canada's trade, they have united Canadians in defending their sovereignty. As Trump pushes for harsher measures, the mood in Canada ranges from anxiety to defiance, influencing the political landscape ahead of federal elections. Leaders across Canada, including provincial premiers, are responding to Trump’s rhetoric with fierce patriotism, aiming to protect national interests and strengthen Canadian identity.  

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has made a confident statement ahead of their Champions Trophy 2025 opener against India on February 20th in Dubai. He asserted that Bangladesh isn't just participating, but aiming to win the tournament. Shanto highlighted their strengthened bowling and well-rounded team, expressing his belief that they can beat anyone if they play to their potential. Following the India match, Bangladesh will play New Zealand and Pakistan in the group stage.  

    Following his loss in the recent Delhi Assembly elections, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Saurabh Bharadwaj has launched a YouTube channel called Berozgar Neta (Unemployed Leader). The former Delhi minister, who was defeated in the Greater Kailash constituency, stated that the channel will focus on governance, public welfare, and key social issues. Through this platform, Bharadwaj intends to stay engaged with the public and continue political discussions. His initiative comes at a time when AAP faces electoral challenges, with leaders seeking alternative ways to connect with people. The channel has already attracted attention, sparking mixed political reactions.  

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to meet Bangladesh's Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain in Muscat, Oman, next week. The meeting is anticipated to occur on the sidelines of the 8th Indian Ocean Conference, scheduled for February 16-17, which Jaishankar will co-chair alongside Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi and Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. This would mark their second bilateral discussion since August 5, 2024, following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The dialogue aims to ease prevailing tensions between the neighboring countries.  

European nations like the UK, France, and Germany are standing by Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. They emphasize Ukraine's right to decide its own path forward. This united front contrasts with the approach of the former president, who calls for immediate peace talks and promises a quick end to the war. The European allies' commitment underscores the global need for a peaceful resolution and diplomatic efforts to ensure long-term stability in the region.  

A 2024 Central Ground Water Board report reveals a serious groundwater contamination problem in Haryana and Punjab. The report shows increasing levels of harmful substances like fluoride, nitrates, and salt in the water. Districts like Jind and Bathinda are particularly affected, with residents facing health risks due to the poor water quality. This contamination is mainly caused by over-pumping groundwater for irrigation and the overuse of fertilizers. Experts are urging the adoption of more sustainable farming methods, stricter pollution regulations, and better water management practices to combat this growing crisis. They stress the need for immediate action to protect both people's health and the agricultural sector in these states.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Washington, D.C., marking his first visit to the U.S. since President Donald Trump's second term began. The leaders are set to discuss defense cooperation, trade tariffs, and the recent deportation of 104 Indian nationals. Trump has previously criticized India's trade practices, labeling the nation a "very big abuser" due to high tariffs. In response, India has reduced import duties on several U.S. products and is considering further cuts. Both nations aim to strengthen strategic ties, with the U.S. viewing India as a key counterbalance to China's regional influence.     

Trump and Putin Discuss Ukraine Peace Talks US President Donald Trump tweeted a "productive" phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin in which they agreed to begin talks to end the war in Ukraine. Trump emphasized the importance of quick talks and potential meetings in Saudi Arabia. Ukrainian President Zelensky discussed lasting peace with Trump and emphasized Ukraine's reliance on the US for security guarantees. Both laid out positions regarding Ukraine joining NATO, with Zelensky meeting with US officials at a Munich defense summit to discuss next steps.        

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has opened its new headquarters, Keshav Kunj, in New Delhi. The 5 lakh square feet complex has three towers, auditoriums, a library, a hospital, and a Hanuman temple. Built with ₹150 crore gathered through public donations, the facility is meant for events, training, and large gatherings. Located in Jhandewalan, the modern infrastructure includes office spaces, residential rooms, and big lawns, making it bigger than the BJP headquarters. Keshav Kunj will serve the growing work of the RSS.  

The U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has slashed over $900 million in contracts and grants from the Department of Education's Institute of Education Sciences (IES). The move entails the cancellation of 89 contracts and 29 grants for diversity, equity, and inclusion training. The IES, which is responsible for tracking student progress and conducting educational research, is faced with significant operational challenges as a result of the cuts. Critics argue that the move has the potential to roll back gains in improving educational outcomes, especially after recent data indicating historic lows in reading achievement among American students.