Russian drone attacks have hit a thermal power plant in Mykolaiv, Ukraine, leaving over 100,000 residents without heating amid freezing temperatures. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned the assault as a war tactic targeting civilians. Despite Ukraine's defense forces downing the majority of incoming drones, the damage has left many vulnerable. Zelenskyy also pushed for stronger air defense systems and unity in European support. Meanwhile, high-level peace talks are expected soon between Russian and U.S. officials, with Europe expressing concern about being sidelined.

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has requested access to sensitive IRS taxpayer data, including Social Security numbers and bank account information. This move has raised significant concerns among state attorneys general, who argue that such access poses cybersecurity risks and violates federal laws. In response, a federal judge has temporarily blocked DOGE from accessing these records while considering a preliminary injunction. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing legal challenges and debates over the balance between government efficiency and data privacy.

Singapore’s opposition leader, Pritam Singh, has been convicted of lying under oath to a parliamentary committee, related to his handling of former lawmaker Raeesah Khan, who had lied to Parliament in a separate case. The trial comes as Singapore prepares for its next general election. Singh's Workers' Party holds nine out of 87 parliamentary seats. District Judge Luke Tan found evidence showing Singh’s direct involvement in guiding Khan to continue her false narrative. Prosecutors are seeking a fine of S$7,000 for each of Singh's two charges. Singh maintains his innocence.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced support for US President Donald Trump’s controversial plan to remove Gaza’s population and resettle them in neighboring countries. After meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu said they were working on a “common strategy” for Gaza’s future. The UN has condemned forced displacement as illegal. Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war has killed over 48,200 people in Gaza, and a fragile ceasefire remains under threat. The US also resumed sending heavy bombs to Israel, while Hamas accused Israel of violating the truce with recent airstrikes in Rafah.

On February 16, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Ukraine and European nations will be included in any substantive negotiations to end the conflict initiated by Moscow. This statement comes as U.S. and Russian officials prepare to meet in Saudi Arabia, aiming to assess Russian President Vladimir Putin's commitment to peace. Despite initial concerns from European leaders about being excluded, Rubio assured that meaningful discussions would involve all relevant parties. Concurrently, U.S. officials have consulted European counterparts regarding potential troop contributions to enforce a future peace agreement. The upcoming days are expected to reveal the seriousness of Russia's intentions toward resolving the conflict.   

Sir John Major warns democracy is under threat due to the US's "isolation" under Trump, which he believes empowers nations like Russia and China. Major sees a reversal of post-Soviet Union gains, particularly with Russia's aggression in Ukraine. He condemns rising nationalism and its destabilizing effect. Major also criticized US VP JD Vance’s remarks on Europe’s free speech, pointing out Russia's repressive actions. He stresses the need for increased defense funding to counter global threats. Meanwhile, UK officials discuss rising defense contributions amid growing international tensions.

French President Emmanuel Macron has called an emergency meeting of European leaders to discuss the implications of Donald Trump's actions on European security and NATO. Set for Monday in Paris, the meeting aims to address concerns over Trump's recent moves, including his influence on European defense policies. Polish foreign minister Radosław Sikorski compared Trump's strategy to a Russian military approach, urging European leaders to respond decisively. Macron has maintained diplomatic relations with Trump, despite growing concerns about his impact on global stability.

Ashley St. Clair, a conservative influencer, claims to have given birth to Elon Musk's 13th child five months ago. She describes Musk as "funny" and "down to earth," revealing their relationship began through social media interactions. St. Clair states that Musk wanted to keep their child a secret for safety reasons, providing her with a lavish lifestyle but demanding confidentiality about her pregnancy. She was isolated during her pregnancy and had limited communication with Musk, who hasn't confirmed these allegations. St. Clair decided to go public due to media pressure and hopes her revelation will allow her to live a normal life with her son.

A $1.9 billion error made by the Biden administration has been rectified by DOGE, a government efficiency department led by Elon Musk. The funds, misallocated within the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), were recovered and are now available for other uses. HUD Secretary Scott Turner worked alongside DOGE to ensure the de-obligation of the funds. DOGE's efforts also led to the cancellation of questionable grants and identified significant savings, demonstrating a commitment to responsible government spending.

On February 17, 2025, a 23-year-old Syrian asylum seeker carried out a stabbing attack in Villach, Austria, killing a 14-year-old boy and injuring five others. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner confirmed the attack was linked to the Islamic State (IS) group, stating the suspect was radicalized online in a short time. A delivery worker intervened to prevent further casualties. The attack has reignited debates over Austria’s asylum laws, with the far-right Freedom Party demanding stricter immigration controls. Authorities continue investigations as political leaders consider potential changes in governance amid ongoing tensions.