World News for February 21, 2026

  1. US Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump’s Sweeping Global Tariffs, Prompting New 10% Levy

    The US Supreme Court ruled that President Donald Trump’s broad emergency tariffs on nearly all trading partners exceeded his legal authority, marking a rare check on his trade agenda. In response, Trump immediately imposed a temporary 10% global import tariff for 150 days, creating fresh uncertainty for global markets, European exporters, and countries like India and China amid hopes for calmer trans-Atlantic relations in 2026. Source: Reuters
  2. Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran on Nuclear Deal, Warns of ‘Really Bad Things’

    President Trump gave Iran a 10-15 day deadline to agree to a new nuclear deal, threatening severe consequences including potential limited military strikes if unmet. This escalates tensions amid a US naval buildup in the Middle East, with advisers urging focus on domestic priorities but Trump pushing aggressive posture following Iran’s recent protests and alleged high death tolls. Source: The Guardian
  3. Iran Demands Evidence for Protest Death Claims as Trump Cites 32,000 Killed

    Iran’s government rejected US President Trump’s assertion that 32,000 people died in last month’s nationwide protests, blaming “terrorists” and releasing its own list of victims while dismissing higher estimates. UN experts highlighted discrepancies compounding family anguish, amid growing regional war fears and evacuations advisories for citizens in Iran. Source: Al Jazeera
  4. Ukraine Strikes Russian Ballistic Missile Plant in Udmurtia with Domestic Missiles

    Ukraine’s forces used domestically produced Flamingo missiles to target a key Russian facility manufacturing ballistic missiles in the Udmurtia region overnight, according to Kyiv’s General Staff. The attack underscores Ukraine’s advancing domestic defense capabilities amid the ongoing war, as diplomatic and energy pressures continue on multiple fronts. Source: Reuters
  5. Hungary Threatens to Block €90bn EU Loan to Ukraine Over Oil Dispute

    Hungary’s government warned it could veto a major €90 billion EU financial aid package for Ukraine unless Kyiv resumes transit of Russian oil through its territory, which has been halted for nearly a month. This adds to strains within the EU over support for Ukraine as the war persists and energy dependencies complicate unity. Source: The Guardian
  6. Prince Andrew Arrested in UK Over Epstein Ties on Misconduct Charges

    Former Prince Andrew, brother of King Charles III, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. King Charles stated the law must take its course, intensifying scrutiny on royal family associations in the ongoing Epstein fallout. Source: ABC News (World News Tonight)
  7. Germany’s Ruling Conservatives Back Ban on Social Media for Under-14s

    Germany’s CDU party passed a motion to prohibit social media access for children under 14 and impose stricter verification for teens, gaining momentum for broader European digital restrictions. The move addresses concerns over online harms, with reactions from educators and youth groups varying widely. Source: Reuters
  8. India and Brazil Sign Mining Pact to Boost Trade to $20 Billion

    Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazil signed an agreement expanding cooperation in mining and minerals to secure raw materials for India’s steel industry, targeting bilateral trade growth beyond $20 billion in five years. This aligns with efforts in technology, AI, and infrastructure amid global resource competition. Source: Reuters
  9. France’s Macron Calls for Calm Ahead of Far-Right Activist Memorial March

    President Emmanuel Macron urged restraint before planned rallies in memory of a far-right activist killed in a violent assault by hard-left individuals last week. The call aims to prevent escalation in polarized tensions as marches proceed in cities like Lyon. Source: Reuters
  10. 2026 Winter Olympics: Norway’s Klaebo Sets Record, USA Tops Gold Medals

    At the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, Norway’s Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo achieved a historic sixth gold in his sixth event, while Team USA secured its record 11th gold in mixed team aerials on Day 15. The Games continue with standout performances amid competitive fields. Source: NBC Olympics

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