Japan
The Telegraph has obtained a draft agreement between the US and Ukraine on a joint investment fund. The document envisages US control over 50% of revenues from the extraction of resources and infrastructure in Ukraine.
On February 16, Ukraine celebrates the Day of Military Journalist, honoring the memory of fallen media professionals. Also today, the world celebrates Whale Day, drawing attention to the conservation of their population.
G7 ministers agree to work together on a peace agreement for Ukraine with security guarantees. New sanctions against Russia will depend on its “good faith” participation in negotiations to end the war.
The International Register of Damages from Aggression of the Russian Federation plans to cover 45 categories by the end of 2025. So far, more than 14 thousand applications have been submitted in two categories, and the first payments are expected in 2027.
The Japanese government has asked the United States to exempt Japanese companies from the new 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum. In 2024, Japan exported more than 480 billion yen worth of steel and non-ferrous metals to the United States.
The Cabinet of Ministers approves a draft agreement with Japan on a ¥8. 8 billion grant to rebuild Ukraine's infrastructure.
Over the last day, 133 combat engagements took place, the enemy carried out 91 air strikes and fired over 5,800 times. The highest enemy activity was recorded in the Pokrovsk sector, where 54 assault attacks took place.
The North Korean leader declared his “unwavering” support for Russia in the war against Ukraine. He also announced the further development of the DPRK's nuclear forces in response to the cooperation of the United States, Japan, and South Korea.
US President Donald Trump has announced his intention to restore relations with DPRK leader Kim Jong Un. At a joint press conference with the Prime Minister of Japan, he emphasized that he gets along well with the North Korean leader.
The accuracy of North Korean missiles fired by Russia at Ukraine has increased, Reuters reports.
A study has shown that the bacterium Streptococcus anginosus is associated with an increased risk of stroke. Scientists found its increased concentration in the saliva and intestines of stroke patients.
Otaru city authorities have deployed security guards on Funamizaka Street due to the uncontrolled influx of tourists looking for the perfect photo. Earlier, a tourist was killed while trying to take a picture at this location.
The European Central Bank is cutting three key interest rates by 25 basis points, effective February 5, 2025. The decision is based on forecasts for inflation, which should return to the 2% target within a year.
The DPRK test-fired a strategic cruise missile under the supervision of the country's leadership. Earlier, the country had already launched a ballistic missile toward the Sea of Japan at a distance of 350 km.
The Bank of Japan has raised interest rates to 0. 5%, the highest level since 2008, amid rising wages. The central bank is ready to raise rates further to achieve its 2% inflation target.
An earthquake with a magnitude of 6. 4 occurred in the mountainous area near the city of Jiaji at a depth of 9.4 km. Several people were trapped in damaged buildings, and some villages lost power.
North Korea has launched several short-range ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan. This is the second such incident in a week, following the visit of US officials to South Korea.
Representatives of more than 20 countries discussed toughening sanctions against Russian oil exports. The Russian shadow fleet of 600 vessels brought the aggressor $180 billion in revenue last year.
Czech zoologists have discovered a new species of crayfish, Cherax pulverulentus, which has been living in aquariums around the world for 20 years. The animal comes from New Guinea and has two different colors - purple and blue.
An earthquake with a magnitude of 6. 6 occurred on the Japanese island of Kyushu at a depth of 37 km. No casualties or damage have been reported so far.
The President outlined the priorities for Ukrainian diplomats in 2025. These include strengthening military support, integration into the EU and NATO, sanctions against Russia, and the launch of the e-Consul.
The US President met with the Prime Minister of Japan and the President of the Philippines to discuss security in the Indo-Pacific region. Particular attention was paid to threats in the South China Sea and economic cooperation.
Japan's LignoSat satellite, made of magnolia, has begun operations in Earth orbit. The device will test the behavior of wood in space for 6 months for future projects on the Moon and Mars.
The foreign ministers of Japan, Australia, and India will attend Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025. The diplomats plan to establish contacts with the new administration and confirm their readiness for cooperation.
Peskov says Putin is ready to negotiate with Trump without preconditions. ISW emphasizes that the Kremlin's position on Ukraine remains unchanged: complete surrender and change of government.
Joe Biden will deliver his final speech on foreign policy achievements at the US State Department on January 13. The President will talk about NATO expansion, support for Ukraine, and cooperation with Asian allies.
The Japanese government imposed new sanctions against Russia, freezing the assets of 45 individuals and organizations. Starting January 23, the export of 335 goods, including motorcycles and specialty vehicle components, will also be banned.
In 2024, 35 thousand square kilometers of territory were surveyed and demined in Ukraine, of which 17 thousand square kilometers were returned to use. 73 mine action operators and 200 mechanical demining vehicles were engaged.
Ukraine has improved its position in the Henley Passport Index 2025, rising to 30th place with 148 visa-free destinations. Singapore topped the ranking with access to 195 countries, ahead of Japan and European countries.
The United States sent a second RC-135S Cobra Ball aircraft to Kadena Air Base to track DPRK missiles. This happened after North Korea tested a new hypersonic missile, and the first plane failed to detect it.