AnewZ Morning Brief - 26 February, 2026

AnewZ Morning Brief - 26 February, 2026
Anewz

Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top news stories for the 26th of February, covering the latest developments you need to know.

Four killed in shootout involving U.S.-registered boat off Cuba

Cuban authorities have reported a fatal exchange of fire involving a Florida-registered speedboat attempting an armed infiltration, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to six others, including a patrol commander. Havana has identified the suspects as Cuban nationals residing in the United States with alleged links to violent activity, whilst U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have stated that Washington is independently verifying the incident amidst heightened maritime tensions between the two nations.

Nuclear talks resume in Geneva amidst military tensions

Diplomatic efforts to resolve the standoff over Tehran’s nuclear programme resume in Geneva today, with mediators hoping to bridge significant gaps regarding uranium enrichment levels and sanctions relief. The indirect talks take place against a backdrop of intensifying military posturing, as the United States bolsters its naval presence in the Middle East and President Donald Trump warns that the window for a diplomatic breakthrough may be limited to a matter of days.

Ukraine's Zelenskyy says March trilateral talks could pave way for leaders’ meeting

The next round of trilateral talks on ending the war could pave the way for a leaders’ meeting according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He said he spoke on the phone with U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday (25 February). Writing on X, Zelenskyy said the two sides discussed preparations for a bilateral meeting in Geneva and a broader trilateral session scheduled for early March. 

Clintons to testify to Congress over Epstein inquiry

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton are set to provide depositions to a congressional committee in New York on Thursday and Friday regarding the investigation into disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The high-profile testimony follows a bipartisan subpoena seeking accountability for survivors, though the Clintons maintain they severed ties with Epstein long ago and have strenuously denied any knowledge of his criminal activities.

Azerbaijan marks 34th anniversary of Khojaly genocide

Azerbaijan is honouring and remembering the 613 victims of the the 34th anniversary of the Khojaly genocide today, marking the 1992 massacre with nationwide ceremonies and moments of remembrance. While the country reflects on the genocide, authorities report that post-conflict recovery efforts have led to the discovery of 18 mass graves in the liberated territories, and the government remains committed to pursuing legal accountability for war crimes and violations of international humanitarian law.

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