24 February 2026
Ukraine
The war has entered its fifth year. Russia’s special military operation was only meant to last for a few days, if not a couple of weeks. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov admitted that Russia has not met its military objectives within the past four years. Since the shutdown of Starlink terminals, Ukraine has reclaimed 300 square kilometres.
China-Japan
China banned the export of critical minerals and other goods with potential military uses to 20 major Japanese companies. Prohibited items include rare earths used in motors and magnets, machine tools, batteries and chip-making equipment sold to the Japanese military, known as the Self-Defense Forces. The Japanese government has demanded the immediate withdrawal of these measures.
Afghanistan
Pakistan has informed Uzbekistan that an estimated 2,500 Uzbek militants are operating out of Afghanistan. If this number is accurate, that would mean that the Uzbeks operating out of Afghanistan would be the second largest group aside from Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan. In 2015, the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan pledged allegiance to ISIS.
United States
President Donald Trump will give his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress tonight at 9 p.m. ET.
Iran-China
Iran is close to securing a deal for supersonic anti-ship missiles from China. This is the United States is preparing for potential airstrikes on Iran and will have two aircraft carrier battlegroups in the region. It is believed that Iran is attempting to procure the CM-302 missile from China, which has a range of 290km.
South Africa
President Cyril Ramaphosa thanks President Putin for releasing 17 South Africans who were allegedly tricked into joining Russia’s war on Ukraine. This release comes after it is also estimated that some 1,000 Kenyans are fighting for Russia.
Social media wires
Russian tunnel network
Featured Photo: “Bucha, Faces of War Exhibit” –Wikimedia Commons, 2026
The Wires Brief is a daily breaking news report incorporating wire service news and social media updates. DefRep cannot verify the authenticity of social media reporters nor the accuracy of social media updates. Feature photos are altered with grayscale.