The New Start nuclear weapons treaty between the United States and Russia expired on Thursday, February 5, without being replaced by a new agreement. It currently appears unlikely that a successor treaty will be established in the near future.
A large wildfire at a military training ground near 't Harde caused a persistent, strong smell of smoke in the neighboring town of Nunspeet on Wednesday evening. Wind conditions directed the smoke from the nature fire toward the Gelderland community.
Mayor Reinie Melissant of Gorinchem stated that the local Turkish Dutch community faced significant hardship following allegations of vote tampering in the previous municipal elections. A re-election was held on Wednesday to address concerns regarding the integrity of the original vote.
Several ships belonging to the Global Sumud Flotilla were reportedly approached and threatened by Israeli military speedboats. Activists onboard claim that lasers and semi-automatic weapons were pointed at them while they were ordered to kneel at the front of the vessels.
The US aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford is departing the Middle East and heading to Virginia for urgent repairs. The vessel has been at sea for ten months and requires overdue maintenance following its extended deployment in the region.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has announced his decision to remain on the central bank's board of governors after his current term as chair concludes. This rare move is intended to safeguard the institution's independence from political interference.