The Weekly Report: February 15-22 2026
United States
The United States Supreme Court announced that President Trump’s tariffs were not allowed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This decision means that many of President Trump’s tariffs are invalid but not all. President Trump responded by saying the decision was “a disgrace to our nation”.
Asia
Indonesia and the United States announced that a trade deal has been reached. The deal will result in a 19 percent tariff on all Indonesian imports to the U.S. and an almost no tariffs on any U.S. exports to Indonesia. Additionally, as part of the deal, Indonesia will allow even more American goods into the country than before.
Europe
Russia and Ukraine held talks, which were mediate by the United States, in Geneva. The talks were held in order to discuss territorial disputes, a key roadblock in the path to peace. The talks, however, lasted only two hours with reports suggesting little progress was made. Following the talks, President Zelensky of Ukraine said the “negotiations were not easy”.
Americas
Lawmakers in Venezuela passed an amnesty bill that could see hundreds of more political prisoners freed in the near future. However many activists for political prisoners have said that the bill will leave out many people that are held by the state. This view is in line with the fact that the bill will only grant amnesty to people who were arrested at specific protests.
Africa
Four journalists, who were investigating the Trump Administration's effort to deport migrants to Cameroon, were detained. The journalists were detained while they were interviewing deportees at a compound. After undergoing questioning by police, they were all released.
Middle East
This past week, the U.S. military has continued to build up its presence in the Middle East as President Trump weighs a possible attack on Iran. Israel has also been increasing its level of preparedness due to the risk of a possible counter attack on the country from Iran, should the U.S. launch a strike.
