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February 17 – The head of the Ukrainian negotiating delegation, Umerov, secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, stated that the Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Geneva and will begin a new round of peace talks tomorrow in the form of trilateral talks. Umerov said, “The agenda has been agreed upon, and the negotiating team is ready to work. We look forward to constructive work and substantive meetings on security and humanitarian issues – with the aim of moving towards a dignified and sustainable peace.”

Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council Secretary Umerov: The agenda has been agreed upon, and the team is ready to work.

Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council Secretary Umerov: The Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Geneva. Tomorrow we will begin a new round of negotiations in a trilateral format.

Ukrainian President Zelensky: Russian attacks are "evolving," with more complex weapon combinations, requiring specialized defense measures.

Ukrainian President Zelensky: Further attacks by Russia will make it more difficult to reach an agreement to end the conflict.

February 17th - According to the New York Post, US President Trump stated on Monday that the $5 billion pledged for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip will be used for projects approved by the Peace Commission, which will meet near the White House later this week. This fundraising, announced ahead of Thursday's summit, is the first phase of a $70 billion reconstruction effort estimated by a joint study by the United Nations, the European Union, and the World Bank. When asked about the funds, Trump said in a brief phone interview, "It will be used to make Gaza function successfully." He added that the funds will be used to "stabilize Gaza and ultimately benefit other areas of the world where peace can be achieved," hinting at his ambitious vision for the commission, which he chairs. When asked if the pledged funds would be used to build housing for Gaza's nearly 2 million people, Trump said, "We haven't decided yet...that will be decided by the commission."

Ukrainian President Zelensky: Russia is preparing for a further large-scale attack on the energy sector, which requires a properly configured air defense system and timely support from partners.

Ukrainian President Zelensky: Ukraine is simultaneously focusing on military preparations and diplomatic efforts.

Greek energy company Chevron (CVX.N) has signed a maritime concession agreement with the Hellenic Republic for hydrocarbon exploration and production.

According to Nikkei: Mizuho Bank Securities is facing an insider trading investigation.

According to Iranian state media, the National Iranian Oil Company stated that the three ships seized by India have no connection with Iran.

Market news: Ukrainian President Zelensky has imposed sanctions on several Russian athletes.

Market news: Azerbaijan's oil exports fell 24% year-on-year to 2.64 million tons in January.

Hungarian Oil and Gas Industry Company (MOL): If oil shipments from the east fail to resume in the coming days, Hungary may need to release approximately 250,000 tons of strategic crude oil reserves in the first phase.

The German DAX 30 index closed down 110.19 points, or 0.44%, at 24,793.20 on Monday, February 16; the UK FTSE 100 index closed up 22.94 points, or 0.22%, at 10,469.29 on Monday, February 16; and the French CAC 40 index closed up 4.76 points, or 0.06%, at 8,316.50 on Monday, February 16; the Euro... The Stoxx 50 index closed down 6.48 points, or 0.11%, at 5978.75 on Monday, February 16; the Spanish IBEX 35 index closed up 173.35 points, or 0.98%, at 17845.75 on Monday, February 16; and the Italian FTSE MIB index closed down 13.12 points, or 0.03%, at 45417.50 on Monday, February 16.

According to Politico: US President Trump said the energy deal between California and the UK was "inappropriate".

IndiGo: In light of the latest developments in the Iranian region and its airspace, the previously announced flight cancellations have been extended to March 28, 2026.

Market news: The Argentine General Confederation of Labour (CGT) has announced a nationwide strike to protest President Milley's labor reforms.

Ukrainian President Zelensky: I thank the Secretary General of the Council of Europe and his team for their support of our people during this difficult time.

Canadian Minister of Trade with the United States LeBlanc and Mexican Economy Minister Ebrard signed a memorandum of understanding on trade.