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Global News Catch-Up: Russia Blocks WhatsApp, China Expands in Africa, Venezuela's Polling, and Rubio’s Munich Speech episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 16, 2026 · 10 MIN

Global News Catch-Up: Russia Blocks WhatsApp, China Expands in Africa, Venezuela's Polling, and Rubio’s Munich Speech

from Global Politics with Leo

Marco Rubio used his speech at the Munich Security Conference to outline how the US sees global security under Donald Trump. His tone was softer than others in the administration - but the message was clear: Europe will need to take far more responsibility for its own defence. Plus: Russia blocks WhatsApp and pushes a state-backed messaging app China removes tariffs on imports from 53 African countries Ireland rolls out a basic income for artists South Korea’s intelligence agency signals Kim Jong Un’s daughter may be his successor Puerto Rico passes a controversial fetal recognition law A new poll shows strong support for political change in Venezuela Global Politics with Leo brings you the most important international stories, explained clearly and without the noise. You can email me at [email protected] You might know me from TikTok and Substack as Leo Explains or LeoExplains10. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Global News Catch-Up: Russia Blocks WhatsApp, China Expands in Africa, Venezuela's Polling, and Rubio’s Munich Speech

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