WORLD IN BRIEF: Rwanda sues UK, EU-India trade deal, France courts Chad, other stories

ICC clears way for trial of Philippines ex-president

The International Criminal Court has ruled that Rodrigo Duterte, former Philippineshas ruled that Rodrigo Duterte, former Philippines president, is fit to stand trial on charges of crimes against humanity. Judges in The Hague said preliminary proceedings will begin on February 23. Duterte, 80, was arrested in March 2025 and transferred to the Netherlands. Prosecutors accuse him of responsibility for at least 43 killings linked to the country’s “war on drugs” between 2011 and 2019.

UN chief warns ‘law of the jungle’ is replacing rule of law

Antonio Guterres, United Nations secretary-general, has warned that international law is being eroded as conflicts multiply worldwide. Speaking at a UN Security Council debate convened by Somalia, he said the rule of law remains central to peace and security. Guterres cited illegal use of force, attacks on civilians and denial of humanitarian aid as growing threats. He said commitments to the UN Charter were increasingly being ignored.

Iranian businesses hit as internet blackout drags on

Businesses across Iran are struggling as authorities maintain an internet blackout imposed during nationwide protests. Access has been restricted since January 8, with only limited domestic connectivity restored.

Business leaders and officials say the shutdown has paralysed trade in an already strained economy. Communications Minister Sattar Hashemi said around 10 million people rely on Iran’s digital economy.

EU and India seal landmark free trade agreement

The European Union and India have concluded a major free trade pact after nearly 20 years of negotiations. Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission president, called it a transformative deal, while Narendra Modi, Indian prime minister, described it as historic. The agreement creates a free trade zone covering nearly two billion people. Together, the partners represent about a quarter of global GDP.

Trump threatens 25% tariffs on South Korean imports

Donald Trump, United States president, has announced plans to raise tariffs on South Korean goods to 25 percent. He accused Seoul of failing to implement a trade deal reached last year. The proposed increase would affect products including cars, lumber and pharmaceuticals. South Korea said it had not received formal notice and is seeking urgent talks with Washington.

Africa

Ethiopia beats export target with $5.1bn haul

Ethiopia has generated $5.1bn in export earnings in the first half of its fiscal year, exceeding government targets. The trade ministry said the figure represents 120 percent of its original projection. Officials credited ongoing economic reforms for the improved performance. Exports rose by $1.83bn compared with the same period last year.

Tanzania moves closer to $42bn LNG deal

Tanzania expects to sign a long-delayed agreement for a $42bn liquefied natural gas project before June. The project, led by Equinor and Shell, could begin production in about eight years. Officials say commercial talks are complete, with only legal issues outstanding. The project could position east Africa as a major LNG export hub.

France invites Chad president amid reset talks

Emmanuel Macron, French president, has invited Mahamat Déby, Chad president, to Paris as both sides seek to ease strained relations. The move follows Chad’s decision to end its defence agreement with France in 2024. French troops have since withdrawn from the country. Chad says the shift reflects a push to assert sovereignty.

Rwanda sues UK over scrapped migrant deal

Rwanda has launched arbitration proceedings against the UK over payments linked to a cancelled migrant relocation agreement. The case has been filed at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague. London says it will not make further payments after axing the scheme in 2024. Rwanda argues the UK failed to honour treaty commitments.