Key events of Winter 2026 according to Russians Negotiations and the Special Military Operation (SMO) were the focal points of Winter 2026. In December and February, these events took center stage, briefly overshadowed by holidays and Maduro in January. Interestingly, negotiations garnered more public interest compared to the SMO.
Majority of Russians Believe in Gender Equality According to a recent FOM survey, 66% of Russians believe that both men and women have equal opportunities in the country, marking significant progress from 2001 when only 45% shared this view. Despite this positive shift, 38% of respondents still perceive women as having a harder life due to the balancing act between family, childcare responsibilities, and work. Only 4% believe men face greater challenges as they are responsible for women. The survey highlights perceptions on gender equality, with 29% thinking life is equal for both genders. This data provides insight into societal attitudes on gender roles and challenges faced by individuals in balancing work and family responsibilities. As International Women's Day approaches, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of striving for gender equality.
Singapore's Area Expanded by 20% in 40 Years Singapore's area has increased by approximately 20% in the last four decades, with ongoing expansion efforts. Vast amounts of land and sand are being reclaimed, leading to the creation of new territories, significant enlargement of existing islands, and active development and habitation.
Countries with the Largest Number of Supercomputers Among the top 500 most powerful supercomputers in the world, the US leads with 171 supercomputers. Japan follows with 43, and Germany and China share third place with 40 supercomputers each. In our country, there are 5 computers in the global top 500, similar to Singapore and the UAE. The highest-ranking among them is at 83rd place. For comparison, Poland has 8 supercomputers in the global top 500, with its best-performing one at the 96th position.
Forecasted levels of food inflation in 2026 across different countries worldwide According to the forecasts by the FAO of the UN, food prices in our country are expected to increase by a modest 4.6% this year. This contrasts with many neighbors like Kazakhstan at 12.7% and even appears favorable compared to certain European countries: +4.5% in the UK and +5.1% in Iceland. The most significant increases in food prices this year are anticipated in Iran (+55.9%), Argentina (+33.2%), and Turkey (+25.1%). Conversely, deflation in food prices is expected in 21 countries, with notable declines in Niger (by 18.1%), Liberia (-7.4%), and Togo (-6.4%). Among European nations, deflation is projected for Hungary (-2.2%), Serbia (-1.5%), Czech Republic (-1.4%), and Switzerland (1.3%). Additionally, in two countries, food prices are forecasted to remain unchanged - India and China.
Soft Power Index of Different Countries in the World Yet another peculiar wonder-index, but why not! It is based on a country's recognizability, reputation, and level of influence on other countries. The undisputed leader here is the USA, scoring 74.9 points! Following are China (73.5), Japan (70.6), the UK, Germany, and France. Interestingly, the UAE made it to the top ten with a score of 59.4 points. For comparison, we have 58.7 points - ranking 14th globally, between the Netherlands and Sweden. The least influential countries in the world are various island micro-states: Kiribati, Nauru, Vanuatu, etc.
Oil Flows through the Strait of Hormuz Latest statistics reveal that approximately 25% of the world's global oil trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing its vital significance. The primary sources of this oil flow are Saudi Arabia (37%), Iraq, UAE, Iran, and Kuwait. China is the largest buyer of this oil, accounting for 37.7% of all shipments, followed by India at 14.7%. In contrast, Europe and the USA receive minimal amounts, suggesting that the closure of the Strait would have a limited impact on them.
Countries Currently Building Nuclear Reactors China leads in nuclear energy development with 37 reactors under construction. India and Russia follow with 6 reactors each in progress. Egypt and Turkey have 4 reactors being built, placing them at the bottom of the list.
Europeans Residing in the UAE Among the European expatriate community in the United Arab Emirates, our compatriots dominate with a significant 150,000 residents. They are followed by the UK with 130,000 residents, and France and Turkey, each with 60,000 residents. In contrast, some Eastern European nations have less than a thousand residents living in the UAE.
Countries Targeted in the Ongoing Conflict in the Middle East The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has seen the USA and Israel targeting Iran and Lebanon. Iran's aggressive actions have impacted numerous neighboring countries in the region, with Iraq experiencing significant consequences as a result of being bombed by both sides involved in the conflict.
