George Deek is leaving Azerbaijan after winning widespread affection for his charm, creativity, and genuine connection to the country’s people and culture. Deek introduced the tradition of producing videos that celebrated Azerbaijani customs and holidays, a practice later adopted by ambassadors from the UK and the US.

By Tural Heybatov

The BRICS organization has taken a significant step toward reshaping global governance by welcoming new members. Last week, Indonesia officially joined as a full member, marking a major milestone in the group’s expansion. Brazil, which assumed the presidency of BRICS on January 1, issued a statement confirming Indonesia’s membership, which was approved during the Johannesburg summit held in South Africa in August 2023. With its vast population and substantial economic footprint, Indonesia aligns seamlessly with other BRICS nations in advocating for reforms in global governance institutions. Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Indonesia’s inclusion strengthens cooperation across the Global South, a priority for the organization.

By Samir Muradov

On January 6, 2026, the U.S. Coast Guard officially announced the commissioning of the icebreaker supply vessel Aiviq, renamed CGC Storis. At first glance, this event might seem routine, but in reality, it reflects significant shifts in the United States' Arctic strategy. After over 25 years of stagnation in icebreaker construction, America is taking critical steps to strengthen its presence in the Arctic. Amid intensifying competition from Russia and China, and given the region's historical significance, modernizing the U.S. icebreaker fleet serves not only as a military upgrade but also as a political statement.

By Asif Aydinly

The global export of crude oil declined by 2% in 2024—the first drop since the COVID-19 pandemic—marking significant shifts in the global oil industry. Reuters, citing shipment data, notes that this decrease stems from weak demand growth, changes in refinery operations, pipeline disruptions, and the redistribution of global trade routes. These factors have exacerbated an already volatile global oil market. Geopolitical tensions remain a major factor influencing the market. The Russia-Ukraine war and escalating conflict in the Middle East have disrupted traditional supply chains. Sanctions and restrictive measures have redirected Russian exports from Europe to India and China.

By Maria Zhigadlo

News.az presents an interview with Jan Lisnevsky, Director of Intellect Group (Chișinău) and a renowned Moldovan expert.

Serbia faces a challenging dilemma in the realm of military supplies. The Chief of the General Staff of the Serbian Army, Milan Mojsilović, has stated that maintaining arms supplies from Russia has become nearly impossible due to sanctions imposed on Moscow.

The UN's humanitarian coordinator and refugee chief are in Ukraine this week to present new plans aimed at assisting the millions affected by the full-scale Russian invasion, News.az reports citing UN Geneva.

The Azerbaijani delegation from the Milli Majlis administration started its visit to Ankara on January 14, News.az reports citing Azertac.

Qatar, a key mediator, stated on Tuesday that negotiations for a Gaza truce and hostage release deal were in their "final stages," expressing hope that an agreement could be reached "very soon," News.az reports citing Gulf Times.

French Ambassador to Beirut Herve Magro met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Tuesday at the Presidential Palace in Baabda to discuss preparations for French President Emmanuel Macron's upcoming visit to Lebanon on Friday, News.az reports citing foreign media.