News in Brief: Closed Negotiations in Geneva, Possible Deal with Iran

Latest updates from the past hour, concise and substantive:

• Direct negotiations between Washington and Tehran regarding Iran's nuclear program have begun in Geneva in a new phase, conducted behind closed doors. The Kremlin has announced that trilateral discussions will start soon, while energy issues are becoming complicated due to Ukraine's stance.
• The assets of the Armenian banking system have reached 12.8 trillion drams, with credit investments at 7.9 trillion drams, where consumer loans are predominant. Construction and regional mortgages have seen significant growth.
• Excavation of the second tunnel in the Kajaran-Agarak road section has been completed, with bridge and earthworks ongoing. This project is a crucial part of the North-South highway.
• The court has accepted claims from two clergymen declared defrocked and has obligated the church not to interfere with their activities. The Mother See has also been requested to provide appropriate legal justifications.
• Trump has stated that Iran wants to strike a deal and he will be indirectly involved in the negotiations. He also jokingly avoided questions about Valentine’s Day.
• Russia, China, and Iran have sent ships to participate in joint military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, while NATO representatives have arrived in Baku for a training course.
• German media have reported that the Munich Conference revealed the weakening positions of Europe in global politics.
• Roskomnadzor has not commented on reports of a possible block on Telegram, referencing a previous statement.
• The President of France has gone for a run in Mumbai.