Event:
Ukrainian forces leave the city of Debaltseve after rebels continue fighting in spite of a negotiated ceasefire; the rebels claim that the city, which connects the rebel-held corridor between Donetsk and Luhansk, was not included in the agreement
More Notable Events on February 17:
1959 1st weather satellite launched, Vanguard 2, 9.8 kg
1947 Voice of America begins broadcasting to U.S.S.R.
1933 1st issue of Newsweek magazine published
1867 1st ship passes through Suez Canal
1801 House breaks electoral college tie, chooses Jefferson President over Burr