In other news

A new generation of Chinese companies is expanding globally, differing from their predecessors in their approach. Examples include Urban Revivo, Luckin Coffee, and Mixue, which have successfully entered the American market, particularly among younger consumers on platforms like TikTok. This shift marks a change in how Chinese businesses operate internationally, leveraging digital platforms and trendy products to gain traction.

The article discusses how Europe's farmers are losing their influence and the sacred cow status they once held, using French President Emmanuel Macron's attendance at the Salon de l'Agriculture as an example. The event is a showcase of the rural world, where the president is expected to show fealty to farmers and their grievances. However, in recent years, Macron has reduced his time at the event, indicating a shift in priorities. The article suggests that this change reflects a broader decline in the political power of farmers in Europe.

The German economy is experiencing significant difficulties, with even successful businesses like Eberswalder Wurstwerke, a renowned sausage factory, being forced to close due to high costs and stagnant spending. The factory, once the largest sausage maker in Europe with 3,000 workers, now employs only around 500 people and will cease operations by the end of February. This closure highlights the struggles faced by German businesses and the overall weakness of the economy.

Saks Global, the parent company of Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Neiman Marcus, has filed for bankruptcy just over a year after consolidating the three luxury department stores. The company is offering steep discounts to encourage customers to use gift cards before they become worthless. The bankruptcy filing comes as the luxury retail industry faces growing pressure. The article suggests that Saks Global's consolidation strategy was flawed and that the company has itself to blame for its financial woes.

The article discusses China's declining population and its implications, specifically the decrease in the number of people living in urban areas. China's urban population was expected to continue growing even as the total population began to shrink, but this is no longer the case. The article highlights the significance of China's cities as the source of its economic might and technological progress. It also touches on the country's leadership and the potential consequences of its declining population.

The Chinese government's efforts to clean up Beijing's air have had unintended consequences for residents of Hebei province, which surrounds the capital. To reduce pollution, the government has banned the burning of coal, but many residents cannot afford alternative heating sources like gas. This has left some unable to heat their homes, causing hardship for farmers and others. The article highlights the trade-offs between environmental protection and economic well-being, as well as the uneven impact of government policies on different populations.

The article discusses the unique experience of traveling on Hong Kong's trams, affectionately known as 'ding dings.' At a low cost of HK$3.30 per trip, tourists can see the city alongside locals, including workers and schoolchildren. The trams offer an inexpensive way to explore an expensive city, making them an attractive option for visitors. The article highlights the trams as a way to experience Hong Kong like a local, contrasting with the typical tourist experience.

China's private space industry is rapidly advancing, with companies racing to catch up with SpaceX. The industry is on the verge of a major breakthrough, with the potential to recover the first stage of a rocket, a crucial step in reducing launch costs. New private launchpads, satellite factories, and a government department dedicated to the industry are set to further boost China's space capabilities. This development is part of China's broader ambition to become a 'space power', as stated by Xi Jinping over a decade ago. China has already achieved significant milestones, including landing a rover on Mars and building a space station. The private space industry's growth is expected to open up new opportunities and drive innovation.

The article discusses the recent surge in mining mega-mergers, particularly in the copper industry, driven by the increasing demand for the metal. Rio Tinto is in talks to acquire Glencore, creating the world's largest miner worth around $220 billion. Other significant mergers include AngloAmerican and Teck Resources. The total value of mining tie-ups reached $94 billion last year, the highest in a decade. However, the article notes that consolidation will not ease the copper shortage.

Elon Musk's company X is facing pressure from regulators and commercial risks due to its chatbot Grok creating nude deepfakes. Musk has now backed down on this feature. The article discusses the implications of this decision and the broader issues surrounding AI-generated content.

The article discusses the potential successors to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with his youngest son Bilal Erdogan being one of the possible candidates. The article describes a recent public appearance by Bilal Erdogan, where he delivered a speech with rhetoric similar to his father's, criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu. The article suggests that the maneuvering to succeed Erdogan has begun, and explores the implications of a potential Erdogan succession.

The beauty industry is experiencing a boom despite global economic uncertainty and consumer gloom. The article explores the reasons behind this trend, highlighting factors such as changing consumer behavior and innovative marketing strategies. It notes that consumers across much of the world have been feeling glum due to rising prices and interest rates, as well as global economic and political uncertainty. However, the beauty industry has managed to buck this trend, with sales continuing to grow. The article suggests that the industry's success can be attributed to its ability to adapt to changing consumer needs and preferences.

The article discusses how Xi Jinping is continuing Deng Xiaoping's authoritarian legacy in China, contrary to the perception that Xi is a counter-reformer. Xi's power is evident in the punishment of 983,000 individuals by the Communist Party's anti-graft watchdog and the incorporation of 'Xi Jinping Thought' into the constitution. Officials and students alike declare their fealty to Xi, and his works on governance are widely published and studied. The article suggests that Xi is not reversing Deng's reforms but rather carrying forward his authoritarian torch.

The article discusses the potential damage to the Beckham family brand following Brooklyn Peltz Beckham's public accusations that his parents, David and Victoria Beckham, prioritize their brand over family life. Brooklyn claims that his family values public promotion and endorsements above all else and that their actions are often performative and inauthentic. The Beckhams have built a global image and business empire worth an estimated £500m, but their carefully curated public image may be threatened by Brooklyn's statements. Experts weigh in on the potential consequences for the family brand, with some suggesting that the Beckhams' prioritization of their image has led to their children being commodified.

Burkina Faso's former president, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, has been expelled from Togo and returned to his home country, where he faces multiple charges, including a murder plot against his successor, Ibrahim Traoré. Damiba, who came to power in a coup in 2022 and was overthrown eight months later, is accused by the current regime of masterminding an assassination attempt against Traoré. The return of Damiba is expected to escalate tensions within the military and political establishment, with observers suggesting that it may lead to questions about the stability of the government, which is already facing a severe security crisis and internal rivalries.

A Colombian tribunal has sentenced former paramilitary leader Salvatore Mancuso to 40 years in prison for murders and forced disappearances committed during the country's armed conflict. Mancuso, a commander of the United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia (AUC), was found guilty of over 100 crimes in La Guajira province between 2002 and 2006. The sentence can be reduced to eight years if he cooperates with transitional justice and participates in reparation activities. Mancuso was extradited to the US in 2008, served a 15-year prison sentence for drug trafficking, and was deported to Colombia in 2024. He has offered to testify about alleged cooperation between AUC and Colombian politicians, business leaders, and other establishment members.

A devastating fire broke out at Gul Plaza, a densely-packed shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan, resulting in at least 27 deaths and over 70 people still missing. Survivors described the horrific scene, citing locked exits, panic, and desperate calls for help. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but witnesses point to the rapid spread, lack of working fire exits, and overcrowding as exacerbating factors. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but hampered by the unstable structure of the still-smoldering building. Families of the missing are gathered at the scene, demanding answers and accountability. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning the delayed response of rescue officials and calling for reforms in building safety and emergency response.

The article by Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, analyzes the impact of Donald Trump's presidency on the global order. Doucet argues that Trump is shaking the world order more than any president since World War II, citing his 'America First' agenda and disregard for international norms and alliances. The article discusses Trump's recent interest in Greenland, his controversial statements and actions, and the concerns of world leaders about his approach to international relations. It also highlights the reactions of various leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who warned about a shift towards a world without rules. The article concludes that Trump's presidency is marked by a belief in brute power and transactions, rather than a commitment to alliances and American values.

Syria's government has announced a new ceasefire with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) after the SDF withdrew from al-Hol camp, holding thousands of people with alleged links to the Islamic State (IS). The SDF cited 'international indifference' towards the IS issue as the reason for their withdrawal. The ceasefire agreement includes the SDF's integration into government forces and the control of key infrastructure. The deal represents a significant shift in the balance of power in north-eastern Syria, where the SDF has maintained autonomy since helping US-led coalition forces defeat IS. The situation remains tense, with reports of clashes and concerns over the security of IS prisoners and their families.

Usha Vance, the wife of US Vice-President JD Vance, has announced that she is pregnant with their fourth child, a boy expected in late July. The couple already has three young children: Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel. Usha Vance, 40, was born in San Diego, California, to Indian immigrant parents and met JD Vance at Yale Law School in 2010. Before becoming Second Lady, she had a legal career, working as a corporate litigator and for conservative judges, including Chief Justice John Roberts and Judge Brett Kavanaugh. JD Vance has been a vocal advocate for higher birth rates in the US, stating in 2025 that he wants 'more babies in the United States of America.' Usha Vance is the first Second Lady to have a baby while her husband is in office, although other First Ladies have had children during their husbands' presidencies.

The article reports on a deepening spat between Elon Musk and Ryanair's CEO Michael O'Leary. Musk has suggested buying Ryanair and called for O'Leary to be fired after O'Leary rejected the idea of using Musk's Starlink technology to provide wi-fi on flights. Ryanair responded by branding Musk an 'idiot' and launching a promotional sale. The feud escalates as both Musk and O'Leary trade insults, with O'Leary criticizing Musk's understanding of flight aerodynamics and the cost implications of installing Starlink hardware.

A large Russian aerial strike on Ukraine has left the Ukrainian parliament and half of Kyiv's residential buildings without heating or power as temperatures hover around -10C. President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that one million people in the capital remained without power and that repelling the attack had cost Ukraine about €80m in air defence missiles. At least four people died and 33 others were injured in strikes across Ukraine. The Ukrainian president emphasized the need for air defence systems and missiles, citing Russia's increased use of ballistic missiles. Kyiv residents are finding innovative solutions to cope with the power cuts, but many are struggling, especially those less well-off.

Baker Mayfield, the quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, took to social media to criticize his former head coach, Kevin Stefanski, who is now the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. Mayfield responded to a post that labeled him as part of the 'dumpster fire at quarterback' during Stefanski's time with the Cleveland Browns. Mayfield expressed his displeasure with Stefanski, stating that he never received a call or text from him after being traded away from Cleveland. The two will face each other twice next season, setting up an interesting matchup between the Falcons and Buccaneers. Mayfield's comments suggest that he still holds a grudge against Stefanski, despite their past success together, including leading the Browns to their first playoff victory in 26 years during the 2020 season.

A new study published in the journal BMJ Medicine found that certain types of exercise may be more effective at lowering the risk of early death than others. The study analyzed data from over 111,000 participants and found that walking, racquet sports, and rowing were associated with a lower risk of early death. The research also suggested that mixing up the types of physical activity and incorporating a variety of exercises may be beneficial for prolonging life. The study found that participants who engaged in a range of activities had a 19% lower risk of death from any cause, and that walking had the lowest risk of early death at 17%. The findings also indicated that there may be a point at which additional physical activity does not provide further benefits.

Former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya has filed paperwork to run for Minnesota's Senate seat in the 2026 election, joining a crowded field of Republican hopefuls. Tafoya, a four-time Emmy Award-winning sports journalist, is entering the GOP primary after incumbent Sen. Tina Smith (D) announced she wouldn't be seeking a second term. The seat has been a Democrat stronghold since 2008, but Tafoya has been eyed as a possible candidate by the National Republican Senatorial Committee. Tafoya has been vocal on social media regarding issues in her home state and around the country, including immigration. The primary is expected to be crowded, with other Republican nominees including former Minnesota Senate Minority Leader David Hann and US Navy SEAL veteran Adam Schwarze. Meanwhile, Democrats are gearing up for a messy primary pitting Rep. Angie Craig against Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan.

New York Attorney General Letitia James has reached an agreement with the Jewish group Betar, forcing it to cease operations in New York, citing a 'campaign of violence, harassment, and intimidation' against various New Yorkers. The author argues that this action emboldens antisemitic protests and harassment, as Betar was merely counter-protesting against pro-Palestine and pro-Hamas demonstrations. The article criticizes James for targeting a Jewish group while ignoring the surge in antisemitic incidents and violence across New York state.

The New York Mets acquired outfielder Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox in a trade that sent infielder Luisangel Acuña and minor league pitcher Truman Pauley to Chicago. Robert, 28, is an elite defender in center field and is under contract for $20 million this season, with a club option worth $20 million for 2027. The move reduces the likelihood of the Mets signing free agent Cody Bellinger. The Mets have also made other roster moves, including signing Bo Bichette to a three-year deal and acquiring Marcus Semien in a trade. The team's outfield now includes Robert, Juan Soto, and potentially Carson Benge, with an emphasis on improving defense.

Mike McDaniel is expected to become the next offensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Chargers, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. McDaniel, the former Dolphins head coach, was meeting with the Chargers throughout Tuesday and had a dinner planned as part of the process. The Chargers fired their previous offensive coordinator, Greg Roman, and offensive line coach, Mike Devlin, after a disappointing loss to the Patriots in the first round of the playoffs. McDaniel will work with head coach Jim Harbaugh and quarterback Justin Herbert to take the Chargers to the next level. McDaniel's experience as the 49ers offensive coordinator and his success with the Dolphins, where he led the team to finish first in yards and second in points in 2023, make him a strong candidate for the position. However, he will face challenges in improving Herbert's playoff production, which has been a concern in the past.

A Minnesota high school teacher, Dr. Heather Abrahamson, got into a heated argument with a student over the death of anti-ICE protester Renee Good during a classroom discussion. The argument escalated when Abrahamson insulted the student's intelligence, saying 'just because you're alive doesn't mean you're intelligent.' The incident was captured on video and posted online by Libs of TikTok. Abrahamson, who has 32 years of teaching experience, has been involved in previous controversies, including a dispute with the school board over addressing LGBT issues. The article reports on the details of the incident and Abrahamson's past conflicts.

A 64-year-old British woman, Claire Bridger, stabbed her estranged husband, Keith Bridger, after discovering he had euthanized their two rescue dachshunds. Claire was charged with attempted murder but was found not guilty; instead, she was convicted of wounding with intent. The incident occurred during a visit to Keith's Norfolk home on July 17, 2025, after the couple had been separated for about a year. Claire claimed she suffered 'temporary amnesia' due to stress and alcohol and 'saw red' upon learning the dogs were dead.

The article criticizes New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for calling to abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on 'The View', arguing that ICE's role is crucial in deporting criminal illegal immigrants who pose a threat to public safety. The author contends that Mamdani and the American left are ignoring the reality of illegal immigration and the dangers it poses, instead advocating for open borders. The article highlights the consequences of not enforcing immigration laws, citing the presence of gangs like Tren de Aragua in Rikers Island and the expulsion of 7,000 illegal-immigrant gang members by Homeland Security in the previous year. The author accuses Mamdani of protecting criminal immigrants while pretending to care for others, and suggests that his stance is part of a broader left-wing agenda to cause chaos and obstruct law enforcement.

The Chinese tax authority has fined PDD Holdings, the operator of e-commerce platforms Pinduoduo and Temu, for tax violations. The fine was imposed due to the company's failure to comply with Shanghai's tax requirements. This action is part of an ongoing probe into the company's activities. The development is significant as PDD Holdings is a US-listed company and operates prominent e-commerce platforms.

China is constructing a pioneering nuclear reactor system in Lianyungang, Jiangsu province, to power a petrochemical complex. The triad reactor system combines two third-generation Hualong One pressurised water reactors with one fourth-generation high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) to supply ultra-high-temperature steam and electricity. This unprecedented project aims to provide both power and process heat at an industrial scale, marking a significant development in China's petrochemical industry.

A former People's Bank of China adviser, Liu Shijin, has suggested that China should utilize its significant buying power to increase imports settled in yuan, thereby promoting the currency's global use and internationalization. This proposal comes as the yuan has reached fresh 2023 highs and concerns about the US dollar grow due to policy uncertainty under US President Donald Trump. Liu emphasized that a strong currency is characterized by a substantial share of imports being settled in that currency and that China's large consumer market could facilitate this. With China being the world's largest goods exporter and a major buyer of energy and raw materials, Liu's comments are seen as a potential opportunity for the yuan's internationalization.

The article discusses the recent developments in the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market and its expansion into Western markets. It highlights the progress made in resolving the trade dispute between China and the EU over Chinese EVs, with the EU releasing guidance to address countervailing tariffs. Chinese EV makers are eyeing Western markets as trade barriers fall, and the gap between the US and China in the EV market is widening. The article summarizes seven key EV stories from the past two weeks, including BYD's success, Tesla's defeat, and Ford's pivot in the US-China EV market.

A Hong Kong court has ruled that 39 people were unlawfully killed in a 2012 ferry crash off Lamma Island. The Coroner’s Court found that the collision was caused by the gross negligence of the two coxswains operating the ferries involved. The ruling was made after a 44-day inquest held in May last year, which was initiated following an appeal by relatives of the victims. Although the ruling has limited implications as the captains had already faced legal consequences and damages had been settled, it provides a conclusion to the city's deadliest maritime disaster in decades.

Malaysia is introducing a new education policy allowing children to enter primary school at age six from 2027, alongside a new standardized assessment framework. This move has sparked anxiety among parents who fear it may create a competitive 'herd effect' and put pressure on schools in terms of space and staffing. The new policy includes a centrally administered assessment for Year Four pupils and Form Three secondary school students to identify learning gaps early. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim presented this as a way to prevent students from falling behind.

The article discusses China's new H-6J maritime strike bomber, a variant of the H-6K bomber, which is primarily designed as an anti-ship weapon. The H-6J is equipped with two reconnaissance pods, enhancing its long-range strike capabilities and supporting peacetime maritime surveillance. Military analysts believe the H-6J is key to deterring vessels in various conflict scenarios, including a potential conflict over Taiwan. The bomber has conducted training exercises in the South China Sea, where China's territorial claims overlap with those of neighboring countries.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is calling a snap election, hoping to translate her high approval ratings into a decisive majority in the lower house of parliament. However, her bid may face challenges from surging right-wing factions and a new centrist alliance. Experts say that regardless of the election outcome, repairing relations with China will be a long-term task that will extend beyond her term. Takaichi's strong rhetoric on China has damaged bilateral ties, and her ability to steer a tougher course on China may be undermined if she fails to secure a majority.

Archaeologists have uncovered 2,000-year-old inscriptions on a wall in Pompeii, including a love note and a gladiator fight scene. The inscriptions were discovered using new technologies as part of the 'Corridor Rumors' project. The findings provide insight into daily life, sporting events, and social interactions in ancient Pompeii. The Pompeii Archaeological Park is working to protect and enhance the writings, which number over 10,000 throughout the site.

A 19-year-old Canadian woman was found dead on K'gari, formerly known as Fraser Island, in Queensland, Australia. Authorities are investigating whether her death was caused by a dingo attack. The woman's body was discovered on a beach near a shipwreck, a popular tourist attraction, with signs of interference by dingoes. A post-mortem examination is being conducted to determine the cause of death. The incident has raised concerns about the aggressive behavior of dingoes on the island, which has seen an increase in attacks in recent years. The local mayor has stated that the island's rangers have been trying to separate dingoes from humans, but the situation remains a concern.

CBS News investigated a Syrian prison that previously held ISIS detainees and found it empty and abandoned. The Al-Shaddadi prison in northeast Syria's al-Hasakah province was the site of clashes between U.S.-backed Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Syrian government forces, resulting in the escape of around 120 ISIS detainees. The SDF denied allowing prisoners to flee, while the Syrian government claimed most had been recaptured. The incident highlights security concerns for the U.S. due to its complex relationships with both the SDF and the Syrian government. The U.S. has around 1,000 forces in Syria to counter ISIS, and there are concerns about the security of other prisons holding ISIS detainees, such as the Ghwayran Prison in al-Hasakah.

The British government has approved China's plans to build a massive new embassy in London, despite concerns over national security, espionage, and human rights. The embassy will be China's largest in Europe and will occupy an entire city block with a view of The Shard. Critics, including former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove and human rights groups, have expressed concerns that the embassy will be used for espionage and will intimidate the Chinese diaspora community in the UK. The UK government has responded that the risks associated with the embassy cannot be eliminated but have been mitigated.

The French navy has seized 4.87 tons of cocaine from a fishing vessel in the South Pacific Ocean, believed to be bound for Australia. The vessel, sailing under Togo's flag and crewed by 10 Hondurans and one Ecuadoran, was intercepted on January 16. The seizure is considered a record for the region and demonstrates France's commitment to combating narcotics trafficking in cooperation with international partners. The crew will not be prosecuted by French authorities but may face legal proceedings in their home countries. This seizure is part of a larger trend of cocaine trafficking in the Pacific, with organized crime groups expanding their presence in the region.

Mexico has sent 37 high-ranking members of various drug cartels to the United States, as part of an effort to cooperate with the Trump administration's crackdown on criminal networks. The transfer, announced by Mexican Security Minister Omar García Harfuch, is the third such transfer in less than a year, with a total of 92 people sent to the US. The move comes amid growing pressure from the Trump administration, which has threatened military action against Mexican cartels. The transferred individuals face pending US cases and are expected to face prosecution in various cities across the US. The transfer includes figures from prominent cartels such as the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

A study published in the Journal of Animal Ecology found that warming temperatures are causing three Antarctic penguin species (Adelie, chinstrap, and gentoo) to breed earlier, potentially disrupting their food supply and leading to increased competition among the species. The Adelie and chinstrap penguins, which primarily eat krill, are struggling due to the gentoo penguins' more aggressive behavior and varied diet. The study used remote control cameras to monitor penguin breeding habits from 2011 to 2021 and found a 5.4°F temperature increase in the breeding grounds between 2012 and 2022. The researchers warn that climate change may lead to the extinction of the Adelie and chinstrap penguins by the end of the century.

Protesters disrupted Sunday services at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, to protest David Easterwood, a pastor and top US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) official. The Department of Justice is considering charges against the protesters under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act and the Ku Klux Klan Act. The FACE Act prohibits using force or threat of force to intimidate or interfere with people exercising their First Amendment right of religious freedom at a place of worship. The Ku Klux Klan Act, passed in 1871, makes it a federal crime to deny individuals their constitutional rights. Legal analysts say the protesters may have violated these laws, but context matters, and the First Amendment protects freedom of speech. The Department of Justice's approach to investigating the protest is contrasted with its lack of investigation into the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer.

A man in Gaza is searching through rubble to recover his family's bones after an unspecified incident. CNN's Jeremy Diamond reports on the story. The article is accompanied by several other news snippets, including reports on Trump's comments on the UK's plan to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, Macron's criticism of Trump's tariff threats at Davos, a Ukrainian surgeon's documentation of a hospital operating during a blackout, a fire at a mall in Karachi, Pakistan, Danish troops arriving in Greenland, and China's record-low birth rate.

Naomi Osaka made a dramatic entrance at the Australian Open, wearing a wide-brim hat, veil, and holding a white parasol, before winning her first-round match against Antonia Ruzic. The outfit was a collaboration between Osaka, Nike, and fashion designer Robert Wun, and featured symbolic butterflies. Osaka's confidence is growing after reaching the U.S. Open semifinals last year, and she is set to play Sorana Cirstea next. The article highlights Osaka's fashion statement, her inspiration from tennis stars like Venus and Serena Williams, and her personal touches to her outfit, including a dress inspired by her daughter's fascination with jellyfish.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has dismissed Vice Premier Yang Sung Ho over issues with a factory modernization project, criticizing him as 'a goat yoked to pull an ox cart.' The move is seen as an effort to tighten discipline among officials ahead of a major political conference, the Workers' Party congress. Experts believe the congress will focus on reviewing past projects, establishing new priorities, and reshuffling officials. The dismissal is consistent with Kim's management style of publicly scolding and firing officials to pressure them into better performance. However, some experts argue that the problems lie in North Korea's structural issues, such as prioritizing weapons programs over the economy.

A new North Korean film, 'Days and Nights of Confrontation,' has captivated audiences with its unprecedented depiction of graphic violence, sex, and betrayal, marking a significant shift in the country's state-controlled entertainment industry. Produced by the April 25 Film Studio, the film's storyline revolves around a plot to assassinate former leader Kim Jong Il and explores themes of personal and political betrayal. While the film's content is provocative, it remains within the boundaries of North Korea's rigid moral universe, reinforcing the importance of loyalty to the state. The film's modern style and pacing, influenced by Hollywood thrillers, may reflect an effort to engage younger audiences. The article discusses the film's significance, its departure from traditional North Korean cinema, and the potential implications of its approval by the state.

St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her has responded to a Department of Justice (DOJ) subpoena as part of an investigation into whether Minnesota officials obstructed ICE efforts in the state. The subpoena is part of a larger probe that has targeted at least five officials across Minnesota. Mayor Her joined Erin Burnett OutFront to discuss the subpoena and the ongoing ICE operation in her city, suggesting that the action is politically motivated and linked to former President Trump's promises of retribution.

ChongLy Scott Thao, a Hmong immigrant and naturalized U.S. citizen, was arrested by ICE agents at his home in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Sunday. The agents, who were reportedly seeking two convicted sex offenders, took Thao away in his underwear and released him about an hour later without charge. The incident has sparked outrage and panic in the local Hmong community, with many residents describing a surge in immigration raids targeting people of Asian descent. Local officials and Thao's family dispute the Department of Homeland Security's account of the arrest, calling it a case of mistaken identity. The incident has had a significant impact on the community, with many residents too afraid to leave their homes, and local schools and businesses affected.

President Trump marked the anniversary of his return to office with a 1 hour 45 minute briefing, airing grievances, attacking enemies, and threatening allies. He revealed a shifting worldview filled with perceived slights and injustices. Trump discussed various topics, including his Nobel Peace Prize disappointment, acquiring Greenland, and his previous threats to take control of the Panama Canal. He also attacked his predecessor, Joseph Biden, and special counsel Jack Smith, while promoting his own accomplishments and policies.

A cheating scandal involving Norway's ski jumping team has rocked the nation and the Olympic sport. Two former coaches and the former equipment manager received 18-month suspensions for manipulating the suits of top jumpers to gain an aerodynamic advantage. The athletes involved, including Olympic champion Marius Lindvik, claimed ignorance and received lenient suspensions. The scandal has sparked a national conversation about Norway's reputation for rule-following and the culture of cheating in ski jumping.

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te's plan to increase military spending by $40 billion over eight years is stalled due to a political impasse with opposition lawmakers. The opposition, led by the Nationalist Party, has blocked the proposal, citing concerns over the plan's details and the government's handling of the budget. The standoff has implications for Taiwan's defense against China's growing pressure and its relationship with the US. The US has urged Taiwan to shoulder more of its defense burden, and President Donald Trump has pressed the island to pay more for its own security. The political divide in Taiwan reflects deeper tensions over whether to strengthen ties with the US or seek rapprochement with China.

The driver of Anthony Joshua's vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has appeared in court in Nigeria over a fatal crash that killed two of Joshua's friends, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Kayode, 46, faces four charges related to the crash, including dangerous driving causing death and driving without a valid national driver's licence. Joshua, a two-time world champion boxer, was injured in the crash but survived with minor injuries. The incident occurred on December 29 on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near Sagamu. The case was adjourned until February 25 at the prosecution's request.

The Australian government has fast-tracked legislation to toughen gun control and hate crime laws following the Bondi Beach shooting in December, which killed 15 people. The proposed measures include a national gun buyback scheme, tighter background checks for firearms licenses, and harsher penalties for those spreading hate. The legislation is expected to pass despite some opposition. The government has also announced a national inquiry into antisemitism and a national day of mourning for the victims.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has dismissed Vice Premier Yang Sung Ho over a factory modernization project, citing 'unnecessary man-made confusion' and 'irresponsible and incompetent officials.' The dismissal is seen as a move to tighten discipline among officials ahead of the upcoming Workers' Party congress, which will establish new political and economic priorities. Kim Jong Un compared Yang Sung Ho to 'a goat yoked to pull an ox cart,' indicating his incompetence for the role. The modernization project of the Ryongsong Machine Complex suffered significant economic losses due to Yang's actions. This public rebuke is rare but part of Kim's efforts to restore discipline and address economic hardships.

China has criticized a recent trade deal between the U.S. and Taiwan, warning that it will 'drain Taiwan's economy' and benefit the U.S. at the island's expense. The deal involves Taiwanese firms investing $250 billion in the U.S. to build and expand tech operations, including chips and AI, in exchange for reduced U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese exports. China views the agreement as a move by the U.S. to 'contain China' and has condemned the Democratic Progressive Party, Taiwan's ruling party, for allowing the U.S. to 'hollow out' the island's key industry. The pact deepens U.S.-Taiwan ties at a time when China has increased pressure on the island. Experts note that the deal is unlikely to fully wean the U.S. off Taiwan's most advanced semiconductors, as Taipei has kept its most advanced technology at home.

The UK's inflation rate rose to 3.4% in December 2025, exceeding economists' expectations of 3.3%. The increase was driven by higher tobacco prices, airfares, and food costs, particularly for bread and cereals. However, these increases were partially offset by a fall in rents inflation and lower prices for recreational and cultural purchases. The data has raised doubts over whether the Bank of England will proceed with its expected February rate cut, with some analysts suggesting that the BOE may hold off a little longer. The inflation rate had cooled sharply to 3.2% in November, encouraging the Bank of England to cut interest rates at its final meeting of the year last month.

The Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for a suicide blast at a Chinese restaurant in Kabul, Afghanistan, killing at least seven people, including one Chinese national, and injuring several others. The attack was carried out by one person linked to ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K), a lethal branch of the terrorist group. ISIS-K has targeted Chinese citizens in retaliation for Beijing's treatment of Uyghurs, a Muslim minority group. The Afghan government has been urged to do more to keep Chinese nationals and institutions safe. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson condemned the attack and advised Chinese nationals not to travel to Afghanistan.

Brooklyn Beckham has publicly accused his parents, David and Victoria Beckham, of prioritizing their public branding over their family relationships and sabotaging his marriage to Nicola Peltz. In a series of Instagram posts, Brooklyn alleged that his parents have controlled narratives about their family in the press and have spread lies in the media to preserve their public image. He cited specific incidents, including his mother's last-minute decision not to design Peltz's wedding dress and her 'hijacking' his first dance with Peltz at their wedding. David and Victoria Beckham have not directly responded to the allegations, although David commented on CNBC that children should be allowed to make mistakes on social media.

The article discusses the impact of Trump's trade war on America's toy aisles, particularly on small businesses. Jennifer Bergman, owner of West Side Kids toy store in Manhattan, struggled to keep her store open due to increased costs from tariffs imposed on toy imports from China. Despite initial assurances from suppliers that prices would remain low, tariffs on Chinese goods climbed to 145%, forcing Bergman to raise prices and eventually close her store. The article highlights the uneven impact of the tariffs on the toy industry, with big-box retailers like Walmart and Target able to absorb the costs, while small businesses were severely affected. The trade war has resulted in a 'Christmas economy split' between large retailers and small shopkeepers.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced that the country's next general election will be held on November 7, 2026. The election is expected to be highly contested, with the centre-right National party, led by Luxon, battling to retain power against the centre-left Labour party, led by Chris Hipkins. The economy and cost of living are likely to be key issues in the campaign, with many New Zealanders citing them as major concerns. Luxon's coalition government has implemented significant policy changes since taking office in 2023, but has faced controversy and lukewarm polling. Labour is currently polling well, and Luxon will face a challenging road to secure a second term.