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The article discusses how President Trump's tariffs have inadvertently fueled a boom in trade deals for China and India. The EU and India recently signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement, which was facilitated by Trump's tariffs-based trade policy. Other countries, such as the UK and Canada, are also seeking to strengthen their trade ties with China, perceiving it as a more reliable and predictable partner compared to the US under Trump's leadership. Experts warn that while China may appear more attractive as a trade partner, it has its own set of concerns and risks.

As the world marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day, experts warned that a flood of 'AI slop' is threatening efforts to preserve the memory of Nazi crimes and the millions of Jewish people killed during World War II. AI-generated content, including images and videos, is being used to distort history, deny or trivialize the Holocaust, and spread revisionist narratives. Holocaust memorials and commemorative associations have issued an open letter warning about the rising quantity of this 'entirely fabricated' content and calling on social media platforms to proactively combat AI content that distorts history.

Australian authorities have killed six dingoes on K'gari island after a 19-year-old Canadian backpacker, Piper James, was found dead on a beach with injuries consistent with dingo bites. The decision has sparked backlash from wildlife experts and the traditional owners of the island, the Butchulla people, who were not consulted before the euthanization. Experts argue that killing the dingoes may harm the island's dingo population and that humans and dingoes need to coexist. The incident has raised concerns about managing the local dingo population and the need for a more collaborative approach between wildlife managers, rangers, Indigenous people, and tourism operators.

Colombian security forces have killed five members of the Gulf Clan, the country's largest drug cartel, including a regional leader, just days before Colombian President Gustavo Petro meets with US President Donald Trump at the White House. The operation was part of a joint effort by the police and air force in the Magdalena department on the Caribbean Sea. The Gulf Clan has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the US, and the meeting between Petro and Trump is expected to focus on combating drug trafficking from Colombia, the world's top cocaine producer. The two leaders have had a tense relationship, with Petro criticizing Trump's migrant deportations and US strikes on suspected Latin American drug boats, which the US denies are violating international law.

The families of two Trinidadian men killed in a US missile strike on a boat in the Caribbean in October 2025 have sued the US government, arguing that the killings were 'premeditated and intentional' and lacked 'plausible legal justification.' Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo were among six passengers killed when their boat was destroyed by a US missile. The lawsuit claims that the men were not affiliated with drug cartels and were traveling back to Trinidad and Tobago after fishing and working on farms in Venezuela. The US government has justified the strike as part of a campaign against alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. The lawsuit is seeking compensation under the Death on the High Seas Act and the Alien Tort Statute.

A former French senator, Joël Guerriau, has been convicted and sentenced to 1.5 years in prison for drugging a fellow lawmaker, Sandrine Josso, with ecstasy in an attempt to sexually assault her. Guerriau admitted to spiking Josso's drink but claimed it was an accident. The court found him guilty of drugging Josso to sexually assault or rape her and of possession of drugs. Josso described the experience as terrifying and testified about the lasting trauma she suffered, including sleep disorders, panic attacks, and intense stress. Guerriau was given an additional 2.5-year suspended sentence and was banned from holding elected office. He plans to appeal the ruling.

A man from Iran shared his experience of surviving a deadly crackdown on anti-government protesters in the city of Yazd in early January. He described being in a crowd of 1,500 people when government forces started shooting from both sides, resulting in over a thousand deaths. The man escaped down a side street and is now in hiding, fearing government retaliation. He expressed his desire for the protests to achieve the return of Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran's last shah, and appealed for US intervention to help Iranians achieve freedom. The protests, which began in December, have resulted in an estimated 12,000 to 20,000 deaths. The Iranian government has shut down internet access, and the situation remains tense, with the US warning against violence and hinting at possible military action.

Scientists have discovered nearly 100 new animal species in a quarry in China's Hunan province, dating back to around 512 million years ago. The fossils, known as the Huayuan biota, provide a rare glimpse into the aftermath of a mass extinction event known as the Sinsk event, which occurred 513 million years ago. The discovery is significant as it sheds light on the evolution of life on Earth, particularly during the Cambrian explosion, a period of rapid diversification of animal life. The fossils include ancient relatives of worms, sponges, and jellyfish, as well as arthropods like crabs and insects.

The article discusses the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and the efforts to implement a U.S.-brokered peace plan. Israel has recovered the remains of its last hostage from Gaza, marking a significant step towards the second phase of the plan. The plan includes the reopening of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, the deployment of an international security force, and the disarmament of Hamas. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the next phase is not about rebuilding Gaza, but rather disarming Hamas. The U.S. is pressuring Hamas to disarm, and U.S. officials believe that Hamas will comply. The article also highlights the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with many Palestinians struggling to access basic necessities and medical care.

Carlisle Rivera, a man hired by Iranian operative Farhad Shakeri to assassinate Iranian dissident Masih Alinejad, was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Alinejad has survived three plots by Iran's regime to kill or kidnap her. Prosecutors said Shakeri was tasked by the IRGC to direct a network of criminal associates to further Iran's assassination plots. The IRGC allegedly tasked Shakeri with arranging to kill President Donald Trump before the 2024 election. Alinejad confronted Rivera at his sentencing, stating that the main killer in her eyes is the IRGC. She expressed her desire to testify against the men who hired the killer, the Revolutionary Guards.

Amazon plans to cut around 16,000 jobs globally as part of efforts to streamline operations and reduce bureaucracy. The company has been investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) and reducing its need for humans in the process. The cuts will impact approximately 16,000 roles across Amazon, with the majority expected to be in the Americas. Staff affected will have the opportunity to apply for roles in key growth areas. The announcement brings the total number of job cuts to 30,000 in just four months. Amazon's CEO, Andy Jassy, has spoken openly about the role of evolving technology in employment, with more human duties being gradually replaced by automation.

The article reports on the Iranian regime's crackdown on protesters, citing accounts from medical professionals who witnessed alleged brutality. Doctors shared disturbing stories of security forces targeting protesters and medical staff, and of patients being removed from life-supporting equipment. Human rights organizations have verified six cases of medical professionals being arrested or detained for treating protesters. The true number of people killed during the protests is disputed, with the Iranian government claiming 3,117 deaths, while human rights agencies and medical professionals estimate the number to be much higher, potentially over 23,000. Injured protesters are now seeking medical care from doctors abroad to avoid arrest.

The article discusses a podcast episode from Sky News discussing the recent protests in Iran and the government's crackdown. The episode features Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim analyzing the situation, including the potential death toll and the impact of the internet blackout. They also discuss the newly established Trump Board of Peace and its potential implications, as well as a recent incident in the US involving the killing of Alex Pretti by federal immigration agents.

A senior Indian politician, Ajit Pawar, deputy chief minister of Maharashtra state, died in a plane crash along with four others. The private plane crashed in an open field in western India while en route from Mumbai to Baramati. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Pawar, describing him as a 'widely respected' and 'hardworking personality.' The cause of the crash is not immediately known.

South Korea's former first lady, Kim Keon Hee, has been jailed for 20 months for corruption after receiving luxury gifts from the Unification Church in exchange for political favours. Her husband, former President Yoon Suk Yeol, was ousted from office after a martial law bid and faces rebellion charges that could result in a life sentence or the death penalty. Kim was also fined 12.8 million won and ordered to forfeit a Graff diamond necklace. The court acquitted her of stock price manipulation and political funding law violations. Kim's lawyers said she would review the ruling and consider an appeal.

A landslide in the Sicilian town of Niscemi has caused widespread destruction, with homes and buildings falling off a cliff edge, resulting in the evacuation of over 1,500 people. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni visited the area, declaring a state of emergency and allocating €100m in support. The landslide, triggered by heavy rain, has grown to span 2.5 miles and has rendered some areas 'uninhabitable'. Experts warn that some residents may never be able to return to their homes due to the risk of further landslides.

Tyson Fury is set to make his comeback to boxing in April against Arslanbek Makhmudov. Fury, 37, announced his retirement last year following defeats to Oleksandr Usyk but plans to fight three times this year. The fight, which will be Fury's first in the UK since 2022, is scheduled for April 11 and will be screened on Netflix. Makhmudov, a 36-year-old Russian boxer based in Canada, has won 21 of his 23 fights. Fury's return to boxing comes after a potential all-British showdown with Anthony Joshua was put in doubt due to Joshua's involvement in a car crash in Nigeria.

Authorities in several Asian countries, including Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia, have implemented precautions to prevent the spread of Nipah virus after two cases were detected in India's West Bengal state. The virus, carried by fruit bats and other animals, can cause severe symptoms, including encephalitis, and has a fatality rate of 40-75%. While there is no proven treatment, several vaccines are in development. The UK's Health and Security Agency has released information to educate travelers to areas where the virus circulates. The current outbreak is the first in West Bengal in nearly two decades, and health authorities have identified and traced 196 contacts, all of whom tested negative for the virus.

A Chinese gold trading platform, JWR, has collapsed due to a liquidity crisis caused by a surge in gold prices and subsequent investor withdrawals, leaving tens of thousands of retail investors with losses totaling over 10 billion yuan (US$1.4 billion). The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with hundreds of investors gathering outside the company's offices in Shenzhen to demand their money back. Authorities have launched an investigation into the company's business operations.

A Chinese AI system called TongGeometry has outperformed its US competitors in solving geometry problems at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) level. The system not only solves problems but also generates mathematical problems, with three of its generated problems appearing in a Chinese national team qualifying exam and a top Olympiad in the United States in 2024. Researchers from the Beijing Institute for General Artificial Intelligence and Peking University developed TongGeometry, which uses a neuro-symbolic approach to discover, propose, and prove IMO-level geometry problems. The system generated 6.7 billion geometry problems that required auxiliary constructions, drawing on 196 past Olympiad geometry problems.

A senior Hong Kong transport official has defended the newly implemented compulsory bus seat belt rule, citing the city's hilly landscape and prevalence of highways on short-haul routes. The regulation, which came into effect on Sunday, requires all passengers on public and private buses to wear seat belts where available, with penalties of up to HK$5,000 and three months in prison for non-compliance. The official, Stella Lee Yim-fong, dismissed suggestions to exempt short-haul routes, stating that Hong Kong's unique road conditions necessitate the rule. Bus companies will deploy ambassadors to raise awareness, particularly among elderly passengers. The regulation has drawn complaints from passengers regarding the hassle of buckling up, discomfort, and issues with proper fitting for children.

A new archaeological study in China has challenged the Western narrative that large-scale water projects led to 'Oriental despotism.' Researchers found evidence of ancient communities managing water cooperatively around 5,000 years ago, contradicting the theory that centralized control was necessary for large-scale hydraulic projects. The study suggests that prehistoric communities in China collaborated on water management projects, such as digging ponds for irrigation and flood control, without a centralized authority.

The article highlights seven lifestyle stories from the South China Morning Post's recent reporting, including Japan's love for China's dan dan mian noodle dish, AI's predictions for the Year of the Horse, and an 'unlucky' chocolate mahjong set. The stories cover various topics such as food, astrology, and entertainment. The article provides a brief overview of each story and invites readers to subscribe to the publication for more content.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has given top enforcement officials a week to prove their commitment to combating corruption and smuggling, warning that those who feel unable to deliver should step aside. Anwar's administration faces scrutiny over its anti-corruption efforts amid recurring scandals and patronage networks. Malaysia scored 50 out of 100 in Transparency International's 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, and Anwar aims to improve the country's ranking to the global top 25 by 2033. Anwar linked the crackdown to cross-border criminality and urged agencies to work together to address weaknesses at Malaysia's borders.

Tesla reported its first-ever annual revenue decline in 2025, with total revenues falling 3% to $94.8 billion. The company's vehicle production and deliveries also declined due to increased competition from Chinese electric vehicle makers. Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, announced plans to pivot towards humanoid robots and potentially build its own semiconductor factories. The company's stock price surged in after-hours trading following the announcements.

The article discusses how tech billionaires like Jensen Huang and Elon Musk are treated like rock stars in China, with their visits and presence generating significant attention and admiration. The phenomenon is attributed to a natural attraction to their personality and a form of affective politics. The article highlights examples of their popularity, including Huang's visit to a fruit stall in Shanghai and Musk's 44-hour visit to China, which generated massive buzz on social media.

Amazon has confirmed it will cut 16,000 jobs after accidentally sending an email to staff informing them of the redundancies. The email, sent on Tuesday, referred to a global effort to 'strengthen the company' by reducing layers and removing bureaucracy. Amazon employs around 1.5 million people globally, with around 350,000 in corporate roles. The job cuts are part of a larger plan to reduce costs and increase efficiency, with CEO Andy Jassy having led the company through several rounds of cuts since taking over from Jeff Bezos four years ago. The company has also announced plans to close its Amazon-branded grocery stores and expand its Whole Foods Market business.

At least five people have died after Storm Kristin hit Portugal, causing widespread damage, flooding, and landslides. The storm brought heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 150km/h, resulting in over 3,000 weather-related incidents across the country. The government described the event as 'extreme climactic', with the civil protection agency reporting three deaths in the central district of Leiria. The storm also caused significant disruptions to transport, with roads and railways blocked by debris, and over 850,000 people lost power. The Prime Minister expressed condolences to the victims' families and urged caution, while the mayor of Leiria called for a state of emergency to be declared.

Deutsche Bank's offices in Frankfurt and Berlin were raided by German officials as part of a money laundering investigation. The Office of the Federal Prosecutor is investigating 'unknown individuals and employees' at the bank for suspected money laundering activities involving foreign companies. The probe may be linked to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, who was sanctioned by the UK and EU in 2022. Deutsche Bank confirmed the raids, but officials declined to comment on the specifics. The bank's shares fell nearly 2% on the news, which will overshadow its full-year results announcement on Thursday. This is not the first time Deutsche Bank has been raided; in 2018, its offices were searched as part of a money laundering investigation.

The article discusses the treatment of protesters injured during anti-government protests in Iran. Due to the risk of arrest, many protesters are avoiding hospitals and instead seeking secret medical treatment from doctors and volunteers. Healthcare workers are risking their safety to treat the wounded, but some have been arrested and accused of 'enmity against God', a crime that can carry the death penalty. The article highlights the scale of the bloodshed and the number of people killed or injured during the protests, with estimates suggesting over 6,000 people have been killed and many more injured.

The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has warned that Europe must urgently improve its defence capabilities and make Nato 'more European' due to the shaken transatlantic relationship with the US. Kallas stated that Europe can no longer rely on the US as its primary partner and ally, citing the Trump administration's actions, including the threat to take over Greenland. She emphasized the need for Europe to act jointly and strengthen its defence capabilities, with the 23 nations that are members of both the EU and Nato having a special responsibility to 'sync their efforts'. The comments come amid tensions between the US and Europe, with Nato leader Mark Rutte previously stating that European lawmakers were 'dreaming' if they thought Europe could defend itself without the US.

Heavy gunfire and loud explosions were heard near Niamey's international airport in Niger's capital, with eyewitness accounts and videos showing air defence systems engaging unidentified projectiles. The situation later calmed down, with an official stating it was under control, but the cause of the blasts and potential casualties remain unclear. The incident occurred against a backdrop of Niger's military government fighting jihadist groups and amid unresolved legal and diplomatic complications with France over uranium mining.

The article discusses the potential consequences of a US strike on Iran, presenting seven possible scenarios. These range from targeted, surgical strikes with minimal civilian casualties to a full-scale war with unpredictable outcomes. The scenarios include the possibility of the Iranian regime collapsing, being replaced by a military government, or retaliating against US forces and its neighbors. The article highlights the complexity and risks associated with military action against Iran, including the potential for significant humanitarian and regional destabilization.

The Champions League opening round concluded with dramatic results, including Benfica's last-gasp goal by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin to advance to the round of 16, eliminating Real Madrid, who fell to ninth place. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Newcastle also fell in the standings after a 1-1 draw. The article highlights the surprises of the round, including Bodo/Glimt's win over Atletico Madrid and the elimination of Napoli. The qualifying playoffs draw will feature teams that placed ninth through 24th, including Real Madrid, PSG, Newcastle, and Inter Milan.

A koala was rescued from wildfires raging through a farm in Victoria, Australia, amid a record heatwave that has fueled blazes across the country. The article reports on the rescue and provides additional information on the wildfires and their impact. The content is part of a larger news broadcast featuring various global news stories.

Meta and YouTube are heading to court over allegations of social media addiction. The lawsuit claims that the companies' algorithms are designed to be addictive and have caused harm to users, particularly children. The case is being led by lawyer Mark Lanier, who appeared on CNN's 'The Lead' to discuss the lawsuit. The lawsuit is part of a growing trend of legal action against social media companies over their impact on users' mental health.

The White House and Senate leaders are negotiating a last-ditch deal to avert a government shutdown ahead of Friday's deadline. The proposed deal would split funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from a larger funding package, allowing time to negotiate new policy measures on ICE agents' deployment. Democrats are demanding changes to immigration enforcement, including restrictions on roving patrols and body cameras for ICE agents. Despite the risk of a shutdown, Democrats remain resolute, buoyed by public outcry over ICE agents' harsh tactics.

A former Venezuelan opposition mayor, Carlos García, was arrested by US immigration authorities and is facing deportation to Venezuela, the country he fled due to political persecution. García and his wife, Gaby Duarte, had sought asylum in the US after fleeing Venezuela in 2017. Duarte fears that if García is deported, his freedom and life will be at risk. The couple has two young children and had built a life in Ohio, where they had work permits and were paying taxes. García's arrest has sparked concerns about the US immigration policies and the potential consequences for Venezuelan migrants.

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has estimated that President Donald Trump's deployment of National Guard troops to several major US cities from June to December 2025 cost taxpayers approximately $496 million. If the deployments continue through 2026, the cost could exceed $1.1 billion. The CBO's estimate includes direct and indirect costs associated with activating, deploying, and compensating National Guard personnel. Senator Jeff Merkley, who requested the CBO analysis, criticized the deployments as 'reckless and haphazard' and accused Trump of 'weaponizing taxpayer funds' to tighten his grip on communities. The White House defended the deployments, citing a decrease in crime rates in cities where National Guard troops were deployed.

The article profiles Veerabhadran Ramanathan, an Indian-American climate scientist who has made significant contributions to our understanding of global warming. Ramanathan's work has shown that greenhouse gases other than CO2, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are major contributors to global warming. He has also studied the effects of air pollution on climate change and has been a key advisor to the Pontifical Academy of Sciences on climate change policy. Ramanathan has been awarded the prestigious Crafoord Prize for his work.

Talks between the UK and the US over the future of the Chagos Islands have reopened following criticism from former US President Donald Trump. The UK had agreed to hand sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius, but Trump branded the deal 'an act of great stupidity' due to the strategic importance of the US military base on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that discussions had restarted after Trump's comments, and that the UK was working to 'allay any concerns' in Washington. The Chagos Islands were separated from Mauritius during Britain's decolonization process, a move the International Court of Justice ruled unlawful in 2019. The base on Diego Garcia is critical for US operations in the Middle East, Indo-Pacific, and Africa.

China is expanding its presence in the Pacific Islands, specifically in Micronesia, through infrastructure projects and economic leverage, raising concerns among experts about Beijing's growing influence in the region. A Chinese-backed runway on the island of Yap is set to be officially opened, and experts warn that this could be a strategic move to gain access to a vital location for American defense. The US has long considered Yap as a crucial location, and the Compact of Free Association between the US and Micronesia grants Washington exclusive defense rights in the region.

Philippine Mayor Akmad Ampatuan survived an apparent rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) attack on his convoy in Maguindanao del Sur. The attack occurred in broad daylight, and two members of Ampatuan's security detail were injured. The motive is unknown, but Ampatuan has survived two previous assassination attempts in the past five years.

Pope Leo XIV has urged the international community to remain vigilant against antisemitism and persecution on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed on January 27. Speaking at the Vatican's Paul VI Hall, the Pope called for a world free from prejudice, oppression, and persecution, and emphasized the need for dialogue over violence to resolve conflicts. He linked his message to the commemoration of the millions of Jews and others murdered during the Holocaust, and reaffirmed the Catholic Church's commitment to rejecting all forms of antisemitism.

A new report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) warns that the combined war casualties in the Russia-Ukraine conflict could reach 2 million by spring 2026. The report estimates that Russia has suffered 1.2 million casualties, including 325,000 troop deaths, between February 2022 and December 2025, while Ukraine has suffered between 500,000 to 600,000 casualties, including 140,000 troop deaths. The high casualty rate is attributed to Russia's 'attrition strategy' and 'failure to effectively conduct combined arms and joint warfare.' The report also notes that Russia's advances have been 'remarkably slow,' with an average rate of 15 to 70 meters per day in its most prominent offenses since January 2024. The conflict has persisted despite international mediators' attempts to end it, with recent trilateral talks between the US, Russia, and Ukraine being described as 'constructive.'

Spain's socialist-led government has announced plans to grant legal status to up to 500,000 undocumented migrants, sparking a fierce political battle. The move allows unauthorized immigrants who entered the country before the end of 2025 and have lived there for at least five months with no criminal record to obtain one-year residency and work permits, with possible pathways to citizenship. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's government argues that the policy will benefit the country's aging workforce and economy. However, conservatives and the populist Vox party have condemned the plan, describing it as an 'amnesty' that could fuel irregular migration. Critics argue that the decision will attract more migrants to Europe and create problems for neighboring countries.

A man drove a gray Honda Sedan with New Jersey plates into the entrance of the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, multiple times on Wednesday night, causing significant damage but no injuries. The driver, who was arrested at the scene, claimed that his car 'slipped,' but witnesses and authorities believe the act was intentional and potentially motivated by bias. The NYPD is investigating the incident as a hate crime, and the community is on high alert. The incident occurred during a holy celebration that drew thousands of congregants to the area. Officials, including NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Mayor Zohran Mamdani, have condemned the incident and pledged to increase security around houses of worship.

A 47-year-old Georgia elementary school assistant principal, Courtney Janell Shaw, has been accused of stealing 98 items worth approximately $1,000 from Walmart using a 'stacking' scheme at self-checkout kiosks. Shaw was arrested on Monday by the Cherokee Sheriff's Office after authorities were alerted to the alleged thefts, which occurred between November and December. The suspect used a method where she placed multiple items on top of one another and scanned only one before leaving the store. Shaw has been charged with one felony count of shoplifting and was released on a $4,875 bond. The school has placed Shaw on administrative leave pending the outcome of internal and law enforcement investigations.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame has issued a statement warning that it will remove voters who violated its bylaws after a controversy surrounding Bill Belichick's non-election to the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. The Hall of Fame did not directly mention Belichick or the controversy, but stated that it takes the integrity of the selection process seriously and will review the voting process. Belichick failed to receive the required 80% of votes from the 50-person Selection Committee, sparking a backlash from the football community, including from notable figures such as Patrick Mahomes and Jimmy Johnson. One selection committee member, Vahe Gregorian, revealed that he did not vote for Belichick, citing the 'curious selection dynamics' as his reason.

The article argues that Republicans should not soften their stance on immigration ahead of the midterm elections, as it was a key issue that led to Donald Trump's election in 2024. The author claims that Democrats will target whoever is serving as DHS secretary after November for impeachment if they win, and that Republicans need to defend their voters' interests and enforce immigration laws. The article criticizes certain Republican senators for being too weak on immigration and calls for more voices to defend the administration's policies.

The article by Miranda Devine discusses Hunter Biden's recent controversies, including his failure to pay child support to Lunden Roberts, the mother of his daughter Navy, and his attempts to salvage his reputation through a podcast appearance. Devine criticizes Hunter's actions, highlighting his history of financial mismanagement and lack of responsibility, as well as his father's enabling behavior. The article also touches on Hunter's denial of the authenticity of his infamous laptop and the Biden family's alleged influence-peddling schemes.

A sex tape scandal has rocked Montenegro's government, leading to the resignations of Mirjana Pajković, the director general for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, and Dejan Vukšić, a married presidential adviser and former national security agency director. Pajković announced her resignation on January 23, 2026, citing personal reasons, but accused Vukšić of threatening her with the tape to remain quiet. Vukšić had resigned in December after Pajković filed criminal charges against him. Both officials denied the claims made by the other and filed criminal complaints. The scandal has highlighted issues of power abuse, blackmail, and the exploitation of explicit content.

The article discusses China's unbalanced economy through the lens of Ningbo, the world's busiest port city. While Ningbo's industry fuels China's foreign trade, local merchants and residents are feeling economic strain. The city's port and manufacturing facilities are thriving, with a record trade surplus, but the real estate market has collapsed, leading to reduced consumer spending. Government data indicates that investments in new apartments, office buildings, and factories fell 21.4% last year, and municipal spending dropped 5.6%. The city's export factories are prospering, but even they face difficulties due to overcapacity and tariffs. The article highlights the contrast between China's industrial prowess and its struggling economy, with many residents feeling the pinch and expressing dissatisfaction with the government.

French President Emmanuel Macron's popularity has seen a modest resurgence due to his strong stance against US President Trump and his leadership on European issues. Macron's approval rating has risen to 20% after a year of low popularity following his pension reform. He has been able to capitalize on his 'Top Gun-like swagger' and his message of 'strategic autonomy' for Europe. However, analysts warn that he still faces significant challenges, including a divided European leadership, France's financial constraints, and the rise of the far-right National Rally party.

A federal judge in Minnesota has strongly criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for violating nearly 100 court orders related to its aggressive crackdown on immigrants in the state. The judge, Patrick J. Schiltz, initially summoned the acting director of ICE, Todd Lyons, to appear in court to explain why he should not be held in contempt, but later rescinded the order after ICE released an immigrant who was detained under an improper reading of federal law. Judge Schiltz emphasized that ICE is not above the law and must follow court orders unless they are overturned or vacated. The judge attached a list of 96 court orders that ICE has failed to follow since January 1, noting that the tally was likely understated due to the busy schedules of judges. The criticism comes amid a surge in legal cases filed by immigrants swept up in the administration's dragnet in Minnesota.

The article discusses the Trump administration's plan to manage Venezuela's oil sales and fund its government, as revealed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing. Rubio stated that Venezuela's interim government will submit a monthly budget to the White House, which will release funds from an account controlled by Qatar. Democrats questioned the plan's legality and transparency, particularly regarding Qatar's role. Rubio assured senators that the administration does not intend to use military force against Venezuela, but his written statement suggested otherwise. The plan aims to help Venezuela's government fund basic services and purchase medicine and equipment from the US.

A man in rural China was not charged with raping a woman with mental illness after living with her for 13 years and having children with her. Prosecutors argued that his actions were 'fundamentally different from rape' because he had formed a family with her. The decision sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many criticizing the authorities for overlooking the woman's lack of consent and promoting a culture that prioritizes childbearing over women's rights.

The article discusses a potential deal between President Trump and Senator Chuck Schumer to avoid a government shutdown by separating the funding for the Department of Homeland Security from other federal agencies. Democrats are demanding new restrictions on federal immigration agents, including the use of body cameras and an end to random sweeps and warrantless searches. The deal is not yet sealed, but progress has been made, and Senator Susan Collins believes that the White House and Senate are making good progress to avoid a shutdown.

The article discusses Britain's initiative to develop custom genetic medicines for rare diseases caused by faulty genes. It highlights the potential of breakthroughs in genomics and genomic medicines to treat these diseases, which affect around 300 million people worldwide. Despite the progress, many sufferers remain untreated due to the tricky economics of developing drugs for individual patients. The article suggests that Britain's approach could be a solution to this problem.

The article argues that both the right and left are wrong in their negative perceptions of London. It counters claims that London is a 'hellhole' or 'no-go' area, instead portraying it as a vibrant hub. The article criticizes figures like Donald Trump and Nigel Farage for spreading negative stereotypes about the city. It suggests that London deserves more appreciation and support, particularly from the Labour party.

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The article discusses the potential demise of the Conservative and Unionist Party in Britain and the rise of Reform UK, a party led by Nigel Farage. The party has been attracting former Conservative members, including high-profile figures such as Nadhim Zahawi and Robert Jenrick, who have expressed support for Farage as prime minister. The Conservative leader, Kemi Badenoch, has responded by expelling Jenrick from the party. The article suggests that Reform UK is filled with Tory throwbacks and that the party's success could be a significant turning point in British politics.

The article discusses how Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has been affected by his party losing its national majority in 2024 and having to rule in coalition. Despite initial expectations that his re-election in coalition would be a weakness, Modi's policymaking has been constrained in a way that has actually made him govern better. The article also touches upon the impact of US President Donald Trump's tariffs on Indian exports, which have added up to 50%. The author argues that these constraints have ultimately strengthened Modi's hand and forced him to be more effective in his governance.

India is set to slash import duties on European cars to 10% from 70%-110% as part of a trade deal with the European Union. The deal, described as the 'mother of all deals,' will apply to a quota of 250,000 vehicles per year and cars priced above 15,000 euros. While the move is seen as a win for European car majors, it may not significantly impact the dominance of local manufacturers in the Indian market. The deal has been welcomed by industry leaders, who see it as a positive step for the auto sector, but some investors are concerned about increased competition in high-margin segments.

Deutsche Bank reported a record profit of 1.3 billion euros ($1.56 billion) for the fourth quarter of 2025, beating analyst forecasts. The bank's group revenues were in line with estimates at 7.73 billion euros. Despite a probe into alleged money laundering, the bank's CFO expressed optimism for 2026, citing strong performance in fixed income and currencies businesses, and asset management. The bank's CET 1 capital ratio was 14.2%, down slightly from the previous quarter. The investigation into money laundering allegations is ongoing, with the bank cooperating with authorities.

Gold and silver prices have hit consecutive record highs, with some analysts warning that speculative flows are amplifying moves and detaching prices from physical demand. The precious metals complex has seen a surge in prices, with gold crossing $5,500 per ounce and silver rising over 65% this year. Analysts attribute the demand to investors seeking protection from geopolitical tensions, swelling government debt, and uncertainty over interest rates and currencies. However, some experts warn that the market may be broken, with prices driven by volatile liquidity flows and excessive speculation rather than fundamental demand.

Nvidia's AI boom is heavily reliant on Dutch semiconductor equipment company ASML, which is the sole manufacturer of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines used to produce advanced semiconductors. ASML's share price has surged 36% in 2025 and another 32% in 2026, driven by strong demand for its EUV machines, which are crucial for the production of AI chips. Analysts predict that ASML will maintain its market lead due to its significant investment in EUV technology and the high barriers to entry for competitors. The company's EUV machines are used by major chip foundries like TSMC, Intel, and Samsung, and are expected to play a key role in the development of next-generation semiconductors.

A Chinese national, Guan Heng, has been granted asylum in the US after exposing alleged human rights abuses against Uyghurs in Xinjiang, China. Guan secretly filmed detention facilities in Xinjiang in 2020, which contributed to a body of evidence of widespread rights abuses in the region. He applied for asylum after arriving in the US illegally in 2021 and was detained until his hearing. The US immigration judge ruled that Guan had a 'well-founded fear' of persecution if sent back to China. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initially sought to deport Guan but dropped the plan after public outcry. Guan's lawyer argued that his case was a 'textbook example of why asylum should exist'. The Chinese government has denied allegations of rights abuses in Xinjiang, claiming that vocational training programs are in place to help local residents.

South Korea has launched 'world-first' laws to regulate artificial intelligence, requiring companies to label AI-generated content and conduct risk assessments for high-impact AI systems. The laws have faced criticism from tech startups, which say they go too far, and civil society groups, which say they don't go far enough. The legislation is central to South Korea's ambition to become a leading AI power, but experts warn of competitive imbalance and regulatory uncertainty.

Protesters gathered outside a US immigration detention facility in Dilley, Texas, demanding the release of a 5-year-old Ecuadoran boy, Liam Conejo Ramos, who was detained under President Donald Trump's immigration policies. Texas state police used tear gas to disperse the protesters, with about 100 people participating in the demonstration. The boy and his father were taken into custody in Minneapolis, and a federal judge temporarily blocked their deportation. Democratic congressmembers visited the detention facility and demanded the release of Ramos and others being held there.

The average U.S. life expectancy rose to 79 years in 2024, its highest level on record, as deaths from overdoses and COVID-19 declined. Despite this progress, the U.S. still lags behind other wealthy countries in life expectancy. Experts caution that significant disparities remain among Americans, with certain groups experiencing higher mortality rates. The improvement in life expectancy is attributed to a decline in deaths from drug overdoses and COVID-19. However, concerns are raised that the current administration's policies may reverse this progress.

The article discusses how the trade war between the US and China, initiated by the Trump administration, has affected the toy industry in the US. Small toy retailers, like Jennifer Bergman's West Side Kids, have been hit hard by the tariffs imposed on Chinese imports, leading to increased costs and decreased sales. In contrast, big-box retailers like Walmart and Target have been able to absorb the costs and maintain low prices. The article highlights the struggles of small businesses and the potential long-term effects of the trade war on the US economy.

South Korea's former first lady has been jailed for bribery, just ahead of her husband's verdict. The couple's fall from power to imprisonment is notable but not unusual in South Korea's democratic history, where high-level prosecutions have become relatively common. The article highlights the country's transition to democracy over the past 40 years and the frequency of such prosecutions.