Egisto Ott, a former intelligence officer in Austria, is on trial for allegedly spying for Russia. He is accused of giving personal and secret data to Russian intelligence and Jan Marsalek, a fugitive executive. The charges have sparked concerns about Russian espionage activities in Austria.
Key Facts
Egisto Ott, 63, is a former Austrian intelligence officer accused of spying for Russia.
Ott is charged with passing data to Russian intelligence and Jan Marsalek between 2015 and 2020.
Jan Marsalek is a fugitive wanted for alleged fraud related to the collapse of Wirecard.
Marsalek is thought to have fled from Austria to Moscow in 2020.
Ott allegedly gathered large amounts of personal data using police databases without permission.
Prosecutors say Ott tried to obtain a secure laptop for Russian intelligence in 2022.
If found guilty, Ott faces up to five years in prison for abuse of authority and espionage.
An Austrian former MP, Thomas Schellenbacher, is separately charged with helping Marsalek escape to Belarus.
A former minister warns that the UK government might face opposition if it reduces its promised reforms to the leasehold system in England and Wales. Labour has committed to capping ground rents, but concerns exist about how this could affect pension funds. The government promised to legislate changes but delayed the draft bill.
Key Facts
Justin Madders, a former minister, warns of a possible "mass rebellion" if leasehold reform promises are reduced.
Ground rents are fees leaseholders pay to freeholders, and Labour wants these capped.
In 2022, most new residential leasehold properties in England and Wales had ground rents abolished, but existing homes still have them.
Labour’s election manifesto promised to tackle high ground rent charges, but there are concerns about the economic impact.
The government had promised a draft bill to reform the leasehold system, but it has been delayed due to ground rent issues.
Around five million homes in England and Wales are leasehold properties.
There are disagreements on setting a cap for ground rents, with a £250 yearly cap being more likely.
Concerns exist about how a cap might impact pension funds that own freehold properties.
On January 22, a Ukrainian woman died after Russian shelling in Kherson, and Ukraine reported ongoing missile and bomb attacks in Donetsk. Meanwhile, President Trump, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, plans to meet with Ukraine's President Zelenskyy and discussed a possible peace deal with Russian President Putin.
Key Facts
A woman in Ukraine's Kherson region died from injuries after Russian shelling.
Russian forces launched 768 missiles and bombs in Ukraine's Donetsk region over 10 days.
Kyiv's power remains unstable, with ongoing outages affecting about 44,000 homes.
Ukrainian forces attacked a Russian port, killing three and injuring eight.
An Uzbek man in Moscow was sentenced to life in prison for a Ukraine-backed attack on a Russian general.
Dutch navy ships escorted Russian vessels away from the North Sea.
President Trump is discussing peace efforts with leaders in Davos, seeking an end to the Ukraine conflict.
Russian President Putin is considering joining Trump's proposed peace efforts for the Middle East.
A former police officer and hostage negotiator, Nicky Perfect, shared lessons from her career that can help in parenting. She describes three strategies: offering limited choices, pausing before reacting, and understanding others' perspectives.
Key Facts
Nicky Perfect served as a Metropolitan Police officer for over 30 years, including 10 years as a hostage negotiator.
She worked in the New Scotland Yard Hostage and Crisis Negotiation Unit.
Perfect suggests offering a "no choice choice" to give children a sense of control.
She recommends waiting 90 seconds before responding to emotionally charged situations.
Understanding the child's perspective can help manage situations like bedtime tantrums.
Perfect shared her insights on the BBC's Parenting Download podcast.
The techniques aim to maintain calm and control in parenting, drawing from her negotiation skills.
Ashton Kutcher, an American actor, has stated that Hollywood is not responsible for setting unrealistic beauty standards, and that the desire for perfection comes from society as a whole. He is starring in a new TV show, "The Beauty," which explores themes related to beauty and societal pressures.
Key Facts
Ashton Kutcher is known for his roles in TV shows and movies like "That '70s Show" and "Dude, Where's My Car?"
Kutcher argues that society, not Hollywood, is to blame for setting high beauty standards.
He stars in a show called "The Beauty" about a drug that transforms people into their most attractive selves.
The show addresses modern issues, like the popularity of weight-loss drugs Mounjaro and Ozempic.
Kutcher mentions the increasing social acceptance of cosmetic enhancements.
In 2024, 27,462 cosmetic procedures were performed in the UK, a 5% increase from 2023.
The show touches on the cultural significance of beauty, success, and power.
President Donald Trump stated at the World Economic Forum in Davos that he would not use military force to take over Greenland but insisted that the United States should control the Danish territory. He announced a "framework of a future deal" regarding Greenland's status, though details were not revealed. Trump also discussed his views on NATO and the U.S. economy during the speech.
Key Facts
President Trump said he does not plan to use force to take over Greenland.
He believes the U.S. needs Greenland for strategic and national security reasons.
Trump announced a vague "framework of a future deal" about Greenland after meeting with NATO's Secretary-General.
Trump lifted tariffs he had planned for European allies.
He criticized Denmark for being unable to protect Greenland effectively.
Trump described NATO as costly for the U.S. and suggested it is not beneficial.
He emphasized the U.S. as a leading force in global economic growth.
The Oscar nominations will be announced soon, with Leonardo DiCaprio's film, "One Battle After Another," expected to do well. This year, British actors may have fewer nominations than usual, while Irish talent is expected to have a strong showing. The awards ceremony will be hosted by U.S. comedian Conan O'Brien on March 15.
Key Facts
Oscar nominations will be announced, with the film "One Battle After Another" predicted to lead.
The nominations will be revealed starting at 13:30 GMT.
British talent is not expected to secure many nominations this year, but Wunmi Mosaku from "Sinners" has a shot.
Irish actors Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal are strong candidates for nominations.
Conan O'Brien will host the Academy Awards on March 15.
Sequels like "Wicked: For Good" and "Avatar: Fire and Ash" are not expected to get many nominations.
Director James Cameron mentioned he's more focused on making movies for audiences than campaigning for awards.
California Governor Gavin Newsom said that the Trump administration stopped him from speaking at a World Economic Forum event in Davos. Newsom's office mentioned that USA House, the official U.S. space at the event, denied him entry to speak, even though he was invited by Fortune. The White House criticized Newsom and did not provide a reason for blocking his participation.
Key Facts
Governor Gavin Newsom claimed the Trump administration blocked him from speaking at a Davos event.
Newsom was supposed to speak at USA House, the U.S. pavilion at the World Economic Forum.
Despite being invited by Fortune, Newsom was denied entry shortly before the event.
The White House criticized Newsom for going to Davos, saying he should focus on California.
Newsom suggested that pressure from the White House and State Department influenced the decision.
Alternatives were offered for Newsom to speak at another reception, which he declined.
President Trump spoke at Davos and mentioned Newsom during his speech.
President Donald Trump announced a deal with NATO allies regarding Greenland. The agreement involves discussions about Greenland's role in the U.S. missile defense system. President Trump also decided not to impose tariffs on European allies that were against his Greenland plan.
Key Facts
President Trump announced a "framework deal" with NATO about Greenland.
The deal includes further talks on Greenland's role in the U.S. missile defense system.
President Trump stepped back from imposing tariffs on European countries opposed to the Greenland acquisition.
U.S. stock markets went up following the announcement about the deal.
A NATO official mentioned concerns if Greenland is not given to the U.S.
President Trump emphasized the importance of owning Arctic territory for U.S. national security during a speech in Davos.
The media reported varied reactions and comments about President Trump’s speech and actions.
Families of patients at Scotland's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital claim they were misled about infections linked to the hospital's water system. The Scottish Hospitals Inquiry is investigating these issues, and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has apologized and taken steps to address the problems. The inquiry is listening to final submissions before releasing a report.
Key Facts
The Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow opened in 2015 and had design flaws, according to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
Infections among some cancer patients were likely connected to issues with the water system at the hospital.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde apologized to affected patients and families.
Families accused the health board of dishonesty and disrespect in handling the situation.
The Scottish Hospitals Inquiry is reviewing the hospital's planning, design, and maintenance.
The final report from the inquiry is expected later this year.
Concerns about safety arose after infections and deaths, including that of a 10-year-old patient.
The health board acknowledged past unfair criticisms of staff who raised safety concerns.
Australia's main opposition, the Liberal-National Coalition, has split due to a disagreement over new hate speech laws. The Nationals decided to leave the Coalition, putting Liberal leader Sussan Ley's leadership in question. This disagreement follows recent political tensions after an attack in Bondi Beach.
Key Facts
The Liberal-National Coalition in Australia has broken up over disagreements about hate speech reforms.
The disagreement arose after a terror attack at Bondi Beach, which killed 15 people.
Followers of the Nationals refused to support a decision by the shadow cabinet on the hate speech laws.
David Littleproud, leader of the Nationals, announced the split and criticized the situation.
This is the second split between the Nationals and Liberals in less than a year.
Sussan Ley, the Liberal leader, faced leadership challenges before this split.
Both parties had opposed tighter gun control laws but had different views on hate speech reforms.
The Coalition had been unstable since losing elections last year.
President Trump and NATO Secretary General Marc Rutte discussed a plan regarding Greenland that respects Denmark's sovereignty over the island. The framework involves enhancing U.S. military presence and cooperation in the Arctic without transferring control of Greenland from Denmark to the United States. President Trump expressed his hope that the deal would achieve U.S. strategic goals in the region.
Key Facts
President Trump and Marc Rutte discussed a plan involving Greenland at a meeting in Davos, Switzerland.
The plan respects Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland.
The proposal does not transfer control of Greenland to the United States.
The plan includes updating a 1951 defense agreement between the U.S. and Denmark.
The framework will increase U.S. and NATO military presence in the Arctic.
President Trump is hopeful the deal will help the U.S. achieve its strategic goals.
Trump called for immediate negotiations with Denmark and Greenland about the plan.
The U.S. will not impose tariffs on European allies if the deal is finalized.
The Awami League, a major political party in Bangladesh, cannot participate in upcoming elections. Sheikh Hasina, their leader, is living in exile after being overthrown. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, discusses the party's future and public anger over past leadership.
Key Facts
The Awami League is not allowed to take part in the next elections in Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina, the Awami League leader and former Prime Minister, is in exile.
Sheikh Hasina was overthrown in August 2024.
Bangladesh is preparing for a significant election without the Awami League.
Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Sheikh Hasina’s son, is a key figure in the Awami League.
The party faces criticism for past repressive governance.
The interview questions whether the party can have a political future in Bangladesh.
A man from Toronto allegedly faked being a pilot and flight attendant to get free flights on U.S. airlines for four years. He was arrested in Panama and extradited to the United States, where he faces charges of wire fraud. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Key Facts
Dallas Pokornik, a 33-year-old from Toronto, is accused of pretending to be both a pilot and a flight attendant.
Prosecutors say he used a fake identification card to get free flights from U.S. airlines.
Pokornik allegedly asked to sit in the cockpit, a spot usually reserved for off-duty pilots.
He was arrested in Panama and is now in the United States facing legal charges.
The Department of Justice states he could get up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
His alleged activities took place from January 2020 to October 2024.
The U.S. airlines involved are based in Honolulu, Chicago, and Fort Worth, Texas, but their names are not mentioned.
President Trump recently threatened tariffs over Greenland, sparking tension with the UK and other allies. After diplomatic discussions, President Trump decided to drop the tariff threat, easing tensions. The situation highlighted differences between US and UK positions, but a resolution was reached without escalating conflict.
Key Facts
President Trump initially threatened to impose tariffs related to Greenland, causing tension.
The UK and other allies engaged in diplomacy to address the situation.
UK Prime Minister emphasized "calm discussion" in response to the issue.
There was a disagreement between the US and UK over Greenland's status.
President Trump used social media to announce the end of the tariff threat.
The UK government expressed relief at the resolution of the situation.
Concerns existed about maintaining UK-US relations amid these tensions.
The resolution occurred swiftly after President Trump's announcement on social media.
Israel demolished the headquarters of a United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees in East Jerusalem. The United Nations stated that this action breaks international law. The situation has led to widespread criticism of Israel.
Key Facts
Israel demolished the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem.
UNRWA stands for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, which helps Palestinian refugees.
The United Nations claims this action violates international law.
The demolition has caused international criticism against Israel.
The UNRWA compound was located in East Jerusalem, a disputed area.
Various experts and commentators are discussing the implications of this action.
Episode 6 of "Love Island: All Stars" Season 3 will air on Peacock on January 22, 2026, at specific times in different time zones. Viewers will see the fallout of recent tensions and surprise developments among the contestants. To watch, a Peacock subscription is necessary.
Key Facts
"Love Island: All Stars" Season 3 Episode 6 will be available on Peacock on January 22, 2026.
The episode will air at 6 pm Pacific Time (PT) and 9 pm Eastern Time (ET).
Peacock requires a subscription; the basic plan costs $7.99 per month.
New episodes of the show are released nightly on Peacock.
Episode 6 will feature high drama as contestants deal with relationship conflicts and unexpected twists.
Episode titles indicate the required streaming times on multiple global time zones, including EST, BRT, CEST, and more.
The United States has begun moving 150 detainees with links to ISIL (also known as ISIS) from Syria to Iraq. This action follows the Syrian government's expansion into areas formerly held by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The US is working closely with Iraq to manage these transfers and ensure regional safety.
Key Facts
The US is transferring 150 detainees connected to ISIL from a facility in Hasakah, Syria, to Iraq.
The Syrian government is increasing control over areas previously managed by the SDF.
The SDF has been withdrawing from several sites, and the Syrian government has announced a ceasefire with them.
Up to 7,000 people with alleged ISIL links could ultimately be transferred to Iraqi-controlled areas.
The US is coordinating with Iraq to carry out the transfer peacefully and securely.
Iraq has agreed to receive detainees of both Iraqi and other nationalities.
These detainees are being moved to government-run correctional facilities in Iraq.
ISIL was largely defeated in recent years, but sleeper cells remain active in Syria and Iraq.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responded to videos showing U.S. Border Patrol agents using green gas in Minneapolis to manage crowds. The event took place during an ongoing enforcement operation and followed tensions after a recent court decision and a shooting incident. DHS cited the need for crowd control due to safety concerns as reasons for the agents' actions.
Key Facts
Border Patrol agents used green gas for crowd control in Minneapolis.
The event took place amid Operation Metro Surge, which aims to enforce immigration laws more strictly.
A court decision had been made to allow the use of such measures by freezing a previous order that restricted it.
The situation followed protests in response to a recent shooting by an ICE agent.
Social media showed agents using green gas near crowds, which DHS said was necessary for their safety.
DHS stated agents faced harassment, including being blocked and attacked by crowds.
Attorney General Pam Bondi criticized earlier restrictions on federal law enforcement as undermining.
Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar expressed concerns about the impact of federal agents on local law enforcement resources.
A youth center in the Palestinian Aida refugee camp denied reports that Israel halted the demolition of a football pitch. They have not received any official confirmation about stopping the demolition. Reports suggested pressure from international football organizations prompted Israel to halt the plan.
Key Facts
The Aida Youth Centre has not received any official notification that Israel stopped plans to demolish a football pitch.
Israeli media claimed that Israel paused the demolition following international pressure from FIFA and UEFA.
Munther Amira, head of the Aida Youth Centre, stated that these reports are unconfirmed.
The football pitch is near Israel’s separation barrier in Bethlehem.
A campaign called “Save the Pitch” was launched to stop the demolition.
The demolition orders were first issued in November, citing security concerns.
Another demolition order followed in December, with a temporary delay granted after a court petition.
The pitch is built on land leased from the Armenian Church and used by the refugee camp's youths.
