Parts of Russia's Far East are experiencing the heaviest snowfall in 60 years, with some areas seeing snow as deep as 10 feet. This unusual weather event has impacted local transportation and prompted rescue operations to help those stranded.
Key Facts
Heavy snowfall has hit Russia's Far East, with some areas facing the most snow in 60 years.
The Kamchatka Peninsula is one of the affected regions.
Public transportation in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky was partially halted due to the snow.
Snow in some places reached approximately 10 feet high.
Scientists suggest the snowstorm may be linked to climate change affecting Arctic air patterns.
Local residents and rescuers are working to clear the snow and assist those trapped.
Israel continued to bomb southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions and infrastructure. Lebanon's military criticized the strikes, saying they violate the country's sovereignty.
Key Facts
Israel conducted bombing operations in southern Lebanon.
The attacks focused on Hezbollah personnel and infrastructure.
Lebanon's military described the strikes as violations of its sovereignty.
The bombings continued into Wednesday evening.
The conflict involves Israel and Hezbollah, a group in Lebanon.
President Donald Trump delivered a speech at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, where he made remarks that many European leaders found insulting. He discussed Europe's path and the idea of acquiring Greenland, which is currently a territory of Denmark. Trump also criticized NATO allies, particularly Denmark, and made comments about French President Emmanuel Macron.
Key Facts
President Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland.
He mentioned the idea of acquiring Greenland, a territory of Denmark, but ruled out military action.
Trump criticized European countries, especially Denmark, for not contributing enough to NATO.
Greenland is a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, not part of the United States.
EU leaders reacted strongly to Trump's comments and plan to hold an emergency summit.
Trump made personal remarks about French President Emmanuel Macron during the forum.
Greenlandic officials prepared a brochure on crisis management in response to the situation.
A roof collapsed at a shopping mall in Novosibirsk, Russia, killing at least one person and injuring two others. Heavy snowfall is thought to have caused the accident. Rescue teams are working to find any survivors in the debris.
Key Facts
A shopping mall in Novosibirsk, Russia, had its roof collapse.
At least one person died because of this incident.
Two other people were injured in the collapse.
Heavy snowfall is the assumed reason for the roof failing.
Rescue teams are actively searching for more survivors in the debris.
President Trump announced a potential deal concerning Greenland that involves building missile bases and mining minerals. While he seems to have stepped back from earlier takeover threats, some European and Canadian leaders feel the situation has already caused harm.
Key Facts
President Trump discussed a potential deal about Greenland.
The deal includes plans for U.S. missile defense bases and mineral mining.
Details of the deal are not fully known yet.
President Trump previously made threats to take over Greenland.
European and Canadian leaders believe the situation has harmed relations.
The report about the situation came from Nick Schifrin.
Rebeccah Heinrichs, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, discussed the importance of Greenland in terms of Arctic security with Geoff Bennett. The conversation focused on how Greenland plays a role in U.S. national security and its alliances.
Key Facts
Rebeccah Heinrichs works at the Hudson Institute, which is a think tank based in Washington, D.C.
The discussion was about the security concerns related to Greenland.
Greenland is strategically important for Arctic security.
The Arctic region is significant due to its geopolitical and security interests.
The conversation addressed the implications for the U.S. and its allies.
Geoff Bennett interviewed Rebeccah Heinrichs for insight into the situation.
Many areas in the United States are preparing for a large winter storm. Additionally, nearly 20 countries have agreed to join President Trump's new initiative called the "Board of Peace" for Gaza. In Japan, a man received a life sentence for the murder of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Key Facts
A large winter storm is expected to affect many regions in the United States.
Weather officials used the word "expansive" to describe the upcoming storm.
Nearly 20 countries have announced their participation in the "Board of Peace" for Gaza.
President Trump is leading this peace initiative.
A Japanese court sentenced the individual who killed former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to life in prison.
On one of the deadliest days in Gaza since a recent ceasefire, Israeli forces killed at least 11 Palestinians, including three journalists and two 13-year-old boys. The incident happened amid ongoing tensions as the United States works to advance a challenging peace agreement.
Key Facts
At least 11 Palestinians were killed in Gaza by Israeli forces.
Among those killed were two 13-year-old boys, three journalists, and one woman.
Three journalists were killed near a displacement camp while filming.
One 13-year-old boy was killed by an Israeli drone, and another was shot by troops.
A vehicle carrying the journalists was struck, and it was known to the Israeli military.
More than 470 Palestinians have died due to Israeli actions since a ceasefire in October.
The U.S. is trying to promote a peace deal and its second phase amidst ongoing conflict.
Astronauts returned to Earth early from the International Space Station (ISS) due to a medical emergency. They credit a portable ultrasound machine for its crucial role in diagnosing the issue. NASA prioritized the crew's health over a planned spacewalk, which was canceled.
Key Facts
Astronauts were evacuated from the ISS due to a medical emergency, marking NASA's first crew evacuation in 65 years.
The specific medical issue and the astronaut affected were not disclosed due to privacy.
A portable ultrasound machine onboard the ISS was essential in handling the medical situation.
The emergency led to the cancellation of a planned spacewalk on January 8.
NASA astronaut Mike Fincke emphasized the importance of having diagnostic tools on spacecraft.
The mission was originally planned for about 6½ months but was cut short to 5½ months.
The returning astronauts landed off the coast of San Diego and were greeted by their replacements in Houston.
The incoming crew's launch is being rescheduled to earlier than mid-February due to the early return.
Piper James, a Canadian teenager, was found dead on a beach in Australia. Authorities are investigating whether she drowned during a swim or if a dingo attack was involved. Piper was in Australia for a backpacking trip and had been working at a hostel.
Key Facts
Piper James was 19 years old and from Canada.
Her body was discovered on a beach on K'Gari, an island off Australia's eastern coast.
A pack of dingoes surrounded her body when it was found.
Authorities are investigating the cause of her death, considering drowning, animal attack, or other reasons.
Piper had been in Australia traveling and working at a backpacker's hostel.
She had hoped to travel and saved money for the trip after finishing high school.
Her parents were worried about her traveling alone and had advised against swimming alone.
The area where she was found is known for its dingo population, which is protected as a native species in Queensland.
The largest train drivers' union in Spain has called for a national strike due to safety concerns after three recent train derailments resulted in fatalities and injuries. These accidents have caused public worry about the condition of Spain's railway system. Spanish authorities are in discussions with the union to prevent the strike and address safety issues.
Key Facts
Spain's biggest train drivers' union is planning a strike for safety reasons.
Three train derailments in Spain this week have caused numerous deaths and injuries.
A deadly train collision in Cordoba killed at least 43 people—the country's worst in over ten years.
Another train accident near Barcelona resulted in one death and 37 injuries.
Spanish officials are investigating the accidents and have enforced speed limits on some train routes.
The train drivers' union had previously warned about track issues and requested safety investigations.
The government is negotiating with the union to try to stop the strike and improve rail safety.
Public concerns have grown over the safety of Spain's trains, with officials promising more safety checks.
A judge ruled that lawmakers can sue to force the release of files on Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell but said they cannot add this demand to Maxwell's criminal case. The judge agreed with the Justice Department that he did not have the power to grant the lawmakers' request in the case.
Key Facts
Lawmakers can file a lawsuit for releasing the Epstein-Maxwell files.
The judge said they cannot attach their request to Maxwell's criminal case.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act, backed by U.S. lawmakers, became law in November.
President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law.
The judge agreed with the Justice Department on his limited authority in the Maxwell case.
The government identified over 2 million documents related to Epstein and Maxwell investigations.
President Donald Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum about wanting the U.S. to acquire Greenland. During his speech, he made some incorrect statements about NATO, Greenland's history with Denmark, and the U.S. housing market. He assured that he would not use force to get Greenland but mentioned using negotiation tactics like tariffs.
Key Facts
President Trump expressed interest in acquiring Greenland for the U.S.
He made the speech at the World Economic Forum.
Trump incorrectly described NATO and Greenland's history with Denmark.
He also made inaccurate claims related to the U.S. housing market.
Trump stated he would not use military force to acquire Greenland.
He mentioned he could use tariff negotiations as a strategy.
Eight countries in the Middle East and Asia are joining a new initiative led by President Donald Trump called the "board of peace" to promote a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. These countries aim to support the rebuilding of Gaza and work towards a lasting peace that respects Palestinian rights. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of this initiative, especially with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's involvement.
Key Facts
Eight countries are joining the "board of peace" led by President Trump to promote peace in Gaza.
The countries involved are Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
The board aims to establish a permanent ceasefire and support Gaza's reconstruction.
The plan includes working toward Palestinian self-determination and a lasting peace.
Concerns exist about the participation of strong Israel supporters and the role of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu faces allegations of war crimes in Gaza and is involved in the peace initiative.
Palestinians in Gaza remain affected by Israeli military actions and limited aid access.
The Palestinian Health Ministry reports 466 deaths due to Israeli attacks since October.
Prince Harry appeared in a UK courtroom for what might be his last time in a legal battle against Associated Newspapers. He described how media intrusion affected his life and family, claiming unlawful information gathering. The court case continues, focusing on disputes over press stories from years ago.
Key Facts
Prince Harry testified in a court case against Associated Newspapers.
Harry claims unlawful methods were used to gather information about his private life.
He discussed the emotional impact and privacy intrusions by the press.
The courtroom scene was modern, without traditional furnishings.
Harry described feeling paranoid from media attention.
The court case involves stories written many years ago.
Prince Harry is now in his forties and reflected on past media coverage.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that the global rules-based order, which has been supported by the United States, is ending. Recent U.S. actions, such as military moves in Venezuela and Greenland, show a shift towards a more aggressive international stance under President Trump. Carney suggests a new era of strong competition among major powers is starting.
Key Facts
Mark Carney spoke at the World Economic Forum about the decline of the global rules-based order.
The U.S. has undertaken military action in Venezuela and expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, which is part of Denmark.
President Trump has criticized European countries and shown a desire for Greenland, despite opposition from Greenlanders and Denmark.
The United Nations was originally designed to reflect global rules, but President Trump is proposing a new concept called the "Board of Peace."
European allies are reconsidering their relationship with the U.S. due to its recent unilateral actions.
Past U.S. actions have included exiting international agreements, such as not accepting the authority of the International Criminal Court.
NATO's former deputy allied commander described the U.S. as shifting from an "ally" to a "predator."
Olivia Dean and Lola Young lead the 2026 Brit Awards nominations with five each. Both artists are recognized for their successful singles and albums. The awards ceremony will also highlight artists like Sam Fender, Pulp, and Lily Allen.
Key Facts
Olivia Dean and Lola Young each have five Brit Award nominations.
The categories they are nominated in include artist of the year and song of the year.
Sam Fender has four nominations, including album of the year.
Pulp is nominated for best group, the first time since 1996.
Other nominees include Lily Allen, Wolf Alice, and Dave.
The Brit Awards ceremony will take place in Manchester next month.
Olivia Dean's album, "The Art of Loving," is a top contender for best album.
Taylor Swift has become the youngest female artist to be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. She joins other well-known artists in the 2026 class, including Alanis Morissette and Walter Afanasieff. The Songwriters Hall of Fame recognizes those who have created popular and influential music.
Key Facts
Taylor Swift is the youngest female artist inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame was founded in 1969 to honor influential song creators.
Less than 500 people have been inducted into the Hall of Fame over the past fifty years.
The 2026 class includes songwriters like Alanis Morissette, Walter Afanasieff, and Christopher "Tricky" Stewart.
Taylor's latest album, "The Life of a Showgirl," broke her sales record in October.
Swift previously won the album of the year Grammy four times, a record achievement.
She recently bought back the rights to her first six albums after a publicized dispute.
Her latest album had the UK's largest opening week of 2025, selling 304,000 copies in three days.
The article discusses a documentary that follows Tunisian TV host Hassen as he cares for his mother, Saliha, who is suffering from lung cancer. It shows their journey through medical challenges and personal moments, highlighting their strong bond and the choices they face. After Saliha's death, Hassen continues his work, influenced by his mother's memory.
Key Facts
Hassen is a TV host in Tunisia who takes care of his mother, Saliha.
Saliha is suffering from lung cancer.
The documentary captures their everyday life, including birthdays, medical visits, and quiet times together.
Hassen works to maintain joy and dignity for Saliha despite her illness.
They face difficult decisions about medical treatment and comfort.
After Saliha's death, Hassen returns to hosting TV shows, guided by her memory.
The film shows caregiving as a mix of challenge and deep love.
An Israeli strike in Gaza killed three Palestinian journalists, according to first responders. The Israeli military stated they targeted suspects operating a drone they believed was a threat. The deaths occurred amid ongoing violence between Israel and Hamas.
Key Facts
Three Palestinian journalists were killed in an Israeli strike in central Gaza.
The journalists were working for an Egyptian relief organization and were identified as Mohammed Salah Qeshta, Anas Ghunaim, and Abdul Raouf Shaath.
The Israeli military targeted individuals they believed were operating a Hamas-affiliated drone.
Gaza's health ministry reported eight additional deaths from Israeli artillery and gunfire on the same day.
The ongoing conflict began after a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
At least 466 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire started on October 10, according to Gaza's health ministry.
The Committee to Protect Journalists has reported the killings of over 206 journalists and media workers in Gaza since the conflict began.
The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate called the deaths a war crime, claiming it was part of a policy to silence Palestinian voices.
