A significant winter storm is expected to hit parts of the United States from New Mexico to New England later this week. The storm could bring snow, freezing rain, and sleet, affecting travel and causing power outages across southern states.
Key Facts
A winter storm is forecasted to affect a large area from New Mexico to New England.
The storm might bring snow, freezing rain, and sleet.
Travel disruptions, including dangerous driving and flight issues, are expected.
The storm's cold temperatures could cause snow and ice to stay on the ground for days.
Meteorologists describe the storm as a high-impact, long-duration event.
Nearly 30 million Americans are currently under a winter storm watch.
Areas not accustomed to heavy snowfall, like Alabama and Georgia, may see significant snow.
Ice in the South could lead to power outages and fallen trees.
An Israeli air strike in Gaza killed three Palestinian journalists who were working for an Egyptian aid group. The strike targeted their car while they were documenting a new camp.
Key Facts
Three Palestinian journalists were killed in Gaza by an Israeli air strike.
The journalists' names are Abdul Ra’ouf, Anas Ghunaim, and Shaath Mohammad Qeshta.
They were killed while working for an Egyptian aid group.
Their car was targeted while they were documenting a new camp.
Gaza's Health Ministry reported the incident.
On the same day, 11 Palestinians in total were killed in Israeli attacks.
Dame Prue Leith is leaving her role as a judge on The Great British Bake Off after being with the show for nearly a decade. Channel 4, the broadcaster of the show, has not yet announced who will replace her. Prue Leith mentioned she wants to pursue other interests and spend more time in her garden.
Key Facts
Prue Leith joined The Great British Bake Off in 2017 as a judge.
She replaced Dame Mary Berry when the show moved from BBC to Channel 4.
Prue Leith is 86 years old and decided to step back from the show.
Channel 4 hasn't announced her replacement yet.
Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding are the current presenters of the show.
Dame Prue recently left the celebrity version of Bake Off, replaced by Lady Caroline Waldegrave.
She expressed that she loved being part of the show and will miss her colleagues.
President Donald Trump stated at the World Economic Forum in Davos that he would not use excessive force to acquire Greenland. He also mentioned considering a 10% tariff on goods from European countries that resist his plan. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed that he would not give in to pressure from the U.S. over Greenland.
Key Facts
President Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
He said he would not use "excessive force" to get Greenland.
Trump mentioned that force could make the U.S. "unstoppable," but he won't use it.
He considered a 10% tariff on goods from eight European countries.
These European countries oppose his idea to take over Greenland.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated he would not yield to U.S. pressure.
Israel has delayed the demolition of a football pitch used by Palestinian children in Bethlehem, West Bank. The pitch was set to be removed because it was built without permits, and authorities cited security concerns. An international campaign, including a petition, has influenced the decision to postpone the demolition for now.
Key Facts
The football pitch belongs to the Aida Youth Centre in Bethlehem, West Bank.
Israeli authorities planned to demolish it due to lack of construction permits.
Security concerns were also cited because the pitch is close to the barrier separating the West Bank from Israel.
An international campaign, including a large petition, opposed the demolition.
The community has used the pitch since 2020 for over 200 young players.
A demolition order was announced in December of the previous year.
Some football officials and organizations have supported the campaign against demolition.
Israel built the barrier in the early 2000s to prevent attacks, but Palestinians see it as a form of collective punishment.
Ali Hassan Ali Bakhtiyan, a former detainee, described his experiences of torture during over two years in a secret prison in Yemen's Hadramout Governorate. The prison was reportedly managed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Yemeni forces. Recent reports have highlighted the discovery of secret prisons and military equipment linked to UAE forces in Yemen.
Key Facts
Ali Hassan Ali Bakhtiyan was detained in a secret prison over a period of more than two years.
The prison was run by the UAE and Hadrami Elite Forces in Yemen.
Ali alleges experiencing torture and being falsely accused of political involvement.
He was released without charge after being transferred to a central prison in 2019.
The Hadramout Governor announced the discovery of secret prisons at former UAE military sites.
Equipment, including explosives, was found at these sites, raising concerns from Yemeni officials.
The UAE has since withdrawn its forces following a directive from Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council.
The Southern Transitional Council (STC) temporarily controlled parts of Yemen, causing regional tensions.
A court filing revealed text messages between Blake Lively and Taylor Swift that discuss their friendship. These texts were part of a lawsuit where Lively accused Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment. Baldoni's countersuit for defamation was dismissed but may be revised.
Key Facts
Blake Lively and Taylor Swift exchanged texts about their friendship in December 2024.
Lively expressed feeling like a "bad friend," while Swift felt "distanced."
These texts were included in a lawsuit Lively filed against Justin Baldoni.
Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and retaliation.
Baldoni countersued Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, for defamation and extortion.
A judge dismissed Baldoni's countersuit in June 2023.
The judge allowed Baldoni to revise his lawsuit for different claims related to contract issues.
Lively and Baldoni both appeared in the movie "It Ends With Us," which earned $50 million in its debut.
President Trump stated that the United States aims to take control of Greenland to protect it from countries like China and Russia. He assured that the U.S. would not use military force to gain this ownership.
Key Facts
President Trump talked about the importance of Greenland at the World Economic Forum.
He wants the U.S. to have control over Greenland.
The reason is to defend Greenland from potential threats from China and Russia.
Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark.
President Trump made it clear that the U.S. would not use force to take Greenland.
An intelligence report warns that the loss of nature and biodiversity poses a risk to the UK's national security. The report emphasizes that degradation of key ecosystems, such as the Amazon rainforest, could lead to issues like rising food prices and security challenges for the UK. The report, created by the UK government's Joint Intelligence Committee, highlights the need for action to address these ecological risks.
Key Facts
The report warns that the decline of nature threatens the UK's security and prosperity.
It highlights "cascading risks" like conflict, migration, and competition for resources due to ecosystem degradation.
The Joint Intelligence Committee compiled the report with contributions from government experts.
Key ecosystems crucial to UK security include the Amazon rainforest, the Congo basin, Russian and Canadian boreal forests, Southeast Asian coral reefs, and the Himalayas.
The report points out potential impacts like food scarcity, higher global food prices, and economic insecurity from ecosystem collapse.
The UK cannot be entirely self-sufficient in food under present conditions and would face higher prices if it tried.
Technologies like regenerative agriculture could help mitigate these risks with further research and investment.
The report was delayed in publication due to concerns over its potentially negative perception.
A 21-year-old pregnant woman named Zharick Daniela Buitrago Ortiz is facing deportation from the U.S. despite being in severe medical distress. She came to the U.S. seeking asylum after her father was murdered in Colombia. Her lawyer claims she has not received necessary medical care while in U.S. custody.
Key Facts
Zharick Daniela Buitrago Ortiz is 21 years old and eight months pregnant.
She fled Colombia with her family in November 2025 to seek asylum in the U.S.
Her father and the father of her child were reportedly murdered in Colombia.
Buitrago did not initially pass a credible fear interview for asylum.
She has been in U.S. federal custody since her arrival.
Her lawyer claims she is experiencing severe pain and has not received medical treatment.
Buitrago's mother was allowed to file for asylum but is distressed over her daughter's detention.
The Trump administration has increased immigration enforcement, resulting in more detentions.
President Donald Trump decided not to impose a planned tariff on European allies related to U.S. interests in Greenland. This decision came after an agreement with NATO on a future deal about Arctic security.
Key Facts
President Trump announced he would cancel tariffs on European allies.
The tariffs were originally linked to U.S. interests in Greenland.
Trump and NATO agreed on a framework for a future Arctic security deal.
Trump previously expressed interest in the U.S. having rights over Greenland.
He assured that he would not use force to acquire Greenland.
Trump criticized European allies and commented on NATO's role regarding U.S. expansion.
A high-speed train crash in southern Spain resulted in at least 43 deaths, with many others injured. The accident, which occurred near Córdoba, involved two trains colliding, leading to a difficult rescue operation. The incident has prompted calls for a strike by the Spanish train drivers' union due to concerns about railway safety.
Key Facts
Two high-speed trains collided near Córdoba, Spain, causing significant casualties.
At least 43 people died in the crash, making it the worst rail accident in Spain in over a decade.
Injuries ranged from minor to severe, with some patients requiring surgery.
A gap in a straight section of track is a key focus for investigators seeking the cause of the crash.
There was a separate train derailment near Barcelona, involving a non-high-speed train and a wall collapse during heavy rain.
The Spanish train drivers' union is calling for a strike over safety concerns following these incidents.
Families of those missing are providing DNA samples to help identify victims.
Victims include María del Carmen Abril and Victor Luis Terán, both of whom had strong community ties.
Gunmen kidnapped about 177 Christian worshippers from three churches during services in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Initially, local authorities denied the kidnappings, but police later confirmed the abductions, deploying tactical units to find the victims. The incident has prompted criticism from international human rights groups and attention from U.S. officials.
Key Facts
Around 177 Christians were kidnapped from three churches during services in the village of Kurmin Wali, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
The Nigerian police initially denied the kidnappings but later confirmed the incident.
Tactical units have been sent to rescue the victims.
11 of the abducted individuals managed to escape, leaving 168 still missing.
Human rights groups criticized the Nigerian authorities for initially denying the attacks.
The kidnappings have drawn attention from the U.S., with President Trump speaking out against persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
No group has officially claimed responsibility, but witnesses suggested the gunmen were Fulani militants.
President Trump stated in Davos that Canada benefits significantly from its relationship with the United States and should be thankful. This comment followed remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who warned about changes in the global order at the World Economic Forum.
Key Facts
President Trump spoke in Davos on Wednesday.
He said Canada should be "grateful" to the U.S. for its benefits from their relationship.
Trump's comments were directed at Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Carney had recently warned about changes in global dynamics at the World Economic Forum.
Carney's speech avoided mentioning President Trump by name, a deliberate choice.
There is speculation that Canada's comments were aimed at President Trump's recent decisions.
Discussions included the U.S.'s potential influence over Canada, humorously suggesting making Canada the "51st state."
President Donald Trump announced a plan involving Greenland and the Arctic region after meeting with NATO's Secretary General. He mentioned a framework for a possible deal and paused planned tariffs set for February 1, indicating ongoing talks.
Key Facts
President Trump met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
They discussed a deal regarding Greenland and the Arctic region.
Trump announced a "framework" for a potential agreement.
Planned tariffs that were to begin on February 1 are now paused.
Further negotiations are ongoing, with senior officials leading the talks.
These officials will report directly to President Trump.
At least 11 Palestinians, including children and journalists, have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza. The attacks included shelling of a vehicle known to carry journalists and resulted in multiple casualties. Israeli forces have targeted areas in Gaza, alleging intelligence activities, and restrictions continue to affect humanitarian aid deliveries.
Key Facts
Eleven Palestinians were killed, including two children and three journalists, in Israeli strikes on Gaza.
The journalists killed were working for the Egyptian Committee for Gaza Relief.
Their vehicle, hit by an Israeli strike, was reportedly known to the Israeli military.
Israeli Army claimed the vehicle was used for intelligence gathering on army forces.
A separate attack in Gaza killed three Palestinians from the same family, including a child.
Additional attacks in southern and northern Gaza resulted in more Palestinian casualties.
Palestinian officials claim that Israel has violated a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.
Humanitarian conditions in Gaza are dire due to restricted access to essential supplies.
A rescue dog named Elmo in Macedonia showed strong emotions when he recognized the streets where he lived for about ten years. After being taken in by Nala Dog Rescue, Elmo was distressed during a car ride because he thought he might be abandoned again, but he was only being taken to the vet. Elmo has now been adopted and is on his way to a new home in England.
Key Facts
Elmo is a senior rescue dog from Macedonia, estimated to be over 10 years old.
Nala Dog Rescue spent two years building trust with Elmo before bringing him into their shelter.
Elmo was distressed in a car ride, fearing abandonment, which was documented in an Instagram video.
The purpose of the car ride was to take Elmo to the vet for routine tests before his adoption.
Elmo has been adopted and is being transported to England for his new home.
An Instagram video of Elmo's experience received over 45,400 views and supportive comments.
The Nala Dog Rescue team traveled approximately 100 miles to send Elmo on the "happy bus" to his new family.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing pressure from MPs within his Labour Party to take a tougher stance against President Donald Trump. Starmer recently used a parliamentary speech to state he "will not yield" to Trump, marking a shift in how he's handling relations with the U.S. President. This change comes amidst tense discussions about international relationships and political strategies.
Key Facts
Keir Starmer is the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
There is internal pressure from Labour MPs for Starmer to toughen his stance on President Trump.
Starmer publicly declared he "will not yield" to Trump during a parliamentary session.
President Trump criticized Starmer on his social media platform, Truth Social.
The strategy of maintaining a warm relationship with Trump has been questioned by Labour MPs.
Mark Carney, Canadian PM, also commented on international relations, urging "middle powers" to work together.
Starmer previously attempted to use the Royal Family to improve relations with Trump.
Some Labour MPs want more aggressive actions, such as tariffs, against Trump.
President Donald Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, about his desire for the U.S. to acquire Greenland from Denmark, making clear he does not intend to use military force. He criticized NATO and Europe while promoting the U.S. economy and its use of oil over renewable energy. The mention of potentially imposing tariffs on allies if Greenland is not handed over has heightened tensions between the U.S. and Europe.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump wants to negotiate with Denmark to acquire Greenland for the U.S.
During his speech, Trump clarified that the U.S. would not use military force to take Greenland.
He criticized NATO and expressed doubt about Europe's current direction.
Trump claimed the U.S. economy is experiencing significant growth and downplayed inflation concerns.
At Davos, Trump emphasized the benefits of oil over renewable energy sources.
The possibility of U.S. tariffs if Greenland is not acquired raised tensions with European allies.
Crowds eagerly awaited Trump's speech at Davos, with high interest even among skeptics.
The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, stated he will not give in to President Trump's pressure regarding Greenland. President Trump criticized the UK's deal with Mauritius involving the Chagos Islands and linked it to his interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark. Starmer reaffirmed that Greenland's future should be decided by Greenland and Denmark alone.
Key Facts
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he will not be pressured by President Trump over Greenland.
President Trump criticized the UK's deal with Mauritius about the Chagos Islands.
Trump called the UK’s Chagos Islands deal "an act of great stupidity."
Trump mentioned potential tariffs on European countries if his demand for control of Greenland is opposed.
Greenland is a semi-autonomous region of Denmark.
The UK signed a deal for a military base on the Chagos Islands, currently debated in UK Parliament.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch supports the PM's stand on Greenland but agrees with Trump's view on the Chagos deal.
