The United States trade deficit decreased in 2025, but tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump did not reduce trade dependency on Southeast and East Asia. Instead of reducing trade, the tariffs shifted how and where trade occurred, resulting in more trade with Southeast Asia even though some goods faced higher tariffs.
Key Facts
President Trump imposed "reciprocal tariffs" on trade partners to decrease the U.S. trade deficit.
The U.S. trade deficit for goods fell from $245.5 billion in 2024 to $175.4 billion in 2025.
The value of Chinese exports to the U.S. decreased by 20% in 2025.
Average U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods were 47.5% as of November 2025.
Tariffs on Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia and Vietnam were between 19% and 20%.
Despite tariffs, U.S. trade with countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines increased in 2025.
The U.S. trade deficit with Vietnam increased by more than $20 billion, from $123.4 billion in 2024 to $145.7 billion in 2025.
Police in Kaduna State, Nigeria, confirmed that armed bandits abducted dozens of villagers, reversing their previous denial of the event. The police are working to safely rescue the victims and calm the area, though they haven't confirmed the exact number of those taken. Reports suggest a significant number of villagers are still missing after the attacks.
Key Facts
Armed bandits abducted villagers in Kaduna State, Nigeria, over the weekend.
Nigeria's police initially denied the incident but later confirmed it.
Security operations have begun to find and rescue the abducted villagers.
Estimates of those missing vary; reports suggest between 163 and 172 remain missing.
The kidnappers demand the return of missing motorcycles for the release of captives.
Attacks like these are part of a pattern of mass kidnappings and looting by gangs referred to as "bandits" in Nigeria.
These incidents often impact both Christian and Muslim communities in the region.
The abductions are part of ongoing conflicts in Nigeria, which have drawn international attention.
Newsweek published a debate about whether the U.S. should send military troops to Iran. Iran has experienced significant unrest due to protests against its government, with reports of many deaths. Two contributors provide opposite views on whether President Trump should intervene military in Iran.
Key Facts
Protests in Iran are ongoing, with many reported deaths due to government action.
There is a debate on whether the U.S. should intervene in Iran's situation.
One view argues against military intervention, suggesting it could strengthen hardliners.
Historical examples provided include past U.S. interventions in Iran, Iraq, and Libya.
The opposing view suggests military action could help establish democracy in Iran.
Examples of past U.S. interventions, such as in Grenada and Panama, are cited as successful.
Iran's leadership has reportedly acknowledged the killing of many protesters.
The debate highlights different opinions on how U.S. foreign policy should be conducted in Iran.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued "Extreme Cold Warnings" and "Extreme Cold Watches" for parts of Minnesota and North Dakota, predicting wind chills as low as -55°F from Wednesday to Saturday. These cold conditions pose serious risks, such as frostbite occurring on exposed skin in just 10 minutes. The NWS advises people in affected areas to stay indoors, dress warmly if they must go outside, and ensure pets are kept safe.
Key Facts
"Extreme Cold Warnings" and "Extreme Cold Watches" are in effect for parts of Minnesota and North Dakota.
Wind chills could drop to -55°F between Wednesday and Saturday.
Parts of Minnesota, including Koochiching and north St. Louis, may face wind chills as low as -50°F.
Northeast North Dakota might see temperatures drop to -55°F due to wind chills.
The cold conditions can cause frostbite on exposed skin within 10 minutes.
The NWS advises staying indoors, wearing layers if outside, and keeping pets warm and safe.
More cold weather might affect these states from Sunday to Monday.
China has sent a naval hospital ship to Uruguay as part of its Harmony 2025 mission. This move is part of a larger Chinese presence in Latin America, a region that the U.S. considers strategically important. The ship is expected to provide medical services and conduct friendly activities during its stop.
Key Facts
A Chinese naval hospital ship arrived in Uruguay's port of Montevideo for a four-day visit.
The ship's stop in Uruguay is part of the Harmony 2025 mission, which began in September.
China’s Defense Ministry highlighted that the ship will replenish supplies and engage in friendly activities like a football match.
This mission has already made stops in Brazil and is expected to visit Peru and Chile next.
China's navy is the largest in the world by hull count, with three large hospital ships used for these missions.
The U.S. views the Western Hemisphere as a key strategic area and aims to limit foreign influence.
The Silk Road Ark's travels align with China's broader strategy to enhance relations with Latin America.
Uruguay and China have a strong partnership, with Uruguay being part of China's Belt and Road Initiative.
A Japanese court has sentenced Tetsuya Yamagami to life in prison for the murder of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Yamagami admitted to shooting Abe in 2022, and prosecutors argued it was an unprecedented crime with serious societal impact.
Key Facts
Tetsuya Yamagami, aged 45, was sentenced for killing Shinzo Abe.
The murder took place in 2022.
Prosecutors sought a life sentence, arguing the crime had major effects on society.
Yamagami's lawyers wanted a maximum sentence of 20 years.
The case had significant public and media attention in Japan.
A viral TikTok video from a Texas mom shows the chaos caused by a new puppy after escaping its kennel. The incident raises awareness about parvo, a contagious disease affecting dogs, which might be responsible for the puppy's severe symptoms.
Key Facts
A Texas mom posted a viral TikTok video showing her house covered in mess after a puppy escaped its kennel.
The video has over 15.6 million views and 986,900 likes.
Viewers commented that the mess could be due to parvo, a serious disease in dogs.
Parvo leads to vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, mainly attacking the dog's intestines.
The disease spreads through contact with contaminated poop and can live for months in the environment.
There is no cure, but treatment includes IV fluids and medications to help the dog recover.
Vaccination starting from six weeks old is the best way to prevent parvo.
With quick treatment, 85–95% of dogs survive parvo.
French President Emmanuel Macron wore blue reflective sunglasses during his speech at the Davos summit, drawing attention and sparking curiosity. Macron's spokespersons attributed his choice to a harmless eye condition, and Macron himself explained it was for aesthetic and personal reasons. The French leader also criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats against European countries and discussed global political concerns.
Key Facts
French President Macron wore reflective sunglasses at the Davos summit.
He wore the sunglasses due to a harmless eye condition called a sub-conjunctival hemorrhage.
This eye condition can happen when a person sneezes, coughs, or rubs their eye and is not painful or harmful.
Macron called his eye condition "l'oeil du tigre", referring to a song that symbolizes determination.
The sunglasses choice led to social media discussions, with some jokingly calling him a "show-off" or comparing him to a "cyborg."
In his speech, Macron criticized President Trump’s tariff threats towards certain European countries.
Macron also warned about the dangers of autocracy and the misuse of tariffs to challenge international rules and sovereignty.
The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a former key ally of the United States in fighting ISIS, is seeking help as Syrian government forces advance. The U.S. has shifted its focus towards working with Syria's government and is not providing direct aid to the SDF. The U.S. instead plans to facilitate talks toward integrating the SDF into the Syrian government.
Key Facts
The SDF was a major U.S. ally in fighting ISIS in Syria.
The Syrian government, under President Ahmad al-Sharaa, seeks to integrate the SDF.
The U.S. is focusing on building relations with the Syrian government.
The SDF has lost territory and is concerned about its people's safety.
The U.S. plans to mediate discussions for SDF's integration with Syria's government.
Turkey opposes the SDF due to its ties with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a group labeled as terrorist by Turkey and the U.S.
Jennette McCurdy, known for her successful memoir, has transitioned to writing fiction with her new novel "Half His Age." The book tells the story of a high school senior named Waldo who has an unusual interest in her teacher. McCurdy is also considering a film adaptation of her novel.
Key Facts
Jennette McCurdy is a writer who previously wrote a popular memoir called "I’m Glad My Mom Died."
Her new novel, "Half His Age," is a fictional story featuring a high school senior named Waldo.
The main character, Waldo, has a unique attraction to her teacher.
McCurdy feels that her voice is a major part of both her memoir and her novel.
Writing helps McCurdy process her feelings and experiences.
She avoids outside influences while writing by not reading or socializing.
Claire Foy talks about her new film, "H Is for Hawk," which is inspired by Helen Macdonald's memoir. She mentions the unique experience of working with hawks during filming and how the project felt like it was meant to be for her.
Key Facts
Claire Foy stars in the film "H Is for Hawk," based on a memoir by Helen Macdonald.
Foy felt a strong connection to the film, describing it as an "inevitable" project for her.
The film required Foy to learn falconry, working closely with hawks during production.
The film's set was designed to accommodate the hawks, with minimal crew presence.
Foy is known for her role in the TV series "The Crown."
She expresses interest in performing on Broadway, despite a previous opportunity being canceled due to COVID-19.
A tourist helicopter has gone missing near Mount Aso, a volcano in Japan. The helicopter was carrying three people and disappeared during a short sightseeing tour.
Key Facts
The helicopter was carrying three people: a pilot and two passengers from Taiwan.
The helicopter took off for a 10-minute tour from Aso City and never returned.
Police spotted what looks like an aircraft inside the crater of Mount Aso but have not confirmed if it is the missing helicopter.
The pilot is 64 years old and has 40 years of flying experience.
The helicopter, a Robinson R44, had completed two successful tours earlier that day.
Cloudy weather was present near Mount Aso when the helicopter vanished.
Takumi Enterprise, the company operating the helicopter, stopped all its flights after the incident.
Helicopter tours over Mount Aso are popular tourist attractions in the region.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney gave a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos about the decline of the international rules-based order. He pointed out the fading respect for international law and said that the power dynamics in global politics are shifting. Carney suggested Canada should work with other medium-sized countries to strengthen its global influence.
Key Facts
Mark Carney, Canadian Prime Minister, spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
He discussed the decline of the rules-based international order.
Carney mentioned that the old power balance, where the U.S. had significant global influence, is no longer effective.
He suggested Canada should establish stronger ties with other middle powers to increase its global impact.
Carney's speech received a standing ovation, and many praised it online.
The speech contained references interpreted by some as directed at President Donald Trump.
Spain experienced its second major train crash in days, with a derailment near Gelida in Catalonia resulting in one death and 37 injuries. The crash comes shortly after a high-speed train collision in Andalusia that killed at least 42 people. Both accidents have brought attention to Spain's rail safety and infrastructure.
Key Facts
A train derailed near Gelida, Catalonia, killing the driver and injuring at least 37 people.
The train hit a wall that had fallen onto the tracks during heavy storms.
Emergency services responded with 11 ambulances and 35 fire crews.
Another train derailed between Blanes and Maçanet-Massanes, but no injuries were reported.
A previous crash near Adamuz, Andalusia, killed at least 42 people.
Investigations are ongoing into both crashes to understand the causes.
Rail services in Catalonia and between Madrid and Andalusian cities faced suspensions and disruptions for safety inspections.
Spanish officials are under pressure to improve railway safety following these incidents.
A dog named Arvo in Alberta, Canada, has become popular online because of his distinctive underbite. Initially described as minor, the underbite has grown more prominent, leading to a strong following for Arvo on TikTok. His unique appearance attracts attention both in real life and on social media.
Key Facts
Arvo is an Australian shepherd mix living in Canada.
Arvo's underbite was initially described as "slight" by a vet.
As Arvo matured, his underbite became more pronounced.
Arvo's father also had a mild underbite.
Arvo's underbite has gained attention on TikTok, with one video receiving over 1.8 million views.
People frequently stop Arvo's owners to comment on his unusual smile.
Arvo has thousands of followers on TikTok where his owners share videos of him.
Arvo's owner finds joy in seeing a community of other dogs with similar features online.
President Donald Trump is expected to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. His plans related to Greenland and potential tariffs on European countries have been a major topic of discussion. It remains uncertain how world leaders will welcome him upon his arrival.
Key Facts
President Trump is attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Discussions at the forum have focused on Trump's interest in Greenland and tariffs on Europe.
The forum gathers world leaders to discuss global economic issues.
Trump has not yet arrived, but there is speculation about his reception.
The topic of tariffs involves potential taxes on goods from European countries.
Greenland is a territory with resources that have caught Trump's interest.
The World Economic Forum is an annual meeting held in Davos.
Bangladesh's Jamaat-e-Islami party might have a chance to lead an electoral alliance that could win the upcoming general election. The election is scheduled for February 12, 2025, following a change in government after a student-led uprising against the previous prime minister. Jamaat's support has increased despite facing repressive measures in the past.
Key Facts
Bangladesh will hold its general election on February 12, 2025.
Jamaat-e-Islami is vying for power in an alliance with the National Citizen Party and other Islamist groups.
Recent polls show Jamaat's support close behind the leading Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
The BNP's support is at approximately 34%, with Jamaat's support at around 33%.
The previous government, led by Sheikh Hasina, faced a student uprising resulting in her ouster.
Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party was banned, and Hasina is in exile in India.
Under Hasina, Jamaat leaders faced executions and imprisonments due to past conflicts.
Jamaat, founded in 1941, has roots in a broader Islamist movement during British rule in India.
A protest group displayed a "No Kings" sign on a mountain in Davos, Switzerland before President Donald Trump's speech at the World Economic Forum. The event in Davos discusses global issues such as inequality, AI, and trade tensions, with Trump’s recent policies influencing the agenda.
Key Facts
A "No Kings" sign was displayed in Davos before President Trump's speech.
The protest group opposes what they see as authoritarian actions by the Trump administration.
The group behind the protest hasn't commented on the sign yet.
Photos of the sign gained attention on social media platform X.
President Trump had to switch planes on his way to the event due to a minor issue.
Around 3,000 people are attending the World Economic Forum, which covers topics like inequality and AI.
The theme for this year is “A Spirit of Dialogue.”
Japan has started using new underwater drones to strengthen its defense capabilities. This move comes as China increases its naval power in the region. The drones are designed to help Japan prevent potential threats near its southwestern islands.
Key Facts
Japan's new underwater drones are part of its efforts to enhance underwater defense.
The drones are called unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs).
These drones are part of a larger strategy to counter China's naval expansion.
China's growing navy includes over 370 ships and submarines.
The United States and Japan see China's military activity as a potential threat, especially near Taiwan.
Japan is working on larger underwater drones that can carry different types of equipment.
Japan's defense efforts are set against what it calls a severe and complex security environment.
The U.S. Navy is also working on similar technology, integrating drones with submarines for wider capabilities.
President Donald Trump’s efforts to take control of Greenland have caused global concerns, leading to a significant drop in stock markets and the US dollar. Trump has threatened Denmark and other European countries with high tariffs regarding Greenland, which he views as crucial for US security. The situation has put strain on US-European relations and raised fears about the future of NATO.
Key Facts
President Trump wants the US to take control of Greenland, a territory governed by Denmark.
Trump has threatened Denmark and European countries with high tariffs if they do not agree to sell Greenland.
Stock markets, such as the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow Jones, fell significantly in response to Trump’s threats.
The US dollar decreased in value against other major currencies.
Greenland is seen as strategically important due to interest from China and Russia in the Arctic region.
Denmark has stated that Greenland is not for sale and using force against a NATO member could threaten the alliance.
An emergency European Union meeting is planned to discuss responses to Trump's Greenland proposal.
Trump has not ruled out the use of military force to gain control of Greenland.
