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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Spain searches for remains of victims from deadly train crash

Spain searches for remains of victims from deadly train crash

January 20, 2026

Summary

Emergency teams in Spain are looking for victims after a train crash that killed at least 41 people. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash and have promised to be open about the findings.

Key Facts

  • A train crash occurred in a mountain area in Spain.
  • At least 41 people died in the accident.
  • Emergency teams are actively searching for victims.
  • Officials are investigating why the crash happened.
  • Authorities have promised to share information about the investigation openly.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Lyse Doucet: Trump is shaking the world order more than any president since WW2

Lyse Doucet: Trump is shaking the world order more than any president since WW2

January 20, 2026

Summary

President Donald Trump is pursuing bold international actions during his second term, including a desire to acquire Greenland. This move has stirred global tensions and concerns about changes in the established world order.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump's second term anniversary marks one year since his inauguration.
  • During his inauguration speech, he referred to the idea of "manifest destiny," suggesting the U.S. is destined to expand.
  • Trump expressed a strong interest in acquiring Greenland, aiming to assert control over the territory.
  • This action raises concerns about international norms and long-standing alliances.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron warned about a shift towards a rule-by-force world order at the World Economic Forum.
  • Talks of a potential trade war and risks to NATO have emerged alongside Trump's actions.
  • A Republican congressman introduced a bill for the annexation and statehood of Greenland.
  • European countries are reconsidering their diplomatic strategies in response to Trump's policies.

Source Verification

BBC World
The great Davos divorce: America's allies draw red line with Trump

The great Davos divorce: America's allies draw red line with Trump

January 20, 2026

Summary

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, America's allies expressed strong concerns about President Trump's approach to international relations, marking a shift in global dynamics. European leaders criticized Trump's use of economic pressure, such as tariffs, and questioned the traditional U.S-led world order. Leaders are considering actions to increase independence from the U.S. as tensions grow.

Key Facts

  • U.S. allies expressed concerns about President Trump's influence at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
  • Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever criticized Trump's threats of tariffs related to Greenland.
  • European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged for Europe to become less dependent on the U.S.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron opposed Trump's use of tariffs for political leverage.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the situation as a major break from normal relations.
  • The European Union is considering a package of retaliatory tariffs in response.
  • Only Hungary has joined Trump's "Board of Peace," signifying decline in European support.
  • Key leaders, including those from Germany and the UK, were absent from a scheduled meeting with Trump about Greenland.

Source Verification

Axios
Iran warns Trump not to take action against Supreme Leader Khamenei

Iran warns Trump not to take action against Supreme Leader Khamenei

January 20, 2026

Summary

Iran warned President Donald Trump not to interfere with its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This warning came after President Trump criticized Khamenei in an interview and suggested Iran should look for new leadership. Meanwhile, tensions remain high following protests in Iran, with significant loss of life reported and fears of further unrest.

Key Facts

  • Iran told President Trump not to take action against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
  • President Trump had called for an end to Khamenei's leadership and criticized him in an interview.
  • The U.S. aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is moving toward the Middle East amid these tensions.
  • More than 4,484 people have died in recent protests in Iran, according to a U.S.-based human rights agency.
  • Over 26,000 people have been arrested during the protests in Iran.
  • Iran has had an internet shutdown since January 8 to control information flow.
  • Iranian officials claim those who surrender might face less severe punishment.
  • Iran is one of the countries with the highest number of executions in the world.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour
How winter is making Gaza’s humanitarian crisis worse

How winter is making Gaza’s humanitarian crisis worse

January 20, 2026

Summary

Winter weather is worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over one million Palestinians need emergency shelter. Many people live in temporary tents that can't withstand the rain and cold, and they face problems getting aid and materials due to blockades.

Key Facts

  • Over one million Palestinians in Gaza are displaced and need shelter.
  • Many displaced people live in tents that are damaged by heavy rain and cold.
  • Blockades at the border often delay the delivery of aid and construction materials.
  • The risk of hypothermia and disease is increasing due to harsh weather.
  • The situation adds to an already severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Israel demolishes UNRWA offices for Palestinian refugees in east Jerusalem

Israel demolishes UNRWA offices for Palestinian refugees in east Jerusalem

January 20, 2026

Summary

Israeli forces demolished United Nations-owned facilities used by the UNRWA, an agency that provides services to Palestinian refugees. The actions took place in east Jerusalem and involved tearing down offices and using tear gas at another site. Israel accuses the agency of ties with Hamas, which the UNRWA denies.

Key Facts

  • Israeli forces demolished United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) facilities in east Jerusalem.
  • The UNRWA provides aid to Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, east Jerusalem, and other regions.
  • Israeli authorities accuse UNRWA of having connections with Hamas, which UNRWA denies.
  • The UN Secretary-General condemned the demolition and requested the return of the facility to UN control.
  • Israeli law banning UNRWA's operations led to the enforcement of these actions.
  • The demolition impacted a vocational school serving over 300 young refugees.
  • Israel's Foreign Ministry claims ownership of the site and rejects UNRWA's international law violation claims.
  • This action is part of a broader campaign against UNRWA amid ongoing Israeli-Palestinian tensions.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour
Prison officer jailed for having sex with inmate

Prison officer jailed for having sex with inmate

January 20, 2026

Summary

A former prison officer, Isabelle Dale, was sentenced to three and a half years in jail for having inappropriate relationships with inmates and planning to smuggle drugs into a prison. Dale engaged in romantic relationships with two prisoners and conspired with them to bring drug-soaked envelopes into the prison. The court cited her misconduct in a public office and her intention to engage in criminal activities with inmates.

Key Facts

  • Isabelle Dale worked at HMP Coldingley in Surrey and was involved with prisoners Shahid Sharif and Connor Money.
  • Dale was convicted of having sexual relations with Sharif in the prison's chapel area.
  • She plotted with Sharif and his associate, Lilea Sallis, to smuggle a synthetic drug called spice into HMP Swaleside.
  • Dale received a three and a half year prison sentence for misconduct and drug smuggling conspiracy.
  • Shahid Sharif and Lilea Sallis were also jailed, receiving sentences of 27 months and two and a half years, respectively.
  • Dale's defense mentioned her mental health issues, including depression and PTSD, as factors affecting her judgment.
  • The drug-smuggling plan failed partly due to a postal strike that disrupted the delivery of drug-soaked envelopes.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
UK approves Chinese embassy in London despite fears over security, protests

UK approves Chinese embassy in London despite fears over security, protests

January 20, 2026

Summary

The UK government approved China’s plan to build a new embassy in London, which would be the largest in Europe. This decision followed years of opposition due to security concerns. While the British government assures safety measures are in place, residents plan to challenge the decision in court.

Key Facts

  • The UK approved China's largest embassy in Europe, set to be built in London.
  • The site for the embassy is at the Royal Mint Court, near the Tower of London.
  • Development faced delays due to opposition from residents and pro-democracy campaigners.
  • Concerns include potential spying and security threats.
  • UK intelligence helped design measures to manage these risks.
  • Residents plan to legally challenge the planning decision.
  • British intelligence warned about China's alleged efforts to recruit British lawmakers.
  • The embassy approval comes ahead of a planned visit by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to China.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Israeli withdrawal from Gaza a top priority, Qatari PM says

Israeli withdrawal from Gaza a top priority, Qatari PM says

January 20, 2026

Summary

The Prime Minister of Qatar stated at the World Economic Forum that having Israel withdraw from Gaza is a main priority for President Trump's "Board of Peace". The Prime Minister also mentioned that Qatar got an invitation to join this initiative.

Key Facts

  • The Prime Minister of Qatar spoke at the World Economic Forum.
  • He emphasized that Israel leaving Gaza should be a top priority.
  • This is in relation to President Trump's "Board of Peace".
  • Qatar received an invitation to participate in this initiative.
  • The focus is on returning normal life to the residents of Gaza.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
'Something's going to happen,' Trump says as Greenland threats rattle NATO allies

'Something's going to happen,' Trump says as Greenland threats rattle NATO allies

January 20, 2026

Summary

President Donald Trump revealed plans about Greenland that caused concern among NATO allies. This took place as European leaders were dealing with new tariff threats from the United States.

Key Facts

  • President Trump talked about taking over Greenland, which led to concerns among NATO countries.
  • He sent mixed messages online, hinting that a deal could be possible.
  • The situation unfolded during meetings with European leaders in Davos.
  • European leaders were also reacting to new tariff threats from the United States.
  • The conversation about these issues included a discussion between Amna Nawaz and Robin Niblett.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour
Barcelona commuter train crash kills 1, days after deadly train collision in Spain

Barcelona commuter train crash kills 1, days after deadly train collision in Spain

January 20, 2026

Summary

A train crash occurred in Barcelona when a wall fell onto the tracks, resulting in one death and 37 injuries. This incident happened shortly after another deadly train collision in southern Spain that killed 42 people and injured many more. Emergency services responded to both accidents, with investigations ongoing to determine the causes.

Key Facts

  • A wall fell onto train tracks in Barcelona, causing a commuter train crash.
  • This crash led to one death and injured 37 people, five of them seriously.
  • Emergency services sent 20 ambulances to the crash site near Gelida, close to Barcelona.
  • Days earlier, a separate train collision in southern Spain killed at least 42 people.
  • The southern crash involved two trains colliding near the route from Malaga to Madrid.
  • Heavy rainfall is suspected to have caused the wall collapse in Barcelona.
  • Spain's railway operator, ADIF, manages the commuter and high-speed rail networks.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour
News Wrap: Federal prosecutors subpoena Minnesota officials

News Wrap: Federal prosecutors subpoena Minnesota officials

January 20, 2026

Summary

Federal prosecutors sent legal requests, called subpoenas, to several officials in Minnesota as part of an immigration-focused investigation. In Ukraine, around one million homes in Kyiv are without electricity due to recent attacks from Russia. In Australia, lawmakers have introduced new laws to control hate speech and gun use after a recent shooting incident.

Key Facts

  • Federal prosecutors issued subpoenas to five Minnesota officials related to immigration enforcement.
  • These subpoenas are part of broader immigration enforcement efforts.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reported that one million homes in Kyiv lack power following Russian attacks.
  • The attacks in Ukraine have led to significant power outages affecting many residents.
  • Australia passed new laws targeting hate speech and gun control.
  • The new Australian laws are a response to a shooting at a Hanukkah celebration that resulted in 15 deaths.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour
Macron: Europe won’t be ‘intimidated’ by US’ Greenland threats

Macron: Europe won’t be ‘intimidated’ by US’ Greenland threats

January 20, 2026

Summary

French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe will not be scared by President Trump's threats of tariffs regarding Greenland. Macron made this statement at the World Economic Forum in Davos, aiming to protect European interests.

Key Facts

  • President Macron attended the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
  • He spoke about President Trump's threats to impose tariffs concerning Greenland.
  • Macron stated that Europe will not be intimidated by these threats.
  • Macron emphasized defending European Union (EU) interests.
  • He was wearing sunglasses indoors due to an eye injury.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Carney says old world order 'is not coming back'

Carney says old world order 'is not coming back'

January 20, 2026

Summary

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said that the old world order will not return and urged middle powers to work together at the World Economic Forum. Carney criticized the economic tactics used by bigger countries and affirmed Canada's support for Greenland and NATO. He also mentioned how Canada needs to build new alliances and partnerships on shared values and interests.

Key Facts

  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
  • He said the "old order is not coming back" and urged middle powers to unite.
  • Carney criticized powerful nations for using economic pressure to achieve their goals.
  • He confirmed Canada's support for Greenland, Denmark, and the NATO alliance.
  • Carney did not name President Trump, but some of his comments seemed directed at US policies.
  • Carney highlighted Canada's efforts to engage with other countries through new partnerships.
  • He mentioned recent trade and investment deals with China and Qatar.
  • Carney emphasized the importance of building alliances based on shared values and interests.

Source Verification

BBC US
How can Europe respond to Trump’s Greenland tariffs threat?

How can Europe respond to Trump’s Greenland tariffs threat?

January 20, 2026

Summary

President Donald Trump has announced potential tariffs on seven European Union countries and the United Kingdom due to their opposition to his idea of taking control of Greenland. European leaders are now thinking about how to respond to this situation.

Key Facts

  • President Trump has proposed tariffs on EU countries and the UK.
  • The reason for the tariff threat is their resistance to Trump's Greenland plans.
  • Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
  • EU leaders are discussing possible responses to the tariff threats.
  • The tariffs could impact economic and diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Europe.
  • Experts involved in the discussion include Rebecca Christie, Ben Aris, and Pieter Cleppe.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
US envoy says SDF’s role in Syria has ‘largely expired’ after ISIL

US envoy says SDF’s role in Syria has ‘largely expired’ after ISIL

January 20, 2026

Summary

The U.S. Special Envoy for Syria stated that the role of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) as the main force against ISIS is ending as the Syrian government can now handle security. Syria has joined an international coalition to defeat ISIS, and the country's government is working to integrate the Kurdish population. A ceasefire has been agreed between the Syrian army and the SDF after recent clashes.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. envoy said the SDF's role as the main anti-ISIS force is nearing an end.
  • Syria's government is ready to take over security duties and manage ISIS detention sites.
  • Syria joined the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS as its 90th member in late 2025.
  • Syrian government announced Kurdish citizenship rights and language protection.
  • A four-day ceasefire between the Syrian army and the SDF has been agreed upon.
  • There are 900 U.S. troops still in areas controlled by the SDF.
  • Recent clashes occurred in al-Shaddadi, but a ceasefire has been announced.
  • The Syrian army and the SDF have confirmed their commitment to the ceasefire deal.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Actor Timothy Busfield Released Pending Trial on Child Sex Abuse Charges

Actor Timothy Busfield Released Pending Trial on Child Sex Abuse Charges

January 20, 2026

Summary

Actor Timothy Busfield has been released from jail as he awaits trial for child sex abuse charges related to his work on a TV show. A judge decided Busfield could leave jail and would be under supervision in New Mexico. Busfield denies the charges, which involve accusations of inappropriate behavior with a minor.

Key Facts

  • Timothy Busfield is an actor known for roles in The West Wing and Field of Dreams.
  • He faces child sex abuse charges related to his work on the TV show The Cleaning Lady.
  • A judge allowed Busfield to leave jail on his own recognizance.
  • While awaiting trial, Busfield will be supervised in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
  • Busfield is allowed to travel to his home outside of New Mexico.
  • He turned himself in to authorities last week.
  • Busfield has denied the allegations against him.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Gaza families dig through rubble searching for loved ones' remains

Gaza families dig through rubble searching for loved ones' remains

January 20, 2026

Summary

Families in Gaza are searching for their loved ones by digging through rubble. The report focuses on a man searching for his deceased family members. The situation in Gaza is distressing, with challenging conditions for those affected.

Key Facts

  • Families in Gaza are using their hands to dig through rubble.
  • The search is for loved ones who have died.
  • A specific report highlights one man's search for his family.
  • The visuals from the report are described as disturbing.
  • The situation in Gaza is difficult and emotional for residents.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour
U.S. forces seize 7th sanctioned tanker linked to Venezuela in Trump's effort to control its oil

U.S. forces seize 7th sanctioned tanker linked to Venezuela in Trump's effort to control its oil

January 20, 2026

Summary

U.S. forces took control of a seventh oil tanker linked to Venezuela, as part of the Trump administration's plan to manage the country's oil resources. The tanker, named the Motor Vessel Sagitta, was caught in violation of President Trump's sanctions in the Caribbean. The U.S. aims to use these actions to help rebuild Venezuela's oil industry and boost its economy.

Key Facts

  • U.S. forces took control of a Liberian-flagged oil tanker, Sagitta.
  • The tanker was linked to Venezuela and violated U.S. sanctions.
  • The seizure is part of President Trump's strategy to control Venezuelan oil.
  • The U.S. Southern Command announced the apprehension of the tanker.
  • The tanker had been sanctioned due to an order related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
  • Trump plans to invest $100 billion in Venezuela's oil industry to restore it.
  • The U.S. has taken 50 million barrels of oil from Venezuela to sell globally.
  • This effort is part of broader attempts to lower oil prices and support Venezuela's economy.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour
'Miracle Children' explores admissions scandal that exposed inequalities in education

'Miracle Children' explores admissions scandal that exposed inequalities in education

January 20, 2026

Summary

A new book called "Miracle Children" reveals how a private school in Louisiana gained attention for sending many students to top universities like Harvard and Yale. The book claims the school's success was based on falsehoods and intimidation.

Key Facts

  • The school is located in a poor Black community in Louisiana.
  • It sent many students to top universities, gaining national attention.
  • A book titled "Miracle Children" discusses this school's history.
  • The authors of the book are Katie Benner and Erica Green.
  • The book claims the school's success involved lies and threats.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour