Chinese authorities are blocking online searches about the country's decreasing birth rates to control the conversation on social media. China's birth rate has dropped to its lowest level since 1949, and while some discussions are allowed, specific searches are restricted. The aging population in China poses a challenge to its economic future.
Key Facts
Chinese officials are preventing online searches about the country's declining birth rate.
China's birth rate last year was 5.63 per 1,000 people, the lowest since 1949.
The country recorded 7.92 million births in 2025, a 17% drop from the previous year.
More deaths than births have been recorded for four consecutive years in China.
People over 65 now make up nearly 16% of China's population.
China's aging population is a growing concern for its social support systems and economy.
Despite policies to encourage more births, trends show a continued population decline.
Members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) in New York have had contact with officials from China's Communist Party. They discussed visits to China and took positions favorable to China. However, the minutes from their meetings do not show any illegal activity.
Key Facts
The DSA members held discussions with Chinese Communist Party officials.
These discussions were about anti-imperialism and avoiding sensitive topics for China.
There were visits discussed, including plans to improve relations with China.
Chinese officials did not attend the DSA meetings but met members in China.
The group's activities do not indicate any illegal actions but raise questions about Chinese influence.
The internal documents revealing these details date back to 2021.
Zohran Mamdani, a New York City official and longtime DSA member, was not present at these meetings.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington emphasized the importance of local cooperation in China-U.S. relations.
People outside Iran are watching the ongoing protests with a lot of concern and sadness. The protests in Iran are challenging the government, and officials are responding with violence. Many Iranians who live abroad support actions to help people in Iran but worry about the consequences of foreign military involvement.
Key Facts
Protests in Iran are entering their fourth week and are considered the biggest challenge to the government since 1979.
The government is using force to stop the protests, and reports say at least 3,941 people have died.
Iran's internet is heavily restricted, making it hard to get accurate information.
The Iranian economy is struggling, with high inflation and a devalued currency affecting people's ability to buy basic goods.
Many Iranians abroad support U.S. actions to improve communication and document human rights abuses in Iran.
There are concerns about the negative impact of military action by foreign countries, though some believe limited strikes might encourage talks.
The protests are motivated by more than economic issues; they challenge the government's use of force and control over people.
Protesters feel they have nothing else to lose, fighting for fundamental changes in their country.
Weather warnings have been issued for parts of New York and Michigan due to expected heavy snow and strong winds. The National Weather Service (NWS) has stated that these conditions could make travel dangerous due to snow-covered roads and reduced visibility.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service has issued storm warnings for parts of New York and Michigan.
Heavy snow and strong winds are expected, making travel difficult.
Some areas in Michigan could receive up to 5 inches of snow by Tuesday morning.
Winds in Michigan could reach up to 25 mph, causing blowing snow.
Parts of New York might see up to 4 feet of snow and winds up to 35 mph until Wednesday afternoon.
Travel in areas of New York affected by the heaviest snow bands could be nearly impossible.
Residents are advised to check weather updates, limit outdoor time, and carry emergency supplies in vehicles.
President Trump shared private text messages with leaders from NATO and France on his social media platform. In these messages, French President Emmanuel Macron and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte discussed various international issues, praising Trump's work and addressing topics like Greenland. Macron suggested a meeting with other global leaders, and Rutte expressed willingness to discuss Greenland further.
Key Facts
President Trump shared private texts on his Truth Social platform.
Messages were from French President Emmanuel Macron and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Macron praised Trump's Middle East efforts but was confused about Trump's actions regarding Greenland.
Macron proposed a G7 meeting, including other international leaders.
Trump was invited to dinner with Macron after the proposed meeting.
Rutte commended Trump on Syria and planned to praise him at the World Economic Forum.
Rutte showed interest in discussing Greenland's situation further with Trump.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un fired Vice Premier Yang Sung-ho and criticized party officials publicly. Kim is dissatisfied with the progress of an industrial project and blames officials for delays and incompetence.
Key Facts
Kim Jong Un removed Vice Premier Yang Sung-ho from his position.
Yang was in charge of economic policies, focused on machinery.
Kim criticized officials during a visit to the Ryongsong Machine Complex.
The criticism was aimed at officials responsible for delays in a key industrial project.
The ruling Workers’ Party is preparing for its Ninth Party Congress soon.
Public rebukes like this are rare in North Korea but have happened before.
Yang’s replacement has not been announced.
The news comes amid reports of changes in North Korea's top military guards.
The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, lit up the skies of the UK in shades of green and pink. This natural light show happened due to solar eruptions sending particles to Earth, which interacted with the atmosphere. The event was visible across many parts of the UK, and the Met Office noted severe geomagnetic storms as the cause.
Key Facts
The Northern Lights appeared in the UK with colors like green and pink.
This light display happens when particles from the Sun hit Earth's atmosphere.
Normally, the Northern Lights are seen near the Arctic Circle.
The lights were visible across Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, and many parts of England.
The Met Office reported severe geomagnetic storms, making auroras visible even as far south as northern Italy.
A solar event called a Coronal Mass Ejection caused the Northern Lights.
Different gases in the atmosphere produce different colors; oxygen causes green lights, while nitrogen causes purple, blue, and pink ones.
The Philippines has received a new patrol vessel, BRP Rajah Sulayman, to strengthen its naval capabilities in the South China Sea, an area disputed by China. The Philippines, a U.S. ally, is enhancing its military to better protect its territorial waters against China's claims and activities in the region.
Key Facts
The BRP Rajah Sulayman is the newest patrol vessel added to the Philippine navy's fleet.
This ship was built in South Korea and weighs 2,400 tons.
It is equipped with weapons like a 76 mm main gun and two 30 mm secondary guns.
The South China Sea is disputed, as both China and the Philippines have overlapping claims.
China's presence in the area involves naval, coast guard ships, and a maritime militia.
The Philippines aims to improve its maritime defense and law enforcement capabilities.
The new ship is named after a historical Muslim ruler known for defending against Spanish forces.
The Philippines and China have ongoing tensions, including disputes over incidents at sea.
The U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is moving from the Pacific to the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran. This change might affect U.S. naval presence in the Pacific, where China has a significant military fleet. The move follows President Trump's directive to be ready for potential military action against Iran.
Key Facts
The USS Abraham Lincoln left the Pacific for the Middle East due to tensions with Iran.
President Trump has suggested possible military action against Iran following anti-government protests there.
The Abraham Lincoln operates with a group of U.S. Navy ships, including destroyers.
The carrier was previously engaged in operations in the South China Sea.
Its departure leaves the USS George Washington as the only U.S. aircraft carrier in the western Pacific, though it is in maintenance.
The smaller ship USS Tripoli, capable of using F-35B jets, might partially fill the naval gap in the Pacific.
The U.S. has deployed destroyers in Middle Eastern waters, enhancing its military presence there.
The U.S. 7th Fleet manages naval actions in both the western Pacific and Indian Ocean to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
A dog gained attention online for filing his own nails in a video. The dog's enthusiastic nail filing was shared on TikTok, receiving millions of views and likes. Many people commented on the dog's energy and humor in the video.
Key Facts
A dog was recorded filing his own nails using a board on the floor.
The video was shared on TikTok by @wanderwithrescues and went viral.
The video has received over 1.6 million views and 136,200 likes.
Users commented humorously on the dog's energetic actions.
Dogs naturally wear down their nails, but sometimes they need help like with this filing board.
Animal experts suggest using the right tools and being cautious while trimming a dog’s nails.
Overgrown nails can be an issue, especially for less active or older dogs.
People living in Florida and Oregon have been told to stay indoors because of unhealthy air pollution levels. The pollution comes from tiny particles called PM2.5, which can cause health problems. This situation affects everyone, especially children, older adults, and those with health issues.
Key Facts
Florida and Oregon have unhealthy air pollution levels due to PM2.5 particles.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses the Air Quality Index (AQI) to measure pollution levels.
The AQI scale goes from 0 (good) to 500 (hazardous), with higher numbers meaning more pollution.
PM2.5 particles are tiny and can enter deep into the lungs and bloodstream.
Health risks from PM2.5 include coughing, throat irritation, and breathing problems.
People in affected areas are advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Indoor air can also become polluted with PM2.5 if windows or doors are open.
PM2.5 sources can include dust, vehicle emissions, and wildfire smoke.
A cat was accidentally sealed under a bath during a bathroom renovation, as shown in a viral Instagram video. Workers cut into the bathtub to free the cat, who seemed unharmed. The video has gained significant attention on social media.
Key Facts
A cat went missing during a bathroom renovation.
The cat was found trapped under a sealed bathtub.
The incident was shared in a video on Instagram by the user @kiely.gregg.
The cat appeared to be unharmed after being freed.
The video has received over 1.1 million views and 50,400 likes.
Experts suggest keeping pets away from renovation areas to prevent accidents.
The cat owner has not posted any updates following the incident.
Denmark has sent more troops to Greenland after comments from President Donald Trump about possibly taking control of the area. Denmark's move coincides with ongoing military exercises and discussions about Arctic security. The situation has caused tensions between the US and Europe, with the EU considering economic responses.
Key Facts
Denmark sent additional troops to Greenland in response to President Trump's comments about taking control of the territory.
The Royal Danish Army chief, Peter Boysen, and many soldiers arrived in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland.
Denmark's Ministry of Defence has not commented on the troop deployment.
President Trump did not rule out using military force for control over Greenland, a mineral-rich area.
Denmark has stated that Greenland is not for sale and that forceful actions could end NATO.
NATO officials are discussing enhancing security in the Arctic region.
The EU is considering economic measures, such as tariffs, due to increased tensions with the US.
The UK government is looking into the possibility of banning social media for children, similar to a recent Australian policy. They plan to explore various ways to protect minors online and will consider measures like age restrictions and curfews for phone usage. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure technology does not harm children.
Key Facts
The UK is considering a social media ban for children similar to Australia's.
A public consultation will gather evidence and suggestions on this idea.
The UK government will look into increasing the digital age of consent.
Other ideas include phone curfews and limiting addictive features like streaks.
UK officials will visit Australia to learn about their approach.
The removal and sharing of inappropriate images by minors online is also a concern.
The Labour-led government is facing criticism from the opposition over delays in implementing these measures.
President Donald Trump said Greenland is crucial for national and world security after a discussion with NATO's Secretary General. Trump criticized the U.K.'s decision to give Mauritius control over the Chagos Islands, suggesting this made Greenland even more essential. He mentioned alignment on other issues with France's President Macron but noted Macron's confusion over the U.S. stance on Greenland.
Key Facts
President Trump had a "very good" call with NATO Secretary General about Greenland.
Trump stated that Greenland is important for national and world security.
He criticized the U.K. for planning to give Mauritius sovereignty over islands hosting a U.S. base.
Trump called the U.K.'s decision weak and said it might encourage China and Russia.
French President Macron agreed with Trump on Syria and Iran but questioned the Greenland issue.
Macron invited Trump to various meetings, including one with the G7.
A surfer in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, was bitten by a shark, marking the fourth shark attack in the state within 48 hours. The attacks, possibly related to recent heavy rains, led to beach closures in parts of Sydney. Authorities advise against swimming near river mouths due to increased shark activity.
Key Facts
A 39-year-old surfer was bitten by a shark near Crescent Head in NSW and is in stable condition at the hospital.
This incident is the fourth shark attack in NSW in less than two days.
Recent heavy rains may have contributed to increased shark activity by flushing nutrients into the water.
All beaches in northern Sydney are currently closed due to these shark attacks.
Bull sharks, known for being dangerous to humans, are suspected in some of these attacks.
A 27-year-old and a 12-year-old were severely injured in separate shark attacks in Sydney recently.
Authorities have recommended avoiding NSW waterways because of poor water quality and visibility.
San Francisco recently held a memorial for a well-loved albino alligator named Claude, who passed away in December. Claude lived at the California Academy of Sciences and connected with many people due to his unique appearance and history.
Key Facts
Claude was an albino alligator, meaning he had white skin and pink eyes, which is rare.
He lived at the California Academy of Sciences for 17 years before his death from liver cancer at the age of 30.
A large farewell event in San Francisco included a brass band, a special bread in his shape, and a street named after him.
Claude became famous for swallowing a child's ballet shoe, which was later safely removed by vets.
In his lifetime, Claude interacted with over 22 million visitors to the academy.
The academy has received many messages of support and stories from fans, showing the impact Claude had on people.
Claude was known for showing acceptance and uniqueness, which resonated with the ideals of the San Francisco community.
Australia's lower house of parliament voted in favor of stronger gun controls and a gun buyback program after a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach. The new measures include stricter checks on firearm license applications and aim to reduce the number of guns in the country. The bill will now go to the Senate, where it is expected to pass with support from the Greens party.
Key Facts
The lower house passed the bill with a vote of 96 to 45.
The legislation includes a national gun buyback program.
The buyback scheme targets "surplus and newly restricted firearms."
New checks will be applied to firearm license applications.
The Bondi Beach shooting on 14 December involved a father-son duo; the father legally owned six guns.
Parliament is discussing additional measures, including reforms to tackle hate speech.
The bill also aims to improve information sharing between intelligence agencies on gun license applicants.
The Senate is expected to approve the bill with the backing of the Greens party.
Rage rooms, where people pay to smash items for stress relief, are becoming more popular, especially among women. These rooms offer a controlled way to release anger and tension, which some women find beneficial in dealing with stress from work and personal life.
Key Facts
Rage rooms allow people to smash items like TVs and furniture as a way to relieve stress.
These rooms started in Japan in the late 2000s and are designed to let people express anger in a controlled environment.
Many rage rooms see more female customers, who find the experience calming and stress-relieving.
Participants wear protective gear for safety while they smash objects.
Deena and Shuka, two women who visited rage rooms, describe the experience as freeing and calming, comparing it to physical release or exercise.
Kate Cutler, owner of a rage room in East Sussex, notes increasing female clientele, with reasons varying from personal breakups to general stress.
Mental health experts say controlled expressions of anger can prevent stress-related health problems.
