A large fire broke out in a shanty town near Seoul, South Korea, forcing residents to escape and burning homes. The fire was controlled about six hours later with the help of nearly 300 firefighters, and no injuries or deaths have been reported. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.
Key Facts
A fire occurred in a shanty town on the edge of Seoul.
Around 300 firefighters were involved in fighting the blaze.
The fire threatened Guryong, an area known for poverty in the affluent Gangnam district.
No injuries or deaths have been reported so far.
The fire was brought under control roughly six hours after it started.
Over 1,200 personnel, including police officers, responded to the situation.
The fire’s cause is still under investigation.
Guryong is prone to fires due to its crowded structures made of flammable materials.
Eric Trump discussed his family's stance on building a hotel in Greenland amid President Donald Trump's interest in acquiring the territory for national security. While Eric Trump indicated there are no current plans for a hotel, he acknowledged Greenland's strategic importance. Greenland and Denmark, along with NATO members, have expressed concerns about the potential U.S. acquisition.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump believes acquiring Greenland is vital for U.S. national security, citing threats from Russia and China.
The Trump Organization, led by Eric Trump, currently has no plans to build a hotel in Greenland.
Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
Danish and Greenland leaders, along with NATO members, are concerned about the U.S.'s interest in acquiring Greenland.
A recent YouGov poll showed that only 6% of Americans support using military force to acquire Greenland, while 27% support acquisition without force.
A poll indicated only 6% of Greenlanders favor becoming part of the United States.
President Trump emphasized the importance of Greenland for NATO and U.S. security interests on social media.
Greenland's Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen publicly stated Greenland is not for sale or governance by the U.S.
Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez has proposed allowing more foreign investment in the country's state-run oil industry. This suggestion comes shortly after the U.S. led by President Trump took control of Venezuelan oil sales and captured former President Nicolás Maduro.
Key Facts
Delcy Rodríguez is the acting President of Venezuela.
Rodríguez gave her first state of the union address on Thursday.
She suggested opening Venezuela's oil industry to more foreign investment.
The proposal follows actions from President Trump aiming to control Venezuelan oil sales.
The U.S. captured former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
Rodríguez's proposal marks a significant shift in Venezuela's traditional policies.
The Gambia has taken a case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Myanmar of committing genocide against the Rohingya people. The case began this week, with The Gambia arguing that Myanmar's military targeted the Rohingya for destruction, forcing hundreds of thousands to flee to Bangladesh. This is the first genocide case brought by a third country at the ICJ to protect another nation or group.
Key Facts
The Gambia's case against Myanmar started at the ICJ, focusing on alleged genocide against the Rohingya minority.
The military offensive in Myanmar forced about 750,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh.
The case marks the first time the ICJ hears a genocide case brought by a third country.
The Gambia filed the lawsuit in November 2019, representing the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation.
The United Nations reported around 10,000 killings and 730,000 displacements during the attacks on Rohingya communities.
Several countries, including Canada and Germany, support The Gambia in this legal action.
The ICJ cannot enforce its decisions, but its rulings carry legal significance.
The case was inspired by The Gambia's history of dealing with repression under former leader Yahya Jammeh.
A photo of a small Pomeranian standing confidently among much larger dogs at a daycare has become popular online. Shared on Reddit, the picture has amused many viewers who commented on the Pomeranian's apparent fearlessness and bold demeanor.
Key Facts
A photo showing a Pomeranian with larger dogs was shared on Reddit.
The image quickly gained over 1,200 upvotes and more than 100 comments.
Viewers found the size difference between the Pomeranian and the other dogs amusing.
The small dog appeared very comfortable and confident in the group.
The post led to many comments about similar bold behaviors in other Pomeranians.
The Pomeranian’s grin in the photo added to the humor.
The bodies of 32 Cuban soldiers who died during a U.S. bombing in Venezuela have been returned to Cuba. Former Cuban President Raul Castro participated in a guard of honor for their return.
Key Facts
32 Cuban soldiers were killed in a U.S. bombing in Venezuela.
The bodies of these soldiers have been sent back to Cuba.
Former Cuban President Raul Castro was present during a guard of honor.
The event occurred during a U.S. military operation in Venezuela.
In Iran, widespread protests have erupted due to a weak economy and tough living conditions. The protests, initially triggered by economic issues, have quieted following government crackdowns. Iran is one of the most heavily sanctioned countries, and these sanctions, along with internal mismanagement, have severely impacted the economy.
Key Facts
Protests began in Tehran’s bazaar and spread due to economic problems in Iran.
The protests became mass demonstrations against Iran's government but have now quieted down.
Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported a death toll of 2,615, though Iran's government disputes this.
President Donald Trump threatened intervention over the protest-related deaths but later received assurances from Iran to stop the killings.
Iran's economy is struggling due to long-term sanctions, corruption, and mismanagement.
Critical issues such as water shortages, power outages, and pollution have worsened conditions.
The Iranian rial's value dropped significantly, aggravating the economic crisis.
The shutdown of Iran's state-controlled internet has limited economic activities, reducing GDP by an estimated 10% over a month.
A TikTok influencer, Harrison Sullivan, also known as HSTikkyTokky, was extradited from Spain to the UK on a private jet, costing the police nearly £16,000. Surrey Police defended the decision, stating it was necessary due to safety concerns. Sullivan pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and faced multiple penalties.
Key Facts
Harrison Sullivan is a TikTok influencer known online as HSTikkyTokky.
He was extradited from Spain to the UK using a private jet at a cost of almost £16,000.
Surrey Police justified the use of the jet based on a risk assessment for safety concerns.
Sullivan had been avoiding custody for nearly a year after a car crash in Surrey, UK.
A judge stated that the use of a private jet was "not necessary or proportionate".
Sullivan had driven a McLaren at 70mph in a 40mph zone, leading to the crash.
He received a one-year suspended sentence, was disqualified from driving for two years, and must complete unpaid work and rehabilitation.
Total costs related to his extradition and trial were reduced to £17,320.27, with Sullivan ordered to pay a portion of it.
Israel decided to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, leading to backlash from Somalia and other countries in Africa and the Middle East. The move involves possible security cooperation, with Israel considering a military presence in Somaliland, which is strategic because it's near Yemen's Houthis. This decision is part of Israel's broader strategy to strengthen ties in the region amid ongoing conflicts.
Key Facts
Israel announced it recognizes Somaliland as an independent state.
Somalia and countries across Africa and the Middle East criticized this decision.
Yemen's Houthi group threatened to target any Israeli presence in Somaliland.
Israel's foreign minister, Gideon Saar, visited Somaliland, including the port city of Berbera.
Somaliland might allow an Israeli military presence, bringing Israel closer to the Houthis in Yemen.
Israel seeks strategic locations due to conflicts with regional groups like the Houthis.
The city of Berbera is near key shipping lanes and close to Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen.
Israel's strategy includes monitoring the Houthis and possibly supporting Yemen’s government against them.
President Donald Trump's approval rating for handling foreign policy has hit a record low in his second term. Recent polls show that a significant portion of Americans disapprove of his approach, especially regarding military interventions and foreign engagements.
Key Facts
A Marist Poll shows 37% of U.S. adults approve of Trump's foreign policy, while 56% disapprove.
The Marist Poll was conducted with 1,408 adults and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.3 percentage points.
An AP-NORC poll found about 60% of Americans disapprove of Trump's foreign policy.
The AP-NORC survey included 1,203 adults and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.9 percentage points.
An Economist/YouGov poll found Trump's net approval on foreign policy at -11 points among 1,602 adult citizens.
Previous polls showed former President Joe Biden with similar disapproval levels on foreign policy during his term.
A man named Farhad N is on trial in Munich, Germany, accused of driving his car into a crowd, killing a woman and her toddler. Prosecutors say he acted out of religious motivation, targeting a trade union demonstration. The trial is taking place close to where the incident occurred, and Farhad N did not comment on the charges.
Key Facts
Farhad N is accused of driving into a crowd in Munich, causing the deaths of a woman named Amel and her daughter Hafsa.
The incident occurred on February 13, 2025, during a trade union rally with about 1,400 participants.
Prosecutors believe Farhad N was motivated by religious reasons, targeting people in Germany in response to Muslim suffering abroad.
He reportedly shouted a religious declaration and prayed after the act.
Authorities say he watched extremist preachers online but was not linked to groups like Islamic State.
Farhad N arrived in Germany in 2016 as a teenager and had temporary residency despite a rejected asylum request.
Before the attack, he worked as a security guard and posted about bodybuilding and religion on Instagram.
A group of U.S. Congress members visited Denmark to show support amid President Donald Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland, a territory of Denmark. Trump suggests Greenland is important for U.S. security and has proposed to buy it, a move opposed by both Denmark and Greenland. European NATO allies, concerned about the Arctic's security, have also shown their support for Denmark.
Key Facts
U.S. Congress members visited Denmark and met with Danish and Greenlandic leaders.
President Trump wants the U.S. to acquire Greenland, citing security concerns.
Denmark and Greenland oppose Trump's plan to buy Greenland.
The U.S. already has a military base in Greenland with over 100 personnel.
Trump suggests Denmark cannot protect Greenland from potential Russian or Chinese threats.
Denmark warns that forcibly taking Greenland could harm NATO, a military alliance.
Several European countries have sent troops to Greenland as a show of support.
The U.S. Congressional delegation includes both Democratic and Republican members.
A family in Ohio surprised their children with a new dog, Oscar, after losing their previous pet two years ago. The parents recorded their children's shocked and happy reactions, which went viral on TikTok. The children quickly accepted Oscar, and the dog's presence has brought joy back to their household.
Key Facts
Danni and Shawn, both 42, decided to surprise their kids, SJ and Suniya, with a new dog.
The family had a pet dog for 17 years, which died two years ago.
Oscar, a 3-year-old "double doodle," was adopted from a family friend who couldn't care for him anymore.
Danni posted a video of the children's reaction on TikTok, which got over 10 million views and more than 1.7 million likes.
The video showed the kids' initial shock and excitement upon meeting Oscar.
Some viewers commented on TikTok about adopting a full-grown dog, which happens less often than adopting puppies.
Oscar has become a beloved part of the family, forming a strong bond with the children and parents.
The family has experienced joy and laughter since welcoming Oscar into their home.
A new mother told another child not to touch her baby at a doctor's office, citing germs as the reason. This sparked an online debate about whether mentioning germs was necessary or if simply asking the child not to touch was enough. Some people argued for explaining personal boundaries, while others agreed with the mother's concern about germs in a medical setting.
Key Facts
A mother asked a child not to touch her baby at a doctor's office due to concerns about germs.
The incident was shared on Threads and received over 12,000 likes and comments.
Opinions were divided on whether her reasoning about germs was necessary.
Some commenters suggested focusing on teaching children about personal boundaries.
The mother clarified her intention was not to be harsh but to explain her reasoning.
Educators and healthcare professionals supported her concern about germs.
Children understanding bodily autonomy was a point raised during discussions.
Several parents shared similar experiences and offered alternative ways to handle such situations.
The Canadian TV drama "Heated Rivalry" has become very popular worldwide. The series features a secret relationship between two rival ice-hockey players. It has sparked conversations about identity and acceptance in sports.
Key Facts
"Heated Rivalry" is a TV series about two rival ice-hockey players hiding a secret romance.
The show is based on Rachel Reid's Game Changers novels.
It explores themes like identity and love in professional sports.
Canadian Culture Minister Marc Miller commented on the show's global popularity.
The city of Ottawa acknowledges the character Shane Hollander as being from there.
Episode five of the series is highly rated on IMDb.
Actor Connor Storrie discussed the challenges of learning to skate for his role.
The series has contributed to discussions about LGBTQ representation in sports.
Over a million drivers in the Midwest and Northern Plains received travel warnings due to rapidly changing winter weather with high winds and snow squalls. States including Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota were affected, with conditions expected to improve by evening. Drivers are advised to exercise caution and monitor local weather updates.
Key Facts
More than a million drivers in the Midwest and Northern Plains received winter weather warnings.
The warnings were due to snow squalls and gusty winds creating dangerous driving conditions.
Affected states include Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota.
Visibility could reduce significantly, and roads might quickly become hazardous.
Drivers are advised to turn on headlights, maintain distance, and avoid sudden braking.
No specific snow squall warnings were active at 10:15 a.m. Eastern time but could change suddenly.
Winter weather alerts were also issued in other states including Wisconsin and Michigan.
High wind warnings were in place from Montana to Kansas.
Japan is monitoring important waterways near its borders due to increased Chinese naval activities. Japan, a U.S. ally, uses both naval ships and aircraft for surveillance in these areas. The increased Chinese presence is part of its military expansion in the region.
Key Facts
Japan is watching the Osumi, Soya, Tsugaru, and Tsushima straits for Chinese naval activities.
Japan uses naval ships and patrol aircraft for intelligence and surveillance.
China is building a large naval force to extend its reach, including near Japan.
Japan calls these straits vital international waterways with limited territorial waters.
In 2025, a record 15 Chinese naval ships passed through the Osumi Strait.
The straits are strategic points for both the U.S. and Chinese military.
Japan plans to keep strengthening its defense in response to the increased activities.
A dog owner discovered through pet cam footage that her Australian shepherd was tucking his pit bull sibling under a blanket each night. The video showing this caring act became popular on TikTok, receiving nearly a million views.
Key Facts
A dog owner was curious about how her dog got tucked in under a blanket each night.
She used a pet cam to find out her Australian shepherd was tucking in his pit bull sibling.
The TikTok video of this incident went viral, gaining almost 1 million views.
The Australian shepherd used his mouth to gently cover the pit bull with a blanket.
Australian shepherds are noted for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities.
Many viewers found the video heartwarming and shared their thoughts in the comments.
The video was shared under the TikTok username @samarahsboscostix.
President Donald Trump stated on Friday that he might place tariffs on countries that do not back the U.S. plan to take control of Greenland. He argued that having control over Greenland is important for U.S. national security. European leaders, including Denmark, have said that the U.S. cannot take control of Greenland, which is part of Denmark.
Key Facts
President Trump suggested using tariffs on nations not supporting U.S. control of Greenland.
He believes Greenland is vital for U.S. national security.
Greenland is a self-governing territory belonging to Denmark.
Trump had not previously mentioned tariffs as a way to gain control over Greenland.
European leaders, including Denmark, oppose U.S. control of Greenland.
There are no specific details yet on how or when tariffs might be applied.
Israel recognized Somaliland on December 26 to enhance its geopolitical strategy in the Horn of Africa. This recognition is part of a broader pattern where Israel is engaging with breakaway regions to influence regional politics, despite causing tensions. Other countries, such as Saudi Arabia and China, are actively responding to these developments to protect their interests in the region.
Key Facts
Israel recognized Somaliland, aiming to strengthen its strategic influence in the Horn of Africa.
The Horn of Africa and the Red Sea are critical areas with many countries, including Israel, competing for influence.
Somaliland's long coastline along the Red Sea is strategic for controlling maritime trade.
Israel's recognition is seen as part of a broader strategy to weaken central governments and support breakaway regions.
Ethiopia briefly recognized Somaliland but reversed this after talks with Somalia, showing the fragile nature of such agreements.
China supports Somalia's territorial integrity and counters moves seen as promoting secession, aligning with its "One China" policy.
Saudi Arabia is leading efforts to block what is referred to as the "Axis of Secession," aiming to maintain regional stability.
