At the World Economic Forum in Davos, key global economic leaders discussed the resilience of the global economy despite disruptions from U.S. trade policies under President Donald Trump. They emphasized the need for countries and businesses to focus on growth and tackle problems like debt and inequality. They noted that while trade continues under World Trade Organization rules, challenges remain.
Key Facts
Economic leaders at Davos focused on global growth despite trade tensions with the Trump administration.
Christine Lagarde, Kristalina Georgieva, and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala participated in the panel discussion.
Despite disruption, the global economy is showing unexpected resilience.
President Trump made tariff threats related to Greenland but later withdrew them.
The IMF forecasted a 3.3% global growth rate, but leaders warned this is not enough to reduce debt.
There is concern about the impact of technologies like artificial intelligence on inequality and jobs.
Europe was encouraged to boost productivity and improve its investment climate.
Okonjo-Iweala noted that 72% of global trade operates under WTO rules, showing built-in resilience.
The United States conducted a military operation that led to the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. This has affected Cuba, which depended on Venezuelan support, particularly fuel supplies. The situation has raised concerns about potential economic difficulties and unrest in Cuba.
Key Facts
The U.S. military operation took place on January 3 and involved abducting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.
Cuba has traditionally relied on Venezuela for fuel to maintain its electrical grid.
After Maduro's ouster, President Donald Trump announced that Venezuela would stop supplying Cuba with oil and financial aid.
The absence of Venezuelan support may lead to more severe economic challenges in Cuba.
Cuban neighborhoods vary in their access to resources; some areas face fewer power outages than others.
Despite the U.S. action, the Cuban government intends to keep its relationship with Venezuela.
People in Cuba are uncertain about the future, with discussions about potential invasions or leaving the country.
The presidents of Ukraine, Russia, and the United States are set to hold a meeting to discuss ending Russia's war in Ukraine. Many areas in Ukraine lack electricity and heat due to Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. Negotiations have resolved most issues except territorial concessions, which remains a sticking point.
Key Facts
Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. presidents plan to meet in Abu Dhabi to discuss ending the war.
Russian drone strikes have left nearly half of Ukraine without power and heat.
Territorial disputes remain unsolved after talks between Ukraine's Zelenskyy and President Trump.
Ukraine's President Zelenskyy states that security guarantees have been agreed upon.
Over 50% of Ukrainians support refusing territorial concessions to Russia.
Russian drone and missile attacks have targeted Ukraine's power facilities.
UNICEF warns about risks like hypothermia and pneumonia for Ukrainian children due to energy shortages.
A significant portion of Kyiv is still without electricity, affecting thousands of buildings.
Russian, Ukrainian, and U.S. negotiators are meeting in Abu Dhabi for talks about the Ukraine-Russia war. This is the first meeting of this kind since Russia's large-scale invasion in February 2022, but challenges remain in reaching a peace deal.
Key Facts
Russian, Ukrainian, and U.S. representatives are having talks in Abu Dhabi.
These discussions are focused on the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
It is the first time these three parties have met together since early 2022.
The aim of the meeting is to try and create a peace agreement.
There are still major difficulties that need to be worked through before any deal can be finalized.
The meeting is taking place as the war in Ukraine continues.
Teyana Taylor and Jessie Buckley, both nominated for Oscars in 2026, have formed a strong friendship. They celebrated their nominations by chatting on FaceTime, sharing mutual support and pride. Both women have backgrounds in the arts, with Taylor starting in the music industry and Buckley coming from theater.
Key Facts
Teyana Taylor is nominated for a supporting role in "One Battle After Another" for the 2026 Oscars.
Jessie Buckley is nominated for a lead role in "Hamnet" for the 2026 Oscars.
They celebrated their nominations together via FaceTime.
Taylor began her career in the music industry and also worked as a choreographer.
Buckley gained recognition from a BBC reality competition before pursuing acting.
Taylor and Buckley share a common history of diverse artistic careers.
Both emphasize the importance of being versatile in their professional journeys.
An Israeli social media figure, Roi Star, was caught on video harassing activists in the occupied West Bank. He entered a house and used pepper spray on the activists during their confrontation.
Key Facts
Roi Star is an Israeli social media personality.
He was filmed in the occupied West Bank.
The video shows him confronting activists.
During the confrontation, Roi Star used pepper spray.
These activists monitor activities and assaults by Israeli settlers.
The incident involved entering a house where the activists were.
A golden retriever escaped from its yard after strong winds damaged a fence. A passerby noticed the dog outside and alerted the owners by ringing their doorbell. The incident was captured on a Ring doorbell camera, and the video received a lot of attention online.
Key Facts
A golden retriever escaped because strong winds damaged part of its fence.
The dog's owner is known on TikTok as @luvmeganx.
A stranger noticed the dog outside and rang the doorbell to inform the family.
The incident was captured by a Ring doorbell camera.
The video of the event had over 244,200 views on TikTok.
Many online viewers praised the kindness of the stranger.
The dog was simply sitting on the doorstep when found.
A trial in the UK has started for Sean Jefferson and Amy Clarke, accused of murdering their baby, Darcy-Leigh Jefferson. The prosecution claims the baby suffered more than 40 fractures and a brain injury before dying in March 2022. The parents deny all charges, including murder and causing harm to their child.
Key Facts
Sean Jefferson and Amy Clarke are accused of killing their baby daughter, Darcy-Leigh Jefferson.
Darcy-Leigh reportedly suffered over 40 rib fractures and a brain injury.
The baby passed away in March 2022, two days after sustaining the brain injury.
Prosecutors argue the injuries were caused by severe physical harm, such as shaking or striking against a hard surface.
The couple denies charges of murder, manslaughter, and allowing harm to their child.
Darcy-Leigh was born prematurely, weighing just over 4 pounds.
Witnesses reported substance abuse and aggressive behavior between Jefferson and Clarke.
Medical professionals previously examined Darcy-Leigh and reported no concerns about her condition.
A large sewer pipe broke, causing millions of gallons of raw sewage to flow into the Potomac River near Washington, D.C. Crews are working to manage the spill and repair the pipe, while officials warn the public to avoid the affected area due to health risks. The spill does not impact drinking water, but a winter storm could make cleanup more challenging.
Key Facts
A 72-inch sewer pipe ruptured, causing raw sewage to spill into the Potomac River.
The burst pipe is part of a system that can handle 60 million gallons of wastewater per day.
DC Water is installing pumps to reroute sewage and repair the damaged pipe.
Authorities posted warnings about the health risks and advised people to avoid the area.
Environmental groups are testing water samples for harmful bacteria like E. coli.
The pipeline called the Potomac Interceptor was installed in the 1960s and was undergoing rehabilitation work.
Officials say the spill doesn't affect the drinking water, which is from a separate system.
A winter storm with freezing temperatures could complicate efforts to manage the spill.
The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos is happening amid rising global tensions. President Trump has been using tariffs to influence economic and political situations. The forum faces criticism for not taking enough action but is seen by some as a platform for keeping discussions going among global leaders.
Key Facts
The World Economic Forum takes place yearly in Davos.
Global tensions are high, affecting international relations.
President Donald Trump is skeptical about cooperation between countries and prefers using tariffs.
The forum is criticized for a lot of discussion but not enough action.
Supporters believe the forum helps keep communication open among world leaders.
Current major global issues include rebuilding Gaza and Iran's economic problems.
A drag queen named Lauren Banall performed a routine on TikTok using parts of a speech made by Erika Kirk at her husband Charlie Kirk's memorial service. The video went viral, attracting both supportive and critical reactions. Charlie Kirk was a conservative activist who was killed in 2025.
Key Facts
Lauren Banall is a drag queen who performed a routine to Erika Kirk's speech.
The TikTok video of this performance has over 6.7 million views.
Charlie Kirk died in September 2025 after being shot while speaking at a university.
Erika Kirk became the CEO and board chair of Turning Point USA following her husband's death.
Banall, after her video went viral, started a fundraiser for the ACLU.
The fundraiser has raised over $3,600 so far.
People's reactions to Banall's performance vary widely, with some supporting it as art and others seeing it as disrespectful.
President Trump has withdrawn Canada's invitation to join the "Board of Peace" after a disagreement with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the World Economic Forum in Davos. This move reflects increasing tensions between the U.S. and Canada, with both leaders exchanging strong words. Canada will now be on the outside of this board, along with other U.S. allies that have declined participation.
Key Facts
President Trump canceled Canada's invitation to the "Board of Peace."
The disagreement between Trump and Carney resurfaced at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Carney stated that Canada thrives because of its own identity, not because of the U.S.
Trump responded by saying Canada should be thankful for U.S. support.
Other allies, like France, have also declined to join the board.
Trump and Carney have had a history of disagreements, including trade issues.
Canada is seeking to trade more with countries other than the U.S. due to past tariffs.
The "Board of Peace" includes leaders like Russian President Putin and Belarusian President Lukashenko.
The article talks about a US special forces attack on Caracas, Venezuela, on January 3, 2026, and explores the country's political history. It describes Venezuela's transformation from a wealthy oil-rich nation to one experiencing economic and political turmoil. The focus is on how US influence has impacted Venezuela's recent history.
Key Facts
A US special forces attack occurred in Caracas, Venezuela, on January 3, 2026.
Venezuela was once a wealthy country due to its oil resources.
Political changes included the rise of Hugo Chavez and his reforms.
In 1989, Venezuela experienced major riots known as the Caracazo.
A coup attempt took place against Chavez in 2002.
Under President Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela faced deep economic issues and many people left the country.
The article highlights the ongoing influence of US power in Latin America.
The report uses interviews, expert insights, and historical footage for analysis.
Negotiators from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States are meeting in Abu Dhabi for trilateral talks to address the conflict in Ukraine. President Trump is advocating for a peace deal, but key issues like control of the eastern Donbas region remain unresolved. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hopes for increased U.S. support, but also remains cautious about the outcomes of the talks.
Key Facts
Russia, Ukraine, and the US are holding trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi for the first time since 2022.
President Trump is actively promoting a peace deal for Ukraine.
Ukraine seeks peace and aims to maintain strong relations with the US, which has previously paused military support.
Key issues include Russia's demand for control over eastern Ukraine's Donbas region, which Ukraine refuses.
Ukraine wants more security guarantees from the US if Russia invades again.
Ukrainian President Zelensky says they are close to a peace framework but final details are difficult.
Zelensky is unsure about the reliability of security promises from President Trump.
Russia's response to the security guarantees and peace efforts is uncertain.
A new study shows that burning wood to heat homes in winter contributes to around 8,600 early deaths each year in the U.S. This is due to fine particles released into the air, which can cause serious health problems. Only two percent of U.S. households mainly use wood for heating, but it still has a big impact on air quality.
Key Facts
Burning wood for heating is linked to about 8,600 early deaths annually in the U.S.
Residential wood burning accounts for nearly 22% of wintertime fine particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions in the U.S.
PM2.5 is a type of air pollution that can cause lung and heart diseases.
Only two percent of U.S. households primarily use wood burning for heat.
Wood burning contributes more PM2.5 than the transportation sector in winter.
In metro areas like NYC and Washington D.C., wood smoke can travel between states.
Reducing wood burning emissions could improve air quality and health.
President Donald Trump and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, presented a plan to rebuild Gaza with new housing, industrial parks, and an airport at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The plan has been criticized for not including the opinions or needs of the Palestinian people and for focusing on development amid ongoing conflict and significant humanitarian issues. Critics argue that it prioritizes investment opportunities over addressing the rights and needs of those affected by the war.
Key Facts
Jared Kushner presented a plan for Gaza's redevelopment at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
The plan includes building over 100,000 housing units, industrial parks, and a new airport in Gaza.
Many experts criticize the plan for not considering the views and needs of Palestinians.
President Trump called the Gaza war nearly over during his speech at Davos.
There has been significant destruction in Gaza, including hospitals, homes, and infrastructure.
The "Board of Peace" is supposed to oversee Gaza's reconstruction, but details remain vague.
Membership on the "Board of Peace" requires a $1 billion fee for a permanent seat.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues, with many residents displaced and limited access to basic needs like food and water.
The army chief of South Sudan has ordered soldiers to stop a rebellion in the east within seven days. Fighting between the government and opposition forces threatens to escalate into a larger conflict, with recent attacks near the capital, Juba. The situation is tense as South Sudan faces the risk of renewed civil war.
Key Facts
The South Sudan army is focusing on stopping a rebellion in Jonglei state.
SPLA-IO, an opposition group, has recently captured areas in Jonglei.
Their leader, Riek Machar, is on trial for serious charges, which he denies.
The fighting may restart a civil war that ended in 2018 but was never fully resolved.
South Sudanese forces, with help from Ugandan soldiers, are moving to take back rebel-held areas.
The UN has urged all parties to stop fighting and work towards peace.
SPLA-IO warned of possible attacks near Juba, causing fear among locals.
The governor of the state including Juba told residents to ignore these threats.
Fashion and film celebrities, including Anna Wintour, Elizabeth Hurley, and Anne Hathaway, attended the funeral of Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani in Rome. The service took place at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs after a public viewing period. Valentino, known for dressing famous clients and creating iconic fashion pieces, passed away at the age of 93.
Key Facts
Valentino Garavani, a renowned Italian fashion designer, died at age 93.
His funeral was held in Rome at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs.
Celebrities like Anna Wintour, Elizabeth Hurley, and Anne Hathaway attended the funeral.
Red ribbons, representing "Valentino red," were prominent among mourners.
Valentino started his designing career in the 1950s, becoming famous for dressing many celebrities.
Some of his notable clients were Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, and Princess Diana.
Valentino retired from designing in 2008.
His ashes will be placed in Rome's Flaminio Cemetery.
Syrian government forces took control of a prison holding Islamic State (IS) detainees after Kurdish fighters left the area. This change is part of a deal between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The prison, al-Aqtan, now holds about 2,000 detainees, but it is unclear how many belong to IS.
Key Facts
Syrian forces took over a prison in northern Syria that held IS detainees.
Kurdish fighters evacuated the area as part of a deal with the Syrian government.
The prison taken over is called al-Aqtan and is located near Raqqa.
Al-Aqtan is the second prison recently handed over to the Syrian government by the Kurdish-led SDF.
The transfer follows a failed round of talks and renewed fighting between Syrian forces and the SDF.
The Kurdish fighters retreating from al-Aqtan moved to a location west towards Kobani.
The U.S. military has also started transferring some IS detainees from Syria to Iraq.
The prison holds about 2,000 detainees, with uncertain numbers directly linked to IS.
The article highlights some of the most notable skyscraper climbs in history performed by elite free solo climbers. It focuses on the accomplishments of climbers, including well-known figures like Alain Robert and Alex Honnold.
Key Facts
Alex Honnold plans to free solo climb the Taipei 101 building in Taiwan without ropes during a live Netflix special.
Alain Robert, known as "the Human Spider," set a Guinness World Record by climbing the Burj Khalifa in Dubai in March 2011.
Alain Robert climbed 121 buildings, earning a Guinness World Record for the most building climbs.
In 2022, Russian climbers Ivan Beerkus and Angela Nikolau climbed the Merdeka 118 in Malaysia, the second-tallest building globally.
Nikolau and Beerkus also scaled Goldin Finance 117 in Tianjin, China, in 2016, during its construction phase.
Alain Robert climbed The Torch Doha in Qatar in 2012, setting a record for the fastest climb of the building without assistance.
The article mentions climbers often using bare hands and minimal equipment like chalk and rubber shoes to help them climb safely.
