Vietnam’s Communist Party has re-elected To Lam as its general secretary, allowing him to lead for another five years. He won the position with unanimous support at the party’s congress in Hanoi. To Lam aims to continue reforms, tackle corruption, and drive economic growth.
Key Facts
To Lam has been re-elected as the general secretary of Vietnam’s Communist Party for another five years.
He was re-elected with unanimous support from 180 votes at the party congress in Hanoi.
To Lam has been leading reforms in Vietnam since becoming general secretary in late 2024.
He has removed several government ministries, reduced state payrolls, and pushed major projects.
To Lam aims to transform Vietnam into a higher-income economy focusing on innovation and efficiency by 2030.
Vietnam currently faces challenges like natural disasters, security risks, and supply chain disruptions.
Vietnam is a single-party state aiming for rapid economic growth to maintain its influence and stability.
A woman named Aimee Hitchmough helped a delivery driver stuck in his van. She shared the rescue video online, which went viral with over 303,500 views on TikTok.
Key Facts
Aimee Hitchmough, from the UK, heard a delivery driver asking for help from inside a van.
She rushed out of her house in her pajamas to open the van doors and free the driver.
The driver was surprised but thankful after being helped out of the van.
Hitchmough's door camera recorded the event, which she shared on TikTok.
The video gained over 303,500 views and more than 12,200 likes.
Many people commented on the video, calling Hitchmough a hero.
Hitchmough did not expect the video to receive so much attention online.
Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester Mayor, is considering returning to the UK Parliament as an MP after Andrew Gwynne announced he would step down due to health issues. This creates an opportunity for a by-election where Burnham could potentially run and challenge current Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. However, Burnham may face challenges from Labour's National Executive Committee regarding his candidacy.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham is the current Mayor of Greater Manchester.
Andrew Gwynne, an MP in Greater Manchester, announced his resignation due to health problems, leading to a potential by-election.
If Burnham wants to run for Gwynne's vacant seat, he would need approval from Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC).
Burnham could face competition from other Labour candidates in the by-election.
The NEC might require an all-women shortlist for Labour candidates because most Labour MPs are men.
If Burnham runs, it might trigger another election for the mayoral position in Greater Manchester.
There is speculation that Burnham could challenge Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer if he becomes an MP.
Recent election results show that Labour previously held the seat with 18,000 votes, with the Reform UK party and the Greens also competing.
A golden retriever named Harlow became popular online after a TikTok video showed him happily interacting with his eight puppies. The video gained significant attention and sparked discussions about the rarity of such paternal behavior in male dogs.
Key Facts
Harlow is a golden retriever who appeared in a TikTok video with his eight puppies.
The video showed Harlow jumping joyfully with his puppies and got 1 million views and 219,000 likes.
Harlow’s behavior is unusual as male dogs usually show less interest in puppies compared to their wolf ancestors.
According to the American Kennel Club, domestication has led to most male dogs losing paternal instincts.
The video led to over 900 comments from viewers reacting to Harlow’s enthusiastic parenting.
Some viewers asked about the puppies' mixed colors, prompting the owner to clarify the situation.
The owner and viewers praised Harlow for his gentle and involved nature with the puppies.
The video highlighted how Harlow’s behavior differs from typical male dog behavior according to the AKC.
"The Traitors" Season 4, Episode 7 will be available to stream on Peacock on January 29, 2026, at 6 pm Pacific Time/9 pm Eastern Time. To watch the episode, viewers need a Peacock subscription. The season's release schedule continues with one episode weekly until the finale on February 26, 2026.
Key Facts
Episode 7 of "The Traitors" Season 4 releases on January 29, 2026.
Streaming is available on Peacock at 6 pm PT/9 pm ET.
A Peacock subscription is needed, starting at $7.99 monthly.
Season 4 episodes are released weekly until February 26, 2026.
Previous episodes of Season 4 have been 68 to 70 minutes long.
Episode 7 involves a significant event known as a "bloody banquet."
The release schedule includes a double episode finale on February 26, 2026.
A video of a beagle testing the limits of a household rule has gone viral on TikTok. The rule bans the dog from entering a bedroom due to one owner’s allergy, but the beagle keeps testing it by placing a paw on the forbidden carpet.
Key Facts
The video of the beagle was posted on TikTok and has over 923,000 views.
The household rule states no paws on the bedroom carpet because one owner is allergic.
Allergies to animals affect 10 to 20 percent of people worldwide.
Allergic reactions come from proteins in pet dander, saliva, and urine.
Beagles shed moderately year-round, which can affect allergy sufferers.
TikTok users left over 400 comments on the video, discussing the dog’s behavior and motives.
Experts say no dog or cat breed is truly hypoallergenic.
A cat owner searched for their missing cat, Eleanor, for 90 minutes, thinking she might have escaped. They eventually found the cat hiding inside a still-sealed Amazon box. The incident went viral on TikTok, gaining significant attention and humorous reactions from viewers.
Key Facts
The cat owner thought Eleanor was missing after searching for 90 minutes.
Eleanor was actually hiding inside a sealed Amazon box.
The owner's video of the incident went viral on TikTok with over 347,300 views and 85,500 likes.
Social media users found the situation amusing, leading to many comments and reactions.
Cats often hide in boxes for safety, warmth, and play, according to PetMD.
The cat owner expressed in a comment that the cat is not motivated by food, making finding her challenging.
A major winter storm is expected to impact New York and surrounding areas with heavy snow and ice affecting over 170 million people this weekend. An arctic front will bring very cold temperatures, with highs in New York City forecasted at 18 degrees. Authorities have advised residents to prepare for the cold and potential disruptions to travel.
Key Facts
A winter storm is forecasted to bring snow and ice to New York and other regions.
The storm will affect over 170 million people as it moves from the Southern Rockies to the Northeast.
New York City is expected to experience high temperatures of 18 degrees.
Other areas like Middletown and Poughkeepsie are forecasted to have even lower highs, at 15 and 16 degrees, respectively.
The polar vortex is causing cold air to spread across the U.S., creating dangerous temperatures.
New York officials have warned of potential temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit with wind chill.
Residents are advised to take measures to prevent pipes from freezing and prepare for severe weather.
The storm may cause flight delays and cancellations, affecting airport operations in the region.
Recent Russian attacks have targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread power outages and a lack of heating in Kyiv and other cities. The attacks have led to a state of emergency in Ukraine's energy sector, affecting daily life and businesses during freezing temperatures. President Zelenskyy and others have condemned these acts, citing them as violations of international law.
Key Facts
Russian aerial attacks have damaged Ukraine's infrastructure, leaving many homes without power and heat.
These attacks have occurred during freezing weather, worsening conditions for residents.
President Zelenskyy declared a state of emergency in the energy sector.
Generators provide temporary power in some areas, allowing people to gather in cafes and bars.
The United Nations human rights chief criticized the strikes as violations of international law.
Businesses face high costs to operate generators, with some owners considering closing down.
The attacks have affected major cities including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa.
Ukraine's defense against these attacks is costly, with air defense missiles used in recent responses.
The article discusses the impact of Sharif Osman Hadi's death in Bangladesh and how it is affecting public sentiment. Hadi was a student leader whose death has kept people emotionally engaged, unlike previous incidents that faded over time. His story continues to influence social and political dynamics in the country.
Key Facts
Sharif Osman Hadi, a student leader, died after being shot in the head.
His death has triggered widespread mourning and public response in Bangladesh.
Hadi became well-known through social media and TV confrontations with political figures.
He spoke in a relatable Bangla dialect that resonated with many people in Bangladesh.
Hadi's background includes a madrasa education and studies at Dhaka University, coming from a lower-middle-class family.
The "Hadi effect" refers to his ongoing influence on public sentiment and politics, particularly against the return of the Awami League.
His religious views, deeply rooted in Islam, appealed to a largely Muslim population.
The outpouring of grief for Hadi contrasts with how previous events, like the 2024 uprising, have been remembered.
President Donald Trump faced criticism for his remarks about NATO troops' role during the Afghanistan war. He suggested that while NATO troops participated, they did not engage on the front lines as actively as U.S. forces. His statements upset several political and military figures, especially in the U.K., where many lost their lives or were injured in the conflict.
Key Facts
President Trump commented that NATO troops stayed "a little off the front lines" in Afghanistan.
NATO joined the U.S. in Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks, following the invocation of Article 5, a defense agreement.
The U.S. lost 2,461 military personnel in the Afghanistan conflict from 2001 to 2021.
The U.K. and Denmark also experienced significant per capita military losses.
Thousands of non-U.S. troops fought in Afghanistan's fiercest battles, especially in provinces like Kandahar and Helmand.
U.K. figures, including veterans and politicians, criticized Trump's comments as disrespectful.
Andy Reid, a U.K. veteran injured in Afghanistan, described Trump's remarks as "disrespectful."
British officials and families of fallen soldiers expressed strong disappointment with Trump's statements.
A rescue dog named Dutch has gained attention on TikTok for his unusual habit of walking backward. His unique way of moving around has intrigued both his owners and social media users. Despite the oddity, Dutch's owners adore him, and the video has gone viral online.
Key Facts
Dutch is a rescue dog with a habit of walking backward.
A TikTok video showing Dutch's backward walking has gone viral with over 2.2 million views.
Dutch navigates his home, the elevator, and even gets into a car using this unusual method.
The video sparked over 315,200 likes and more than 3,600 comments.
Dutch’s owners explain that the backward movement is more pronounced without his dog boots.
Two trainers have worked with Dutch, but they could not explain the behavior.
Online commenters suggest theories such as past trauma or slick floors.
Dutch's owners express their love for him despite this quirk and would have adopted him regardless.
The UK has expressed concerns about violence in Sudan and the importance of Somalia's territorial integrity. However, it has been criticized for taking less ambitious actions to prevent atrocities in Sudan and for its business dealings in Somaliland, a region it does not officially recognize. These actions have led to questions about the UK's true intentions in the Horn of Africa.
Key Facts
The UK government has publicly urged accountability for violence in Sudan.
Despite its public stance, the UK reportedly rejected more ambitious plans to prevent violence in Sudan.
In Somalia, the UK officially supports the country's territorial unity but is involved in business with Somaliland, a region claiming independence.
The UK co-owns a strategic port in Somaliland, although it does not recognize its government.
The port of Berbera is vital for regional trade and has historic geopolitical significance.
Analysts say the UK is perceived as influential in how the Sudan conflict is internationally portrayed.
The UK Foreign Office emphasizes working with allies to end Sudan's violence and seeks a civilian government transition.
The United States has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO). US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr announced the decision, blaming the WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The withdrawal marks the first time since 1948 that the US is not a member of the WHO.
Key Facts
The US has completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization.
The announcement was made by US officials Marco Rubio and Robert F Kennedy Jr.
The decision follows President Trump's intention to withdraw, first announced in 2020.
US officials cited the WHO's handling of COVID-19 as a primary reason for leaving.
The United Nations confirmed the US is no longer participating in WHO activities.
The US withdrawal required a one-year notice and settling financial contributions.
The WHO had to adjust to funding shortages due to the US withdrawal.
The WHO continues to address international health issues despite the US exit.
Scientists are working to save a tree species called Rhodamnia zombi in Australia's Queensland rainforests from a disease known as myrtle rust. This disease prevents the tree from growing and reproducing, leading to serious threats to its survival.
Key Facts
The tree species Rhodamnia zombi is native to Queensland, Australia.
It is currently threatened by a fungal disease called myrtle rust.
Myrtle rust attacks the tree's young shoots, preventing growth and reproduction.
The disease was first detected in Australia in 2010.
Professor Rod Fensham and his team are looking for ways to save the tree by finding disease-free cuttings.
Specialists are growing seedlings in Lismore and Townsville to potentially reintroduce the species.
There is hope that related species with resistance may help save the Rhodamnia zombi.
The goal is to reintroduce these trees into their natural rainforest habitat.
President Donald Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he criticized European leaders on economic and immigration policies. During his trip, he also discussed Arctic security with NATO's secretary general and met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. His remarks received mixed reactions from officials and critics.
Key Facts
President Trump criticized European leaders' economic and immigration policies in his Davos speech.
He mentioned discussing a "framework" on Arctic security with NATO's secretary general.
Critics noted Trump confused Iceland with Greenland during his speech.
His remarks received both praise from White House officials and criticism from others.
Trump met with Ukrainian President Zelensky, who described their meeting as productive.
Making peace between Russia and Ukraine is a priority for Trump in his second term.
Some comments highlighted long-standing U.S. interest in Greenland for strategic reasons.
Trump's approach to Greenland has historic roots and focuses on security concerns.
The film "The Voice of Hind Rajab," directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, tells the story of a young Palestinian girl killed during an Israeli attack on Gaza. The film has been nominated for an Academy Award in the Best International Feature Film category. It combines real emergency call recordings with dramatic reenactments to highlight civilian casualties in the conflict.
Key Facts
"The Voice of Hind Rajab" was nominated for an Oscar for Best International Feature Film.
The film is by French-Tunisian director Kaouther Ben Hania.
It tells the real story of a five-year-old girl, Hind Rajab, killed in Gaza in 2024.
The film uses real emergency call audio and reenactments.
No evidence of an exchange of fire was found at the scene according to a London-based research group.
The film has already won a major prize at the Venice International Film Festival.
The director stated the purpose of the film is to amplify Hind's story globally.
Meghan Markle's Netflix cooking show, "With Love, Meghan," has seen a significant drop in viewership, leading it to fall out of the top 1,000 shows on the platform in the second half of 2025. Critics have been harsh on the show, and it is uncertain if it will be renewed for a third season, raising questions about Meghan's future as a TV producer.
Key Facts
Meghan Markle's show dropped 633 places on the Netflix charts by the end of 2025.
"With Love, Meghan" was the 389th most-watched show in the first half of 2025.
The show's second season did not make it into the top 1,000 shows.
Critics have not been favorable, with reviews being harsh on both sides of the Atlantic.
Season one of the show had 5.3 million views, but season two only had 2 million.
There is speculation that the show may not return for a third season, though holiday specials might continue.
Meghan had aimed for a rebranding in 2025, including a podcast and lifestyle business.
An analyst named Sultan Barakat examined a map of President Trump's redevelopment plan for Gaza. According to Barakat, the plan aligns closely with the interests of Israel.
Key Facts
President Trump has a redevelopment plan for Gaza.
Sultan Barakat is an analyst who reviewed this plan.
The map of the plan shows potential changes in Gaza’s layout.
Barakat claims the plan aligns with Israel's needs.
There are questions about the implications of this plan for Gaza.
The 98th Academy Awards nominations are out, and the film "Sinners" leads with 16 nominations. Actor Delroy Lindo has received a nomination for Best Supporting Actor, generating a lot of support from fans and critics who praised his performance. "Sinners," directed by Ryan Coogler, explores historical themes in a horror film setting.
Key Facts
The 98th Academy Awards nominations have been announced.
"Sinners," directed by Ryan Coogler, received 16 Oscar nominations.
Delroy Lindo is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Sinners."
"Sinners" is set in the Jim Crow South and combines horror with historical themes.
In addition to Best Picture, the film's nominations include Best Director for Coogler, Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan, and Best Supporting Actress for Wunmi Mosaku.
Delroy Lindo is a veteran actor known for working with Spike Lee.
Fans and critics widely praised Lindo’s performance, particularly a powerful improvised scene.
