European leaders have strongly reacted to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs of up to 25 percent on several European countries if Greenland is not handed over to the United States. The warning, announced in mid-January 2026, prompted Denmark, Britain, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden to issue a joint statement from Brussels condemning the move as a dangerous escalation. The European Council said it would convene a summit within days following an ambassadors’ meeting.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen said the threat endangers global stability and NATO’s future. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte confirmed he had discussed Arctic security with Trump and expected further talks at the Davos summit. European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and ministers from France and the Netherlands, described the tariff plan as unjustified and political blackmail. Thousands protested in Denmark and Greenland against the U.S. stance.

Trump argued that U.S. control over Greenland would serve national security interests, particularly against potential threats from Russia or China. European leaders warned that such measures could harm international cooperation and global trade.

The Indo-Pacific region, encompassing the Indian and Pacific Oceans and surrounding nations, has become the central arena of global power competition. Since 2006–07, it has drawn attention for its strategic maritime routes, economic potential, and geopolitical significance. The United States and China are the primary actors, with India, Japan, South Korea, and other regional powers playing key roles. The US views China’s growing military and technological influence as a major concern and launched its Indo-Pacific Strategy in 2021 to ensure regional stability and open trade routes.

The region accounts for over half of the world’s population, two-thirds of global economic growth, and 60 percent of global GDP. China’s Belt and Road Initiative, launched in 2013, aims to expand its influence through infrastructure and trade connectivity. In response, the US has strengthened alliances such as the Quad with India, Japan, and Australia. Bangladesh, strategically located in the Bay of Bengal, released its own Indo-Pacific Outlook in 2023, emphasizing peace, economic development, and open maritime trade.

Analysts view the US-China rivalry as a long-term contest for dominance that could shape future global geopolitics and economic balance.

The European Union and South America’s Mercosur bloc have signed a major trade agreement in Asunción, Paraguay, on Saturday. The deal, reported by Turkey-based Hurriyet Daily News, brings together the EU’s 27 member states and Mercosur members Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, forming one of the world’s largest free trade zones. The signing follows nearly 25 years of complex negotiations.

The agreement is viewed as a significant message against the tariff threats and trade uncertainty associated with U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. Trump recently threatened to impose tariffs of up to 25 percent on several European countries over the Greenland issue. During the signing ceremony, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said the parties chose fair trade over tariffs and long-term partnership over isolation. Paraguayan President Santiago Peña described the deal as a clear message in favor of international trade amid global tensions, while European Council head Antonio Costa said it rejects the use of trade as a geopolitical weapon.

Leaders expressed hope that the agreement will generate employment, prosperity, and new opportunities across both regions.

Russia has issued a sharp warning to European countries following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs on eight European nations amid tensions over Greenland. On Saturday, Kirill Dmitriev, the Russian president’s special envoy and head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, said Europe should not “provoke their father.” His comments came after Trump declared a 10 percent tariff on imports from the United Kingdom, Denmark, France, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, citing national security concerns linked to Greenland.

According to Dmitriev, the tariffs were imposed in response to European military involvement in Greenland, claiming that roughly one percent duty was applied per soldier sent. Trump stated that the tariffs would take effect on February 1 and rise to 25 percent on June 1, remaining in place until a full agreement is reached over the “complete purchase” of Greenland. He argued that U.S. control of the Arctic territory is essential for national security.

The dispute underscores renewed geopolitical friction over Greenland’s strategic importance, drawing in both European and Russian commentary following Washington’s tariff escalation.

The Gambia’s case accusing Myanmar of committing genocide against its Rohingya Muslim minority opened this week at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Attorney General Dawda A Jallow told judges that the Rohingya were “targeted for destruction” by Myanmar’s military, nearly a decade after an offensive forced about 750,000 people to flee to Bangladesh. The hearing marks the first time the ICJ is considering a genocide case brought by one country on behalf of another group. Rohingya refugees attended the opening session and are expected to testify in closed hearings, though no date has been set for a final ruling.

The Gambia filed the case in 2019 under the 1948 Genocide Convention, acting on behalf of the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation. The initiative was led by then–Attorney General Abubacarr Tambadou and has since gained support from seven countries, including Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The case follows UN findings that Myanmar’s 2016–2017 military campaign showed “genocidal intent,” killing thousands and displacing hundreds of thousands. Myanmar denies the allegations, claiming it targeted armed groups. The ICJ’s decision could influence other genocide cases pending before the court.

The Gambia’s pursuit of justice is partly rooted in its own experience confronting past human rights abuses under former dictator Yahya Jammeh, according to former officials. The government’s engagement reflects a broader commitment to universal human rights and accountability.

Manchester United surprised rivals Manchester City with a 2-0 victory in the Manchester derby, ending a difficult spell for the Red Devils. Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu sealed the win, dealing a major blow to City’s English Premier League title hopes. The match also marked a strong start for interim coach Michael Carrick in his second stint in charge.

In Spain, Real Madrid bounced back after consecutive defeats to Barcelona and Albacete by defeating Levante 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabéu. The win helped the capital club regain momentum in La Liga after a brief slump. Elsewhere in the English league, Burnley held Liverpool to a 1-1 draw, while Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory over Brentford.

The results reshaped the weekend’s football narrative, with Manchester United’s resurgence and Real Madrid’s recovery standing out as key storylines across Europe’s top leagues.

U.S. President Donald Trump has offered to mediate the ongoing dispute between Egypt and Ethiopia over the use of Nile River waters. According to Reuters, Trump made the proposal in a letter to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, which he also shared on his social media platform Truth Social. In the post, Trump said he was ready to responsibly restart mediation between the two nations to find a lasting solution to the issue of Nile water distribution.

The dispute intensified after Ethiopia officially inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on September 9. The massive dam, built on a tributary of the Nile, has drawn strong objections from Egypt. Ethiopia, with a population exceeding 120 million, views the nearly $5 billion project as crucial for its economic development.

Egypt, however, argues that the dam violates international agreements and could expose the country to both drought and flooding risks. Ethiopia has rejected these allegations, maintaining that the project complies with its rights and development goals.

A full day of live sports broadcasts has been announced for January 17, 2026, featuring the ICC Under-19 World Cup match between Bangladesh and India starting at 1:30 p.m. Other cricket fixtures include Japan versus Sri Lanka at the same time, Bangladesh Premier League matches between Dhaka Capitals and Rangpur Riders at 2 p.m., and Chattogram Royals versus Rajshahi Warriors at 7 p.m. Big Bash League, SA T20, and several football leagues will also be aired across multiple channels.

Football fans can watch English Premier League matches such as Manchester United versus Manchester City at 6:30 p.m., followed by Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Arsenal fixtures later in the evening. La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, Africa Cup of Nations, and Saudi Pro League matches are also scheduled for live telecast through various international networks.

The broadcast lineup highlights a packed weekend for global sports audiences, offering simultaneous coverage of cricket and football tournaments across different continents on channels including Star Sports, T Sports, and FanCode.

Europe has deployed troops to Greenland following U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to take control of the island. However, the White House stated that this deployment will not hinder Trump’s objective. On Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that European forces would not influence the president’s decision-making process or his goal of acquiring Greenland.

Leavitt mentioned that Denmark, Greenland, and the United States have agreed to form a working group to continue technical discussions on the acquisition issue, with meetings expected every two to three weeks. Meanwhile, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen wrote on social media that while both sides agree on strengthening Arctic security, they differ on methods. He emphasized that in 2026, trade should involve goods, not people.

Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, has rejected the idea of being sold. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any U.S. attempt to forcibly seize Greenland could lead to NATO’s collapse.

The United Nations Security Council is set to hold a briefing on the situation in Iran at the request of the United States. A spokesperson for Somalia’s presidency, which currently holds the council’s rotating leadership, confirmed the plan. According to the scheduling note, the session will take place on Thursday afternoon, with member states expected to discuss the current circumstances surrounding Iran.

The note further stated that the United States formally requested the meeting. The briefing is considered significant in light of ongoing regional and international tensions involving Iran. The session aims to provide an opportunity for Security Council members to exchange views on developments affecting stability in the region.

While the source did not specify the exact agenda or expected outcomes, the meeting underscores heightened global attention to Iran’s role in regional affairs and the diplomatic efforts to address related challenges.

A closed-door meeting was held at the White House on Wednesday between the United States, Denmark, and Greenland amid escalating tensions over control of Greenland. US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with the foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland. According to The Guardian, the meeting lasted less than an hour. Danish officials described the talks as positive, but Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen admitted that the two countries still differ on Greenland’s future.

Rasmussen said President Donald Trump clearly outlined his stance on Greenland, while Denmark maintained a different position and remained uncertain about reaching any agreement. Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt stated that Greenland seeks stronger cooperation as an ally, not subordination to the US. Denmark’s Prime Minister echoed that Greenland’s takeover is unnecessary and dismissed claims of immediate threats from Russia or China. Hours before the meeting, Trump reiterated that US control of Greenland is vital for missile defense and NATO strength.

Denmark and Greenland firmly opposed Trump’s plan, declaring Greenland is not for sale. Denmark announced increased Arctic military presence in 2026, with Germany, France, Sweden, and Norway joining joint NATO deployments. Sweden has already begun sending troops under Denmark’s “Operation Arctic Endurance.”

Global oil prices have risen by nearly four dollars per barrel in recent days due to renewed tensions involving Iran, according to a Reuters report published on Tuesday. Brent crude reached 64.15 dollars per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) stood at 59.78 dollars, marking their highest levels since December 8. The increase follows strong remarks by US President Donald Trump about Iran, reversing a previous price decline that occurred after the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

The report noted that Iran is facing its largest anti-government protests in years, with allegations of deadly violence against demonstrators. As of Monday, the protests had entered their 16th day, with at least 648 protesters reported killed by the Norway-based group Iran Human Rights. In response, Trump warned of possible military action and threatened a 25 percent tariff on countries trading with Iran. Barclays estimated that geopolitical risks added a three to four dollar premium to oil prices.

Market concerns also grew over crude supply from Venezuela, as the new government in Caracas may transfer up to 50 million barrels of oil to the United States under Western sanctions.

Cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes reported that personal data of about 17.5 million Instagram users has been leaked and shared on the dark web. The leaked dataset includes usernames, full names, email addresses, phone numbers, partial physical addresses, and other contact details. The breach has raised serious concerns about user privacy and platform security.

According to Malwarebytes, although no passwords were exposed, the leaked information could still be exploited for identity theft or financial fraud. A hacker using the alias 'Solonik' reportedly released the data for free on a dark web forum last week. Following the leak, users from various regions have complained about receiving numerous password reset emails, which analysts believe may be linked to unauthorized login attempts using the exposed email addresses.

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, denied any direct hacking or intrusion into its systems. The company attributed the surge in password reset emails to a technical issue and assured that user accounts remain secure.

The Norwegian Nobel Institute has reiterated that once the Nobel Peace Prize is announced, it cannot be transferred, shared, or revoked under any circumstances. The clarification came following recent comments by Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, who said she wished to give her Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump as a gesture of gratitude for a recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela.

According to the Institute’s statement, the decision to award a Nobel Prize is final and irreversible, as explicitly stated in the Nobel regulations. Machado received the Peace Prize in recognition of her efforts to defend democratic rights and promote a peaceful transition to democracy in Venezuela. Her remarks sparked international discussion after the U.S. military detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife on January 3.

Responding to Machado’s comments, Trump said he would consider receiving the prize a “great honor.” The Nobel Committee emphasized that the prize cannot be altered or transferred based on political decisions or personal wishes, reaffirming that this principle is central to the award’s credibility and prestige.

Four major football nations—Brazil, France, Croatia and Colombia—will compete in a preparatory series titled 'Road to 26' ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The matches will be held in the United States during the FIFA international window, with games scheduled in Boston, Orlando and Washington, D.C. The series begins on March 26 when Brazil, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, face Didier Deschamps’ France at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Croatia will meet Colombia on March 27 in Orlando, followed by a France–Colombia match on March 29 in Maryland. The series concludes on April 1 with Brazil playing Croatia in Orlando.

Brazilian media reported that the five-time world champions will debut their 2026 World Cup kits during the March friendlies, wearing yellow against France and blue against Croatia. France and Croatia will also unveil new jerseys for the series. The Brazilian Football Confederation had earlier confirmed the match dates and venues after the World Cup group draw in December 2025.

The 48-team 2026 World Cup will begin on June 11 and end on July 19 across 16 venues in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Brazil will compete in Group C against Morocco, Haiti and Scotland.