European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that the world is entering a new era dominated by economic, military, and geopolitical power. Speaking before the World Economic Forum in Davos, she said the 27-member European Union must rapidly strengthen its economy and defense to maintain global influence. Von der Leyen cautioned the United States that disputes among allies over Greenland would only empower rivals of the Western world. She described U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on European allies as a mistake and said escalating conflicts and retaliatory actions would harm both Europe and the United States strategically. Addressing the European Parliament, she emphasized that current global shifts are permanent, citing tensions over Greenland, Russia’s continued attacks in Ukraine, and instability from the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific. Von der Leyen urged Europe to move beyond its traditionally cautious stance, asserting that the EU must act decisively to protect its interests. Her remarks came ahead of an EU leaders’ meeting in Brussels to form a unified response to Trump’s statements.

Recent statements and actions by U.S. President Donald Trump, including moves toward Venezuela, Colombia, and Greenland, have drawn global attention. Analysts describe these as part of a broader strategic revival of the 1823 Monroe Doctrine, now termed the 'Donroe Doctrine.' Trump declared that American dominance in the Western Hemisphere would never again be questioned, signaling a more assertive geopolitical stance. The article links this renewed aggression to control over future energy and technology resources. Rare earth minerals such as lithium, copper, graphite, and gallium—vital for batteries, semiconductors, drones, and AI data centers—are concentrated in Latin America, where China has invested about $303 billion between 2000 and 2023. U.S. policymakers view this Chinese influence as a threat to their traditional dominance and seek to reclaim strategic leverage. Beyond Latin America, Washington’s focus extends to Greenland, rich in oil, gas, and minerals. With Arctic ice expected to recede by 2050, the region’s trade routes and security value are rising. The 'Donroe Doctrine' thus reflects a long-term U.S. bid to preserve global hegemony against growing China-Russia influence.

At least five members of a Saudi-backed pro-government armed group were killed in a bomb attack targeting their convoy in the southern Yemeni city of Aden. Officials said Brigadier General Hamdi Shukri, commander of the unit, was injured in the explosion. The attack occurred in the Ja’aoula area north of Aden when a car bomb detonated as the convoy of the Second Giants Brigade passed by. According to medical sources, Shukri sustained shrapnel wounds to his leg and is receiving treatment. The Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council confirmed the casualties in a statement published by Yemen’s Saba news agency, adding that three others were wounded. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. The incident comes amid ongoing tensions and clashes among rival pro-government factions in southern Yemen. The Saudi-led military coalition condemned the bombing, pledging full support to Yemeni security forces in identifying and prosecuting those responsible. The U.S. Embassy in Yemen also denounced the attack as “provocative and unjustified.”

Allegations have surfaced that a syndicate led by an office assistant named Ilias has been leaking final exam questions for the Political Science department across seven government colleges affiliated with Dhaka University. Despite the gravity of the accusations and the emergence of credible evidence, the university administration has not yet formed an investigation committee even after 24 hours, prompting anger and frustration among students. According to multiple reliable sources, the group has been secretly selling leaked questions from honors to master’s level exams for several years, distributing them to students three to four days before exams in exchange for money. Students expressed outrage, saying the scandal has severely damaged their institutions’ reputation and demanded immediate identification and punishment of those involved. They also called for an inquiry into whether anyone from Dhaka University itself is connected. Interim administrator Professor A.K.M. Ilias confirmed that he had heard about the leak but said the probe committee would be formed the next day. Dhaka University’s controller of examinations, Himadri Shekhar Chakraborty, stated that necessary actions would follow upon receiving a written complaint.

According to the report, multiple diplomatic and political sources claim that India has intensified anti-Bangladesh activities in New Delhi just weeks before Bangladesh’s upcoming parliamentary election. These include press conferences by exiled Awami League leaders, the withdrawal of Indian diplomats from Dhaka, and seminars portraying a supposed rise of Islamic extremism in Bangladesh. A major event is scheduled in Delhi where Sheikh Hasina, described as convicted of crimes against humanity, is expected to appear publicly for the first time since taking refuge in India in August 2024. Analysts cited in the report argue that Indian policymakers are unwilling to accept an election without the Awami League and are concerned about the growing popularity of Islamic parties. They view Delhi’s actions as attempts to label Bangladesh as fundamentalist and undermine the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus. The Bangladeshi government has reportedly protested these activities, but the Modi administration has ignored the objections. Experts warn that the situation could escalate as the election nears, urging vigilance against provocations and calling the developments a serious diplomatic concern.

Akhter Hossen, member secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has called for public cooperation in his campaign for the Rangpur-4 (Kaunia–Pirgacha) constituency in the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. In a Facebook post on Wednesday night, he urged citizens to contribute through prayers, donations, and active participation as formal election campaigning begins. Hossen emphasized that community involvement is vital for his campaign’s success, inviting supporters to assist with logistics such as leaflets, banners, rallies, and social media promotion. He also shared details for financial contributions through bank and mobile payment channels, encouraging even small donations. Additionally, he invited volunteers to join a WhatsApp group to help with online campaigning, including video editing and content creation. The NCP candidate expressed optimism about his connection with local voters and called on residents of Kaunia–Pirgacha, well-wishers across the country, and expatriates to stand by him in his electoral efforts.

A severe shortage of lighter vessels has caused a major operational crisis at Chattogram port, where more than 85 mother vessels carrying over 300,000 tons of goods are stranded at the outer anchorage. Importers are reportedly paying daily waiting charges of 12,000 to 15,000 dollars per vessel, which is expected to impact consumer prices. Business groups fear the situation could worsen ahead of Ramadan. Officials said large ships cannot dock directly at the port due to insufficient draft, requiring goods to be unloaded onto smaller lighter vessels for inland transport. Although about 1,500 lighter vessels exist on paper, fewer than 1,000 are active. Around 40 percent of vessels are currently stuck elsewhere, many being used as floating warehouses by fertilizer importers and industrial groups. The Bangladesh Water Transport Coordination Cell (BWTCC) has been unable to meet demand for over a month, intensifying the congestion. Port authorities have launched enforcement drives against vessels idling for more than 72 hours, while business leaders call for coordinated action among port, transport, and vessel owners to resolve the crisis and prevent further disruption to essential commodity supply.

In Rangpur, political leaders, freedom fighters, and local residents have demanded the arrest of Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader and a ban on his party after he publicly supported the 'No' vote in the upcoming national referendum. The demand followed Quader’s Tuesday press conference at the party’s central office, where he declared his position against the referendum. On Wednesday, leaders from BNP, Jamaat, NCP, and local groups expressed strong reactions, accusing the Jatiya Party of long-standing support for the Awami League and benefiting from past authoritarian regimes. Local figures, including business leaders and political activists, criticized the Election Commission for allowing the Jatiya Party to participate in the election, calling it a betrayal of the nation. They alleged that the party opposed the July student and public movement and acted in favor of fascism. Regional coordinators and opposition leaders reiterated that Quader’s stance destabilizes the country and urged the interim government to take legal action against him and his party. Jatiya Party Co-Chairman Mostafizur Rahman Mostafa confirmed that the party would continue to campaign for the 'No' vote in the referendum.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) formally begins its campaign for the 13th parliamentary election today, Thursday, January 22, 2026. Party chairman Tareq Rahman is leading the launch from Sylhet, where he will address a mass rally at 11 a.m. at the historic Sylhet Government Alia Madrasa ground. Before the rally, he will meet young people at the Grand Sylhet Hotel and Resort. Tareq Rahman arrived in Sylhet on Wednesday night with his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman and senior BNP leaders, marking his first visit to his in-laws’ home in 21 years. The city of Sylhet has been decorated with banners, festoons, and a large stage for the event, while law enforcement has implemented a six-tier security plan. During his stay, Rahman visited the shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (R) and Hazrat Shah Paran (R), as well as the grave of Liberation War commander M.A.G. Osmani. BNP sources said the campaign will emphasize positive politics and counter misinformation. Following the Sylhet rally, Rahman will attend several election meetings across Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Brahmanbaria, Kishoreganj, Narsingdi, and Narayanganj before returning to Dhaka tonight.

Dhaka’s Paltan Model Police Station has returned 105 recovered mobile phones to their rightful owners after tracing them through technological means. The handover took place on Tuesday at the station’s conference room, according to Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Talebur Rahman of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Media and Public Relations Division, who shared the information on Wednesday. Police sources said the recovery operations were conducted between December 1, 2025, and January 15, 2026, across various parts of the country. The drives were based on general diary entries filed by phone owners reporting their lost devices. Assistant Police Commissioner Hossain Muhammad Farabi of the Motijheel Zone and ASI Iqbal Hossain of Paltan Model Police Station played active roles in the recovery process. The initiative highlights the use of technology in tracing lost property and restoring it to citizens, reflecting an ongoing effort by Dhaka Metropolitan Police to enhance public trust and service efficiency.

Mahmudur Rahman Manna, president of Nagorik Oikya, has announced his candidacy from both Bogura-2 and Dhaka-18 constituencies in the upcoming parliamentary election. Although BNP had earlier pledged to leave Bogura-2 for Manna as part of an electoral understanding, the party ultimately nominated its own candidate there. The deadline for withdrawal of nominations has passed, yet no final decision has been made on whether BNP will vacate any seat for Manna, leaving the alliance’s seat-sharing deal unresolved. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir had declared on December 24 that Bogura-2 would be left for Manna, but the returning officer initially rejected his nomination, which was later reinstated by the Election Commission. BNP has nominated Mir Shah Alam for Bogura-2 and SM Jahangir Hossain for Dhaka-18, while Manna’s nominations for both seats remain valid. BNP’s election committee chairman Nazrul Islam Khan said discussions are ongoing to settle the issue. Nagorik Oikya leaders stated that no recent formal talks have been held with BNP. They expressed frustration that despite earlier assurances, BNP fielded its own candidate in Bogura-2, creating confusion within the opposition alliance.

Bangladesh had earlier informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it would not play the upcoming T20 World Cup in India, citing security concerns. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) requested to play its matches in Sri Lanka instead, but the ICC, under pressure from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), rejected the proposal. Following a board meeting, the ICC confirmed that Bangladesh must play in India as scheduled or face alternative measures. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) supported Bangladesh’s stance, sending a letter to the ICC endorsing BCB’s request. ESPN Cricinfo reported that the ICC convened a meeting based on this letter but ultimately upheld the original schedule. Other member boards did not support Bangladesh’s position. The ICC reportedly gave BCB until January 21 to review its decision, though the BCB denied receiving any formal deadline. The T20 World Cup is set to begin on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka, with Bangladesh scheduled to play three group matches in Kolkata and one in Mumbai.

Ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election, joint patrol operations by the Bangladesh Navy and police have been strengthened in Charfassion upazila of Bhola to maintain law and order. On Wednesday, the forces conducted daylong and evening patrols across Dakshin Aicha Thana Bazar, Notun Bazar, and Baburhat Bazar areas. During the patrols, officers interacted with traders, residents, and pedestrians, urging public cooperation to preserve a peaceful electoral environment. Law enforcement officials warned that any attempt to incite violence, intimidation, or unrest related to the election would face strict legal action. The patrol teams also carried out searches of suspicious individuals and vehicles at key market points and advised locals to immediately report any unusual activities to nearby police stations. Lieutenant Commander Rafayet Bin Ferdous stated that the joint patrols would continue regularly in major markets, crowded zones, and vulnerable areas of Charfassion until the election concludes, emphasizing that any attempt to spread rumors or provoke disorder would be firmly suppressed.

Rajshahi Warriors secured a 12-run victory over Sylhet Titans in the second qualifier, earning a place in the final against Chattogram Royals. The match took place in Mirpur, where Rajshahi posted 165 runs for 9 wickets, thanks to resilient innings from Kane Williamson, who scored 45 not out off 38 balls, and Jimmy Neesham, who added 44 off 26 balls. In reply, Sylhet Titans were restricted to 153 for 8 in 20 overs. Sylhet’s chase faltered early, losing wickets at regular intervals despite a 48-run effort from opener Parvez Hossain Emon and 37 from Sam Billings. Rajshahi’s Binura Fernando delivered a match-winning bowling performance, taking 4 wickets for 19 runs and earning the player of the match award. Salman Irshad was the most successful bowler for Sylhet, claiming 3 wickets for 23 runs. With this win, Rajshahi Warriors will face Chattogram Royals in the tournament final, scheduled for tomorrow at 6 p.m. at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has added nine new members, including four women, to its National Election Steering Committee. The decision was made on Wednesday night at a meeting held at the party’s central office in Moghbazar, Dhaka. The new members are former secretary Dr. Khondaker Kh M Kabirul Islam, Dr. Khalilur Rahman Madani, Oli Ullah Noman, Shahidul Islam, Dr. Anwarul Azim, Nurunnisa Siddika, Saeeda Rumman, Dr. Habiba Chowdhury Sweet, and Ayesha Siddika Parveen. The meeting was chaired by Assistant Secretary General and Committee President ATM Masum, with Member Secretary and Assistant Secretary General Maulana Abdul Halim conducting the session. Other committee members were also present. Discussions covered the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and a planned referendum, as well as the activities of various committees and subcommittees. The meeting finalized the election campaign schedule starting from January 22. According to a press release from Jamaat’s central publicity department, the decisions and new appointments were part of preparations for the upcoming national polls.