18th Jan - Top Stories

TOP STORIES

ARCTIC Jan 18: Danes and Greenlanders Unite in Fierce Protest Against Trump's Annexation Threats

Residents of Greenland and Denmark are expressing a profound sense of betrayal following President Trump’s escalating threats to acquire the territory. Thousands have taken to the streets in Nuuk to protest the proposed takeover. European leaders are now considering an "all-out" response as the diplomatic rift widens, with critics warning that these aggressive tactics could ultimately boomerang and damage America's global standing.
ECONOMY Jan 18: Trump Imposes 10 Percent Tariff on Europe Amid Greenland Standoff Escalation

President Trump has officially announced a 10 percent tariff on European countries, a move seen as leverage in his ongoing bid to purchase Greenland. This sudden reignition of a transatlantic trade war has left European officials weighing significant retaliatory measures. Market analysts suggest the standoff could disrupt global supply chains and lead to increased costs for consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.
DIPLOMACY Jan 18: Trump Offers Permanent Board of Peace Seats for $1 Billion Cash Donations

In a controversial move, the White House is offering permanent seats on the newly formed "Board of Peace" for Gaza to individuals or entities willing to contribute $1 billion in cash. While some world leaders are considering joining the board to influence regional stability, the high price tag has sparked intense debate regarding the monetization of international diplomacy and the influence of wealth on peace negotiations.
WEATHER Jan 18: Severe Winter Storm Sweeps South Bringing Rare Snow to Florida and Georgia

A powerful winter storm is plunging temperatures and dumping rare snowfall across the Deep South, reaching as far as Florida and Georgia. National weather services have issued alerts as freezing conditions threaten local infrastructure and agriculture. Residents in these typically warm regions are being urged to take precautions against the extreme cold, which has already caused significant travel disruptions and power outages.
IMMIGRATION Jan 18: Immigration Officers Flood US Cities as ICE Internal Deportation Machine Intensifies

A massive influx of immigration officers into major U.S. cities has raised urgent questions about the Department of Homeland Security's expanding role. As the Trump administration’s deportation machine ramps up, legal experts and civil rights groups are scrutinizing the limits of ICE’s authority. This surge in enforcement has created a climate of fear in immigrant communities and sparked protests over due process and federal overreach.
POLITICS Jan 18: FBI Scours Internal Records Under Kash Patel to Target Trump Political Opponents

Under the direction of Kash Patel, the FBI has reportedly begun an extensive review of its internal records with the aim of discrediting high-profile political opponents of President Trump. This move has prompted warnings from former intelligence officials about the weaponization of federal law enforcement. Critics argue that these efforts undermine the bureau's historical independence and prioritize political loyalty over objective investigative standards.
JUSTICE Jan 18: Martin Luther King’s Son Calls for Endurance Amid Heightened National Tensions

On the eve of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the civil rights leader’s son has issued a powerful call for "endurance" in the face of modern challenges. Highlighting a year of significant national transformation, he stressed that the quest for justice requires persistent action. His message arrives as the country grapples with intense political polarization, civil unrest, and debates over the future of American democracy.
SPACE Jan 18: NASA Begins Moving Giant Artemis II Rocket to Launchpad for Moon Mission

NASA has reached a critical milestone for the Artemis II mission by beginning the "rollout" of its giant Space Launch System rocket to the launchpad. This mission aims to send astronauts around the moon for the first time in over five decades. Engineers are monitoring every stage of the slow move to ensure the rocket's integrity before final checks and the highly anticipated launch sequence.
NYC Jan 18: Mayor Mamdani Appoints New Commissioners to Overhaul Transit and Green Spaces

NYC Mayor Mamdani has moved swiftly to fulfill campaign promises by appointing new leadership for the city’s parks and transit systems. The new Parks Commissioner is tasked with revitalizing green spaces, while the transit lead must implement a plan for faster, free buses. These appointments are viewed as a test of the Mayor’s progressive agenda and his ability to transform the city's aging infrastructure.
VIRGINIA Jan 18: Virginia’s New Governor Rapidly Overhauls State University Boards in Power Shift

In one of his first major actions, Virginia’s newly inaugurated governor has initiated a sweeping overhaul of state university boards. By replacing long-standing board members with new appointees, the administration aims to align higher education policy with its executive vision. The move has faced criticism from academic groups who fear political interference in university governance and the potential erosion of institutional autonomy.
VENEZUELA Jan 18: Soaring Food Prices Emerge as Primary Crisis for Residents Across Venezuela

Venezuela continues to struggle with a severe economic crisis characterized by skyrocketing food prices that have left many citizens unable to afford basic necessities. While political instability remains a factor, the immediate humanitarian challenge is the lack of food security. Local NGOs report that inflation is outpacing wage growth, leading to widespread malnutrition and a further exodus of people seeking relief in neighboring countries.
RETAIL Jan 18: National Anger Spills Into Target Stores as Consumer Frustration Hits Peak

A wave of national anger has reportedly manifested in disruptive incidents at Target stores across the country. While the specific triggers vary, analysts point to a broader climate of economic anxiety and social tension. These outbursts have forced the retail giant to increase security measures in certain locations. The incidents reflect a growing trend of public spaces becoming flashpoints for deep-seated societal frustrations and political divisions.
MEDIA Jan 18: White House Warning to CBS Signals New Status Quo for Media Relations

The White House has issued a stark legal warning to CBS News, signaling a more litigious and aggressive approach toward major media outlets. This move suggests a shift in the "media status quo," where the administration intends to use the threat of lawsuits to challenge coverage. Press freedom advocates have expressed alarm, suggesting that such tactics could lead to a chilling effect on investigative journalism and accountability.
AFRICA Jan 18: Investigation Reveals Screwdriver Salesman’s Role in Fuelling US Airstrikes in Nigeria

A startling investigation has uncovered how an unlikely middleman—a screwdriver salesman—helped facilitate logistics for U.S. airstrikes in Nigeria. The report details a complex network of unconventional contractors used to support counterterrorism operations. This discovery has raised questions about the oversight and vetting processes for foreign military assistance, as well as the unintended consequences of relying on non-traditional actors in conflict zones.
MILITARY Jan 18: US Troops Placed on Standby for Potential Deployment to Minnesota Following Clashes

Approximately 1,500 active-duty U.S. troops from Alaska have been placed on standby for potential deployment to Minnesota. The move follows escalating clashes between federal agents and protesters in Minneapolis over immigration enforcement. President Trump has threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act, while Governor Tim Walz has directed the National Guard to prepare for assistance in preserving public safety and property.
DIPLOMACY Jan 18: Trump Targets Eight European Nations With Tariffs Over Greenland Acquisition Opposition

President Trump announced a 10% import tariff on goods from eight European countries, including Denmark, Germany, and France, effective February 1. The rate will climb to 25% in June unless a deal is reached for the U.S. to purchase Greenland. Trump cited national security risks from Russia and China as justification, claiming Denmark has failed to properly defend the territory.
PROTEST Jan 18: Massive "Hands Off Greenland" Protests Erupt Across Nuuk and Copenhagen Today

Thousands of protesters marched in Nuuk and Copenhagen, chanting "Greenland is not for sale" in response to American expansionist threats. The rallies, described as the largest in Greenland's history, saw nearly 25% of Nuuk's population mobilized. European leaders have warned that the escalating rhetoric and subsequent U.S. tariff threats could trigger a dangerous downward spiral in transatlantic trade relations.
VENEZUELA Jan 18: Diosdado Cabello Remains Central Power Broker in Venezuela After Maduro Extraction

In the vacuum following the extraction of Nicolás Maduro, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello has emerged as the primary threat to U.S.-backed stability. Despite the swearing-in of Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, Cabello maintains control over the military intelligence and armed "colectivo" militias. Washington has issued an ultimatum for his cooperation, offering a $25 million bounty for his capture if he resists.
SYRIA Jan 18: US Retaliatory Strike Kills Terrorist Leader Linked to Deadly December Ambush

U.S. Central Command confirmed a successful strike in northwest Syria killing Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, a leader tied to the Islamic State. Al-Jasim was directly implicated in the December 13 ambush in Palmyra that killed two U.S. soldiers and an interpreter. The operation, part of "Hawkeye Strike," signals continued American resolve to apply military pressure against ISIS remnants.
SPACE Jan 18: NASA Rolls Artemis II Moon Rocket to Launch Pad for Historic Mission

NASA has successfully completed the rollout of the Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) rocket to Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center. The 12-hour journey marks a critical milestone for the first crewed lunar orbit mission in over 50 years. Engineers will now begin final system checkouts and a wet dress rehearsal ahead of a February launch window.
NFL Jan 18: New York Giants Appoint John Harbaugh as Head Coach After Swift Pursuit

The New York Giants have officially hired John Harbaugh as their new head coach, following his recent departure from the Baltimore Ravens. Ownership identified Harbaugh as their top choice to lead the franchise, which has struggled with only two playoff appearances in twelve years. Harbaugh, a Super Bowl winner, is expected to report directly to ownership to rebuild the team.
RELIGION Jan 18: New Hampshire Bishop Urges Clergy to Write Wills Amid Violent ICE Clashes

Bishop Rob Hirschfeld of the Episcopal Church of New Hampshire has issued a stark warning to his clergy, advising them to prepare their wills. The guidance follows the fatal shooting of a protester by ICE agents and subsequent pepper-spraying of faith leaders during vigils. Hirschfeld emphasized that clergy may need to physically stand between federal powers and the vulnerable.
LEGACY Jan 18: MLK Day 2026: Reflecting on Dr. King’s Unfinished Dream for Healthcare Equity

As the nation prepares for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, focus has shifted to his often-overlooked advocacy for healthcare justice. Historical reflections highlight King’s 1966 assertion that injustice in health is the most shocking and inhuman form of inequality. Communities are using this year’s National Day of Service to address modern racial disparities in medical access and outcomes.
MODI Jan 18: PM Modi Launches Major Infrastructure Projects in Poll-Bound Assam and West Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled development projects exceeding ₹7,700 crore during visits to Assam and West Bengal. Key initiatives include the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor and the flagging off of several Amrit Bharat trains. The projects are seen as a significant push for connectivity and regional growth ahead of upcoming elections, focusing on modernizing the railway and port infrastructure.
IRAN Jan 18: Iran Considers Gradual Restoration of Internet After Week-Long Nationwide Shutdown

Authorities in Tehran have begun discussing the "gradual" restoration of internet services following a total communications blackout lasting over a week. While some news agencies reported intermittent connectivity in the capital, mobile data remains largely inaccessible across most provinces. The shutdown was initially implemented to curb domestic unrest, but economic pressures are now forcing a reversal of the policy.
CLIMATE Jan 18: Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk’s Detention Termed Illegal by Family Amid Protests

The family of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has condemned his ongoing detention, alleging that the government’s case has no legal merit. Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, claimed that procedural lapses should have already resulted in his release. The activist remains a central figure in the movement for Ladakh's constitutional protections, with supporters calling for immediate judicial intervention to end his incarceration.
SYRIA Jan 18: Syrian Government and Kurdish SDF Reach Landmark Ceasefire After Aleppo Clashes

A U.S.-brokered ceasefire has brought a fragile calm to Aleppo following intense fighting between the Syrian transitional government and Kurdish-led SDF forces. Under the agreement, SDF fighters have completed their withdrawal to northeastern Syria. The deal aims to end the displacement of over 148,000 residents and prevent further escalation, although the area remains a "closed military zone" under strict curfew.
RIGHTS Jan 18: President Al-Sharaa Restores Kurdish Citizenship and Recognizes Language Rights

In a historic decree, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has granted full national rights to the country's Kurdish population. The order repeals discriminatory laws from the 1962 census, restoring citizenship to thousands of previously stateless Kurds. The Kurdish language is now officially recognized as a national language, permitted for instruction in schools, and the Nowruz Festival has been declared a national holiday.
GAZA Jan 18: Israel Objects to Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ Nominees for Gaza Reconstruction

Israel has voiced formal objections to the White House's proposed "Gaza Board of Peace," a body intended to oversee the strip's governance and reconstruction. While the board includes figures like Tony Blair and Jared Kushner, Israel opposes the inclusion of Turkish President Erdoğan and Egyptian President al-Sisi. Tensions remain high as the U.S. pushes for this international oversight to replace Hamas's influence.
SPORTS Jan 18: Senegal and Morocco Face Off in Highly Anticipated AFCON Final in Rabat

Senegal is set to battle Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final tonight at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Senegal reached the final after a narrow 1-0 semi-final win over Egypt, thanks to a late goal by Sadio Mane. Morocco, the host nation, looks to secure the title behind Golden Boot contender Brahim Diaz, as football fans across the continent brace for a thrilling conclusion.
UK Jan 18: Police Chief Craig Guildford Resigns Over AI-Generated Ban on Tel Aviv Fans

West Midlands Police Chief Craig Guildford has announced his immediate retirement following a scandal involving the banning of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans. It was revealed that the "intelligence" used to justify the ban was erroneously generated by AI, citing matches that never occurred. The fallout has sparked a national debate over the reliability of AI in police risk assessments and public safety decisions.
SUDAN Jan 18: UN Human Rights Chief Warns of ‘Horror and Hell’ in War-Torn Sudan

The UN human rights chief has issued a dire warning regarding the deteriorating situation in Sudan, describing the conflict as a descent into "horror and hell." With systematic violence and widespread displacement, the global humanitarian system is struggling to keep pace. Officials are calling for immediate international intervention to prevent a total collapse of social order as the civil war enters its most brutal phase yet.
PALESTINE Jan 18: Resistance Persistent Despite International Push for Technocratic Peace Boards

Analysts suggest that new "peace boards" and technocratic governance models proposed by global powers may fail to address the core of Palestinian resistance. While the U.S. focuses on administrative reconstruction and economic stability, local perspectives emphasize that without addressing political sovereignty and self-determination, bureaucratic solutions will likely remain superficial and fail to bring lasting stability to the region.
GEOPOLITICS Jan 18: Greenland Row Intensifies Calls for EU Resistance Against Trump’s Tariffs

The ongoing diplomatic rift over Greenland has sparked a wave of European criticism, with leaders arguing that the era of "appeasement" toward Donald Trump must end. The U.S. threat of aggressive tariffs has forced the EU to reconsider its trade strategy, with many pushing for the activation of defensive economic measures to protect the bloc's sovereignty against what is perceived as American expansionist pressure.
RAQQA Jan 18: Syrian Army Advances Near Raqqa as SDF Strongholds Face Mounting Pressure

The Syrian Arab Army has made significant tactical gains on the outskirts of Raqqa, a key stronghold currently held by the SDF. Despite the recent ceasefire in Aleppo, government forces continue to exert pressure on northern territories. The advance has raised concerns about the durability of the truce and the potential for a renewed large-scale offensive in the Euphrates region as the government seeks total control.
HUMANITY Jan 18: Jagan Chapagain Questions Stability of Global Humanitarian Relief Systems

Red Cross leader Jagan Chapagain has warned that the global humanitarian system is nearing a breaking point. Competing crises in Syria, Sudan, and Gaza have exhausted available resources and funding. Chapagain emphasizes that without a fundamental shift in how international aid is organized and financed, the world's ability to respond to mass casualties and displacements will be severely compromised by 2026.
DIPLOMACY Jan 18: Marco Rubio Joins Trump’s Executive Board for Gaza Administration

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been named as a key member of the newly formed "Founding Executive Board" for Gaza. Working alongside Jared Kushner and Tony Blair, Rubio will oversee the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). The board represents the centerpiece of the Trump administration's "20-point plan" to stabilize the region through an international governing coalition.
SECURITY Jan 18: Nightmare Scenario for U.S. as Syria Conflict Threatens Regional Alliances

The recent escalation in Syria has created what experts call a "nightmare scenario" for the United States. As the Syrian army regains territory and Kurdish allies are forced into retreats or compromises, Washington faces a dwindling sphere of influence. The situation is further complicated by Turkish military threats and the increasing involvement of regional powers, leaving U.S. policy in the Middle East at a critical crossroads.
EUROPE Jan 18: PM Meloni Slams Trump’s Greenland Tariffs on Europe as Strategic Mistake

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has criticized President Trump's decision to impose tariffs on European goods linked to the Greenland dispute, calling the move a "mistake" for transatlantic relations. As thousands protest in Greenland’s capital against U.S. annexation threats, Meloni warned that economic pressure on allies could undermine NATO stability and global trade at a critical juncture for European security.
IRAN Jan 18: Khamenei Blames Trump for Deadly Protests as Fear Grips Iranians Abroad

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has publicly blamed the Trump administration for inciting the violent protests currently sweeping the nation. Meanwhile, members of the Iranian diaspora report intense anxiety and fear for relatives back home as the crackdown continues. Analysts suggest that Russia’s shifting focus indicates Tehran may be increasingly isolated, similar to the diplomatic abandonment recently faced by the Maduro regime in Venezuela.
SYRIA Jan 18: Syrian Forces Seize Strategic Tabqa Dam as SDF Retreats Toward Raqqa

Government troops have captured the Tabqa Dam, Syria's largest hydroelectric facility, and the strategic town of Deir Hafer as they advance toward Raqqa. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are reportedly in retreat, bracing for a major assault on their remaining strongholds. While local residents celebrated the army's arrival in some areas, the U.S. has urged de-escalation to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe in Kurdish-held territories.
ISRAEL Jan 18: Israel Recognizes Homesh Settlement to Explicitly Block Future Palestinian Statehood

The Israeli government has officially recognized the Homesh settlement in the West Bank, with officials stating the move is designed to "prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state." This development coincides with reports of fresh ceasefire violations in Gaza and mounting evictions in East Jerusalem. Concurrently, a US-backed Palestinian committee has released a mission statement outlining a proposed new governance framework for the Gaza Strip.
TENNIS Jan 18: Alcaraz and Sabalenka Struggle in Opening Rounds of Australian Open 2026

Top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both endured "stuttering starts" to their Australian Open campaigns, narrowly avoiding early upsets in their opening matches. In other tournament news, Turkiye’s Zeynep Sonmez advanced to the second round after a heartwarming moment where she aided a ball girl on court. The tournament continues to face scrutiny over extreme weather conditions affecting player performance in Melbourne.
PAKISTAN Jan 18: Six Killed as Massive Fire Guts Shopping Mall in Karachi

At least six people have died and dozens more were injured after a devastating fire ripped through a busy shopping mall in Karachi. Emergency services struggled to contain the blaze as it spread rapidly through the commercial structure. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, while local residents expressed outrage over the lack of adequate fire safety regulations in one of Pakistan's most populated urban centers.
PORTUGAL Jan 18: Portugal Heads to Polls with Potential for Historic Far-Right Victory

Voters in Portugal are casting ballots today to elect a new president in a contest that could see the country’s first far-right winner in decades. The election follows a period of economic uncertainty and social unrest, mirroring a broader European shift toward nationalist politics. Preliminary exit polls suggest a tight race between traditional center-right candidates and the surging right-wing populist movement.
UKRAINE Jan 18: Large Scale Russian Drone Attacks Kill Two and Wound Dozens Across Ukraine

On day 1,424 of the invasion, Russia launched a massive wave of drone strikes targeting Ukrainian infrastructure and residential areas. At least two civilians were killed and dozens more wounded in the latest bombardment. Ukraine’s air defense systems reportedly intercepted the majority of incoming threats, but significant damage was reported in several regions as Moscow continues its strategy of aerial attrition against the Ukrainian energy grid.
MINNEAPOLIS Jan 18: Anti-ICE Protesters Chase Far-Right Influencer Jake Lang Out of Rally

In Minneapolis, anti-ICE demonstrators successfully chased off far-right influencer Jake Lang during a heated rally against federal immigration crackdowns. The incident occurred as tensions rise over recent ICE detentions in the city. Protesters accused Lang of attempting to provoke the crowd, resulting in a chaotic confrontation that required local law enforcement to intervene and escort the influencer away from the site of the protest.
GUINEA Jan 18: Military Leader Mamady Doumbouya Sworn in as President of Guinea

General Mamady Doumbouya has been officially sworn in as the President of Guinea, solidifying the military's hold on power following a transitional period. The ceremony was attended by regional leaders but boycotted by several opposition groups who demand a swifter return to civilian rule. Doumbouya has pledged to oversee a constitutional overhaul, though critics remain skeptical of the military's long-term democratic commitments in the region.
UGANDA Jan 18: President Museveni Secures 7th Term Amid Allegations of Fraudulent Results

Yoweri Museveni has been declared the winner of Uganda’s presidential election, securing a seventh term in office. However, his main opponent has dismissed the results as "fake" and "fraudulent," citing widespread voter intimidation and technical failures at polling stations. International observers have expressed concern over the transparency of the electoral process, as protests begin to break out in the capital city of Kampala.
INDONESIA Jan 18: Rescuers Discover Wreckage of Missing Plane Carrying 11 in Indonesia

Search and rescue teams in Indonesia have located the wreckage of a light aircraft that went missing with 11 people on board. The plane was discovered in a remote, mountainous region after losing contact with air traffic control. Rescuers are currently trekking toward the crash site to search for survivors, though officials warn that the impact appeared severe. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
TRADE Jan 18: EU and Mercosur Sign Landmark Free Trade Deal After 25 Years

The European Union and South America’s Mercosur bloc officially signed a historic free trade agreement in Paraguay, concluding negotiations that spanned over two decades. The deal aims to eliminate 90% of tariffs on goods, creating one of the world's largest free trade zones. Leaders hailed the accord as a strategic bulwark against rising global protectionism and shifting American trade policies.
TRUMP Jan 18: Trump Threatens European Allies With Tariffs Over Greenland Purchase Dispute

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 10% tariff on several European allies, including Denmark, Germany, and France, starting February 1. The move is a coercive measure to force a deal for the U.S. purchase of Greenland. Trump warned that rates would climb to 25% by June if European nations continued to oppose his territorial ambitions.
DENMARK Jan 18: Massive Anti-Trump Protests Erupt Across Denmark and Greenland Over Sovereignty

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Copenhagen and Nuuk to protest President Trump’s aggressive push to acquire Greenland. Under the banner "Hands off Greenland," protesters waved national flags and demanded respect for democratic sovereignty. The rallies coincided with a visiting U.S. Congressional delegation that expressed support for Denmark, highlighting the growing diplomatic rift over the Arctic territory's future.
SPORTS Jan 18: Nigeria Defeats Egypt on Penalties to Secure AFCON Bronze Medal

The Super Eagles of Nigeria clinched the Africa Cup of Nations bronze medal after defeating Egypt 4-2 in a tense penalty shootout. Following a goalless draw in regulation time at Casablanca, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero by saving two crucial penalties. This victory marks Nigeria's ninth bronze medal in the tournament’s history, maintaining their perfect playoff record.
AVIATION Jan 18: Rescuers Locate Wreckage of Missing Indonesian Plane With 11 Aboard

Indonesian search and rescue teams have discovered the debris of an ATR 42-500 fisheries surveillance plane on the slopes of Mount Bulusaraung. The aircraft lost contact with air traffic control during a flight to Makassar with 11 people on board. While the fuselage and tail have been spotted in the forested terrain, thick fog is currently hampering efforts to reach potential survivors.
UKRAINE Jan 18: Zelenskyy Declares Energy Emergency as Russian Strikes Cripple Power Grid

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has declared a state of emergency in Ukraine's energy sector following relentless Russian drone and missile attacks on critical infrastructure. With Kyiv facing sub-zero temperatures and severe blackouts, the government is expediting legal decisions to significantly scale up electricity imports from European partners. Over 400,000 residents in Kharkiv and numerous districts in the capital remain without heat.
SYRIA Jan 18: Syrian Army Seizes Control of Deir Hafer and Maskanah Areas

The Syrian military has established full control over Deir Hafer and Maskanah in eastern Aleppo following an agreement that saw hundreds of SDF fighters surrender or withdraw. Government forces have begun clearing mines and deploying internal security units to stabilize the region. Despite reports of minor skirmishes during the entry, the army continues its westward advance toward the Euphrates River.
DIPLOMACY Jan 18: Canada and China Sign Trade Roadmap to Restore Bilateral Ties

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s official visit to Beijing has resulted in a new "Economic and Trade Cooperation Roadmap" between Canada and China. The agreement focuses on resuming working groups for intellectual property and clean energy dialogue. Both nations signaled a turnaround in relations, committing to regularized engagement and a rules-based multilateral trading system despite previous diplomatic tensions.
INDIA Jan 18: PM Modi Unveils Major Connectivity Projects in Assam and West Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched development projects exceeding ₹7,700 crore during his visit to poll-bound Assam and West Bengal. Key initiatives include the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor and the flagging off of five new Amrit Bharat trains. The projects aim to bolster regional infrastructure and improve inland water transport, highlighting the government’s focus on enhancing connectivity in Eastern India.
RUSSIA Jan 18: Athletes Brave Extreme Cold for Oymyakon Winter Marathon in Siberia

In the world's coldest inhabited place, runners participated in the "Pole of Cold" winter marathon near Oymyakon, Russia. Competing in temperatures well below -50°C, the event draws international attention for its extreme endurance requirements. The marathon serves as a local cultural highlight, showcasing the resilience of athletes and the local Sakha Republic community during the peak of the Siberian winter.
VENEZUELA Jan 18: Global Focus Shifts to Venezuela's Oil Assets Amidst U.S. Pressure

Tensions remain high in Caracas as the international community monitors U.S. actions regarding Venezuela's state-run oil company, PDVSA. Amidst broader geopolitical shifts and American threats of asset seizures, local authorities have reinforced security around energy hubs. The situation has prompted concerns among global trade partners about the stability of energy exports and the potential for renewed regional sanctions.
CULTURE Jan 18: Devotees Gather at Taj Mahal for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s Urs

The three-day death anniversary (Urs) of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan concluded at the Taj Mahal in Agra with the offering of a ceremonial multi-coloured chador. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists visited the monument to participate in the traditional rituals. The event, which allows rare access to the actual graves of the Emperor and Mumtaz Mahal, was conducted under high security.