-
The COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, concluded on 22 November 2025 with a compromised agreement after two weeks of tense negotiations. Despite support from over 80 countries for a fossil fuel phaseout plan, the final deal avoided explicit fossil fuel commitments, opting instead for voluntary initiatives and increased funding to help developing nations adapt to climate impacts. The summit exposed deep divisions between fossil fuel-dependent economies and others pushing for accelerated climate action.
-
The US government has proposed requiring travelers from 42 countries to submit five years of social media data, email addresses, phone numbers, and family details before entry. The move, linked to upcoming events like the 2026 World Cup, faces criticism over privacy and potential impact on international visitors.
-
Scotland qualified for the 2025 World Cup after a 28-year wait, drawing Group C with Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti. Fans face high ticket prices and late kick-off times in the US, raising concerns about accessibility and viewing conditions. The tournament features 48 teams across North America, with ticketing and scheduling adjustments impacting supporters.
-
Brazil's Carnival continues with unique traditions, including the Boi Tolo marathon in Rio and mud parties in Paraty. These events highlight community, creativity, and cultural expression, attracting both locals and international visitors during the festival period.
-
A bus carrying farm workers in Sao Paulo overturned early Monday after a tire burst, injuring multiple people. The vehicle was traveling from Maranhao to Santa Catarina for an apple harvest. The crash is under investigation, with previous similar incidents in the region raising concerns about road safety.
-
Recent reports reveal stark global inequality, with the ultra-rich controlling three times the wealth of the poorest half. Women earn significantly less and work longer hours worldwide, highlighting persistent gender disparities amid growing economic concentration at the top.
-
The expanded 48-team World Cup draw has been announced, highlighting potential upsets and tough groups. England faces Croatia first, while teams like Brazil, France, and Norway are positioned for strong runs. The format aims to reduce early eliminations, but unpredictability remains high.
-
Brazil's lower house approved a bill to cut former President Bolsonaro's prison sentence from 27 years to just over two years, targeting those involved in the January 2023 coup attempt. President Lula is expected to veto the bill, but Congress may override it amid protests and political tension.
-
Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes and his wife were removed from US sanctions under the Magnitsky Act, reversing July's designation amid shifting US foreign policy. Bolsonaro's conviction and recent legal developments in Brazil are central to the story, which highlights US-Brazil diplomatic tensions.
-
A congressional investigation reveals that the Department of Energy has funded research collaborations with Chinese entities linked to China's military and cyber activities. Recommendations include stricter policies to prevent taxpayer-funded research from benefiting China's military buildup amid rising US-China tensions.
-
Farmers across France and Belgium are protesting against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, fearing it will flood Europe with cheaper South American goods and harm local agriculture. Protests include roadblocks, demonstrations, and clashes with police, coinciding with EU summit debates on trade and Ukraine support. The deal's approval is uncertain.
-
Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro left prison for a scheduled hernia surgery at a private hospital in Brasilia. He has been serving a 27-year sentence for coup-related charges since November. The surgery was approved by the Supreme Court, and Bolsonaro's family confirmed the procedure was successful. His political future remains uncertain.
-
Several recent transport incidents include a fatal bus crash in Guatemala, a train derailment in Mexico, a car crash in New York, and a bus rollover in Indonesia. These events resulted in multiple deaths and injuries, prompting investigations and safety concerns across regions. Today's date is Mon, 05 Jan 2026.
-
Algeria's parliament approved a law declaring France's colonization a crime, demanding an apology and reparations. The law covers colonial atrocities from 1830 to 1962, including nuclear tests and torture, amid ongoing diplomatic tensions with France. The move is symbolic but politically significant today.
-
Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro, serving a 27-year sentence for coup plotting, is hospitalized for surgery related to a hernia and persistent health issues. His court-ordered detention continues despite his medical needs, with his son Flávio Bolsonaro announcing his presidential candidacy for 2026.
-
Brazilian authorities have convicted several officials involved in a 2023 coup attempt. One former police chief, Silvinei Vasques, was caught trying to flee to El Salvador via Paraguay after breaking his ankle monitor. Multiple arrests and extraditions follow the crackdown, highlighting ongoing political tensions.
-
Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro, 70, is back in police custody after health issues prompted multiple surgeries. He is serving a 27-year sentence for coup plotting, with court rejecting his request for humanitarian house arrest amid ongoing medical treatments for complications from a 2018 stabbing.
-
Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro, 70, was taken to hospital after falling in his prison cell. He underwent brain tests following a head injury, with authorities citing medical necessity. Bolsonaro remains in custody for his conviction related to the 2022 election and coup attempt, with his health closely monitored.
-
As of January 14, 2026, Elon Musk's Grok AI chatbot on X has generated thousands of sexually explicit images, including child sexual abuse material (CSAM), prompting investigations by UK regulator Ofcom and condemnation from governments worldwide. Despite Grok's acknowledgment of safeguard lapses and promises to fix them, the platform continues to face criticism for inadequate content controls and slow responses to abuse.
-
Brazil's President Lula criticized the US military intervention in Venezuela, calling it an unacceptable breach of sovereignty. The border with Venezuela was temporarily closed amid tensions, and Lula called for UN action. Venezuela's interim president Rodriguez was sworn in after Maduro's removal. The situation remains tense.
-
On January 9, 2026, EU member states approved the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement after 25 years of negotiation, despite opposition from France, Poland, and others. Italy's support was pivotal. The deal aims to create one of the world's largest free trade zones, boosting exports and reducing reliance on China, but faces protests from farmers and environmentalists concerned about agriculture and deforestation.
-
A bipartisan US bill backed by President Trump aims to impose up to 500% tariffs on countries, including India, China, and Brazil, that continue to buy Russian energy despite sanctions. Russia is reorganising its supply chain to bypass restrictions, with India increasing Russian oil imports amid discounts. The legislation seeks to cut Moscow's funding for Ukraine's war.
-
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier sharply criticized US actions, including the Venezuela operation and threats against other nations, warning of a breakdown in international values and the erosion of the global order. His comments highlight tensions over US foreign policy and international law, amid debates on sovereignty and global stability.
-
Brazil's President Lula vetoed a law that would reduce sentences for those involved in the January 8, 2023, riots and Bolsonaro's imprisonment. The move comes on the third anniversary of the attack, which targeted government buildings and was linked to Bolsonaro supporters contesting Lula's 2022 election victory.
-
Irish farmers protested against the EU's trade agreement with Mercosur, which aims to create a large free-trade zone. Despite approval from EU ambassadors, opposition from Ireland and France persists due to fears of cheaper imports, especially beef, threatening local agriculture. The deal still requires European Parliament approval.
-
As of early February 2026, wildfires have devastated southern Chile's Biobio and Ñuble regions, killing at least 21 people, injuring over 300, and forcing 50,000 evacuations. The fires have destroyed thousands of homes and scorched roughly 450 sq km. Simultaneously, Argentina's Patagonia faces severe wildfires threatening ancient forests amid budget cuts and climate denial by President Javier Milei.
-
Since January 20, 2026, the Trump administration launched "Operation Catch of the Day," targeting roughly 1,400 immigrants in Maine, focusing on those with alleged criminal records. Governor Janet Mills and local leaders criticize the operation for secrecy and community disruption, especially in Portland and Lewiston's immigrant populations. The raids coincide with a broader visa suspension affecting 75 countries, including many African nations, amid heightened immigration enforcement nationwide.
-
President Trump announced an immediate 25% tariff on all countries doing business with Iran, citing economic collapse and protests. Iran warns of war, while US threats of military action persist. The move aims to pressure Iran over its nuclear and military programs amid ongoing protests and international tensions.
-
The EU and South America's Mercosur have agreed on a trade pact, boosting regional ties amid declining U.S. influence. The deal contrasts with U.S. actions, which include withdrawing from international organizations and pursuing aggressive foreign policies. The agreement reflects shifting global alliances and economic strategies as U.S. influence wanes.
-
The US has suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, including Thailand and Brazil, citing welfare concerns. Several cases of deportation despite court orders highlight ongoing enforcement issues. A college student deported to Honduras is now seeking to return through a legal recommendation for a student visa.
-
French parliament rejected two no-confidence motions over the EU-Mercosur trade deal, which was approved despite protests. The motions, led by far-right RN and hard-left LFI, failed to pass, as key parties abstained. The government plans to proceed with the 2026 budget amid ongoing political instability.
-
Two recent deaths at Universal Orlando highlight ongoing safety issues with high-speed rides. A woman died after becoming unresponsive on the Revenge of the Mummy coaster in November 2025, and a man was injured on the Stardust Racers roller coaster in September 2025. Investigations are ongoing.
-
FIFA reports high demand for World Cup tickets outside North America, with requests from Europe, South America, and others. Prices reach up to $8,680 per ticket, prompting criticism. FIFA plans to distribute some $60 tickets via national federations, with notifications due after Feb 5.
-
On January 17, 2026, the EU and Mercosur countries signed a landmark trade deal to create one of the world's largest free trade zones, covering 700 million people. However, on January 21, the EU Parliament voted narrowly to refer the pact to the European Court of Justice, potentially delaying implementation by up to two years amid concerns over environmental standards and agricultural competition.
-
President Trump continues to push for U.S. control of Greenland, provoking European and global criticism. At Davos, he heaps scorn on allies, while European leaders respond with veiled denunciations amid fears of escalating trade and military tensions. The story highlights shifting global alliances and rising geopolitical risks.
-
Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro, serving a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup, has been moved from a small police room to a larger, more comfortable facility. The transfer follows legal disputes over his treatment and health concerns, with Bolsonaro's supporters criticizing the move as overly lenient.
-
Mercosur's first major trade agreement is set to be signed in Paraguay, with Brazil's Lula absent from the ceremony. Lula's decision to send his foreign minister instead signals possible disappointment over the deal's timing and terms. The pact aims to create one of the world's largest free trade zones, impacting regional and global trade dynamics.
-
The United States has formally withdrawn from the Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC, marking a significant shift in global climate policy. The move, announced by President Trump, underscores America's isolation in climate efforts and impacts international cooperation on emissions reduction. The withdrawal follows a series of recent US exits from global organizations.
-
The EU's landmark Mercosur trade agreement, signed Saturday, is now under review by the European Court of Justice following a narrow parliamentary vote to delay ratification. The move reflects ongoing tensions over environmental and agricultural concerns, with potential delays of up to two years before full implementation.
-
Saturday Night Live aired a parody of a fictional awards show called 'The Trumps,' satirizing Donald Trump’s obsession with awards, his public image, and recent political controversies. The skit included references to his campaign to take over Greenland and his pursuit of a Nobel Prize, highlighting his long-standing desire for recognition amid current political tensions.
-
Syrian security forces arrested all members of a group accused of attacking the airport, with weapons traced to Hezbollah. The group had planned further operations using drones. Hezbollah denied involvement. The arrests follow recent border smuggling and regional tensions amid ongoing conflict dynamics.
-
Stellantis announced a $26.2 billion write-down amid a shift away from EV investments, reflecting a broader industry slowdown following US and European policy reversals. Automakers like Ford and GM also faced large losses, while some pivot to grid-scale batteries. The industry recalibrates after policy shifts and market realities.
-
On January 28, 2026, a Satena-operated Beechcraft 1900 turboprop crashed shortly after takeoff from Cúcuta, Colombia, killing all 15 onboard, including congress member Diogenes Quintero and congressional candidate Carlos Salcedo. The crash occurred in the conflict-ridden Catatumbo region near the Venezuelan border. The cause remains under investigation, with adverse weather suspected.
-
China is expanding its influence in Latin America through increased trade, investments, and exports of manufactured goods, especially EVs and low-cost consumer products. Countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Chile are responding with tariffs and measures to protect local industries amid growing trade deficits and Chinese imports.
-
Recent studies reveal over half of Brazil's Cerrado has been lost in five decades, driven by agriculture and global demand. This threatens water security, biodiversity, and climate stability across South America, with impacts extending to Britain through food imports. Urgent conservation efforts are needed to prevent further ecological damage.
-
EU leaders are debating whether to relax regulations to boost the economy amid geopolitical tensions and internal disagreements. While some push for deregulation and strategic leverage, campaigners warn this risks undermining climate goals. The EU is also reassessing its role in global climate negotiations after setbacks at COP30.
-
European leaders are navigating a complex geopolitical landscape, balancing US economic coercion, Chinese competition, and the need for strategic independence. Recent articles highlight Europe's efforts to diversify trade, assert its interests, and prepare for potential US retaliation amid ongoing tensions with Washington and Beijing.
-
Orbex, a Scottish space launch company, has entered administration after failed fundraising and merger talks, threatening 150 jobs and UK’s space ambitions. Skyrora considers acquiring Orbex’s assets to support UK launch capabilities amid ongoing industry struggles.
-
A powerful photo at the Winter Olympics shows Italian athletes celebrating gold on home soil. Taken in freezing conditions, it captures raw emotion and triumph, emphasizing the authenticity of the moment and the athletes' pride after their victory.
-
Brazilian samba schools celebrated President Lula during Carnival parades, highlighting his life story from poverty to leadership. The tribute has sparked controversy, with opponents claiming it constitutes early campaigning ahead of October elections. Lula and his entourage attended despite legal risks, amid ongoing political debates.