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Latest World News

📅January 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Global tensions rise over US moves on Greenland and Venezuela, new EU-UK troop pledges for Ukraine, fatal ICE shooting in Minnesota, and Europe’s storm-driven disruption.
1

US renews Greenland takeover pressure, triggering diplomatic tensions with Denmark and Greenland

The US administration has reiterated that a military option is “always available” as it explores routes to gain control or influence over Greenland, drawing strong objections from Danish and Greenlandic leaders.Source 1Source 7 European foreign ministers are meeting to coordinate a response, while Washington prepares high‑level talks with Danish officials next week amid the escalating dispute.Source 3Source 7

2

UK and France confirm troop deployments to Ukraine after ceasefire agreement

London and Paris have jointly pledged to send military personnel to Ukraine in a support and training role following a new ceasefire deal, marking the first confirmed ‘boots on the ground’ by the two NATO powers since the full‑scale invasion.Source 1Source 7 The move is framed as an effort to stabilise the country and deter renewed aggression, but Moscow has condemned any Western deployment as provocative.Source 7

3

Russia launches new strikes on Ukraine after Western coalition commits defence forces

Russian forces have carried out fresh attacks on Ukrainian targets shortly after a coalition of Western countries announced expanded defensive support, including deployments by UK and French forces.Source 5Source 7 The strikes underscore continued volatility despite the ceasefire framework and raise concerns about further escalation between Russia and NATO states backing Kyiv.Source 5Source 7

4

US seizes additional oil tankers linked to Venezuela as sanctions enforcement intensifies

American authorities have intercepted and seized two more sanctioned oil tankers tied to Venezuela, tightening enforcement of existing measures on the country’s energy exports.Source 5Source 7 The seizures come as Venezuela’s state oil firm reports it is advancing talks with the US over possible sanctioned oil sales, and as interim authorities negotiate transfers of up to 50 million barrels for sale at market prices.Source 3Source 7

5

Trump announces deal for up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil to the US

President Donald Trump has said Venezuelan interim authorities agreed to transfer between 30 and 50 million barrels of sanctioned oil to the US to be sold at market rates, a significant shift amid years of sanctions pressure.Source 3 The White House plans meetings with US oil executives on potential participation in Venezuela’s sector, drawing criticism from opponents who say it risks legitimising contested authorities in Caracas.Source 3Source 5

6

Fatal ICE shooting of Minnesota woman sparks public outcry and conflicting accounts

A 37‑year‑old woman was shot and killed by a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent during an operation in Minneapolis, prompting protests and official investigations.Source 3Source 5 Federal officials say she tried to ram officers with her vehicle, while local accounts and demonstrators dispute that narrative, fuelling debate over use of force in immigration enforcement.Source 3Source 5

7

Ceasefire violations in Gaza as Israeli airstrike kills two Palestinians

An Israeli airstrike on Gaza City has killed two Palestinians and injured three others, according to medical sources cited by regional media.Source 3 The incident is described as a new violation of an existing ceasefire arrangement and raises fears of renewed escalation in the already fragile truce.Source 3

8

Iran protests intensify amid divided messages from opposition and officials

Protests in Iran have grown more intense as opposition figures and government officials issue conflicting calls, reflecting deep internal divisions.Source 5 Demonstrators are voicing anger over economic hardship, political repression and social restrictions, while authorities balance crackdowns with limited concessions to restore order.Source 5

9

Venezuela’s humanitarian crisis deepens and spills over into neighbouring Colombia

Venezuela’s prolonged economic and political crisis continues to drive mass migration into Colombia, straining local services and regional stability.Source 5 Humanitarian agencies highlight shortages of food, medicine and basic services inside Venezuela, while Colombian communities grapple with increased demand on schools, healthcare and employment.Source 5

10

Severe winter storm brings travel chaos and casualties across Europe

Heavy snowfall from Storm Goretti has caused major disruption across parts of Europe, with at least several deaths reported and hundreds of flights cancelled.Source 1Source 5Source 7 Authorities in multiple countries are warning of dangerous road conditions, rail delays and power outages as emergency crews respond to weather‑related incidents.Source 1Source 7

11

Global tech focus on CES 2026, with AI, robotics and consumer electronics in spotlight

At CES 2026, companies are showcasing advances in artificial intelligence, next‑generation televisions, robotics and other consumer technologies, highlighting rapid innovation and competition in the sector.Source 5Source 7 Exhibitors range from major multinationals to startups, with particular attention on AI‑driven devices and novel gadgets aimed at everyday use.Source 5Source 7

12

Canada plans first prime ministerial visit to China in eight years

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to travel to China later this month, the first visit by a Canadian leader in nearly a decade.Source 3 Ottawa frames the trip as an effort to reset strained ties, pursue trade opportunities and engage Beijing on global issues after years of diplomatic tension.Source 3