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US President Donald Trump on Wednesday shared a New York Post article that was highly critical of Russian President Vladimir Putin on his Truth Social account, in a move that appeared to signal his displeasure with the Russian leader. The article lambasts Putin as a “dictator” whose “lies” and “hatred” were “standing in the way” of a peace deal in Ukraine. The post and the content of the article drew interest since Trump mostly has a conciliatory approach for Putin. The Truth Social post was simple, sharing the headline text: “Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace”, and a link to the article.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;In the article, the Post editorial board accuses Putin as the one to blame for the lack of a peace deal. Zelensky had expressed a willingness to make tough concessions, and the “mood was cautiously optimistic” — but “[t]hen, on cue, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin chose lies, hatred, and death instead,” it said.It also dismissed Putin’s claims of a Ukrainian drone strike “at one of his many extravagant residences” as just an excuse for the Russians’ “bluster” in rejecting a chance for peace.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-praises-troops-hails-north-korea-s-invincible-alliance-with-russia-1767263998705">Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia</a>&nbsp;On Monday, Putin claimed that his residence in the Novgorod region of Russia was targeted with drones and blamed Ukraine for it.Trump reacted to the attack reports and said he was “very angry” about it, suggesting that he found Putin’s claims credible. “It’s one thing to be offensive, because they’re offensive,” Trump said. “It’s another thing to attack his house. It’s not the right time to do any of that.”&nbsp;However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vehemently denied the accusation and said in a social media post, “This alleged ‘residence strike’ story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russia’s own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war.”Trump also drew criticism and mockery for claiming that “Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed.” Trump has also offered numerous public compliments for Putin over time.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-vows-to-reunify-china-and-taiwan-urges-for-growth-in-new-year-s-eve-speech-1767193882182">Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Drone strike on Putin’s residence likely never happened’</h2>&nbsp;The drone strike “likely never happened,” wrote the Post, bluntly refusing to “take the Kremlin’s word for it.”The Post article urged the Trump administration to push for a tougher approach with Russia, “a bigger stick” instead of more concessions.“Kyiv has done its part. The onus should be on Putin to step up or face more stringent sanctions and more deadly weapons in Ukraine.”&nbsp;On Monday, Putin informed Trump that Russia would revise its negotiating position, citing the attack on his residence.&nbsp;<h2>‘Spare us his crocodile tears and turn up the heat’</h2>&nbsp;“Just as he did in Alaska, Putin was offered peace and instead spat in America’s eye,” the editorial says, adding that “Vladimir Putin is not an honest broker who can see reason, nor a business opportunity to be unlocked.”The newspaper further lists Russia’s support for Iran, as well as its backing for Venezuela’s leadership, to argue that “across the world, Russia is opposing Trump’s agenda.”“The answer should not be more concessions, but a bigger stick,” the editorial says.&nbsp;“Common sense points to an invented or embellished narrative to give Russia an excuse to reject Trump’s progress,” said the article, concluding: “Spare us his crocodile tears and turn up the heat.”

The article also lists Russia’s support for Iran, as well as its backing for Venezuela’s leadership, to argue that “across the world, Russia is opposing Trump’s agenda,” and adds, “Just as he did in Alaska, Putin was offered peace and instead spat in America’s eye.”

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday shared a New York Post article that was highly critical of Russian President Vladimir Putin on his Truth Social account, in a move that appeared to signal his displeasure with the Russian leader. The article lambasts Putin as a “dictator” whose “lies” and “hatred” were “standing in the way” of a peace deal in Ukraine. The post and the content of the article drew interest since Trump mostly has a conciliatory approach for Putin. The Truth Social post was simple, sharing the headline text: “Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace”, and a link to the article.

The article also lists Russia’s support for Iran, as well as its backing for Venezuela’s leadership, to argue that “across the world, Russia is opposing Trump’s agenda,” and adds, “Just as he did in Alaska, Putin was offered peace and instead spat in America’s eye.”

Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure

US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, delaying the planned tariff increase on certain imported household goods, such as upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities, by a year. However, delaying the tariff hikes doesn't eliminate the tariff completely. The current 25 per cent tariff will remain on certain upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities, as imposed under the September 25, 2025, Proclamation.“The United States continues to engage in productive negotiations with trade partners to address trade reciprocity and national security concerns with respect to imports of wood products. The United States will therefore delay the increase in tariff rates for upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities that was set to take place on January 1, 2026, under the September 29, 2025, Proclamation for an additional year,” read a White House Statement.<h2>Which countries will benefit?</h2>China- China is a major source of upholstered furniture and cabinets imported into the US. China's exports of furniture, lighting, signs, and prefabricated buildings to the United States were $31.65 bn during 2024. China exported approximately $8.039 bn worth of furniture in the first half of 2025.&nbsp;Vietnam- Vietnam's total export of furniture and wood products to the United States stood at $9.1 bn, nearly 50 per cent of the total furniture export.&nbsp;Malaysia- The US accounts for roughly 58-60 per cent of the wooden furniture export. In 2024, it stood at approximately $912.4 mn.Mexico- The value of total exports of furniture, lighting, signs, and prefabricated products was $11.96 bn in 2024.&nbsp;Canada- Canada exported roughly $5.5 bn worth of finished wood products to the US in 2024.European Union- A major exporter of luxury furniture and cabinetry worth appx. $31bn annually, out of which the US market accounts for $5.52bn.&nbsp;<h2>What does this mean for US companies?</h2>The US companies that sell upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities, such as Home Depot, Lowe's, and IKEA, are set to benefit from the delay in tariffs. Owners and shareholders of some of the companies, for example, Bernard “Bernie” Marcus, are loyal Republican donors. &nbsp;The delay in tariffs means they can avoid having to pay higher import taxes this year. That lowers costs for retailers and distributors, and may also mean more stable prices for US consumers in the short term.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump’s one-year tariff delay helps retailers avoid higher import taxes, lowers costs for distributors, and may keep prices stable for US consumers.

US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, delaying the planned tariff increase on certain imported household goods, such as upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities, by a year. However, delaying the tariff hikes doesn't eliminate the tariff completely. The current 25 per cent tariff will remain on certain upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities, as imposed under the September 25, 2025, Proclamation. “The United States continues to engage in productive negotiations with trade partners to address trade reciprocity and national security concerns with respect to imports of wood products. The United States will therefore delay the increase in tariff rates for upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities that was set to take place on January 1, 2026, under the September 29, 2025, Proclamation for an additional year,” read a White House Statement. Which countries will benefit? China- China is a major source of upholstered furniture and cabinets imported into the US. China's exports of furniture, lighting, signs, and prefabricated buildings to the United States were $31.65 bn during 2024. China exported approximately $8.039 bn worth of furniture in the first half of 2025. Vietnam- Vietnam's total export of furniture and wood products to the United States stood at $9.1 bn, nearly 50 per cent of the total furniture export. Malaysia- The US accounts for roughly 58-60 per cent of the wooden furniture export. In 2024, it stood at approximately $912.4 mn. Mexico- The value of total exports of furniture, lighting, signs, and prefabricated products was $11.96 bn in 2024. Canada- Canada exported roughly $5.5 bn worth of finished wood products to the US in 2024. European Union- A major exporter of luxury furniture and cabinetry worth appx. $31bn annually, out of which the US market accounts for $5.52bn. What does this mean for US companies? The US companies that sell upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities, such as Home Depot, Lowe's, and IKEA, are set to benefit from the delay in tariffs. Owners and shareholders of some of the companies, for example, Bernard “Bernie” Marcus, are loyal Republican donors. The delay in tariffs means they can avoid having to pay higher import taxes this year. That lowers costs for retailers and distributors, and may also mean more stable prices for US consumers in the short term.

Trump’s one-year tariff delay helps retailers avoid higher import taxes, lowers costs for distributors, and may keep prices stable for US consumers.

Trump delays tariffs on select products by a year: Which countries will benefit?

On Thursday (Jan 1), Russia accused Ukraine of a deadly drone attack in the southern Kherson region, which resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people, including a child. The strike hit a hotel and cafe where civilians had gathered to celebrate the New Year in a Russian-controlled area of the region. Ukraine’s military, which has accused Russian forces of similar acts against Ukrainian civilians, has yet to issue a public comment in response to the accusations.&nbsp;Vladimir Saldo, the Moscow-appointed head of the region, was the first to speak about the strike in an official statement. Russia’s Foreign Ministry and several high-ranking lawmakers later described the incident as a “terrorist attack” carried out by Ukraine. News agency Reuters said it could not independently confirm either the images released by Saldo’s press office or the claims surrounding the attack. The photographs showed at least one body covered by a white sheet, alongside heavy fire damage to the building and what appeared to be blood on the ground.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-praises-troops-hails-north-korea-s-invincible-alliance-with-russia-1767263998705">Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia</a>&nbsp;According to Saldo, three Ukrainian drones hit a hotel and cafe hosting New Year celebrations in the coastal village of Khorly. He described the strike as a deliberate attack on civilians and alleged that many victims were burned to death.Russia’s Foreign Ministry said preliminary reports indicated that 24 people, including a child, were killed, while about 50 others were injured. Among the injured were six minors who were receiving hospital treatment. The ministry said the drones had intentionally targeted a location where civilians had gathered to mark the New Year, labeling the incident a war crime.&nbsp;Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Telegram that Western countries supporting Ukraine shared responsibility for the attack. Senior Russian officials, including the heads of both chambers of parliament, also issued statements condemning Kyiv. Kherson is one of four Ukrainian regions that Russia declared as its own in 2022, a move rejected by Ukraine and widely condemned by Western governments as illegal.

Russia accuses Ukraine of carrying out a deadly drone attack in Kherson, killing at least 24 civilians, including a child, in a New Year's strike on a hotel and cafe

On Thursday (Jan 1), Russia accused Ukraine of a deadly drone attack in the southern Kherson region, which resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people, including a child. The strike hit a hotel and cafe where civilians had gathered to celebrate the New Year in a Russian-controlled area of the region. Ukraine’s military, which has accused Russian forces of similar acts against Ukrainian civilians, has yet to issue a public comment in response to the accusations. Vladimir Saldo, the Moscow-appointed head of the region, was the first to speak about the strike in an official statement. Russia’s Foreign Ministry and several high-ranking lawmakers later described the incident as a “terrorist attack” carried out by Ukraine. News agency Reuters said it could not independently confirm either the images released by Saldo’s press office or the claims surrounding the attack. The photographs showed at least one body covered by a white sheet, alongside heavy fire damage to the building and what appeared to be blood on the ground. Also Read: Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia According to Saldo, three Ukrainian drones hit a hotel and cafe hosting New Year celebrations in the coastal village of Khorly. He described the strike as a deliberate attack on civilians and alleged that many victims were burned to death. Russia’s Foreign Ministry said preliminary reports indicated that 24 people, including a child, were killed, while about 50 others were injured. Among the injured were six minors who were receiving hospital treatment. The ministry said the drones had intentionally targeted a location where civilians had gathered to mark the New Year, labeling the incident a war crime. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Telegram that Western countries supporting Ukraine shared responsibility for the attack. Senior Russian officials, including the heads of both chambers of parliament, also issued statements condemning Kyiv. Kherson is one of four Ukrainian regions that Russia declared as its own in 2022, a move rejected by Ukraine and widely condemned by Western governments as illegal.

Russia accuses Ukraine of carrying out a deadly drone attack in Kherson, killing at least 24 civilians, including a child, in a New Year's strike on a hotel and cafe

Russia accuses Ukraine of deadly New Year's drone attack in Kherson region

An Indian-American executive and investor named Deedy Das has ignited a heated online debate about Indians with civic sense, entitlement and public behaviour abroad. Das, a partner at Silicon Valley–based Menlo Ventures, described what he called an ‘insane experience’ while travelling on a cruise through Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its limestone karsts and tranquil waters. His post on X quickly went viral, drawing thousands of reactions ranging from sharp criticism to spirited defence of the women involved.&nbsp;<h2>A quiet lounge, then ‘Bollywood wife energy’</h2> In the post, Das recounted being aboard a Ha Long Bay cruise where the passengers were gathered in the vessel’s only public lounge to enjoy the scenery. According to the post, around ten families were seated quietly when ‘six aunties in their 50s’ entered the space. Das wrote that the group brought what he described as full ‘Bollywood wife’ energy, spending nearly an hour doing their makeup, taking ‘400 selfies’ and ‘talking at 90 decibels’ about their supposed acting careers.&nbsp;He also alleged that the women boasted of personal connections with Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor, despite, in his words, “never actually act[ing] in anything”, further in the post he added, “Think it can’t get worse….It gets worse.” According to the video, the women later began singing Bollywood songs at full volume inside the quiet lounge, leaving other passengers 'sitting in stunned silence' as other families exchanged disbelieving looks. Crew members also attempted to intervene, Deedy said, but were unsuccessful. ‘Aunties completely immune,’ Das wrote, attributing the episode to ‘main character syndrome.’

&nbsp;<h2>Social media backlash and pushback</h2> The post triggered a flood of reactions on X. One user commented, “Aunties making sure India’s civic sense image stays low in front of the world.” Another wrote, “Money can’t buy civic sense. Entitlement is very real.” A third remarked, “wow, that sounds rough. some people really don’t get the room vibe at all.”&nbsp;Others responded with sarcasm. “Noise-cancelling headphones + pretending to film a documentary about ‘human zoo behaviour’ would be my survival strategy,” one user quipped. Another said, “We Indians need to inculcate a mandatory civic sense subject starting from grade 1 now.”&nbsp;However, not everyone sided with Das, several users criticised him for filming or describing fellow passengers without consent. “Look! I’m so civilised. Recording others without their consent,” one wrote. Another commented, “Get a life and let them live a life,” while a third added, “The world won’t run according to you.”

Das wrote that the group brought what he described as full ‘Bollywood wife’ energy, spending nearly an hour doing their makeup, taking ‘400 selfies’ and ‘talking at 90 decibels’ about their supposed acting careers.

An Indian-American executive and investor named Deedy Das has ignited a heated online debate about Indians with civic sense, entitlement and public behaviour abroad. Das, a partner at Silicon Valley–based Menlo Ventures, described what he called an ‘insane experience’ while travelling on a cruise through Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its limestone karsts and tranquil waters. His post on X quickly went viral, drawing thousands of reactions ranging from sharp criticism to spirited defence of the women involved. A quiet lounge, then ‘Bollywood wife energy’ In the post, Das recounted being aboard a Ha Long Bay cruise where the passengers were gathered in the vessel’s only public lounge to enjoy the scenery. According to the post, around ten families were seated quietly when ‘six aunties in their 50s’ entered the space. Das wrote that the group brought what he described as full ‘Bollywood wife’ energy, spending nearly an hour doing their makeup, taking ‘400 selfies’ and ‘talking at 90 decibels’ about their supposed acting careers. He also alleged that the women boasted of personal connections with Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor, despite, in his words, “never actually act[ing] in anything”, further in the post he added, “Think it can’t get worse….It gets worse.” According to the video, the women later began singing Bollywood songs at full volume inside the quiet lounge, leaving other passengers 'sitting in stunned silence' as other families exchanged disbelieving looks. Crew members also attempted to intervene, Deedy said, but were unsuccessful. ‘Aunties completely immune,’ Das wrote, attributing the episode to ‘main character syndrome.’

Das wrote that the group brought what he described as full ‘Bollywood wife’ energy, spending nearly an hour doing their makeup, taking ‘400 selfies’ and ‘talking at 90 decibels’ about their supposed acting careers.

‘Is this real’: Indian-American exec’s viral post on loud ‘aunties’ disrupting Vietnam cruise sparks civic sense debate

The North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, has praised his troops fighting abroad as forging an “invincible alliance” with Russia in the New Year’s message, state media said on Thursday. According to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies, Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to support Russia’s nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine. At least 600 North Korean soldiers have died, and thousands more have sustained injuries, according to South Korean estimates. North Korea is said to be receiving financial aid, military technology, and food and energy supplies from Russia in return for the military assistance, say analysts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-vows-to-reunify-china-and-taiwan-urges-for-growth-in-new-year-s-eve-speech-1767193882182">Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech</a>&nbsp;Kim praised his soldiers fighting in an “alien land”, while hailing their “heroic” defence of the nation’s honour and instructing them to “be brave”, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow‘</h2>&nbsp;“As the whole country is enveloped in a festive atmosphere of greeting the new year, I all the more miss you, who are fighting bravely on the battlefields in the alien land even at this moment,” he said, according to KCNA.“Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow,” Kim added.&nbsp;The North Korean leader praised soldiers for strengthening the “invincible alliance” with Russia, calling on them to fight “for the fraternal Russian people”.Kim further hinted that more overseas action would take place this year, highlighting “remarkable feats you will perform on the overseas battlefields”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-and-burkina-faso-retaliate-to-trump-s-action-ban-entry-for-us-citizens-1767187487091">Mali and Burkina Faso retaliate to Trump’s action, ban entry for US citizens</a>&nbsp;Kim marked the new year with a lavish celebration and speech at Pyongyang’s May Day stadium, reported state media. Images shared by KCNA showed Kim accompanied by his wife, Ri Sol Ju, and his daughter Ju Ae, who is widely believed to be his likely successor.&nbsp;<h2>‘Soldiers told to kill themselves rather than be taken prisoners’</h2>&nbsp;North Korea’s deepening alliance with Russia has offered an economic lifeline to Kim’s regime and allowed him to rebuff US and South Korean overtures for dialogue.However, several accounts of the real situation paint a grim picture for the North Korean soldiers fighting the bloodiest war in Europe.Pyongyang has ordered its soldiers to kill themselves rather than be taken prisoner, according to South Korea’s intelligence service and accounts by two North Koreans captured by Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drdo-successfully-conducts-salvo-launch-of-indigenously-developed-pralay-missiles-off-odisha-coast-1767182736639">DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of indigenously developed Pralay missiles off Odisha coast</a>&nbsp;The two men, held captive by Kyiv since January 2025 after sustaining injuries on the battlefield, have expressed a desire to defect to the South.

North Korea’s deepening alliance with Russia has offered an economic lifeline to Kim’s regime and allowed him to rebuff US and South Korean overtures for dialogue. However, several accounts paint a grim picture for the North Korean soldiers fighting the bloodiest war in Europe.

The North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, has praised his troops fighting abroad as forging an “invincible alliance” with Russia in the New Year’s message, state media said on Thursday. According to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies, Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to support Russia’s nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine. At least 600 North Korean soldiers have died, and thousands more have sustained injuries, according to South Korean estimates. North Korea is said to be receiving financial aid, military technology, and food and energy supplies from Russia in return for the military assistance, say analysts. Also Read: Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech Kim praised his soldiers fighting in an “alien land”, while hailing their “heroic” defence of the nation’s honour and instructing them to “be brave”, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. ‘Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow‘ “As the whole country is enveloped in a festive atmosphere of greeting the new year, I all the more miss you, who are fighting bravely on the battlefields in the alien land even at this moment,” he said, according to KCNA. “Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow,” Kim added. The North Korean leader praised soldiers for strengthening the “invincible alliance” with Russia, calling on them to fight “for the fraternal Russian people”. Kim further hinted that more overseas action would take place this year, highlighting “remarkable feats you will perform on the overseas battlefields”. Also Read: Mali and Burkina Faso retaliate to Trump’s action, ban entry for US citizens Kim marked the new year with a lavish celebration and speech at Pyongyang’s May Day stadium, reported state media. Images shared by KCNA showed Kim accompanied by his wife, Ri Sol Ju, and his daughter Ju Ae, who is widely believed to be his likely successor. ‘Soldiers told to kill themselves rather than be taken prisoners’ North Korea’s deepening alliance with Russia has offered an economic lifeline to Kim’s regime and allowed him to rebuff US and South Korean overtures for dialogue. However, several accounts of the real situation paint a grim picture for the North Korean soldiers fighting the bloodiest war in Europe. Pyongyang has ordered its soldiers to kill themselves rather than be taken prisoner, according to South Korea’s intelligence service and accounts by two North Koreans captured by Ukraine. Also Read: DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of indigenously developed Pralay missiles off Odisha coast The two men, held captive by Kyiv since January 2025 after sustaining injuries on the battlefield, have expressed a desire to defect to the South.

North Korea’s deepening alliance with Russia has offered an economic lifeline to Kim’s regime and allowed him to rebuff US and South Korean overtures for dialogue. However, several accounts paint a grim picture for the North Korean soldiers fighting the bloodiest war in Europe.

Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia

2025 was the year of very heavy news items, from wars to shootings, and journalists covered them all. A new report has now revealed that 2025 was also a heavy year for journalism, with a total of 128 journalists killed around the world. More than half of these journalists were killed in the Middle East, according to a report by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) released on Thursday (Jan 1).<h2>128 journalists killed in 2025</h2>The IFJ said 128 journalists lost their lives this year, a sharp rise from 2024. Its general secretary, Anthony Bellanger, described the figure as more than just a body count. This "is not just a statistic," Bellanger told AFP. "It's a global red alert for our colleagues."The federation raised particular alarm about the Palestinian territories, where it recorded 56 journalists killed in 2025 as Israel's war with Hamas continued to devastate Gaza. "We've never seen anything like this," Bellanger said. "So many deaths in such a short time, in such a small area."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-maga-influencer-video-triggers-trump-funding-freeze-minnesota-somali-childcare-fraud-controversy-explained-1767169841087">Viral MAGA influencer video triggers Trump funding freeze: Minnesota 'Somali childcare fraud' controversy | EXPLAINED</a><h2>Not just Gaza</h2>Beyond Gaza, journalists were also killed in conflict zones and politically unstable regions, including Yemen, Ukraine, and Sudan. Others died in countries such as Peru and India, underscoring that the dangers facing reporters are not limited to active war zones.Bellanger warned that a culture of what he referred to as "impunity" continues to fuel attacks on the press. "Without justice, it allows the killers of journalists to thrive," he warned.<h2>Hundreds of journalists imprisoned for doing their job</h2>The IFJ's report also highlighted a parallel crisis unfolding behind bars. According to its data, 533 journalists are currently imprisoned worldwide, more than double the number recorded five years ago.China once again topped the list as the world's leading jailer of journalists, with 143 reporters detained. The figure includes journalists held in Hong Kong, where authorities have drawn criticism from Western governments over national security laws that critics say suppress dissent and press freedom.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298">Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell'</a>According to AFP, the IFJ methodology often produces higher death tolls than other watchdogs. This year's figure includes nine journalists who died in accidents. Other organisations reported lower numbers. Reporters Without Borders said 67 journalists were killed in the line of duty in 2025, while UNESCO put the total at 93.

A grim report shows 2025 was deadly for journalism, with 128 reporters killed worldwide. Over half died in the Middle East, many in Gaza. Hundreds more remain jailed, prompting warnings that attacks on the press are rising as "impunity" deepens.

2025 was the year of very heavy news items, from wars to shootings, and journalists covered them all. A new report has now revealed that 2025 was also a heavy year for journalism, with a total of 128 journalists killed around the world. More than half of these journalists were killed in the Middle East, according to a report by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) released on Thursday (Jan 1). 128 journalists killed in 2025 The IFJ said 128 journalists lost their lives this year, a sharp rise from 2024. Its general secretary, Anthony Bellanger, described the figure as more than just a body count. This "is not just a statistic," Bellanger told AFP. "It's a global red alert for our colleagues." The federation raised particular alarm about the Palestinian territories, where it recorded 56 journalists killed in 2025 as Israel's war with Hamas continued to devastate Gaza. "We've never seen anything like this," Bellanger said. "So many deaths in such a short time, in such a small area." Also read | Viral MAGA influencer video triggers Trump funding freeze: Minnesota 'Somali childcare fraud' controversy | EXPLAINED Not just Gaza Beyond Gaza, journalists were also killed in conflict zones and politically unstable regions, including Yemen, Ukraine, and Sudan. Others died in countries such as Peru and India, underscoring that the dangers facing reporters are not limited to active war zones. Bellanger warned that a culture of what he referred to as "impunity" continues to fuel attacks on the press. "Without justice, it allows the killers of journalists to thrive," he warned. Hundreds of journalists imprisoned for doing their job The IFJ's report also highlighted a parallel crisis unfolding behind bars. According to its data, 533 journalists are currently imprisoned worldwide, more than double the number recorded five years ago. China once again topped the list as the world's leading jailer of journalists, with 143 reporters detained. The figure includes journalists held in Hong Kong, where authorities have drawn criticism from Western governments over national security laws that critics say suppress dissent and press freedom. Also read | Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' According to AFP, the IFJ methodology often produces higher death tolls than other watchdogs. This year's figure includes nine journalists who died in accidents. Other organisations reported lower numbers. Reporters Without Borders said 67 journalists were killed in the line of duty in 2025, while UNESCO put the total at 93.

A grim report shows 2025 was deadly for journalism, with 128 reporters killed worldwide. Over half died in the Middle East, many in Gaza. Hundreds more remain jailed, prompting warnings that attacks on the press are rising as "impunity" deepens.

2025 deadliest year for journalists in recent memory, IFJ report finds

Bulgaria becomes the 21st country to ditch the national currency, the Bulgarian lev, to the euro as its legal tender on January 1, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in its integration with the European Union. The lev remains the legal tender in January until February 1, when the euro will become the sole official currency. The displays (lev and euro) will continue until August 2026. Until now, only six countries in the 27-member EU still use their own currencies: The Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Sweden.<h2>Why is it significant?</h2>Bulgaria became a member of the European Union on January 1, 2007. Now, 19 years after its political integration, this financial integration can be interpreted as a geopolitical and ideological signal to Russia at a volatile moment. The euro is "not just a currency but a strategic choice", said the Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov in November. He added that it strengthens Bulgaria's position in Europe.Bulgaria's past was tied to the Eastern Bloc in terms of the USSR's sphere of influence. Bulgaria's communist regime was entirely in sync with the East's leader in Moscow and was also a member of the Warsaw Pact and COMECON. At the end of the 80s, the USSR was engaged with problems from stagnation in the economy and opposition from the West in politics. Mikhail Gorbachev chose to abandon the Brezhnev Doctrine and show unwillingness to intervene by force to maintain the communist government in Bulgaria in power, and the result was a politically unstable nation. Centralised planning failed to adapt, and capitalist ideology swept in, making the Soviet model of economy obsolete. It propagated that liberal democracy was the natural endpoint of history.&nbsp;<h2>How is Bulgaria performing?</h2>However, political volatility still remains in Bulgaria; it has already held seven parliamentary elections since 2021. Bulgaria is amongst the poorest and most corrupt countries in the Eurozone. On December 11, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov resigned following mass protests against the 2026 budget and corruption allegations.&nbsp;Citizens are split about the Eurozone Accession between the pro-EU and Eurosceptic groups. Around 46.8 per cent of Bulgarians opposed the euro adoption, and 46.5 per cent supported it. Opponents argue that these will end the national identity, Bulgaria will remain at the periphery of the European Union and make it susceptible to economic shock. Supporters suggest that these will include them in the rich club and improve their living standard.&nbsp;"For such fundamental projects, the government of any democratic country takes into account the opinion of the public," Rossitsa Rangelova, professor at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences'&nbsp;Economic Research Institute, told DW, noting that "the Bulgarian authorities have categorically rejected referendums as a form of public opinion over the years and still find ways to ignore them."The Balkan country of 6.4 million people estimates a 3 per cent GDP growth by the end of 2025 and subsequently 2.7 per cent and 2.1 per cent in 2026 and 2027, respectively. The country has a sovereign debt-to-GDP ratio at about 26.3 per cent by Q2FY25, still among the lowest in the bloc, whereas the average sovereign debt for the EU is from 81-88 per cent, specifically owing to high debt countries like Greece, Italy, France, Belgium and Spain.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bulgaria becomes the 21st eurozone member in 2026. Why the euro shift is a geopolitical signal, how the economy is performing, and public concerns.

Bulgaria becomes the 21st country to ditch the national currency, the Bulgarian lev, to the euro as its legal tender on January 1, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in its integration with the European Union. The lev remains the legal tender in January until February 1, when the euro will become the sole official currency. The displays (lev and euro) will continue until August 2026. Until now, only six countries in the 27-member EU still use their own currencies: The Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Sweden. Why is it significant? Bulgaria became a member of the European Union on January 1, 2007. Now, 19 years after its political integration, this financial integration can be interpreted as a geopolitical and ideological signal to Russia at a volatile moment. The euro is "not just a currency but a strategic choice", said the Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov in November. He added that it strengthens Bulgaria's position in Europe. Bulgaria's past was tied to the Eastern Bloc in terms of the USSR's sphere of influence. Bulgaria's communist regime was entirely in sync with the East's leader in Moscow and was also a member of the Warsaw Pact and COMECON. At the end of the 80s, the USSR was engaged with problems from stagnation in the economy and opposition from the West in politics. Mikhail Gorbachev chose to abandon the Brezhnev Doctrine and show unwillingness to intervene by force to maintain the communist government in Bulgaria in power, and the result was a politically unstable nation. Centralised planning failed to adapt, and capitalist ideology swept in, making the Soviet model of economy obsolete. It propagated that liberal democracy was the natural endpoint of history. How is Bulgaria performing? However, political volatility still remains in Bulgaria; it has already held seven parliamentary elections since 2021. Bulgaria is amongst the poorest and most corrupt countries in the Eurozone. On December 11, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov resigned following mass protests against the 2026 budget and corruption allegations. Citizens are split about the Eurozone Accession between the pro-EU and Eurosceptic groups. Around 46.8 per cent of Bulgarians opposed the euro adoption, and 46.5 per cent supported it. Opponents argue that these will end the national identity, Bulgaria will remain at the periphery of the European Union and make it susceptible to economic shock. Supporters suggest that these will include them in the rich club and improve their living standard. "For such fundamental projects, the government of any democratic country takes into account the opinion of the public," Rossitsa Rangelova, professor at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences' Economic Research Institute, told DW, noting that "the Bulgarian authorities have categorically rejected referendums as a form of public opinion over the years and still find ways to ignore them." The Balkan country of 6.4 million people estimates a 3 per cent GDP growth by the end of 2025 and subsequently 2.7 per cent and 2.1 per cent in 2026 and 2027, respectively. The country has a sovereign debt-to-GDP ratio at about 26.3 per cent by Q2FY25, still among the lowest in the bloc, whereas the average sovereign debt for the EU is from 81-88 per cent, specifically owing to high debt countries like Greece, Italy, France, Belgium and Spain.

Bulgaria becomes the 21st eurozone member in 2026. Why the euro shift is a geopolitical signal, how the economy is performing, and public concerns.

Bulgaria adopts the Euro in 2026, becoming the 21st member of the Eurozone

Amid widespread protest in Iran, authorities said that a government building was attacked in the southern city of Fasa. According to the justice ministry’s Mizan news agency, several people damaged parts of the provincial governor’s office on Wednesday (Dec 31). Meanwhile, a member of &nbsp;Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has been killed on Thursday (Jan 1). The protest have swept across the country since last week. Hamed Ostovar, head of Fasa’s judiciary, said, “a portion of the governor’s office door and its glass were destroyed in an attack by a number of people”, adding that four suspects were arrested after police intervened. He said three police officers were injured. &nbsp;"A 21-year-old member of the Basij from the city of Kouhdasht was killed last night (Wednesday) by rioters while defending public order," the channel said, citing Said Pourali, the deputy governor of Lorestan Province.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 BREAKING NEWS – FASA | IRAN Protesters in Fasa are attempting to enter the Governorate building. <a href="https://t.co/EtUxC4K5tX">pic.twitter.com/EtUxC4K5tX</a>&mdash; Niyak Ghorbani (نیاک) (@GhorbaniiNiyak) <a href="https://twitter.com/GhorbaniiNiyak/status/2006311189567943003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran Protest</h2>Iranians have taken to street to protest against the economic collapse, and are demanding political regime change and personal freedom. The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low of approximately 1.45 million to 1 USD in December 2025, losing nearly half its value since the start of the year. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging by 72 per cent and medical goods by 50 per cent. The widespread protest also comes after a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase. Protests began on Sunday when the bazaari (merchant class) closed their shops and took to the streets. It expanded to Ahvaz, Hamadan, Qeshm, and Mashhad. Some videos also show protesters chanting slogans in support for Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah.&nbsp;As protest is escalating, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has appealed for unity. Speaking at a business forum in Tehran, Pezeshkian blamed foreign interference for the unrest. “We are in a situation where external pressures are being exerted by the country’s enemies and, unfortunately, within the country as well,” he said. The Iranian president went on to call for unity, saying the country was engaged in a “full-scale war”.“Right now, the enemy has placed most of its hopes on knocking us down through economic pressure. You cannot conquer a nation with bombs, fighter jets, or missiles,” he said. “And if they were to confront this nation on the ground, if we remain determined, united, and committed to working together to make our country proud, it would be impossible for them to bring Iran to its knees,” he added.<h2>Reza Pahlavi calls for end of regime</h2>In a social media post, Pahlavi said that it is time to end the “46 years of terror and chaos by the regime” and backed the protests erupting throughout the country. He urged the international community to back the people of Iran, claiming that the current regime under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is “most fragile, weak, deeply divided, and unable to suppress the courage of a rising nation.” Terming it as the “tide of history” that is turning, he said that Iranians fighting for freedom will win.&nbsp;Earlier he said, “I send my greetings to you, the bazaar merchants, and the people who have taken the streets into their own hands,” Reza Pahlavi stated in a video message. “As long as this regime remains in power, the country’s economic situation will continue to deteriorate. Today is a time for greater solidarity. I call on all segments of society to join your fellow citizens in the streets and raise your voices demanding the downfall of this system," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Protests in Iran intensified after a government building was attacked in Fasa and a Basij paramilitary member was killed. Demonstrations, sparked by economic collapse, soaring inflation and tax hikes, have spread nationwide. 

Amid widespread protest in Iran, authorities said that a government building was attacked in the southern city of Fasa. According to the justice ministry’s Mizan news agency, several people damaged parts of the provincial governor’s office on Wednesday (Dec 31). Meanwhile, a member of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has been killed on Thursday (Jan 1). The protest have swept across the country since last week. Hamed Ostovar, head of Fasa’s judiciary, said, “a portion of the governor’s office door and its glass were destroyed in an attack by a number of people”, adding that four suspects were arrested after police intervened. He said three police officers were injured. "A 21-year-old member of the Basij from the city of Kouhdasht was killed last night (Wednesday) by rioters while defending public order," the channel said, citing Said Pourali, the deputy governor of Lorestan Province.

Protests in Iran intensified after a government building was attacked in Fasa and a Basij paramilitary member was killed. Demonstrations, sparked by economic collapse, soaring inflation and tax hikes, have spread nationwide.&nbsp;

Iran protest intensifies: Protesters try to break into government building, Revolutionary Guard volunteer killed

Ukraine did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, a US intelligence report has determined. The report by the CIA counters Russian claims that Kyiv targeted Putin's house in Russia's north using drones. Notably, the assertion was also made by Putin during a call with US President Trump, who responded to the claims by saying that he "couldn’t even imagine such crazy actions" and added that the alleged incident would inevitably affect Washington's approach toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. &nbsp;<h2>CIA findings clear Ukraine's name</h2>According to reports, CIA Director John Ratcliffe briefed Trump on the agency's findings on Wednesday (Dec 31). Ratcliffe told Trump that the CIA did not believe that the allegations raised publicly by Putin were true.The Wall Street Journal reports that the US instead found that Ukraine had been seeking to strike a military target located in the same region as Putin's country residence. However, as per officials, the target was not close to the residence.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-russia-peace-deal-is-90-percent-ready-warns-final-10-gap-is-critical-1767241984714">Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90% ready, warns final gap critical</a><h2>Trump concedes maybe Ukraine didn't attack Putin's house</h2>Following his briefing by the CIA director, Trump on X posted a link to a New York Post editorial titled "Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace," that states that the alleged Ukraine attack likely didn't happen.Earlier, according to a Kremlin readout released after Putin-Trump phone call, the POTUS said he was "shocked" and "literally outraged" by the alleged drone strike against a residence linked to the Russian presidency. Reportedly, Trump also told the Russian president that he was glad, "the current administration hasn’t given 'Tomahawks'."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-say-he-s-glad-us-didn-t-give-ukraine-tomahawks-after-putin-alleges-drone-attack-on-residence-1767063879561">Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence?</a>Trump later confirmed the call, describing it as "a very good talk," while acknowledging that several "thorny issues" remained unresolved. Speaking to reporters, he said he was "very angry" when Putin raised the alleged attack, arguing that targeting a leader's residence crossed a different line than battlefield operations. He said it was one thing to "be offensive" and another "to attack his (Putin's) house".However, even at that time, Trump conceded that the Russian claim might not be accurate. When asked whether US intelligence had verified the incident, he had said it was "possible" the attack did not happen as described.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-ukraine-targeted-putin-s-home-1767236777072/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-ukraine-targeted-putin-s-home-1767236777072/embed</a>&nbsp;

US intelligence has debunked Vladimir Putin’s claim that Ukraine targeted his residence, undercutting a charge he personally raised with Donald Trump. Here's what the CIA found.

Ukraine did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, a US intelligence report has determined. The report by the CIA counters Russian claims that Kyiv targeted Putin's house in Russia's north using drones. Notably, the assertion was also made by Putin during a call with US President Trump, who responded to the claims by saying that he "couldn’t even imagine such crazy actions" and added that the alleged incident would inevitably affect Washington's approach toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. CIA findings clear Ukraine's name According to reports, CIA Director John Ratcliffe briefed Trump on the agency's findings on Wednesday (Dec 31). Ratcliffe told Trump that the CIA did not believe that the allegations raised publicly by Putin were true. The Wall Street Journal reports that the US instead found that Ukraine had been seeking to strike a military target located in the same region as Putin's country residence. However, as per officials, the target was not close to the residence. Also read | Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90% ready, warns final gap critical Trump concedes maybe Ukraine didn't attack Putin's house Following his briefing by the CIA director, Trump on X posted a link to a New York Post editorial titled "Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace," that states that the alleged Ukraine attack likely didn't happen. Earlier, according to a Kremlin readout released after Putin-Trump phone call, the POTUS said he was "shocked" and "literally outraged" by the alleged drone strike against a residence linked to the Russian presidency. Reportedly, Trump also told the Russian president that he was glad, "the current administration hasn’t given 'Tomahawks'." Also read | Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence? Trump later confirmed the call, describing it as "a very good talk," while acknowledging that several "thorny issues" remained unresolved. Speaking to reporters, he said he was "very angry" when Putin raised the alleged attack, arguing that targeting a leader's residence crossed a different line than battlefield operations. He said it was one thing to "be offensive" and another "to attack his (Putin's) house". However, even at that time, Trump conceded that the Russian claim might not be accurate. When asked whether US intelligence had verified the incident, he had said it was "possible" the attack did not happen as described. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-ukraine-targeted-putin-s-home-1767236777072/embed

US intelligence has debunked Vladimir Putin’s claim that Ukraine targeted his residence, undercutting a charge he personally raised with Donald Trump. Here's what the CIA found.

CIA debunks Russian claims, says Ukraine did not attack Vladimir Putin’s house

A massive fire broke out in Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, on Thursday night (January 1, 2026). Amid the fire, the 150-year-old Vondelkerk Church was engulfed in flames, as per the report by the Lokmak Times &amp; Travel and Tour World. The blaze came to light around 2:30 a.m. local time at the century-old church located on Vondelstraat in the city.&nbsp;In response to the flame, emergency services reached the spot immediately. Initially, the fire began on the church roof and quickly spread throughout the entire building. Several videos surfaced on social media showing the scale of the blaze covering the church.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Vondel Church in Amsterdam Once your culture is gone, it’s not coming back. <a href="https://t.co/dDFN1gI49L">pic.twitter.com/dDFN1gI49L</a>&mdash; 🏛Architectolder (@Architectolder) <a href="https://twitter.com/Architectolder/status/2006592279860187188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A fire department spokesperson said that all efforts were being made to save what is still left. “But yes, you can still see the wind, the flames, the sparks coming off. Right now, we're really focusing on saving what's still standing. But it’s happening very quickly,” the spokesperson added.<h3>Emergency evacuations were carried out</h3>He further said the tower gave way and crashed into the centre of the church, triggering fires in other sections of the structure. Authorities immediately focused on safeguarding the public. Amsterdam’s emergency management agency, which oversees the coordination of first responders, issued alerts to people living near the blaze.&nbsp;Residents were urged to shut doors and windows and steer clear of areas strewn with debris, as sparks from the ageing wooden building threatened nearby properties and passersby. Given the volatile nature of the fire, emergency evacuations were carried out. Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema said several homes around Vondelstraat were cleared as the damaged church structure posed a serious safety hazard.&nbsp;Several media reports confirmed that firefighters and emergency personnel put their efforts through the night to bring the situation under control and prevent the flames from spreading to residential areas.

Initially, the fire began on the church roof and quickly spread throughout the entire building. Several videos surfaced on social media showing the scale of the blaze covering the church.

A massive fire broke out in Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, on Thursday night (January 1, 2026). Amid the fire, the 150-year-old Vondelkerk Church was engulfed in flames, as per the report by the Lokmak Times & Travel and Tour World. The blaze came to light around 2:30 a.m. local time at the century-old church located on Vondelstraat in the city. In response to the flame, emergency services reached the spot immediately. Initially, the fire began on the church roof and quickly spread throughout the entire building. Several videos surfaced on social media showing the scale of the blaze covering the church.

Initially, the fire began on the church roof and quickly spread throughout the entire building. Several videos surfaced on social media showing the scale of the blaze covering the church.

Massive fire engulfs Amsterdam's 150-year-old Vondelkerk Church on New Year

Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, exited as CEO of the American holding company Berkshire Hathaway at the age of 95, after a 60-year tenure, as was planned on the last day of 2025. The legendary investor and philanthropist will remain as the company’s chairman. In his final Thanksgiving letter to shareholders on 10 November he had said “As the British would say, I’m ‘going quiet.’ Sort of.” Buffett will also stop writing Berkshire’s annual reports and ‘talking endlessly’ at shareholder meetings, having transformed what was once a struggling textile company into a $1 trillion-plus conglomerate.<h2>Not a complete withdrawal: What Warren Buffet said on his exit as CEO</h2>On his health, Buffett, who will continue annual Thanksgiving messages to shareholders and his children, had said: “To my surprise, I generally feel good. Though I move slowly and read with increasing difficulty, I am at the office five days a week where I work with wonderful people.”Reflecting on his 60-year journey, Buffett reminisced about his partnership with Charlie Munger, who passed in 2023, and key investment moves, like taking a stake in insurance firm GEICO.“Decide what you would like your obituary to say and live the life to deserve it,” he said in his final ‘Thanksgiving letter’, asking leaders to prioritise legacy over short-term gains.<h2>What will Buffett do now?</h2>Besides continuing as Berkshire chariman, Buffett, who holds about $149 billion in its stock, plans to donate the vast majority of it before his death. He converted 1,800 Class A shares into Class B shares - a category he had introduced - for distribution to four family foundations: The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, The Sherwood Foundation, The Howard G Buffett Foundation, and NoVo Foundation.<h2>Who will succeed Buffett?</h2>Greg Abel will now take over as the CEO of Berkshire. “He has more than met the high expectations I had for him when I first thought he should be Berkshire’s next CEO,” Buffett said.Abel, a Canadian accountant, joined Berkshire in 2000 via its acquisition of MidAmerican Energy and has overseen non-insurance units.As Buffet leaves, Berkshire is sitting on a large cash pile but he had words of caution: “No matter how serene today may be, tomorrow is always uncertain.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/warren-buffett-invests-4-3-billion-in-alphabet-inc-as-google-parent-stock-dances-to-new-highs-1763361155203">Warren Buffett invests $4.3 billion in Alphabet Inc as Google parent stock dances to new highs</a><h2>Warren Buffett: Life and investment career&nbsp;</h2>Warren Edward Buffett was born on 30 August 1930 in Omaha, Nebraska, during the Great Depression to a US congressman and stockbroker, Howard Homan Buffett. He bought his first stock, of Cities Service, at the age of 11, and filed his first tax return at 13, famously deducting his bicycle as a work expense.By high school, Buffett ran ventures like newspaper delivery and pinball machines, earning $5,000.Buffett attended the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business but transferred to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, graduating at 19 with a business degree. He earned a master’s in economics from Columbia Business School in 1951, studying under Benjamin Graham, who is known as the father of value investing.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/warren-buffett-confirms-ceo-transition-timeline-1762838597589/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/warren-buffett-confirms-ceo-transition-timeline-1762838597589/embed</a>Buffett followed Graham’s principles such as buying undervalued stocks with a “margin of safety”. He worked at Buffett-Falk &amp; Co. and as a securities analyst at Graham-Newman Corp until Graham’s retirement.In 1956, aged 25, Buffet launched Buffett Partnership Ltd in Omaha with $105,100. He made annualised returns of 29.5 per cent through 1969. He dissolved the partnerships in 1969 and returned capital to investors.<h2>How Warren Buffett turned around Berkshire Hathaway</h2>What is now Berkshire Hathaway is a New England firm that started in 1839 as a textile manufacturer named Valley Falls Company. It was declining in the 1960s due to foreign competition. In 1962, Buffett started buying shares in Berkshire Hathaway. He gained control of the company by 1965, and ousted the management after a dispute over a tender offer. From textiles, Buffett moved the company to insurance, acquiring National Indemnity in 1967. Berkshire's initial acquisitions were See’s Candies and Buffalo Evening News, starting a period of buying “wonderful businesses at fair prices.”His major investments and acquisitions include Coca-Cola, GEICO, BNSF Railway, and stakes in Apple, making an unexpected tech play. Other acquisitions such as Nebraska Furniture Mart, Borsheims, Precision Castparts and Duracell also bore frruit for Berkshire.Under Buffett, Berkshire shares rose dramatically over decades. By 2025, Berkshire Hathaway became one of the first non-tech American companies to hit a $1 trillion market capitalisation. At the close of the year, its Class A shares were trading around $755,400. That's a massive growth from 1965’s $19 per share.Berkshire outperformed the S&amp;P index in many of the years through 2023. Today, it is a diversified conglomerate including insurance, railroads, energy and consumer goods with about 400,000 employees. &nbsp;Buffett’s annual letters to shareholders, and speeches, became investing gospel, where he blended humour, lessons, and transparency.<h2>Buffett lived frugally even as he was among the world’s richest</h2>Buffett’s net worth has been among the highest in the world, peaking near $150 billion in late 2025, making him among the top 10 richest people globally. But he never showed off his wealth, living frugally in his 1958 Omaha home, and drawing a modest salary. He chose long-term value investing, compound interest, and ethical management over aggressive trade practices.He has donated billions via the Giving Pledge initiative since 2010.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/-playing-with-fire-is-us-stock-market-going-to-crash-warren-buffet-s-indicator-says-yes-1761205822466">‘Playing with fire’: Is US stock market going to crash? Warren Buffet's indicator says yes..</a><h2>Who will lead Berkshire now?</h2>Greg Abel, a Canadian accountant who joined Berkshire in 2000 via MidAmerican Energy, which is now Berkshire Hathaway Energy, rose to leadership in 2008 and was named Buffett’s successor in 2021, officially becoming CEO from New Year's Day of &nbsp;January 2026. Investment duties will primarily go to Ted Weschler and Todd Combs, who have been portfolio managers since around 2010. Ajit Jain remains vice chairman of insurance.Buffett will stay as chairman, ensuring continuity.

Warren Buffett steps down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway after 60 years. What will he do next and who will succeed him at the firm that has topped $1 trillion market cap?


Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, exited as CEO of the American holding company Berkshire Hathaway at the age of 95, after a 60-year tenure, as was planned on the last day of 2025. The legendary investor and philanthropist will remain as the company’s chairman. In his final Thanksgiving letter to shareholders on 10 November he had said “As the British would say, I’m ‘going quiet.’ Sort of.” Buffett will also stop writing Berkshire’s annual reports and ‘talking endlessly’ at shareholder meetings, having transformed what was once a struggling textile company into a $1 trillion-plus conglomerate. Not a complete withdrawal: What Warren Buffet said on his exit as CEO On his health, Buffett, who will continue annual Thanksgiving messages to shareholders and his children, had said: “To my surprise, I generally feel good. Though I move slowly and read with increasing difficulty, I am at the office five days a week where I work with wonderful people.” Reflecting on his 60-year journey, Buffett reminisced about his partnership with Charlie Munger, who passed in 2023, and key investment moves, like taking a stake in insurance firm GEICO. “Decide what you would like your obituary to say and live the life to deserve it,” he said in his final ‘Thanksgiving letter’, asking leaders to prioritise legacy over short-term gains. What will Buffett do now? Besides continuing as Berkshire chariman, Buffett, who holds about $149 billion in its stock, plans to donate the vast majority of it before his death. He converted 1,800 Class A shares into Class B shares - a category he had introduced - for distribution to four family foundations: The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, The Sherwood Foundation, The Howard G Buffett Foundation, and NoVo Foundation. Who will succeed Buffett? Greg Abel will now take over as the CEO of Berkshire. “He has more than met the high expectations I had for him when I first thought he should be Berkshire’s next CEO,” Buffett said. Abel, a Canadian accountant, joined Berkshire in 2000 via its acquisition of MidAmerican Energy and has overseen non-insurance units. As Buffet leaves, Berkshire is sitting on a large cash pile but he had words of caution: “No matter how serene today may be, tomorrow is always uncertain.” Also read: Warren Buffett invests $4.3 billion in Alphabet Inc as Google parent stock dances to new highs Warren Buffett: Life and investment career Warren Edward Buffett was born on 30 August 1930 in Omaha, Nebraska, during the Great Depression to a US congressman and stockbroker, Howard Homan Buffett. He bought his first stock, of Cities Service, at the age of 11, and filed his first tax return at 13, famously deducting his bicycle as a work expense. By high school, Buffett ran ventures like newspaper delivery and pinball machines, earning $5,000. Buffett attended the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business but transferred to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, graduating at 19 with a business degree. He earned a master’s in economics from Columbia Business School in 1951, studying under Benjamin Graham, who is known as the father of value investing. https://www.wionews.com/videos/warren-buffett-confirms-ceo-transition-timeline-1762838597589/embed Buffett followed Graham’s principles such as buying undervalued stocks with a “margin of safety”. He worked at Buffett-Falk & Co. and as a securities analyst at Graham-Newman Corp until Graham’s retirement. In 1956, aged 25, Buffet launched Buffett Partnership Ltd in Omaha with $105,100. He made annualised returns of 29.5 per cent through 1969. He dissolved the partnerships in 1969 and returned capital to investors. How Warren Buffett turned around Berkshire Hathaway What is now Berkshire Hathaway is a New England firm that started in 1839 as a textile manufacturer named Valley Falls Company. It was declining in the 1960s due to foreign competition. In 1962, Buffett started buying shares in Berkshire Hathaway. He gained control of the company by 1965, and ousted the management after a dispute over a tender offer. From textiles, Buffett moved the company to insurance, acquiring National Indemnity in 1967. Berkshire's initial acquisitions were See’s Candies and Buffalo Evening News, starting a period of buying “wonderful businesses at fair prices.” His major investments and acquisitions include Coca-Cola, GEICO, BNSF Railway, and stakes in Apple, making an unexpected tech play. Other acquisitions such as Nebraska Furniture Mart, Borsheims, Precision Castparts and Duracell also bore frruit for Berkshire. Under Buffett, Berkshire shares rose dramatically over decades. By 2025, Berkshire Hathaway became one of the first non-tech American companies to hit a $1 trillion market capitalisation. At the close of the year, its Class A shares were trading around $755,400. That's a massive growth from 1965’s $19 per share. Berkshire outperformed the S&P index in many of the years through 2023. Today, it is a diversified conglomerate including insurance, railroads, energy and consumer goods with about 400,000 employees. Buffett’s annual letters to shareholders, and speeches, became investing gospel, where he blended humour, lessons, and transparency. Buffett lived frugally even as he was among the world’s richest Buffett’s net worth has been among the highest in the world, peaking near $150 billion in late 2025, making him among the top 10 richest people globally. But he never showed off his wealth, living frugally in his 1958 Omaha home, and drawing a modest salary. He chose long-term value investing, compound interest, and ethical management over aggressive trade practices. He has donated billions via the Giving Pledge initiative since 2010. Also read: ‘Playing with fire’: Is US stock market going to crash? Warren Buffet's indicator says yes.. Who will lead Berkshire now? Greg Abel, a Canadian accountant who joined Berkshire in 2000 via MidAmerican Energy, which is now Berkshire Hathaway Energy, rose to leadership in 2008 and was named Buffett’s successor in 2021, officially becoming CEO from New Year's Day of January 2026. Investment duties will primarily go to Ted Weschler and Todd Combs, who have been portfolio managers since around 2010. Ajit Jain remains vice chairman of insurance. Buffett will stay as chairman, ensuring continuity.

Warren Buffett steps down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway after 60 years. What will he do next and who will succeed him at the firm that has topped $1 trillion market cap? &nbsp;

Warren Buffett exits as Berkshire Hathaway CEO. What happens next as the Oracle of Omaha ‘goes quiet, sort of’?

US President Donald Trump hosted a New Year's Eve party at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, on December 31, 2025. In the event, artist Vanessa Horabuena created a “speed painting” of Jesus of Nazareth. Trump, 79, a former TV Show host, is very familiar with entertaining a crowd. He stood next to Vanessa as he was seen humouring the crowd. The painting was reportedly sold at $2.75 mn, and half the proceeds from the painting will go to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital, while the other half will go to the local sheriff's office.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 NOW: President Trump just had an artist paint Jesus Christ at Mar-a-Lago on New Year&#39;s Eve America is a CHRISTIAN nation. 🇺🇸🙏🏻 TRUMP: &quot;Was that AMAZING!&quot; <a href="https://t.co/WDUIvwTDrD">pic.twitter.com/WDUIvwTDrD</a>&mdash; Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) <a href="https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/2006546347109871798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 JUST IN: AUCTIONEER President Trump at Mar-a-Lago for the painting of Jesus Christ, for charity and the sheriff &quot;$2 million, whoa! $2 million. I&#39;ll sign it, if you&#39;ll give MORE!&quot; 🤣 &quot;Any other bids? $2.5 million! Going once? $2.75 million!&quot; &quot;$2.75M. Do I hear a $3M?&quot; &quot;Yes?… <a href="https://t.co/uCMYKjV5fi">pic.twitter.com/uCMYKjV5fi</a>&mdash; Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) <a href="https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/2006548985033433517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump reportedly began the bidding at “one million dollars” and then encouraged attendees to go higher. Soon enough, another attendee raised it to “two million dollars”.“You see what I mean when I tell you these people? And yet that’s peanuts,” Encouraging further bids, he added, “Anybody, I’ll sign it if you give more. Okay? Any other bids?” said Trump. Then someone bid two million, five hundred thousand dollars; Trump joked it was "five million".&nbsp;"Uh, Eddie, we have two million, five. Two million, five. Anybody up here? You see what happens here, John? How about that for entertainment? How is that as entertainment? We can have great musicians, everything else.’” The bidding continued, and Trump heaped praises on the artist, &nbsp;“She did something for us last night. She created a work of art. It was so incredible. I said, 'Could you come and do it again?' Right, John? And she was a hit. Do you notice? I said, 'No, let him stand on the floor.' Not one person left the floor.”&nbsp;He then invited the artist Vabessa to stay and joked that these attendees have a lot of cash. The painting was then sold for $2.75 mn. He then invited the winning bidder to come up to the stage. Trump then spoke to the reporter with First Lady Melania Trump by his side. When asked about what his New Year's resolution is, he replied, “Peace on earth.”&nbsp;

Donald Trump auctioned a live painting of Jesus at his Mar-a-Lago New Year’s Eve party, raising $2.75 million for charity, including St. Jude’s.

US President Donald Trump hosted a New Year's Eve party at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, on December 31, 2025. In the event, artist Vanessa Horabuena created a “speed painting” of Jesus of Nazareth. Trump, 79, a former TV Show host, is very familiar with entertaining a crowd. He stood next to Vanessa as he was seen humouring the crowd. The painting was reportedly sold at $2.75 mn, and half the proceeds from the painting will go to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital, while the other half will go to the local sheriff's office.

Donald Trump auctioned a live painting of Jesus at his Mar-a-Lago New Year’s Eve party, raising $2.75 million for charity, including St. Jude’s.

Trump auctions painting of Jesus at Mar-a-Lago New Year’s Eve party, raises millions for charity

Several people were killed, and many others were injured, as an explosion ripped through a bar in the luxury Alpine ski resort town of Crans Montana, Swiss police said early Thursday. While the Swiss police is yet to release an official death toll, the Italian foreign ministry, citing the Swiss police, says they believe around 40 people have died. The explosion, which police say was of “unknown origin”, happened during New Year celebrations. Talking to the press, Gaetan Lathion, a police spokesman in Wallis canton in southwestern Switzerland, said, "There are several injured, and several dead."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-russia-peace-deal-is-90-percent-ready-warns-final-10-gap-is-critical-1767241984714">Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90% ready, warns final gap critical</a><h2>What happened?</h2>Lathion told AFP that around 1:30 am (0030 GMT) an explosion happened in a bar called Le Constellation, which is popular with tourists, as revellers rang in the new year. Images published by Swiss media showed a building in flames, and emergency services nearby. "The intervention is still ongoing," he said."Several people lost their lives and others were injured," the police statement said, describing the incident as "serious" and adding that "a major emergency response is underway".According to the Italian Foreign Ministry, which cited Swiss police, they think about 40 people have died.Visuals being shared online show smoke billowing out of the building. Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Explosion in a bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, leaves several dead and injured. The police of the canton of Valais are investigating the origin of the incident that occurred this morning. &quot;There are several injured and dead,&quot; confirmed spokesperson Gaëtan Lathon. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Switzerland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Switzerland</a> <a href="https://t.co/luvjCj8Fil">pic.twitter.com/luvjCj8Fil</a>&mdash; PRATEEK BAJPAI (@prateekbajpai07) <a href="https://twitter.com/prateekbajpai07/status/2006609491614380199?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cia-says-ukraine-did-not-attack-vladimir-putin-s-house-contradicts-russian-claims-1767252766969">CIA debunks Russian claims, says Ukraine did not attack Vladimir Putin’s house</a>Swiss media reports suggest that the explosion may have been triggered by pyrotechnics, which were used during a concert. However, police said the cause was unknown and under investigation.<h2>Death toll</h2>While the exact death toll is yet to be announced, police told local media that more than 100 people were in the bar at the time of the explosion. According to a BBC report, a no-fly zone is in place as authorities stage a major emergency response involving police, fire and rescue services.&nbsp;

A deadly explosion tore through a packed bar in Switzerland’s luxury ski resort in Crans Montana during New Year celebrations. With more than 100 people inside, several were killed and many injured. The cause remains unknown as emergency crews battle flames.

Several people were killed, and many others were injured, as an explosion ripped through a bar in the luxury Alpine ski resort town of Crans Montana, Swiss police said early Thursday. While the Swiss police is yet to release an official death toll, the Italian foreign ministry, citing the Swiss police, says they believe around 40 people have died. The explosion, which police say was of “unknown origin”, happened during New Year celebrations. Talking to the press, Gaetan Lathion, a police spokesman in Wallis canton in southwestern Switzerland, said, "There are several injured, and several dead." Also read | Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90% ready, warns final gap critical What happened? Lathion told AFP that around 1:30 am (0030 GMT) an explosion happened in a bar called Le Constellation, which is popular with tourists, as revellers rang in the new year. Images published by Swiss media showed a building in flames, and emergency services nearby. "The intervention is still ongoing," he said. "Several people lost their lives and others were injured," the police statement said, describing the incident as "serious" and adding that "a major emergency response is underway".According to the Italian Foreign Ministry, which cited Swiss police, they think about 40 people have died. Visuals being shared online show smoke billowing out of the building. Watch it here:

A deadly explosion tore through a packed bar in Switzerland’s luxury ski resort in Crans Montana during New Year celebrations. With more than 100 people inside, several were killed and many injured. The cause remains unknown as emergency crews battle flames.

At least 40 feared dead as explosion rips through New Year crowd at Swiss ski resort

Amid escalating tensions with China, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Thursday (Jan 1) that the island is determined to defend its sovereignty and boost its defence. This comes after China's military drills &nbsp;named "Justice Mission 2025" around Taiwan and Chinese President Xi Jinping's reunification message. The Chinese manoeuvres began 11 days after the United States had announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan. China's military said for the first time that the drills were aimed at deterring outside intervention. Lai said in a New Year's speech broadcast live from the presidential office in Taipei that the international community is watching to see whether the Taiwanese people possess the resolve to defend themselves. China was quick in slamming Lai's speech claiming that it was 'filled with lies.'&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-lauds-india-for-surpassing-japan-becoming-world-s-fourth-largest-economy-1767177928026">China lauds India for surpassing Japan, becoming world's fourth largest economy</a>&nbsp;"As president, my stance has always been clear: to resolutely defend national sovereignty and strengthen national defence," Lai said, noting China had targeted Taiwan's newly added combat capabilities as a "hypothetical adversary" in their drills this week. He said that demonstrated the need for increasing defence procurement, urging opposition parties to support his plan to boost Taiwan's defence spending by $40 billion, a proposal currently stuck alongside other issues in a political deadlock in the opposition-controlled parliament. "Whether China can achieve its goals on schedule is one thing," Lai said when asked about a US report saying China was preparing to have the capability to win a fight for Taiwan by 2027. "The coming year, 2026, will be a crucial one for Taiwan," he said, adding Taiwan must “make plans for the worst, but hope for the best.” “We are willing to engage in exchanges and cooperation with China on an equal and dignified basis, promoting a peaceful and shared environment across the strait. As long as China acknowledges the existence of the Republic of China, respects the Taiwanese people's desire for a democratic and free way of life.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-fm-wangi-yi-echoes-trump-s-claims-on-ending-india-pak-tensions-1767191764680">Chinese FM Wangi Yi echoes Trump's claims on ending India-Pak tensions</a><h2>Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan</h2>In his annual New Year’s Eve speech in Beijing, China’s president, Xi Jinping, on Wednesday vowed to reunify China and Taiwan. Speaking a day after intense Chinese military drills around Taiwan concluded, Xi said, “The reunification of our motherland, a trend of the times, is unstoppable.” China claims Taiwan, a self-governing island, as part of its territory and has long vowed to annex it, using force if necessary. In his annual televised New Year’s speech, Xi also hailed the advancements in AI, chip development, aerospace, and military technology and urged the country to intensify efforts to boost economic growth.

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te vowed to defend the island’s sovereignty amid China’s “Justice Mission 2025” military drills and Xi Jinping’s reunification push. Calling 2026 a crucial year, Lai urged higher defence spending, while Beijing slammed his speech as “full of lies.”

Amid escalating tensions with China, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Thursday (Jan 1) that the island is determined to defend its sovereignty and boost its defence. This comes after China's military drills named "Justice Mission 2025" around Taiwan and Chinese President Xi Jinping's reunification message. The Chinese manoeuvres began 11 days after the United States had announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan. China's military said for the first time that the drills were aimed at deterring outside intervention. Lai said in a New Year's speech broadcast live from the presidential office in Taipei that the international community is watching to see whether the Taiwanese people possess the resolve to defend themselves. China was quick in slamming Lai's speech claiming that it was 'filled with lies.' Also Read: China lauds India for surpassing Japan, becoming world's fourth largest economy "As president, my stance has always been clear: to resolutely defend national sovereignty and strengthen national defence," Lai said, noting China had targeted Taiwan's newly added combat capabilities as a "hypothetical adversary" in their drills this week. He said that demonstrated the need for increasing defence procurement, urging opposition parties to support his plan to boost Taiwan's defence spending by $40 billion, a proposal currently stuck alongside other issues in a political deadlock in the opposition-controlled parliament. "Whether China can achieve its goals on schedule is one thing," Lai said when asked about a US report saying China was preparing to have the capability to win a fight for Taiwan by 2027. "The coming year, 2026, will be a crucial one for Taiwan," he said, adding Taiwan must “make plans for the worst, but hope for the best.” “We are willing to engage in exchanges and cooperation with China on an equal and dignified basis, promoting a peaceful and shared environment across the strait. As long as China acknowledges the existence of the Republic of China, respects the Taiwanese people's desire for a democratic and free way of life.” Also Read: Chinese FM Wangi Yi echoes Trump's claims on ending India-Pak tensions Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan In his annual New Year’s Eve speech in Beijing, China’s president, Xi Jinping, on Wednesday vowed to reunify China and Taiwan. Speaking a day after intense Chinese military drills around Taiwan concluded, Xi said, “The reunification of our motherland, a trend of the times, is unstoppable.” China claims Taiwan, a self-governing island, as part of its territory and has long vowed to annex it, using force if necessary. In his annual televised New Year’s speech, Xi also hailed the advancements in AI, chip development, aerospace, and military technology and urged the country to intensify efforts to boost economic growth.

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te vowed to defend the island’s sovereignty amid China’s “Justice Mission 2025” military drills and Xi Jinping’s reunification push. Calling 2026 a crucial year, Lai urged higher defence spending, while Beijing slammed his speech as “full of lies.”

Taiwan vows to defend 'national sovereignty' after Xi Jinping's unification call; China hits back

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic Socialist who made headlines for his mayoral campaign, has been sworn in as New York mayor for a four-year term. The 34-year-old Democrat took his oath of office at an abandoned subway stop under City Hall just after midnight to take the helm of the United States’ largest city. He will be New York's first Muslim mayor. Mamdani took oath with his hand on the Quran, becoming the first mayor in the city’s history to do so, according to The New York Times. Hisoath-taking was performed by New York Attorney General Letitia James. A larger, ceremonial inauguration will commence later in the day at the City Hall, with speeches from left-wing allies Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The public event will see the attendance of 4,000 ticketed guests.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨Zohran Mamdani has been sworn-in as the 112th Mayor of New York City. <a href="https://t.co/Z5WY5WObwp">pic.twitter.com/Z5WY5WObwp</a>&mdash; Pop Crave (@PopCrave) <a href="https://twitter.com/PopCrave/status/2006595000830661065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Mamdani chose an unusual spot for oath-taking. He officially took oath at an abandoned subway stop. His office said that the understated venue for the oath-taking reflects his commitment to working people, as his campaign promised to make matters better for them, primarily by addressing the soaring cost of living. Mamdani -- virtually unknown a year ago -- defeated Trump-backed Andrew Cuomo in New York Mayoral elections held in November. He projected himself as an arch enemy of US President Trump during the campaign, but buried his differences aside and met him at the White House after his victory.&nbsp;The Guardian quoted Mamdani saying that the venue is symbolical to the “inauguration of a new era.”“It was a physical monument to a city that dared to be both beautiful and build great things that would transform working peoples’ lives. That ambition need not be a memory confined only to our past, nor must it be isolated only to the tunnels beneath city hall: it will be the purpose of the administration fortunate enough to serve New Yorkers from the building above,” Mamdani said in a statement. He added that he was “humbled by the opportunity to lead millions of New Yorkers into a new era of opportunity, and honored to carry forward our city’s legacy of greatness.”

Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York mayor, becoming the city’s first Muslim mayor. Taking oath on the Quran at an abandoned subway station, the 34-year-old said the symbolic venue reflects his focus on working people and signals a new era for America’s largest city.

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic Socialist who made headlines for his mayoral campaign, has been sworn in as New York mayor for a four-year term. The 34-year-old Democrat took his oath of office at an abandoned subway stop under City Hall just after midnight to take the helm of the United States’ largest city. He will be New York's first Muslim mayor. Mamdani took oath with his hand on the Quran, becoming the first mayor in the city’s history to do so, according to The New York Times. Hisoath-taking was performed by New York Attorney General Letitia James. A larger, ceremonial inauguration will commence later in the day at the City Hall, with speeches from left-wing allies Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The public event will see the attendance of 4,000 ticketed guests.

Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York mayor, becoming the city’s first Muslim mayor. Taking oath on the Quran at an abandoned subway station, the 34-year-old said the symbolic venue reflects his focus on working people and signals a new era for America’s largest city.

Zohran Mamdani takes oath as New York City mayor on Quran in subway stop - WATCH

Almost a week after the Supreme Court rejected Trump administration's claims that troops were necessary to protect federal agents working in Chicago to enforce immigration policies, the US President said Wednesday that he is removing National Guard troops from Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland and Oregon. However, while making the announcement Trump said that "they will come back stronger" in wake of any rising crime.&nbsp;Taking to Truth Social , Trump wrote, "We are removing the National Guard from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, despite the fact that CRIME has been greatly reduced by having these great Patriots in those cities, and ONLY by that fact."&nbsp;“We will come back, perhaps in a much different and stronger form, when crime begins to soar again — Only a question of time!”, he added.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-russia-peace-deal-is-90-percent-ready-warns-final-10-gap-is-critical-1767241984714">Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90 percent ready, warns final '10%' gap is critical</a>&nbsp;In an order last week, the claims made by the administration that the situation in Illinois demands the recruitment of National Guard to federal service was rejected by the court.&nbsp;“At this preliminary stage, the Government has failed to identify a source of authority that would allow the military to execute the laws in Illinois,” the court ruled, as reported by NBC News.&nbsp;Though the decision involves only Chicago, it is likely to strengthen other challenges to National Guard deployments. However, the court's ruling is not binding for the District of Columbia, as it is a federal district, not a state.&nbsp;The National Guard was deployed to the cities to curb “rising crime gone out of control” as claimed by Trump.

In an order last week, the claims made by the administration that the situation in Illinois demands the recruitment of National Guard to federal service was rejected by the Supreme Court.

Almost a week after the Supreme Court rejected Trump administration's claims that troops were necessary to protect federal agents working in Chicago to enforce immigration policies, the US President said Wednesday that he is removing National Guard troops from Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland and Oregon. However, while making the announcement Trump said that "they will come back stronger" in wake of any rising crime. Taking to Truth Social , Trump wrote, "We are removing the National Guard from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, despite the fact that CRIME has been greatly reduced by having these great Patriots in those cities, and ONLY by that fact." “We will come back, perhaps in a much different and stronger form, when crime begins to soar again — Only a question of time!”, he added. ALSO READ: Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90 percent ready, warns final '10%' gap is critical In an order last week, the claims made by the administration that the situation in Illinois demands the recruitment of National Guard to federal service was rejected by the court. “At this preliminary stage, the Government has failed to identify a source of authority that would allow the military to execute the laws in Illinois,” the court ruled, as reported by NBC News. Though the decision involves only Chicago, it is likely to strengthen other challenges to National Guard deployments. However, the court's ruling is not binding for the District of Columbia, as it is a federal district, not a state. The National Guard was deployed to the cities to curb “rising crime gone out of control” as claimed by Trump.

In an order last week, the claims made by the administration that the situation in Illinois demands the recruitment of National Guard to federal service was rejected by the Supreme Court.

'We will come back', says Trump after removing National Guard troops from Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Dec 31) that a peace deal with Russia was close, just "10 per cent" away, but far from settled, warning that the remaining gaps could decide the future of Ukraine and much of Europe. In a New Year’s Eve address released on Telegram, Zelensky said negotiations were "90 per cent ready," leaving what he described as a critical final 10 per cent still unresolved. Those unresolved issues, he stressed, were "far more than just numbers".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-say-he-s-glad-us-didn-t-give-ukraine-tomahawks-after-putin-alleges-drone-attack-on-residence-1767063879561">Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence?</a><h2>What exactly did Zelensky say?</h2>The Ukrainian president in his New Year's Eve address, said, "The peace agreement is 90 per cent ready. Ten per cent remains. And that is far more than just numbers." He insisted that "the 10 per cent" will determine the "fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe".He also made clear that Ukraine wants the war to end, but not at any price. Any settlement, he said, must include firm security guarantees to prevent Russia from launching another invasion once the fighting stops.Watch what he said here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Happy New Year, Ukraine! 🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/WkAFpSHb9p">pic.twitter.com/WkAFpSHb9p</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2006480579622260858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>From "one day" to over 345 days: Ukraine-Russia peace remains stalled</h2>US President Donald trump before his Jan 20 inauguration, repeatedly claimed that he could stop the war in "one day", but 345 days after his inauguration, the peace talks remain stalled.Ukraine's allies, led by the United States, have been trying for months to broker a deal that could bring both Moscow and Kyiv to the table. Those efforts have so far stalled on the most sensitive issue of all: territory.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298">Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell'</a>Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly demanded full control of the eastern Donbas region as part of any agreement. Zelensky rejected the idea that conceding that territory would end the conflict.Slamming the Russian President, Zelensky added, “'Pull out from the Donbas, and it will all be over.' That is how deception sounds when translated from Russian -- into Ukrainian, into English, into German, into French, and, in fact, into any language in the world.”

Volodymyr Zelensky says a Ukraine-Russia peace deal is “90 percent ready,” but warns the final 10 percent could decide Ukraine’s future and Europe’s security. As talks stall over territory, Kyiv insists peace cannot come without hard guarantees against another Russian invasion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Dec 31) that a peace deal with Russia was close, just "10 per cent" away, but far from settled, warning that the remaining gaps could decide the future of Ukraine and much of Europe. In a New Year’s Eve address released on Telegram, Zelensky said negotiations were "90 per cent ready," leaving what he described as a critical final 10 per cent still unresolved. Those unresolved issues, he stressed, were "far more than just numbers". Also read | Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence? What exactly did Zelensky say? The Ukrainian president in his New Year's Eve address, said, "The peace agreement is 90 per cent ready. Ten per cent remains. And that is far more than just numbers." He insisted that "the 10 per cent" will determine the "fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe". He also made clear that Ukraine wants the war to end, but not at any price. Any settlement, he said, must include firm security guarantees to prevent Russia from launching another invasion once the fighting stops. Watch what he said here:

Volodymyr Zelensky says a Ukraine-Russia peace deal is “90 percent ready,” but warns the final 10 percent could decide Ukraine’s future and Europe’s security. As talks stall over territory, Kyiv insists peace cannot come without hard guarantees against another Russian invasion.

Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90 percent ready, warns final '10%' gap is critical

The US military on Wednesday (Dec 31) said that eight people were killed in multiple new strikes on alleged drug boats, bringing the death toll in Washington's campaign against what it says are narcotics traffickers to at least 115. US Southern Command, which is responsible for American forces operating in Central and South America, announced two sets of strikes, which were carried out on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Tuesday, "three narco-trafficking vessels traveling as a convoy" were targeted in "international waters," it said in a statement on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On Dec. 31, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations. Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and… <a href="https://t.co/4AE5u4cEff">pic.twitter.com/4AE5u4cEff</a>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2006531145844867143?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"Three narco-terrorists aboard the first vessel were killed in the first engagement. The remaining narco-terrorists abandoned the other two vessels, jumping overboard and distancing themselves before follow-on engagements sank their respective vessels," it said. Accompanying the statement, posted on X, was a video showing the vessels traveling together at sea and then hit by a series of explosions. The exact location of the strikes was not immediately made clear. Previous strikes have taken place in the Caribbean or the eastern Pacific. The military said it had notified the Coast Guard to "activate the Search and Rescue system," without offering more details about the fate of those aboard the other boats.<h2>Trump's drug war</h2>In December, Trump suggested that it would be "smart" for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to step down. He also suggested that the United States could keep and maybe even sell the oil it had seized off the coast of Venezuela in recent weeks, adding that America would also keep the seized ships. Maduro slammed Trump for his suggestion and urged the US president to focus on the problems plaguing his country.&nbsp;The death toll amid US President Donald Trump’s campaign against drug trafficking has risen to over 115 with the recent strike. Since September, the US military has carried out more than 30 such strikes on what it says are boats used to smuggle drugs to the United States. This comes even as the Trump administration provided no evidence about the alleged drug boats, with critics questioning the legality of US military operations in international waters. Trump has maintained that he does not need congressional approval to order military strikes on Venezuelan soil. When asked directly whether lawmakers would be consulted before authorising land hits on drug cartels, Trump said he “wouldn’t mind” informing them but insisted it was “not a big deal”. He also suggested that briefing Congress could compromise operations, saying politicians “leak like a sieve.”

The US military said eight more people were killed in fresh strikes on alleged drug boats, pushing the death toll past 100 since September. Conducted in international waters, the strikes under Trump’s drug war have drawn sharp criticism

The US military on Wednesday (Dec 31) said that eight people were killed in multiple new strikes on alleged drug boats, bringing the death toll in Washington's campaign against what it says are narcotics traffickers to at least 115. US Southern Command, which is responsible for American forces operating in Central and South America, announced two sets of strikes, which were carried out on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Tuesday, "three narco-trafficking vessels traveling as a convoy" were targeted in "international waters," it said in a statement on X.

The US military said eight more people were killed in fresh strikes on alleged drug boats, pushing the death toll past 100 since September. Conducted in international waters, the strikes under Trump’s drug war have drawn sharp criticism

US military strikes 'narco-trafficking vessels' in international waters again amid Trump's drug war

Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah, has called for a “new Iran” in his New Year message on Thursday (Jan 1). In a social media post, Pahlavi said that it is time to end the “46 years of terror and chaos by the regime” and backed the protests erupting throughout the country. He urged the international community to back the people of Iran, claiming that the current regime under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is “most fragile, weak, deeply divided, and unable to suppress the courage of a rising nation.” Terming it as the “tide of history” that is turning, he said that Iranians fighting for freedom will win.&nbsp;Reza Pahlavi wrote on X, “My brave compatriots are on the streets in cities and towns across our country—fighting for their freedom, risking their lives. The current regime has reached the end of the road. It stands at its most fragile: weak, deeply divided, and unable to suppress the courage of a rising nation. The growing protests show this year will be the definitive moment for change.” He added, “ To the international community: I call upon you to stand with the people of Iran not only in word but in action. Peace in the Middle East and stability across the world depend on a free Iran.”&nbsp;Pahlavi was officially named Crown Prince of Iran in 1967 at the time of his father’s coronation. He is still considered the Crown Prince of Iran in exile, despite the fall of the monarchy in 1979 after the Islamic revolution. After his father’s death in 1981, Reza declared himself the new king of Iran. Till last year, Pahlavi was a figure with little to no say in Iranian affairs. However, he has now become a regular on TV and is calling for a regime change in Iran.<h2>Iran Protest: Is regime change imminent?</h2>Iranians have taken to street to protest against the economic collapse, and are demanding political regime change and personal freedom. The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low of approximately 1.45 million to 1 USD in December 2025, losing nearly half its value since the start of the year. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging by 72 per cent and medical goods by 50 per cent. The widespread protest also comes after a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase. Backing the protests, Pahlavi asked people to come out on streets. Protests began on Sunday when the bazaari (merchant class) closed their shops and took to the streets. It expanded to Ahvaz, Hamadan, Qeshm, and Mashhad. Some videos also show protesters chanting slogans in support for Pahlavi.

Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi called for a “new Iran” in his New Year message, backing nationwide protests against Ayatollah Khamenei’s regime. As Iran reels from economic collapse, soaring inflation and tax hikes, Pahlavi urged global support, claiming regime change is imminent.

Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah, has called for a “new Iran” in his New Year message on Thursday (Jan 1). In a social media post, Pahlavi said that it is time to end the “46 years of terror and chaos by the regime” and backed the protests erupting throughout the country. He urged the international community to back the people of Iran, claiming that the current regime under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is “most fragile, weak, deeply divided, and unable to suppress the courage of a rising nation.” Terming it as the “tide of history” that is turning, he said that Iranians fighting for freedom will win. Reza Pahlavi wrote on X, “My brave compatriots are on the streets in cities and towns across our country—fighting for their freedom, risking their lives. The current regime has reached the end of the road. It stands at its most fragile: weak, deeply divided, and unable to suppress the courage of a rising nation. The growing protests show this year will be the definitive moment for change.” He added, “ To the international community: I call upon you to stand with the people of Iran not only in word but in action. Peace in the Middle East and stability across the world depend on a free Iran.” Pahlavi was officially named Crown Prince of Iran in 1967 at the time of his father’s coronation. He is still considered the Crown Prince of Iran in exile, despite the fall of the monarchy in 1979 after the Islamic revolution. After his father’s death in 1981, Reza declared himself the new king of Iran. Till last year, Pahlavi was a figure with little to no say in Iranian affairs. However, he has now become a regular on TV and is calling for a regime change in Iran. Iran Protest: Is regime change imminent? Iranians have taken to street to protest against the economic collapse, and are demanding political regime change and personal freedom. The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low of approximately 1.45 million to 1 USD in December 2025, losing nearly half its value since the start of the year. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging by 72 per cent and medical goods by 50 per cent. The widespread protest also comes after a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase. Backing the protests, Pahlavi asked people to come out on streets. Protests began on Sunday when the bazaari (merchant class) closed their shops and took to the streets. It expanded to Ahvaz, Hamadan, Qeshm, and Mashhad. Some videos also show protesters chanting slogans in support for Pahlavi.

Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi called for a “new Iran” in his New Year message, backing nationwide protests against Ayatollah Khamenei’s regime. As Iran reels from economic collapse, soaring inflation and tax hikes, Pahlavi urged global support, claiming regime change is imminent.

Iran’s exiled Crown Prince calls for 'birth of a new Iran', end of 'terror regime' in New Year message amid protest

Amid ultimatum by Sharif Osman Hadi's student body Inqilab Moncho, a video of his alleged murderer is doing rounds on social media. Faisal Karim Masud, named by Bangladeshi authorities as the prime suspect in Hadi's murder rejected police allegations that he fled to India through the Haluaghat border after the killing. He said that the only links he had with Hadi were financial. In the video, Hadi claimed that he suffered loses during 2024 uprising in the country and contacted Hadi for help. HAdi had assured him that he would get a job and had demanded “five lakh taka.” Later, he got involved in political organising for Hadi, Faisal Karim Masud said in the video. However, the authenticity of the video is not known and Indian and Bangaldeshi agencies have not responded on the matter yet.&nbsp;“After I spoke to him, he assured me that I would get the job. He also wanted five lakh taka, so I gave him the money," Faisal Karim Masud said, asserting that the payment was meant solely for lobbying for government related projects.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Inqilab Moncho issued a 24-hours ultimatum to Muhammad Yunus-led government. Abdullah Al Jaber, member secretary of Inqilab Moncho, announced the ultimatum from Shahbagh in Dhaka on Sunday night (Dec 28). Continuing with its anti-India rhetoric, it also demanded suspension of work permits for Indians and filing of a case against India in an international court if former PM Sheikh Hasina is not extradited.&nbsp;&nbsp;The demand by Inqilab Moncho came amid claims by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) that two prime suspects in Osman Hadi's murder fled to India via the Haluaghat border in Mymensingh district, which is connected to Meghalaya. Indian authorities have denied the claims and called it ‘baseless’. Just a day after the claims, a social media video of the alleged killer went viral in which he stated that he is in Dubai. In a statement in the video, he said that he did not kill Hadi, adding that the student leader was killed by members of Jamaat Shibir and accused “Jamatis" of being behind the attack. However, the authenticity of the video is not known and Indian and Bangladeshi agencies have not responded on the matter yet.<h2>Osman Hadi's murder and chaos in Bangladesh</h2>Bangladesh is engulfed in renewed clashes after the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi in December, 2025. Violence erupted in several cities, with his party Inqilab Moncho blaming Yunus-led government for his murder. Two Hindu men, Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal, have also been killed in the violence. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views and was reportedly part of 2024 student uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khaleda-zia-s-son-tarique-rahman-returns-to-bangladesh-after-17-years-in-exile-gets-grand-welcome-1766643942201">Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, gets grand welcome</a>&nbsp;Elections are scheduled in February 2026 in Bangladesh. Former PM Khaleda Zia has passed away and her son Tarique Rahman has returned to the country after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman arrived in Dhaka on Dec 25 with his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu. The BNP is widely seen as an election frontrunner. Sheikh Hasina's party has bpoycotted the polls.&nbsp;

After radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi’s murder, Bangladesh faces fresh unrest. Prime suspect Faisal Karim Masud denied fleeing to India in a viral video, while Inqilab Moncho issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Yunus-led government amid anti-India demands and election tension.

Amid ultimatum by Sharif Osman Hadi's student body Inqilab Moncho, a video of his alleged murderer is doing rounds on social media. Faisal Karim Masud, named by Bangladeshi authorities as the prime suspect in Hadi's murder rejected police allegations that he fled to India through the Haluaghat border after the killing. He said that the only links he had with Hadi were financial. In the video, Hadi claimed that he suffered loses during 2024 uprising in the country and contacted Hadi for help. HAdi had assured him that he would get a job and had demanded “five lakh taka.” Later, he got involved in political organising for Hadi, Faisal Karim Masud said in the video. However, the authenticity of the video is not known and Indian and Bangaldeshi agencies have not responded on the matter yet. “After I spoke to him, he assured me that I would get the job. He also wanted five lakh taka, so I gave him the money," Faisal Karim Masud said, asserting that the payment was meant solely for lobbying for government related projects. Meanwhile, Inqilab Moncho issued a 24-hours ultimatum to Muhammad Yunus-led government. Abdullah Al Jaber, member secretary of Inqilab Moncho, announced the ultimatum from Shahbagh in Dhaka on Sunday night (Dec 28). Continuing with its anti-India rhetoric, it also demanded suspension of work permits for Indians and filing of a case against India in an international court if former PM Sheikh Hasina is not extradited. The demand by Inqilab Moncho came amid claims by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) that two prime suspects in Osman Hadi's murder fled to India via the Haluaghat border in Mymensingh district, which is connected to Meghalaya. Indian authorities have denied the claims and called it ‘baseless’. Just a day after the claims, a social media video of the alleged killer went viral in which he stated that he is in Dubai. In a statement in the video, he said that he did not kill Hadi, adding that the student leader was killed by members of Jamaat Shibir and accused “Jamatis" of being behind the attack. However, the authenticity of the video is not known and Indian and Bangladeshi agencies have not responded on the matter yet. Osman Hadi's murder and chaos in Bangladesh Bangladesh is engulfed in renewed clashes after the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi in December, 2025. Violence erupted in several cities, with his party Inqilab Moncho blaming Yunus-led government for his murder. Two Hindu men, Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal, have also been killed in the violence. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views and was reportedly part of 2024 student uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. Also Read: Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, gets grand welcome Elections are scheduled in February 2026 in Bangladesh. Former PM Khaleda Zia has passed away and her son Tarique Rahman has returned to the country after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman arrived in Dhaka on Dec 25 with his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu. The BNP is widely seen as an election frontrunner. Sheikh Hasina's party has bpoycotted the polls.

After radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi’s murder, Bangladesh faces fresh unrest. Prime suspect Faisal Karim Masud denied fleeing to India in a viral video, while Inqilab Moncho issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Yunus-led government amid anti-India demands and election tension.

Osman Hadi’s killer in Dubai? Paid him 5 lakh taka before murder? What we know amid Bangladesh’s anti-India rhetoric

US President Donald Trump spent the final hours of 2025 in a hateful spiral, airing grievances rather than ringing in a 'happy' new year. From Mar-a-Lago, where he's spending the holiday, Trump used Truth Social to lash out at political opponents, telling a Republican district attorney and Colorado's Democratic governor that they could both "rot in hell". He wrote: “I wish them only the worst,” he wrote. “May they rot in Hell.”<h2>Who does Trump hate now?</h2>The bizarre post slamming Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and Mesa County District Attorney Dan Rubinstein was centred on Tina Peters. The 70-year-old MAGA superfan, a former Colorado county clerk, is serving a nine-year prison sentence for allowing unauthorised access to election systems after an attempt to overturn Joe Biden's 2020 win. Peters was convicted for letting a man linked to MyPillow founder Mike Lindell view confidential election data. Trump has been pushing for her release. But his post was riddled with basic errors.He claimed Peters was 73, said she was being held in a maximum-security prison, and suggested she had already served two years. In reality, she is 15 months into her sentence at a medium-security women’s facility.

Polis and Rubinstein both responded sharply to Trump's hate. In a statement to Daily Beast, Polis said he hoped Trump’s new year resolution would be to "to spend less time online talking about me and more on making America more affordable by stopping his disastrous tariffs and fixing rising health care costs".Rubinstein was more blunt, saying Trump had "no facts and no law" on his side, leaving him with little more than anger. "There’s a saying in the law: If the facts are on your side, pound the facts; if the law is on your side, pound the law; if neither is on your side, pound the table. President Trump has no facts and no law here. After trying and failing to invent both, he’s left with nothing but pounding the table."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/no-nobel-benjamin-netanyahu-creates-israel-peace-prize-just-for-donald-trump-1767076085565">No Nobel? Benjamin Netanyahu creates Israel Peace Prize just for Donald Trump</a><h2>Trump's hateful tirade BELOW</h2><h2>'Worst political prognosticators of all time' George and Amal Clooney</h2>The attacks did not stop there. Trump also turned his attention to actor George Clooney and human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, claiming they had become citizens of France and mocking Clooney's political views and film career. His post wandered through immigration, crime in France, and a string of insults aimed at Democratic leaders.

<h2>'Crooked' Walz</h2>In another post, Trump misspelled Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's name in repeated posts and revived unproven claims about fraud in Minnesota, calling him "Tim Waltz of Minnesota is a Crooked Governor!!!". He also alleged without evidence that "90 per cent" of those involved were undocumented migrants from Somalia.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-maga-influencer-video-triggers-trump-funding-freeze-minnesota-somali-childcare-fraud-controversy-explained-1767169841087">Viral MAGA influencer video triggers Trump funding freeze: Minnesota 'Somali childcare fraud' controversy | EXPLAINED</a><h2>Ilhan Omar: 'Did she really marry her brother?'</h2>He also repeated a long-debunked falsehood about Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar, suggesting she had married her brother, and called for Somali immigrants to be sent back.Some posts were less targeted, casting Democrats broadly as "cheaters and thieves" and accusing them of opposing voter identification to rig elections.It undoubtedly was a striking way to close out the year, Trump-style.

Donald Trump bid farewell to 2025 not with cheer but with rage, unloading a late-night tirade against governors, prosecutors, celebrities and Democrats. From “rot in hell” posts to recycled falsehoods, this was the POTUS' New Year message.

US President Donald Trump spent the final hours of 2025 in a hateful spiral, airing grievances rather than ringing in a 'happy' new year. From Mar-a-Lago, where he's spending the holiday, Trump used Truth Social to lash out at political opponents, telling a Republican district attorney and Colorado's Democratic governor that they could both "rot in hell". He wrote: “I wish them only the worst,” he wrote. “May they rot in Hell.” Who does Trump hate now? The bizarre post slamming Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and Mesa County District Attorney Dan Rubinstein was centred on Tina Peters. The 70-year-old MAGA superfan, a former Colorado county clerk, is serving a nine-year prison sentence for allowing unauthorised access to election systems after an attempt to overturn Joe Biden's 2020 win. Peters was convicted for letting a man linked to MyPillow founder Mike Lindell view confidential election data. Trump has been pushing for her release. But his post was riddled with basic errors. He claimed Peters was 73, said she was being held in a maximum-security prison, and suggested she had already served two years. In reality, she is 15 months into her sentence at a medium-security women’s facility.

Donald Trump bid farewell to 2025 not with cheer but with rage, unloading a late-night tirade against governors, prosecutors, celebrities and Democrats. From “rot in hell” posts to recycled falsehoods, this was the POTUS' New Year message.

Donald Trump ends 2025 with hateful late night Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' in NY26

World welcomes New Year 2026: People around the world rang in 2026 after a year marked by war, extreme heat and political shocks. From global trade turmoil to grinding conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, 2025 ended on an uneasy note for much of the world. Let's have a look at how the world welcomed the New Year 2026.

Baker Island and Howland Island located in the central Pacific Ocean, near the equator, ushered in 2026; it is the last place on Earth to do so.

Last places to enter 2026: Baker Island & Howland Island

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;This is how China welcomes the New Year&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;We used to light fireworks, now we program the sky&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Technology turned celebration into spectacle &lt;a href="https://t.co/LaJYMBLmAJ"&gt;pic.twitter.com/LaJYMBLmAJ&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Kekius Maximus (@Kekius_Sage) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/Kekius_Sage/status/2006520747448037841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

China celebrates the New Year in iconic way

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;New Year celebrations light up the pyramids of Egypt &lt;a href="https://t.co/zBEb0D2tWh"&gt;pic.twitter.com/zBEb0D2tWh&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ViralRush ⚡ (@tweetciiiim) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/tweetciiiim/status/2006628848306110945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Egypt celebrates new year with fireworks over the pyramids in Giza

Fireworks light up the sky above the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, after the city rings in 2026

Fireworks light up the sky above Burj Khalifa

Ukrainians celebrating their fourth New Year’s Eve since Russia’s invasion said their greatest hope for 2026 was peace, along with relief from crippling power outages that have made daily life “hell.”

Ukrainians celebrates 4th New Year’s Eve since Russia’s invasion 

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Fireworks light up the sky above Rio de Janeiro&amp;#39;s Copacabana Beach as more than two million people were expected to gather for what authorities have called the world&amp;#39;s biggest New Year&amp;#39;s Eve party &lt;a href="https://t.co/FKCBZg40b9"&gt;pic.twitter.com/FKCBZg40b9&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; AFP News Agency (@AFP) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/2006571574556561872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Fireworks light up Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beach on New Year

“As we step into the New Year 2026, we do so as a nation that has shouldered the greatest reform programme and reconstruction effort in our modern history. Despite numerous challenges, the year 2025 laid the foundation for sustainable development rooted in our national aspirations,” said Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Sri Lanka Prez calls for unity to rebuild country

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Happy New Year America! 🇺🇸&lt;br&gt;For the first time ever the NYE Times Square ball fell twice starting America’s 250th celebration!&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/America250?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#America250&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyNewYear?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#HappyNewYear&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewYear?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#NewYear&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NYC?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#NYC&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/apzw6TfZI9"&gt;pic.twitter.com/apzw6TfZI9&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; CAC Graphics (@CACGraphics) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/CACGraphics/status/2006603076459954533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

New York rings in 2026 with iconic Times Square ball drop

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;The first sunrise of 2026, from the Sunrise State! (Araku valley, Andhra Pradesh). &lt;a href="https://t.co/4WkXqicJQP"&gt;pic.twitter.com/4WkXqicJQP&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; N Chandrababu Naidu (@ncbn) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ncbn/status/2006570956647756042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Chandrababu Naidu shares visuals of first sunrise of 2026 from 'The Sunrise State'

On New Year’s Eve, he took aim at actor George Clooney while preparing to host celebrations at his Florida residence. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298">Click here to read</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260101/image-1767236284476.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Donald Trump ends 2025 with hateful late night Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' in NY26"></figure>

Trump takes aim at Clooney and others, tells rivals "rot in hell"

2025 was the year US President Donald Trump returned to office, launching sweeping tariffs that rattled global markets and disrupted trade.&nbsp;

Recap: Trump returns, trade shake

Even as fireworks lit up skies elsewhere, violence in Sudan showed no sign of easing as the new year began.

Sudan violence continues

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;On the joyous occasion of New Year, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all Indians in the country and abroad. &lt;a href="https://t.co/CRc2B9epT9"&gt;pic.twitter.com/CRc2B9epT9&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/2006552251402432672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Indian President Droupadi Murmu extends New Year wishes

A fragile truce held in Gaza after months of devastation, though Israel and Hamas continue to accuse each other of violations.“We bid farewell to 2025 with deep sorrow,” said Gaza City resident Shireen Al-Kayali, describing displacement, bombardment and loss.

Gaza ceasefire remains fragile

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine was “10 percent” away from a deal to end the war as fighting nears its fourth year.Russian President Vladimir Putin urged Russians to believe Moscow would secure victory in what he called Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II.

Ukraine war looms over New Year

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Wishing everyone a wonderful 2026!&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;May the year ahead bring good health and prosperity, with success in your efforts and fulfilment in all that you do. Praying for peace and happiness in our society.&lt;/p&gt;— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2006538663002517846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Indian PM Narendra Modi prays for 'peace and happiness' 

Hong Kong cancelled its traditional New Year fireworks display to honour 161 people killed in a November fire that tore through multiple apartment blocks. &nbsp;

Hong Kong cancels fireworks after deadly fire

In Sydney, New Year celebrations opened with a minute of silence for victims of the Bondi Beach mass shooting. Fireworks followed at midnight as heavily armed police patrolled the waterfront.The Sydney Harbour Bridge was lit in white to symbolise peace, less than two weeks after Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly 30 years.<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/G9f0WYjawAAWmFw?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900" alt="Image"></figure>

Sydney pauses to remember shooting victims

New Year 2026: It's finally the new year. The world rang in 2026 under the shadow of war, grief, and uncertainty. Let's have a look at how fireworks lit the skies even as conflicts, political shocks, and climate extremes shaped an uneasy start.

World welcomes New Year 2026: People around the world rang in 2026 after a year marked by war, extreme heat and political shocks. From global trade turmoil to grinding conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, 2025 ended on an uneasy note for much of the world. Let's have a look at how the world welcomed the New Year 2026.

New Year 2026: It's finally the new year. The world rang in 2026 under the shadow of war, grief, and uncertainty. Let's have a look at how fireworks lit the skies even as conflicts, political shocks, and climate extremes shaped an uneasy start.

world news

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