US President-elect Donald Trump unveiled bold expansionist plans, including annexing Canada as the 51st state and renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." Speaking at Mar-a-Lago, Trump promised to use "economic force" for Canada’s integration while refusing to rule out military action for control of the Panama Canal and Greenland. He criticized NATO allies for inadequate defense spending, urging a hike to 5% of GDP. Trump's proposals faced backlash, with Canadian and Panamanian officials rejecting his remarks. Denmark also rebuffed Trump's Greenland ambitions, calling it “not for sale.” Critics condemned the agenda as provocative and unrealistic.

Anita Anand, Canada's Minister of Transport and a senior member of the Liberal Party, is a leading candidate to replace Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister. If selected, she would be the first woman of colour and Canadian of Indian origin to hold the position. Born in Nova Scotia to Indian immigrants, Anand has a distinguished academic and political career, serving as Minister of Defence and Public Services during her tenure. Known for her contributions to military reform, pandemic response, and transport infrastructure, Anand embodies inclusivity and gender equality, marking a potential milestone in Canadian politics.

Greenland's capital, Nuuk, now hosts a new international airport with a 2,200-meter runway, enabling larger aircraft to land. This development is expected to enhance tourism and economic growth, with each flight contributing approximately $200,000 to Greenland's economy. United Airlines will commence nonstop seasonal flights from the US in June, significantly reducing travel time. The airport will also serve as a hub for Air Greenland's Airbus A330neo flights to Denmark and Iceland. By 2026, two additional airports will open in Ilulissat and Qaqortoq. With limited paved roads, the new facilities will revolutionize travel to and within Greenland.

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Tibet's Shigatse region has claimed 126 lives, injured 188, and damaged over 1,000 buildings. The quake struck near Everest at a depth of 10 km, with tremors felt in Nepal and parts of India. Rescue teams face freezing temperatures, falling as low as -16°C, complicating efforts. Power and water supplies remain disrupted, and aftershocks persist. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for urgent rescue operations, while the Dalai Lama expressed deep condolences. The region, prone to seismic activity, recalls the devastating 2015 Nepal quake. Evacuations and relief efforts are ongoing amid severe challenges.

London has launched new "zero-emission" electric buses on the 358 route, powered by innovative pantograph technology. The buses, resembling trams, can recharge in just 6 minutes at route endpoints, eliminating the need for garage returns. Enhanced safety features include speed-limiting technology, audible pedestrian warnings, and improved driver visibility. Designed with passenger comfort in mind, they feature USB ports, slip-resistant flooring, and palm-operated assistance buttons. The initiative aligns with London’s 2030 net-zero carbon goal, offering cleaner air and reduced operational costs. Go-Ahead London and TfL partnered with Spanish supplier Irizar for this project.

Iran executed over 900 people in 2024, including 40 in a single December week, according to UN rights chief Volker Turk. The Islamic Republic, second only to China in annual executions, uses the death penalty for crimes like murder, drug trafficking, and sexual assault. The UN expressed alarm over rising executions, particularly targeting dissidents and women, with 31 women executed last year. Activists accuse Iran’s leadership of instilling fear through capital punishment, especially following the 2022 protests. "It’s high time Iran stemmed this tide of executions," Turk urged, advocating for a moratorium and eventual abolition of the death penalty.

Shivam Dhol Tasha Pathak, a Texas-based Indian American drum ensemble, will perform at Donald Trump’s 47th Presidential Inauguration Parade on January 20. The group will showcase vibrant Indian rhythms along the Capitol Hill-to-White House route, marking a historic moment for Indian culture in the US. Known for blending traditional Dhol beats with global influences, the band has previously performed at events like the ICC T20 World Cup opening and Howdy Modi. Representing Texas' cultural diversity, the group’s invitation celebrates the growing recognition of Indian traditions worldwide and strengthens US-India cultural ties, a media release stated.

The Dalai Lama expressed deep sorrow following a devastating earthquake in Tibet's Tingri county, which claimed at least 95 lives. In a statement, the Tibetan spiritual leader said he was "deeply saddened" by the tragedy and offered prayers for the victims. The earthquake, near the Nepal border, caused widespread destruction, including significant damage to homes and property. The Dalai Lama, 89, who has been in exile since 1959, and the Tibetan government-in-exile extended their condolences to the families of the deceased and wished for the swift recovery of the injured.

Ukraine has launched a fresh offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, with President Zelenskyy claiming heavy Russian losses. In five months, nearly 15,000 Russian troops have reportedly died, though figures remain unverified. Zelenskyy stated that a buffer zone was established, preventing Moscow from reallocating forces to critical fronts in Donetsk, Sumy, and Kharkiv. Russia’s Ministry of Defence countered, saying Ukrainian forces were destroyed near Berdin and highlighted Russian advances in eastern Ukraine, including Kurakhove's capture. Reports suggest 11,000 North Korean troops are aiding Russia, but Moscow has neither confirmed nor denied this. The conflict continues with significant territorial and military dynamics.

The Election Commission has announced Delhi’s single-phase assembly elections, with voting scheduled for February 5 and results on February 8. The nomination process starts on January 10, with withdrawals allowed until January 20. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar emphasized the integrity of India's electoral process, addressing allegations of voter roll deletions and EVM tampering as baseless. Delhi has 1.55 crore registered voters, marking a 1.09% increase. Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party seeks a third term in the 70-seat assembly. The election process, including vote counting, will conclude by February 10, ensuring a smooth democratic transition.