AMERICA
Venezuela, Musk, Trump, and Canada Address US Policies and Global Security
1. Venezuela Passes Law Against US Sanctions Supporters
The Simon Bolivar Liberator bill, ratified by Venezuela’s National Assembly, imposes fines and a 60-year ban from office on politicians who back US sanctions. Additionally, the law permits media outlets that favour sanctions to be fined or shut down, and it requires people who advocate for penalties to serve 25–30 years in prison. The action is a component of President Nicolas Maduro’s continuous resistance to pressure from other countries.
2. Elon Musk Calls to Abolish US Consumer Protection Bureau
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a government organisation that regulates financial institutions, should be abolished, according to Elon Musk. Musk called the agency superfluous and redundant in a social media post. In an effort to cut down on government red tape, Musk will co-lead President-elect Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency.
3. Trump Appoints Keith Kellogg as Special Envoy for Russia-Ukraine War
Keith Kellogg, a former general, has been named President-elect Donald Trump’s special envoy to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Trump’s strategy to resolve the current crisis is anticipated to heavily rely on Kellogg, a former chief of staff of the National Security Council. The Iraq advisor and Vietnam War veteran is well-known for having consistently backed Trump’s foreign policies.
4. Canada Boosts Border Security Amid Trump Tariff Threat
After U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to levy 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, Canada promised to strengthen border security. The levies would be connected to illegal migration and drug trafficking. To improve border integrity and stop illegal crossings, Canadian authorities intend to enact stronger regulations. This comes after Canadian leaders expressed alarm over Trump’s suggested course of action.
 ASIA
Pakistan Turmoil, Extreme Weather, ICC Standoff, and US-China Diplomacy
1. Imran Khan and Wife Face Terrorism Charges Amid Violent Protests
Pakistani authorities have charged former Prime Minister Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and other individuals with terrorism for causing violence during rallies that killed six people. Two protesters and four security guards were killed during the violent protests, which were sparked by Khan’s ongoing detention since August 2023. The riots coincided with a resurgence of sectarian violence in the Kurram area.
2. Record Snowfall in South Korea Disrupts Life
In South Korea, heavy snowfall, especially in the Seoul area, has caused extensive disruptions and at least three fatalities. In certain areas of the city, record snow accumulation surpassed 40 cm, resulting in 104 ferry delays and 156 aircraft cancellations. Schools were permitted to close, and thousands of people were sent out by the authorities to clear the snow. Cold air currents and warm ocean temperatures combined to produce the extremely heavy snowfall.
3. Pakistan Rejects Hybrid Model for ICC Champions Trophy
Pakistan has strongly objected to the ICC’s “hybrid model” for the 2025 Champions Trophy, which would have used a neutral venue for India’s matches. In addition to stating that all matches must be played in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has threatened to bar Pakistani teams from attending future ICC events in India if India does not play its matches there. The matter will be discussed at Friday’s ICC meeting.
4. China, US Exchange Prisoners in Diplomatic Move
A day after Beijing freed three American citizens, China announced the return of four Americans. The Americans, John Leung, Kai Li, and Mark Swidan, had been held in China on espionage and drug-related allegations. The names of the Chinese prisoners that were sent back to China are still unknown. The conversation demonstrates the two countries’ continued diplomatic efforts.
 MENA
Middle East Tensions, Resistance, and Data Center Innovations
1. Middle East Conflict: Motion Against Israeli Practices in Gaza
Citing a UN report that highlights widespread civilian fatalities, destruction, and perhaps genocide in Gaza, Anasina Gray-Barberio introduced a motion denouncing Israel’s activities in the territory. The motion opposes the ongoing Israeli assault and demands an immediate ceasefire and accountability for transgressions of international law. Leave was denied and the motion was not supported.
2. Hezbollah Vows Resistance After Ceasefire
Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire, and Hezbollah promised to keep up its opposition and aid to the Palestinians. During the fighting lull, thousands of Lebanese fled south. Israel responded by enforcing a curfew in order to maintain order.
3. Shaping the Future of Data Centers in the Middle East
The demand for scalable infrastructure and digital transformation are driving the data centre market’s explosive growth in the Middle East. In the difficult climate of the region, artificial intelligence is improving predictive maintenance, security, and energy efficiency. As businesses like Gulf Data Hub embrace AI-driven solutions and renewable energy, edge computing and sustainability are becoming themes. The emergence of hybrid cloud solutions is meeting regional business requirements while maintaining legal compliance.
 EUROPE
Espionage, Threats, Storms, and NATO’s Concerns
1. Espionage Concerns at European Universities
The demand for scalable infrastructure and digital transformation are driving the data centre market’s explosive growth in the Middle East. In the difficult climate of the region, artificial intelligence is improving predictive maintenance, security, and energy efficiency. As businesses like Gulf Data Hub embrace AI-driven solutions and renewable energy, edge computing and sustainability are becoming themes. The emergence of hybrid cloud solutions is meeting regional business requirements while maintaining legal compliance.
2. Putin Threatens New Missiles as Russia Hits Ukraine Power Grid
Claiming retaliation for strikes within Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced missile and drone operations on Ukraine. He threatened Kyiv by launching a brand-new, nuclear-level-destructive Oreshnik missile. Widespread blackouts at frigid conditions were caused by the Russian bombardment of Ukraine’s electricity infrastructure.
3. Valencia Struggles with Public Transport After Storm DANA
Valencia’s metro service is still inoperable over a month after Storm DANA struck Spain because its command centre was destroyed. Every month, 7.5 million people had transportation disruptions due to the storm. There are 25 temporary bus lines in place while a new command centre is being built, but residents must endure long waits and crammed buses.
4. NATO Warns of Russian Threat to Undersea Cables
The biggest threat to Western infrastructure, according to NATO, is Russian strikes on underwater cables. The alliance has connected Russian sabotage activities to recent cable severings in the Baltic Sea. According to NATO experts, Russia is targeting vital European infrastructure with these operations as part of a larger cyber and hybrid interference plan.
