Zelenskyy Declares Energy Emergency Amid Russian Strikes
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared a state of emergency in the energy sector due to ongoing Russian strikes and freezing temperatures, with Kyiv particularly affected as temperatures drop to around -20C. He announced the establishment of a permanent coordination headquarters in the capital to manage the crisis, which has left thousands without power and heating, and ordered an increase in emergency help points for residents. The situation has been exacerbated by daily drone and missile attacks, with over 400 housing blocks in Kyiv lacking heating for several days.
US and Taiwan finalize $250 billion trade agreement
The United States and Taiwan have finalized a trade agreement that includes a commitment of $250 billion from Taiwanese semiconductor and technology firms to bolster manufacturing in the U.S. In exchange, the U.S. will reduce tariffs on imports from Taiwan to 15%, down from 20%. This deal aims to enhance U.S. semiconductor supply chains and counter China's influence in the market.
NATO Troops Deploy to Greenland Amid Security Concerns
European military personnel, including troops from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Finland, Norway, and Sweden, have arrived in Greenland as part of a NATO mission to enhance security against perceived threats from Russia and China. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated that the aim is to establish a more permanent military presence, with soldiers from various NATO countries expected to rotate in and out. This deployment follows heightened tensions surrounding U.S. President Donald Trump's comments regarding Greenland, which have drawn pushback from European leaders.
Ukrainian Forces Mobilize Against Russian Advances in Eastern Front
Ukrainian elite units are mobilizing to counter Russian advances on the frontlines, particularly around the cities of Kupiansk and Huliaipole, as reported by the Institute for the Study of War. Ukrainian forces have made gains in the Donetsk region, including near Kostjantyniwka and in the village of Swiato-Pokrowske, while Russian attacks have intensified in these areas. Despite claims of Russian control over Kupiansk, Ukrainian troops have reportedly regained significant territory in the city.
US imposes 25% tariff on AI chips to China
The US government has imposed a 25% tariff on artificial intelligence chips made by AMD and NVIDIA that are sold to China, as announced by President Trump. This measure, effective immediately, is part of a strategy to restrict technology exports to China amid national security concerns, while allowing the government to collect revenue from these sales. The tariff does not apply to semiconductors used domestically in the US.
US Seeks Joint Military Operations Against Fentanyl in Mexico
The United States is intensifying its efforts to persuade Mexico to allow joint military operations aimed at dismantling fentanyl laboratories within its borders, according to a report by The New York Times. U.S. officials, speaking anonymously, indicated that the proposal involves American forces supporting Mexican troops during raids, although Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has firmly rejected any U.S. military intervention, emphasizing her commitment to national sovereignty.
Australia removes 4.7 million underage social media accounts
Australia's eSafety Commissioner reported that social media companies have removed approximately 4.7 million accounts held by users under the age of 16 since the implementation of a ban on December 10, 2025. This regulation, the strictest of its kind globally, mandates that platforms face fines of up to A$49.5 million for allowing underage accounts. Other countries, including Denmark, are considering similar measures as they observe the early compliance results from Australia's landmark legislation.
EU Considers Membership-Lite Plan for Ukraine
The European Union is considering a 'membership-lite' plan for Ukraine to facilitate its potential entry into the bloc as part of a peace agreement, a move that has raised concerns among European capitals. This proposal aims to modify longstanding accession rules, reflecting the EU's ongoing discussions about Ukraine's security in relation to European security architecture.
