Winter Storm Fern Causes Deaths and Widespread Disruptions
A major winter storm, named Fern, has impacted the United States, resulting in at least seven fatalities and leaving 800,000 people without power across 24 states. The storm has caused significant travel disruptions, with heavy snow and ice affecting areas from New Mexico to the Northeast, where snow totals have reached up to 15 inches in Pennsylvania. Emergency declarations have been issued in nearly half of the states, as officials warn of life-threatening conditions affecting up to 180 million individuals.
Zelensky Confirms U.S. Security Guarantees Document Ready
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a U.S. security guarantees document for Ukraine is "100% ready" following two days of talks in Abu Dhabi involving representatives from Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia. Speaking in Vilnius, Lithuania, he stated that Ukraine is awaiting a signing date, after which the document will be sent to the U.S. Congress and the Ukrainian parliament for ratification. Zelensky also reiterated Ukraine's goal of EU membership by 2027, describing it as an "economic security guarantee."
Myanmar's USDP Set for Landslide Election Victory
Myanmar's military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) is poised for a landslide victory in the final round of a controversial election, which critics have labeled a 'sham' due to widespread bans on opposition parties and voting not occurring in over 20% of the country due to civil conflict. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, who has not ruled out assuming the presidency, stated that the election reflects the will of the people, despite international concerns over its legitimacy. The USDP had already secured more than 85% of lower house seats in the first two phases of the election.
Venezuela releases 104 political prisoners amid US pressure
Venezuela's government has released at least 104 political prisoners, according to a human rights group, following increased pressure from the United States after the recent capture of President Nicolás Maduro by US forces. The releases occurred on January 25, 2026, with detainees being freed from the 'El Libertador' prison complex in Tocuyito.
