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Jan. 13 (UPI) — Bolivia’s government and major labor and farm groups reached an agreement to end weeks of protests and road blockades that paralyzed the country, easing a standoff triggered by a disputed economic decree.

The administration of President Rodrigo Paz signed the accord with the Central Obrera Boliviana, known as the COB, the country’s largest labor federation, along with peasant unions and other social groups.

The agreement calls for repealing the decree and creating a commission to draft a new measure that would keep fuel subsidies and review other provisions challenged by protesters.

Six cabinet ministers signed the document alongside representatives of the social organizations. Talks took place over the weekend in El Alto, a city neighboring La Paz that was among the areas hardest hit by road closures, according to Bolivian news outlet Erbol.

Protests began in early January after the government issued a decree declaring an economic emergency and moving to eliminate state fuel subsidies. The measure led to gasoline and diesel price hikes of up to 160%, driving up transportation costs and the price of basic goods.

The core of the agreement is the full repeal of Supreme Decree 5503, which sparked public anger for its economic changes, including the end of fuel subsidies.

The draft framework for a new decree also includes plans to reschedule bank loans, improve social benefit payments and reorganize wage policy, according to the signed text.

In the days before the deal, Bolivia experienced one of its most severe traffic disruptions in years.

The Bolivian Road Administration reported at least 52 blockade points on key highways, especially in the La Paz region. Thousands of passengers and truck drivers were stranded and supplies of food and fuel began to tighten.

The protests, led by the COB and peasant federations, intensified after the government insisted on keeping the decree despite widespread opposition. Union leaders called on “all Bolivian people” to mobilize for its repeal, warning the measure would bring “hunger” to future generations.

While the agreement reopened most roads, some isolated protests continued, particularly in parts of Cochabamba, where groups maintained blockades, arguing their demands have not been fully addressed. Unions said they will remain on alert until the new decree is formally issued, according to Visión 360.

Paz initially defended ending the subsidy in a post on X, saying, “For each day without the subsidy, we saved $10 million, which means public works and jobs. For each day of blockades, we lost $20 million in public works, jobs and production.”

Analysts said the government now faces the challenge of balancing economic goals with social demands.

Claudia Edith Serrano. a specialist in Latin American studies at the National Autonomous University of Mexico and a professor at the Faculty of Higher Studies Aragon, told Reporte Indigo that any renewed attempt to fully remove subsidies could reignite protests, urging the administration to proceed cautiously and prioritize dialogue with grassroots groups.

GENEVA — President Trump will return to the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting of business, political and cultural elites in Davos, Switzerland, next week, leading a record-large U.S. delegation, organizers said Tuesday.

The Geneva-based think tank says Trump, whose assertive foreign policy on issues as diverse as Venezuela and Greenland in recent months has stirred concerns among U.S. friends and foes alike, will be accompanied by five Cabinet secretaries and other top officials for the event running from Monday through Jan. 23.

A total of 850 CEOs and chairs of the world’s top companies will be among the 3,000 participants from 130 countries expected in the Alpine resort this year, the forum says.

Forum President Borge Brende says six of the Group of Seven leaders — including Trump — will attend, as well as presidents Volodymyr Zelenskky of Ukraine, Ahmad al-Sharaa of Syria and others. A total of 64 heads of state or government are expected so far — also a record — though that number could increase before the start of the event, he said.

China’s delegation will be headed by Vice Premier He Lifeng, Beijing’s top trade official, Brende said.

Among the scores of other high-profile attendees expected are European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as well as tech industry titans Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.

Brende said the U.S. delegation will include Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, along with Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff.

The forum, which held its first annual meeting in 1971, has long been a hub of dialogue, debate and deal-making. Trump has already attended twice while president, and was beamed in by video last year just days after being inaugurated for his second term.

Critics call it a venue for the world’s elites to hobnob and do business that sometimes comes at the expense of workers, the impoverished or people on the margins of society. The forum counters that its stated goal is “improving the state of the world” and insists many advocacy groups, academics and cultural leaders have an important role too.

This year’s edition will be the first annual meeting not headed by forum founder Klaus Schwab, who resigned last year. He’s been succeeded by interim co-chairs Larry Fink, chairman and CEO of New York-based investment management company BlackRock, and Andre Hoffmann, the vice chairman of Swiss pharmaceuticals company Roche Holdings.

AROUND the world are thousands of incredible destinations from skyscraper cities to Mediterranean beach towns, Caribbean Islands and all those in-between.

But for those living in the UK, you don’t have to go far to see one of the very best – as Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards has revealed that London is the world’s best city.

The UK’s capital has bagged the number two spot for the ‘Best of the Best Destinations‘ beaten by just one other place, the Indonesian island of Bali.

And while London hasn’t always been popular having received negative comments, mostly by people who don’t live there (Donald Trump we’re looking at you), there’s a reason why thousands visit the city every day.

As a team who work, and for some of us, live in the city, we’ve got recommendations for those of all ages – from fun activities (some that are free) to quirky bars and where to stay.

To entertain children…

Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire has some must-visit spots for any families visiting the city.

FUN TIPS

Travel expert’s top FREE London attractions for kids including pub with huge slide

POD LIFE

I spent the night in London’s cheapest hotel room and slept like a baby

She said: “Having raised a child in London, I firmly believe that it is the best city in the world for kids.

“The number of attractions that are designed to interest under 18’s  – even art galleries, theatres and museums – is truly astounding.

“So much so, that I’ve broken this down into free and cheap, medium-priced and blowout activities. 

“If you’re looking to do the city on a shoestring, then I highly recommend the following.

“Museums-wise, you cannot go wrong with the Science Museum (parents with kids five and under, check out ‘The Garden’ in the basement).

“And The Natural History Museum (especially the dinosaur section and the mammals gallery with the life-size blue whale), and the British Museum (The mummies gallery is a guaranteed thriller).

“Whilst you’re at the British Museum, be sure to check out the Outernet which is a few minutes walk away, next to Tottenham Court Road station.

“Featuring huge, 360-degree screens, it plays a range of artist-created videos through the day and night and people can just walk in for free.

Caroline continued: “I’m also a huge fan of the Southbank Centre, which has plenty of affordable shows for kids, but it also holds free activities on most weekends, including kids raves, doodling workshops, Lego sessions and much more.  

“I can’t talk about free activities without mentioning London’s world-class parks.

“Among my favourites are Hyde Park, obviously, Kensington Gardens for the awesome Diana Memorial Playground, Hampstead Heath for the views of London, its more rugged feel and great celeb-spotting, and Clissold Park for its massive paddling pool.”

Here are Caroline’s suggestions for those looking for family entertainment on a medium budget.

“When it comes to eating out with kids, I would highly recommend Chinatown if your child enjoys trying new things.

“The whole feel of the area with the lanterns and exotic menus makes it feel like a proper experience.

“If you fancy letting them burn off some steam while you relax, you can’t go wrong with Brewdog Waterloo, the Brewdog pub next to the station that features an indoor slide, duckpin bowling lanes, an ice cream van and ping pong tables.

“If you want to keep the prices down, then I recommend Icco Pizzeria in Fitzrovia.

“The no-frills pizza shop serves full-sized pizzas from £6.50 and do kids meal deals with a 6” Margherita or Pepperoni, a juice and some fresh fruit for £4.95. 

“If you’re considering some theatre while you’re in town, check out Unicorn Theatre in London Bridge and the Southbank Centre, Little Angle Theatre in Islington and Half Moon Theatre in Whitechapel, as they all put on fantastic productions with prices as low as £10 a ticket.

“And if you’re planning on visiting in the summer, make sure to check out the Kids week deals that go on sale in June, which offer you 2 for 1 tickets on many of the biggest shows in the West End.”

On a blowout budget here are some more child-friendly things to do.

“Speaking of the West End, if you can afford it then a ticket to the Lion King is the perfect intro to theatre for children ages 6 and up.

“It’s one of those rare shows that adults and kids enjoy as much as each other. 

“When it comes to memorable attractions, plenty stand out but the Thames Rocket ride – a speedboat sightseeing tour of the Thames is up there with the best.

“You can get tickets from £69.95 for adults and £59.95 for kids – it’s the closest you’ll get to a rollercoaster thrill in central London.”

For the teens…

They’re classically hard to impress, but we challenge any teen (or tween for that matter) not to have a good time in London.

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding was a frequent flyer into London during her teenage years, and here’s what she suggested to do.

She said: “When it comes to free experiences in London, there are a lot – which is great for teenagers with limited money.

“One great spot is Cyberdog – a fun, alien-like venue.

“There is usually a DJ playing and there are lots of neon lights everywhere.

“The spot is well known for selling funky rave and festival clothing too.

She also recommends that if you are heading to Cyberdog, to also stop by Camden Food Market.

“You can pick up a bargain, or as I did, just go around the market taking the free samples, and you will quickly become full,” she said.

“Also head to the orange juice stand; they freshly squeeze the orange juice in front of you, and it is fun to see all the empty oranges scattered across the street.

“Sometimes going to the cinema might sound boring, but for teenagers tickets are often cheaper.

“Plus, in London, there is no shortage of impressive cinemas, including the likes of ones around Leicester Square.”

In your 20s…

When you get into your twenties, London offers plenty of freedom, and there’s so much to do.

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill said: “Being in your twenties can be a precarious time, especially when it comes to money – but the beauty of the city is that you can do lots for very little.

“Take a picnic and set up sporting games on Primrose Hill or Hampstead Heath, or head to St James’ Park for a summer sunbathe.

“I love walking around the posh neighbourhoods too, like Notting Hill where you can look at all the weird and wonderful things they’re flogging on Portobello Road.

“You’ll see the Notting Hill bookshop – and its many dupes. Not to mention you can get great pictures for Instagram.

“When it comes to London, I love taking advantage of being in the theatre capital the country.

“And contrary to what you might think, tickets don’t have to cost hundreds if you’re savvy with going to see a matinee on a Tuesday afternoon or signing up to alerts on discount sites.”

Alice continued: “As you might have guessed by now, I’m not much of a club goer, and more of a social day drinker than a late night boozer.

“So when it comes to having catch ups with friends, I’d rather do something fun in a quieter place than head to a rowdy pub or club.

“And activities like Social Pottery in Kentish Town are perfect for that.

“You get to spend two and a half hours painting whatever you like, and it’s BYOB, so you can have a good old natter at the same time – plus you pay £7 plus the price of whatever you paint.

“Although when it’s time for a drink, I love heading up to 1 Leicester Square Rooftop Bar & Restaurant.

“Not only do you get sweeping skyline views of London – but they do tasty cocktails too.”

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding gave us some of her favourite activities in the city, one of which is to experience a version of a well-known TV show.

She said: “Let’s be honest, we all want to take part in The Traitors, but with thousands of people applying for each series it is unlikely we will get our chance.

“That’s where The Traitors Live Experience comes in… Just like the show, but reduced into a couple of hours, you can experience all the same thrills that you get from the show.

“Whether a Faithful or a Traitor, you take part in challenges and get a real round table experience. It costs from £29.50 per person.

“Ice hockey might not be the most popular sport in the UK, but trust me, once you head to a game at Alexandra Palace, you will be hooked.

“The sport is fascinating to watch, and the fans are all super friendly.

“You can expect big hockey jerseys, loud music, and large pints… oh, and some mildly inappropriate stretching on the ice.”

Another favourite hang-out spot for Cyann are games bars.

“Instead of heading to your local pub or bar, head to the likes of Electric Shuffle, Flightclub, Fairgame, Boom Battle Bar, Swingers, Bounce, The Thieves, and NQ64.

“Depending on what you fancy doing, there is an activity for everyone – Bounce has ping pong, Electric Shuffle has shuffleboard, and so on.

“For a multi-activity venue, definitely head to Boom Battle Bar.”

In your 30s…

For those in their 30s, Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey and Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski have some top tips.

Kara said: “If you’re coming to London from the north, you don’t have to go too far to find some of the best things to eat and drink in the city.

“Stay in London St Pancras and you’ll find Spiritland, a hidden listening bar that feels like going back in time with vinyl’s and great cocktails.

“Or stay in the station and make the most of Searcy’s – a champagne bar with unique sliding door ‘pods’.

“Need something to soak the alcohol up? You’re spoilt for choice, with everything from Sri Lankan at Hoppers and Indian at Dishoom, to Japanese, Korean and Mexican, to name a few.

“But if you want a great place to stay that is central but just slightly away from the crowds, I’d recommend Artist Residence in Soho.

“With just a few in the UK, the hotels are a cosy bohemian stay, with artwork lining every spare space.

“The rooms are beautiful, and the onsite restaurant shouldn’t be missed either.

“If staying for longer or want more space, try new aparthotel July near London Victoria, which come with their own fully equipped kitchenettes. It helps they are beautiful on the inside too.”

Sophie added: “London’s diverse population has created a culturally rich restaurant scene.

“You’ve got high quality dining in every district – and that doesn’t have to come with an eye-watering price tag that 30-somethings’ purse strings can’t warrant.

She also shared how many restaurants offer cracking midweek deals to encourage diners to visit outside of popular hours as well.

“That includes Luca in Clerkenwell, which earned its first Michelin-star in 2023 for its delicate and moreish Italian plates of dainty pasta, citrusy ceviche and rich desserts drizzled in zingy sauces,” she added.

“A set lunch menu, featuring Stracciatella, fried Jerusalem artichoke and Cornish john dory, among other goodies, will cost you £38 for three courses, Monday to Friday.

“The booze can easily add up, but not many people know that this swish joint has a BYOB policy where you can bring up to two bottles of your own wine for a corkage fee.

“Or perhaps you want to learn how to whip up your own Italian grub from scratch, instead? Pasta Evangelists, which has schools and restaurants dotted all over the city, runs regular themed courses from tiramisu masterclasses to wine tasting and pasta making (both £68pp).

“Over one indulgent evening, you’ll be taught by some of the best in the business, who will share the tricks of the trade passed down from their traditional Italian nonnas.”

In your 40s…

Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire revealed her favourite places south of the river.

She said: “Now I’m in my forties, London has taken on yet another form for me.

“These days, with a kid at home, I tend to socialise mainly in South London so that I don’t waste precious babysitting time commuting. 

“Fortunately, London’s outer zones are just as exciting as Zone 1, and well worth exploring if you’re staying for a weekend.

“I love Peckham, with its multi-level Bussey building that houses restaurants, rooftop bars and cafes.

“My favourite restaurants including the Goan restaurant Ganapati, the rooftop Forza Wine and the ramen bar Tonkotsu.

“Special mention also to Peckhamplex – the local cinema that STILL sells tickets to films for £5. 

“Elsewhere in Peckham, the Peckham Bowls club in the park, complete with its own cocktail bar, has done a stirling job of making lawn bowls cool – something I never thought I’d say. 

“Nearby Dulwich is a draw for different reasons, thanks to its brilliant art gallery – Dulwich Picture Gallery and the extremely quaint village centre, that makes you feel like you’re in the countryside (not Zone 2).

Caroline added: “Meanwhile, trendy East Dulwich has an excellent Saturday market and is home to one of the city’s best bakeries – Eric’s.

“Another favourite is Brixton, which has so many incredible restaurants and bars that I could fill a whole article. 

“Pretty much anywhere in Brixton Village – the covered market that’s home to scores of independent restaurants – is great to eat and the much-loved Brixton Academy reopened last year.

“Nearby is the excellent Brockwell Park, which is home to London’s best lido (in my opinion), as well as a splash park for kids, a huge playground, a BMX track and a community greenhouse project.”

In your 50s…

Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot revealed some of her favourite things to do for those in their 50s.

She said: “London may be the most exciting capital city on earth – and one I’m proud to call home but as the years go on, I’ve felt the need to experience its delights at a slightly slower pace.

“For me, there’s nothing like a stroll along the Thames, a leisurely wander around one of our amazing free museums and, of course, plenty of stops to enjoy a long lunch or cosy pub drink.

“The trick is to not try and squeeze too much in – pick one neighbourhood and take your time. 

“Head to the Southbank and wander from the Tate Modern to the Globe – go for matinee tickets to the Shakespeare plays and the hardy can bag a Yard ticket for just £5 if they are happy to stand for the performance.”

These Are The Top Destinations Around The World for 2026…

This is the full list of the Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Destinations for 2026…

1. Bali, Indonesia
2. London, UK
3. Dubai, UAE
4. Hanoi, Vietnam
5. Paris, France
6. Rome, Italy
7. Marrakech, Morocco
8. Bangkok, Thailand
9. Crete, Greece
10. New York, US
11. Siem Reap, Cambodia
12. Istanbul, Turkey
13. Cusco, Peru
14. Barcelona, Spain
15. Lisbon, Portugal
16. Tokyo, Japan
17. Kathmandu, Nepal
18. Edinburgh, UK
19. Hurghada, Egypt
20. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
21. Maldives
22. New Delhi, India
23. Budapest, Hungary
24. Seoul, South Korea
25. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Lisa continued: “Afterwards, head to Borough Market and take your pick from the myriad restaurants and bars.

“Or how about enjoying some of London’s stellar green spaces? Head to Hampstead in North London for walks on the Heath and the chance to enjoy a refreshing post-stroll drink at cosy pubs including The Spaniards Inn, The Flask and the Hollybush.

“Shopaholics should head to Marylebone High Street for independent fashion, homeware and food, much calmer than Oxford Street.

“Don’t miss out on Daunt Books, the Edwardian travel bookshop that is perfect for a browse.

“There’s a farmers market every Sunday from 10am to 2pm on St Vincent Street.

“The tip to avoid the crowds is the travel on the tubes off-peak and switch an evening performance for a matinee theatre show or live music,  something like the early-evening jazz sets at Ronnie Scott’s.”

These Are The Trending Destinations Around The World for 2026…

This is the full list of the Travellers’ Choice Awards: Trending Destinations for 2026…

1. Madeira, Portugal
2. Tbilisi, Georgia
3. Chicago, US
4. Quy Nhon, Vietnam
5. Puerto Escondido, Mexico
6. Milan, Italy
7. Glasgow, UK
8. Abu Dhabi, UAE
9. Recife, Brazil
10. San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
11. Vienna, Austria
12. Menorca, Spain
13. Taghazout, Morocco
14. Bordeaux, France
15. Cali, Colombia
16. Okinawa City, Japan
17. Bentota, Sri Lanka
18. Halifax, Canada
19. Dominica
20. Big Sky, US
21. Girona, Spain
22. Trondheim, Norway
23. CookIslands
24. Belfast, UK
25. Livingstone, Zambia

For even more on London – here’s everything you can do at one of the city’s most popular attractions before it closes ahead of £240million renovation.

And here’s London’s best free indoor attractions for families – perfect for rainy days.

Jan. 13 (UPI) — Adelaide Writers’ Week, a premier literary event in Australia, was canceled after most of the writers dropped out in protest of the festival’s decision to disinvite a Palestinian-Australian author.

Last week, the Adelaide Festival board announced that Randa Abdel-Fattah, a critic of Israel’s war in Gaza, was disinvited “given her past statements.”

“Whilst we do not suggest in any way that Dr. Randa Abdel-Fattah’s or her writings have any connection with the tragedy at Bondi, given her past statements we have formed the view that it would not be culturally sensitive to continue to program her at this unprecedented time so soon after Bondi,” the Jan. 8 statement said.

On Dec. 14, two men shot and killed 15 people at Bondi Beach in Sydney during a Hanukkah celebration. One of the shooters was killed on the scene. The surviving shooter was arrested and charged. Since then, Australia has been cracking down on anti-Semitism and hate speech.

Following Abdel-Fattah’s ousting, 180 writers and four board members quit the festival, which was scheduled for Feb. 27-March 15. Writers’ Week is part of the broader Adelaide Festival. The three remaining board members, the chair and Writers’ Week director Louise Adler resigned. Adler announced her resignation in Guardian Australia. “I cannot be party to silencing writers,” The Guardian reported she wrote.

Some prominent writers who dropped out were American Pulitzer-prize winning author Percival Everett, British novelist Zadie Smith, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Australian authors Helen Garner and Trent Dalton.

The Jewish Council of Australia also condemned the cancellation of Abdel-Fattah’s appearance. In a message on Instagram on Jan. 9, it said the council condemned the decision “and the board’s cynical and deplorable reference to the Dec. 14 Bondi massacre. The fact that yet another institution has caved to a relentless campaign waged against Dr. Abdel-Fatah and supporters of Palestinians should be deeply concerning to all who value a plural and open society.”

After growing backlash, the board released a statement apologizing for the distress the decision caused.

“As a Board we took this action out of respect for a community experiencing the pain from a devastating event. Instead, this decision has created more division, and for that we express our sincere apologies,” it said.

“We recognize and deeply regret the distress this decision has caused to our audience, artists and writers, donors, corporate partners, the government and our own staff and people. We also apologize to Dr. Randa Abdel-Fattah for how the decision was represented and reiterate this is not about identity or dissent but rather a continuing rapid shift in the national discourse around the breadth of freedom of expression in our nation following Australia’s worst terror attack in history.

“We acknowledge and are committed to rebuilding trust with our artistic community and audience to enable open and respectful discussions at future Adelaide Writers’ Week events.”

Abdel-Fattah, a fellow in the sociology department at Sydney’s Macquarie University with expertise in Islamophobia, said on X that she rejects the apology.

“It is clear that the board’s regret extends to how the message of my cancellation was conveyed, not the decision itself,” she wrote.

“Once again the board, citing the ‘national discourse’ for an action that specifically targets me, a Palestinian Australian Muslim woman, is explicitly articulating that I cannot be part of the national discourse, which is insulting and racist in the extreme.

“The board again reiterates the link to a terror attack I had nothing to do with, nor did any Palestinian. The Bondi shooting does not mean I or anyone else has to stop advocating for an end to the illegal occupation and systematic extermination of my people — this is an obscene and absurd demand.”

Adler said the cancellation of the event was inevitable.

“It was untenable,” she said. “There were 165 sessions and as of yesterday at about 4 p.m., only 12 events had a full complement of writers left. Seventy percent of all the writers had withdrawn. You can’t stitch that back together. All those Australian writers, the internationals, people like Zadie Smith, M. Gessen, Jonathan Coe — all of that hard work, gone.

“I am so sorry that this masterclass in poor governance has landed us in this position,” she added.

Jan. 13 (UPI) — The BBC said Tuesday that it will attempt to have U.S. President Donald Trump‘s lawsuit seeking $10 billion over a misleading documentary on the Jan. 6 riots tossed from a court in Florida.

Trump is suing for $5 billion in damages for alleged defamation plus $5 billion for an alleged state trade law violation, but the motion the British public broadcaster is set to file will argue the court has no jurisdiction over the BBC, is an “improper venue” and that Trump had “failed to state a claim [for defamation],” according to court papers.

The corporation asked for all pre-trial proceedings, including discovery, to be halted pending a ruling on the motion.

The BBC previously apologized and issued a retraction over edits to a speech Trump gave to supporters before the storming of the U.S. Capitol, which made it appear, wrongly, as if he was “making a direct call to violent action,” but which the corporation insists was an unintentional error of judgment.

The legal standard for defamation is deliberate or reckless publishing of a falsehood causing reputational harm, but the BBC insists it is not liable because Trump suffered no actual damage, pointing to his decisive victory in the 2024 election, including in Florida.

The BBC will argue there was no “actual malice” in its Oct. 28, 2024, broadcasting of the Panorama program, which it says aired in the United Kingdom only and was not available to view in the United States via the corporation’s Britbox streaming service, as alleged in Trump’s suit.

The program, titled Trump: A Second Chance, broadcast on Oct. 28, 2024, spliced together excerpts lifted from different parts of Trump’s speech that made them appear contiguous: “We’re going to walk down to the Capitol and I’ll be there with you. And we fight. We fight like hell.”

What he actually said was, “We’re going to walk down to the Capitol, and we’re going to cheer on our brave senators and congressmen and women,” and it wasn’t until 50 minutes later in the speech that Trump made the comments about fighting.

The BBC will argue that the rest of the documentary gave a fair and balanced account of Trump’s 2024 race, including giving his supporters ample time to air their views, and that the speech in question comprised just 15 seconds of a 60-minute-long program.

The BBC declined to comment.

“As we have made clear previously, we will be defending this case. We are not going to make further comment on ongoing legal proceedings,” said a spokesman.

The error went unnoticed for a year until The Telegraph ran an exclusive on a leaked BBC memo in which a former ethics adviser raised a red flag over the speech part of the documentary.

The revelations triggered the resignations of BBC Director-General Tim Davie and Head of News Deborah Turness on Nov. 9.

Trump filed his lawsuit five weeks later on Dec. 15.

North Korea on Tuesday denounced a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting on Russia’s recent air strike on Ukraine, defending Moscow’s action as a just exercise of the right to self-defense.

Kim Song, North Korea’s permanent representative to the U.N. issued a statement condemning the UNSC meeting Monday (New York time) after Russia launched a barrage of missile attacks on Ukraine last week.

“It is just an extension of the customary practice of the Western cavilers who used to groundlessly slander the just exercise of the right to self-defense of a sovereign state,” read the statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency.

The North’s envoy denounced Ukraine’s military action against Russia as a “terrorist act” as Moscow earlier warned of a response against Ukraine following Kyiv’s drone attacks in early January.

“The terrorist act targeting the absolute sovereignty of a country can never be justified, and retaliation of justice can never be demonized by any assertion,” Kim said.

North Korea has sent thousands of troops and weapons to support Russia’s war with Ukraine amid deepening military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow.

U.S. President Donald Trump is “unafraid to use the lethal force and might of the United States military, if and when he deems that necessary” in response to Tehran’s brutal crackdown on Iranian anti-government protestors, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Monday afternoon. Her comments came as Trump is favoring an attack, according to media reports, which we cannot confirm at this time. Regardless, Trump did lay down a firm warning to the government in Tehran last week that if they started killing protestors, he would act.

You can catch up with our previous coverage of the unfolding events here.

“The greatest leverage the regime had just several months ago was their nuclear program, which President Trump and the United States military totally obliterated through Operation Midnight Hammer,” stated Leavitt, noting that the president would prefer a diplomatic solution to the crisis. “And so what President Trump will do next only he knows. So the world will have to keep waiting and guessing, and we will let him decide. I’m certainly not going to broadcast any future options or decision from the President on national television.”

Leavitt added that airstrikes are among “many, many options.”

“The options could include ordering military strikes on regime sites or launching cyberattacks, approving new sanctions and boosting anti-regime accounts online,” The Wall Street Journal suggested.

Trump announced one of those options on Monday afternoon, declaring on his Truth Social platform an immediate 25% tariff on any nation doing business with Iran.

A major curve ball that has come into play has been the sudden ask by the Iranian regime to restart nuclear negotiations, according to Trump.

Speaking to reporters Sunday aboard Air Force One, Trump acknowledged that the U.S. will meet with Iranian officials after they called seeking negotiations over their nuclear ambitions.

“A meeting is being set up, but we may have to act because of what’s happening before the meeting,” Trump warned.

The tactic could be a ploy by the Iranians to keep the U.S. military at bay during a very vulnerable period. At the same time, the U.S. could end up striking Iran for reasons totally outside of the nuclear issue.

Trump also warned that the government of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is approaching red lines in its harsh response to the uprising and brushed off threats of Iranian attacks on U.S. interests.

“People were killed that aren’t supposed to be killed,” Trump said aboard Air Force One. “These are violent, if you call them leaders. I don’t know if their leaders are just they rule through violence, but we’re looking at it very seriously. The military is looking at it, and we’re looking at some very strong options. We’ll make a determination.”

Trump added that he is getting “hourly reports” about the situation.

Asked about threats that Iran would attack U.S. assets in the region in retaliation for any American military actions on behalf of the anti-government forces, Trump seemed incredulous.

“They wouldn’t,” he proclaimed. “If they do that, we will hit them at levels that they’ve never been hit before. They won’t even believe it. I have options that are so strong. So I mean, if they did that, it’ll be met with a very, very powerful force.”

‼️🇺🇸Trump says, regarding potential attacks on US bases by Iran:

“I will hit them at levels they’ve never been hit before, they won’t even believe it.”

He adds,
“I have options that are so strong.” pic.twitter.com/3rUlr5on3t

— Defense Intelligence (@DI313_) January 12, 2026

Trump’s comments aboard Air Force One came in the wake of reports that U.S. military planners will present him with several options for responding to Iran. He will reportedly meet with senior administration officials on Tuesday to discuss the matter. As we pointed out earlier in this story, the U.S. struck Iranian nuclear facilities six months ago in what was dubbed Operation Midnight Hammer.

While Trump may be considering attacking Iran, there have been no publicly visible signs of a major U.S. military buildup in the region, either in the air or on the sea. There have been no large movements of cargo aircraft, tankers, or tactical aircraft. There are also no aircraft carriers in the region or plans at this point to move any. Even if the decision is made to redeploy a strike group, it would take weeks at the earliest before one could arrive from the U.S. The Lincoln carrier strike group is currently deployed to the South China Sea, and the USS Gerald R. Ford remains on station in the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) region. If a carrier is called to the region, it will likely be the Lincoln.

The world’s largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, and the amphibious warships USS Iwo Jima, USS Fort Lauderdale and USS San Antonio remain deployed in the Western Hemisphere. The Marines and Sailors on these lethal platforms stand ready to support @dhs_gov, @statedept and… pic.twitter.com/NnjHzzPA5n

— U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) January 12, 2026

Though carrier strike groups bring a lot of firepower in the form of embarked aircraft and guided missile destroyers, they are not a requirement to strike Iran or defend against a counterattack it could launch, as we noted over the weekend.

The US military can still operate and have plenty of impact without a carrier in the region folks.

— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) January 11, 2026

Meanwhile, the U.S. still has airpower located on land bases throughout the region, including in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan. In addition, it should be noted that the B-2s that struck Iran flew from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. B-52 and B-1B bombers can make similar flights from the U.S. or forward deploy.

However, given the threats made by Iran, we would likely see cargo flights containing air defense systems and personnel, as well as flights of additional fighters. Tehran still has a large supply of short-range ballistic and cruise missiles that it did not use during the 12-Day War with Israel. As a result, an Iranian response to a new attack could be far worse than the retaliation strike Tehran carried out on a largely empty Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar after Midnight Hammer. The Iranian revenge strike resulted in the largest single-event launch of Patriot interceptors in U.S. military history. At the same time, Iran is not in a particularly good position to fight a huge uprising internally and the U.S. externally at this time.

Meanwhile, despite ample evidence that makes such a claim seem very premature, the Iranian government maintains that it retains “full control” of the country despite the widespread protests. Iranian officials also claim that a million people came out on Monday to rallies in support of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. As we previously noted, the protests represent perhaps the greatest internal threat to the regime since it took power following the Islamic Revolution in 1979. The current uprisings began Dec. 28. 2025, sparked by anger over rising prices, devalued currency, a devastating drought, and brutal government crackdowns.

In a social media posting on Monday, the Ayatollah declared victory.

“Great and Dignified Nation of Iran! Today, you have accomplished a great deed and created a #HistoricalDay,” Khamenei extolled on X. “These massive gatherings, brimming with steadfast resolve, nullified the plans of external enemies that were meant to be implemented by internal mercenaries.”

بسم الله الرّحمن الرّحیم

ملّت عظیم‌الشأن ایران!
امروز کار بزرگی انجام دادید و #روزی_تاریخی آفریدید.

این اجتماعات عظیم و سرشار از عزم راسخ، نقشه‌ی دشمنان خارجی را که قرار بود به دست مزدوران داخلی پیاده شود، باطل کرد./۱ pic.twitter.com/Sy6MZxuc2Q

— KHAMENEI.IR | فارسی (@Khamenei_fa) January 12, 2026

Iran’s top diplomat also said the regime had weathered the uprising.

“Security forces have full control over the situation,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. “Evidence shows attacks on security forces were staged to inflate casualties, a demand from Trump, and most fatalities, including security personnel, were shot from behind. Armed attackers also killed the injured in ambulances, burned 53 mosques, and sabotaged public infrastructure.”

Araghchi also claimed U.S. and Israeli involvement, “with Mossad and its affiliates linked to killings and riots.”

Still, while saying his nation was prepared for war, Araghchi added Iran was also open to negotiations with Trump “that are fair, with equal rights and mutual respect.”

Amid the turmoil, the communication channel between Araghachi and Trump Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff has remained open, Iranian media reported.

Iran Successful in Stopping this Wave of U.S.-Israeli Attempts to Destabilize the Country

Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that peaceful protests lasted three days, during which the government held direct talks with economic activists.
However, armed terrorist groups soon… pic.twitter.com/iWs6IAXDzU

— Ibrahim Majed (@ibrahimtmajed) January 12, 2026

🇮🇷 BREAKING

Massive nationwide rallies are taking place across Iran in support of the Islamic Republic and against rioters. Crowds are filling the streets showing strong backing for the state.

The footage shared is from the Azerbaijan province in Iran. pic.twitter.com/g4snTzTjpx

— WAR (@warsurveillance) January 12, 2026

On Sunday, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf took a much more defiant stance, leveling a direct threat against the U.S. and Israel.

“I have a message for the delusional American President,” said Qalibaf. “Be careful that the advice being given to you about attacking Iran is not of the same kind as the ‘consultations’ through which you claimed that Mashhad had fallen.”

“Therefore,” he added, “in order to avoid miscalculations, be aware that if you take action to attack Iran, both the occupied territories [Israel] and all U.S. military centers, bases, and ships in the region will be considered legitimate targets by us.”

The Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, issues a harsh and direct threat against @realDonaldTrump, calling him delusional and a gambler:

“We have heard that you have threatened Iran.
Know that the defenders of Iran will teach you a lesson that will never… pic.twitter.com/4cdwe4fHWF

— The Middle Eastern (@TMiddleEastern) January 12, 2026

On Monday, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, whose calls for increased action have sparked larger demonstrations, claimed the regime is “on its back legs” and that the “people are ready to topple it.”

Pahlavi, whose fatally ill father, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, fled Iran ahead of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, is now living in exile in the U.S.

As the unrest continues, it remains to be seen how much the uprising has really been quelled. The ferocity of the demonstrations had reportedly compelled the U.S. intelligence community last week to rethink its initial assessment of the situation, recognizing that it is more serious than initially thought. However, it is unknown if that analysis has changed over the weekend.

Given that Iran has largely shut down internet and telephone communications, including jamming signals to and from Starlink dishes, it is impossible to know exactly what is going on in the country at the moment. However, intermittent reports, videos, and images continue to flow from inside Iran.

⚠️ Update: #Iran has now been offline for 96 hours, limiting reporting and accountability over civilian deaths as Iranians protest and demand change; fixed-line internet, mobile data and calls are disabled, while other communication means are also increasingly being targeted ⌛️ pic.twitter.com/Dxe5OlUWqN

— NetBlocks (@netblocks) January 12, 2026

So far, at least 544 people have been killed during the protests, according to the latest data from the Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA). The U.S.-based non-governmental organization claims that dozens of additional cases are under review, while more than 10,000 people have been arrested and transferred to prisons. The number of deaths is likely significantly higher because HRANA claims it only tabulates those that can be visually confirmed.

“Protests have taken place at 585 locations across the country, in 186 cities, spanning all 31 provinces,” HRANA stated. The War Zone cannot independently verify these claims.

For the past two weeks, social media feeds about Iran have been dominated by videos and images of huge throngs of people on the streets across the country. Some showed buildings burning, others depicting the mounting death toll as hospitals and morgues became inundated with bodies of those killed during the demonstrations after regime forces opened fire.

Connected with a source tonight in Isfahan, Iran. He described the demonstrations as a ‘battle,’ with security forces using live ammunition. pic.twitter.com/fqRYjgiSKC

— Trey Yingst (@TreyYingst) January 12, 2026

Iranian protesters have taken the control of a police station in Tehran, Hafte Tir district, and have set fire to it.

They are chanting “#Javidshah‌” “ Long Live the Shah” pic.twitter.com/gkvlhp0h4S

— Marziyeh Amirizadeh مرضیه امیری زاده (@MAmirizadeh) January 12, 2026

⚠️ 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬 ⚠️

🇮🇷 | MASSACRE FOOTAGE HAS BEEN LEAKED FROM IRAN!

We can see armed forces gunning down unarmed civilians in the streets.

REPOST, RETWEET, RETWEET! pic.twitter.com/NHGWTDuGDL

— Iran Spectator (@IranSpec) January 10, 2026

Footage dated Friday, January 9, shows dozens, if not hundreds, of bodies at the Kahrizak Forensic Medical Center to the south of the Iranian capital of Tehran, as families search for loved ones who have been killed during the ongoing anti-government protests in Iran. pic.twitter.com/PIk9rLsXnF

— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) January 11, 2026

Amid the chaos, non-essential staff have reportedly departed the French embassy in Iran.

BREAKING: Non-essential staff have departed France’s embassy in Iran, according to AFP report.

— The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) January 12, 2026

As the protests continue and rhetoric flows between Washington and Tehran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his support for the Iranian people while planning a potential attack, dubbed Operation Iron Strike.

“We are sending strength to the heroic and courageous citizens of Iran — and once the regime falls, we will do good things together for the benefit of both peoples,” he said on Sunday. “We all hope that the Persian nation will soon be freed from the yoke of tyranny. And when that day arrives, Israel and Iran will once again become faithful partners in building a future of prosperity and peace.”

As we have previously noted, an Israeli strike could play into the regime’s claim about foreign interference and galvanize the population behind it; however, that seems less likely with every passing day of violence.

Israel is closely monitoring the events unfolding in Iran. The protests for freedom have spread throughout the country.

The people of Israel, and the entire world, stand in awe of the immense bravery of Iran’s citizens.

Israel supports their struggle for freedom and strongly… pic.twitter.com/ya68R9Q1ds

— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) January 11, 2026

Regardless of Netanyahu’s intentions, all eyes are on Trump, a senior IDF official told us.

“My assessment is that much ultimately hinges on one individual: President Trump,” he said, offering an unclassified view of the situation. “He has positioned himself as a global decision-maker, and it is likely that he alone will determine whether, when, and how the United States chooses to intervene in Iran, if at all.”

However, Israel could act if it perceives a threat from its arch-enemy.

“From Israel’s perspective, should there be credible early warning of escalation or intervention, I would expect Israel to act swiftly,” said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss operational details. “At present, Israel is maintaining a high level of readiness and immediate operational preparedness. That said, much more remains classified than publicly visible. In many respects, the situation appears to be concentrated in the decision-making of a single individual.”

“It is possible that patience may run thin in the coming 48 hours, but as always, predictions in this environment are inherently uncertain, and I prefer not to speculate beyond that,” the official added.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com

Jan. 12 (Asia Today) — SK Telecom has been the main beneficiary of KT’s decision to waive early termination fees, drawing most of the more than 210,000 subscribers who switched away from KT over the past 10 days, industry data showed Monday.

Data from the Korea Telecommunications Operators Association showed 216,203 KT users ported their numbers to other carriers or mobile virtual network operators between Dec. 31 and Saturday. Departures topped 100,000 within a week of the fee waiver taking effect, then daily switching exceeded 30,000 on Saturday, when 33,305 users left, the data showed.

SK Telecom drew about 160,000 of those switchers, or 74.2% of the total, according to the data. That implies an average inflow of more than 20,000 KT users a day during the period.

The surge has boosted competition in number portability, with carriers increasing promotions and handset subsidies. SK Telecom also offered benefits such as restoring customer tenure for returning subscribers whose accounts were canceled between April 19 and July 14, 2025, the report said.

SK Telecom has sought to rebuild subscriber counts after a large outflow last year tied to a SIM-related hacking incident. The company posted a net loss of about 730,000 mobile subscribers in 2025, while KT and LG Uplus logged net gains of about 240,000 and 260,000, respectively, the report said.

The report said SK Telecom’s third-quarter wireless revenue fell 20.5% from a year earlier to 2.124 trillion won ($1.45 billion), amid compensation and customer retention costs.

The subscriber losses also pushed SK Telecom below the 40% mobile market share level it had held for about a decade. The report cited government data showing SK Telecom had 22,405,714 mobile subscribers in October 2025, representing a 38.8% share.

Industry officials said SK Telecom is expected to secure about 200,000 to 210,000 KT switchers by Tuesday, the deadline for the fee waiver. Analysts said that would likely lift SK Telecom toward 39%, but more gains would be needed to regain 40% quickly.

Based on an industry estimate of about 57.6 million total mobile subscribers, a 40% share would amount to about 23 million subscribers, the report said.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Jan. 12 (Asia Today) — Kim Jong-cheol, chairman of South Korea’s broadcasting media and communications regulator, urged the Korea Broadcasting Advertising Corporation, known as Kobako to pursue budget efficiency and business restructuring as broadcast advertising continues to weaken and spending shifts to online platforms.

Kim made the comments Monday during a public business report at the Gwacheon government complex covering affiliated institutions, including Kobaco and the Viewers’ Media Foundation.

“The decline in the broadcast advertising market is a global phenomenon,” Kim told Kobaco President Min Young-sam, adding that Kobaco’s challenges appear heavier than those facing other institutions.

A 2025 survey on broadcast and telecommunications advertising spending released by the regulator and Kobaco showed online advertising spending reached 10.1011 trillion won (about $7.8 billion) in 2024, accounting for 59% of total ad spending.

Online advertising has climbed steadily since topping 10 trillion won for the first time in 2023, with 2025 sales estimated at 10.7204 trillion won (about $8.2 billion), according to the survey.

Broadcast advertising continued to decline, falling more than 15% to 3.3898 trillion won (about $2.6 billion) in 2023 from 4.0212 trillion won (about $3.1 billion) in 2022. It slipped another 5% to 3.2191 trillion won (about $2.5 billion) in 2024, or 18.8% of total ad spending, the survey said.

Kim said Kobaco’s management performance evaluation has worsened for three consecutive years and called for introspection. He said Kobaco’s performance has fallen about 3 percentage points faster than overall broadcast advertising revenue, adding that the result is “painful” given the generally strong broadcasters Kobaco works with.

Min said deregulation is needed to help Kobaco expand into new markets, calling for legislative passage of a proposed amendment to the advertising sales agency law. He said Kobaco faces limits on entering parts of the digital advertising market and said “cross-media agencies” should be introduced so firms selling broadcast ads can also handle online and mobile advertising.

Kim said structural responses are needed but urged the corporation to focus on measures it can take on its own, including restructuring, to use this year’s budget more efficiently.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Jan. 12 (Asia Today) — The average outstanding loan balance per household borrower in South Korea exceeded 97 million won (about $75,000), the highest since related statistics began in 2012, central bank data showed Monday.

Data submitted by the Bank of Korea to ruling People Power Party lawmaker Park Sung-hoon showed the average loan balance per household borrower stood at 97.21 million won (about $75,000) as of the end of the third quarter of 2025.

The per-borrower figure has risen for nine consecutive quarters since the second quarter of 2023, the data showed. It was up more than 2 million won (about $1,500) from 95.05 million won (about $73,000) a year earlier.

The increase came even as the number of borrowers fell. After edging up to 19.71 million at the end of the first quarter of 2025, the borrower count held steady in the second quarter before slipping to 19.68 million by the end of the third quarter, the lowest level since late 2020, the data showed.

Overall household lending continued to expand. Total household loan balances rose to 1,913 trillion won (about $1.47 trillion) by the end of the third quarter of 2025 after topping 1,900 trillion won (about $1.46 trillion) for the first time in the second quarter, according to the data.

By age group, the average bank loan balance for borrowers in their 40s reached a record 114.67 million won (about $88,000) at the end of the third quarter. Borrowers in their 50s averaged 93.37 million won (about $72,000) and those 30 and under averaged 76.98 million won (about $59,000), both record highs. Borrowers 60 and older averaged 76.75 million won (about $59,000), down slightly from the prior quarter, the data showed.

Average non-bank loan balances were 39.51 million won (about $30,000) for borrowers 30 and under, 48.37 million won (about $37,000) for those in their 40s, 45.15 million won (about $35,000) for those in their 50s and 55.14 million won (about $42,000) for those 60 and older.

Park said household debt burdens are weighing on consumer sentiment, citing constraints on monetary policy amid factors such as a weak won and arguing that the pressure is showing up in softer consumption and sluggish sales among the self-employed. He called for a longer-term strategy to improve financial structure and manage debt risks systematically.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Jan. 12 (UPI) — Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has responded harshly to public warnings issued by U.S. President Donald Trump as tensions between Havana and Washington escalated.

Trump issued an ultimatum on his social media platform saying there would be “no more oil or money” from Venezuela for Cuba and suggesting the island should “reach a deal before it is too late” — a move aimed at pressuring the Cuban government to negotiate or change course.

Díaz-Canel replied on X.

In a series of posts Sunday, the Cuban leader rejected the U.S. warnings and defended the country’s sovereignty.

“Cuba is a free, independent and sovereign nation. No one dictates what we do,” he wrote.

With that message, Díaz-Canel made clear the Cuban government will not accept external pressure or ultimatums to define its political or economic direction.

He also said the United States “has no moral authority to lecture Cuba about anything” and accused Washington of turning even human lives into a business and acting out of “rage” toward the political system chosen by the Cuban people.

Díaz-Canel said the island’s severe economic hardships are the result of “draconian measures of extreme suffocation” imposed by the United States for more than six decades and now being intensified.

He added that Cuba “does not attack anyone, it is attacked by the United States,” and said the Cuban people are prepared to defend the country “to the last drop of blood.”

Trump further escalated his rhetoric in a post on Truth Social, where he reacted positively to a joke suggesting Secretary of State Marco Rubio could become president of Cuba.

“Sounds good to me,” Trump wrote while sharing an X post by user @Cliff_Smith_1 that joked about a scenario in which “Marco Rubio will be president of Cuba.”

The Cuban response comes amid growing concern on the island over a possible interruption in Venezuelan oil supplies, which are critical for an economy already struggling with energy shortages and frequent blackouts.

Venezuela is Cuba’s largest oil supplier, but no shipments have departed Venezuelan ports for the Caribbean nation amid a strict U.S. oil blockade on the South American country, a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, according to shipping data cited by France 24.

Although Venezuelan crude and fuel shipments to Cuba have declined in recent years, the country remained Cuba’s top supplier in 2025, exporting about 26,500 barrels a day, according to vessel tracking data and internal documents from state oil company PDVSA. That volume covered about 50% of Cuba’s oil deficit.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez said in a separate X post Sunday that Cuba has the right to import fuel from any supplier willing to export it.

He also denied that Cuba received financial or material compensation in exchange for providing security services to any country.

In recent weeks, Mexico has emerged as a key alternative oil supplier for Cuba, though volumes remain limited, according to shipping data.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said last week that Mexico has not increased supply volumes but that, given recent political developments in Venezuela, the country has become an “important supplier” of crude to Cuba.

Trump’s decision to cut off that support has been widely seen as part of a broader pressure strategy against Havana, intensified after a U.S. military operation in Caracas that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro.

Jan. 12 (UPI) — The European Union published new pricing guidelines Monday that could allow the relaxation of tough import “anti-subsidy” duties on Chinese electric vehicles of up to 35.3% imposed by the 27-country economic block in October 2024.

The framework deal prescribes how Chinese EV-makers will submit “price undertaking offers” under which they commit to a minimum selling price where, if accepted, the EU will waive the anti-subsidy duties, Brussels said in a news release.

The European Commission said the guidance, the result of 15 months of negotiations with the Chinese Commerce Ministry, covered sales channels, cross-compensation and future investment in the EU — in addition to the minimum price offer — and that every submission would receive a fair hearing.

“Each price undertaking offer is subject to the same legal criteria and the European Commission will conduct each assessment in an objective and fair manner, following the principle of non-discrimination and in accordance with World Trade Organization rules,” said the commission.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry hailed the agreement as an important step forward to resolving the long-running dispute over EU claims that the Chinese government is subsidizing its EV manufacturing sector, but which Beijing insists is overblown, unwarranted and manufactured from selective data.

“The progress fully reflects the spirit of dialogue and the outcomes of consultations between China and the EU. It shows that both China and the EU have the ability and willingness to properly resolve differences through consultation.

“This is conducive not only to ensuring the healthy development of China-EU economic and trade relations, but also to safeguarding the rules-based international trade order.”

The deal could offer relief for big producers like BYD, Geely and SAIC, which were slapped with tariff rates of 17%, 18.8% and 35.3%, respectively, beginning on Oct. 30, 2024, for five years following a year-long antitrust investigation into the EV market.

Tesla was given a rate of 7.8% following a “substantiated request” that its situation receive an individual examination.

However, the guidelines set a high bar for the Chinese to surmount, requiring offers to counterbalance the negative effects of the subsidies, with the EU claiming its EV industry is taking major hits, including being priced out of competing in the net-zero marketplace, with 2.5 million jobs under imminent threat and 10.3 million indirectly.

EU member states were split over the tariffs, with only 10 voting in favor in October 2024, with the sector itself, as well as economies with very large trade relationships with China, such as Germany, skeptical and fearful of Chinese retaliation.

Back then, Beijing accused the EU of protectionism, arguing Chinese EVs were cheaper because they were simply more efficient at making them.

“China’s competitive advantage in EVs is not due to subsidies but rather to a robust supply chain, developed through intense competition,” the Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU said.

Since then, the market share of Chinese-made EVs has risen steadily in Europe and around the world, with Tesla being toppled from its position as the best-selling brand by BYD sometime in 2025.

Police and military officials launched a joint investigation Monday to investigate North Korea‘s claims of drone incursions across the inter-Korean border.

On Saturday, the North’s military claimed that South Korea violated the North’s sovereignty by sending drones into its territory in September and on Jan. 4, but Seoul’s defense ministry denied the claim.

The joint team of some 30 police and military officials has started investigating the alleged incursions, according to the National Police Agency’s National Office of Investigation.

South Korea’s military has denied sending the drones or operating the models allegedly found in the North, raising the possibility that private entities may have been behind them.

Police are reportedly prioritizing looking into past cases involving drones similar to the model unveiled by North Korea.

Experts have rejected the drones in question were operated by the military, saying they appear to use low-cost commercial parts unfit for military purposes.

Some have said the drones appear similar to a model from Chinese drone manufacturer Skywalker Technology.

Jan. 12 (UPI) — Meta has removed more than half a million social media accounts belonging to Australians under the age of 16, the company said, as it announced its efforts to comply with the Oceanian nation’s new social media age ban.

The law, introduced in late 2024, went into effect Dec. 4, requiring social media services to remove accounts held by those under the age of 16 and younger and block the creation of new accounts for youth under 16.

In the Sunday blog post, Meta, owned by Mark Zuckerberg, said that as of Dec. 11, it had removed access to almost 550,000 accounts of under 16-youth, including 330,639 on Instagram, 173,497 on Facebook and 39,916 on Threads.

Instagram, Facebook and Threads are all owned by Meta.

“Ongoing compliance with the law will be a multi-layered process that we will continue to refine, though our concerns about determining age online without an industry standard remain,” Meta said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese introduced what he described as the “world-leading” legislation to ban youth social media use in late 2024, saying the government came to the 16-year limit following consultations with experts, parents, organizations, advocacy groups and academics.

No exceptions were permitted for children already on social media or those with parental consent, making social media companies responsible for restricting children’s access to their services. No penalties are to be imposed against users, with the companies subject to hefty fines for violations.

The ban affects 10 internationally popular social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, X, Reddit, YouTube, Twitch, Kick and Snap. Others, such as Bluesky, Steam and WhatsApp, could be added if they gain significantly more users or are otherwise deemed social media instead of gaming or peer-to-peer communication sites.

Meta, which has argued against the ban, said it is committed to complying with the law’s obligations, while arguing that the prohibition is linked to isolating vulnerable teens from online communities and driving some to less regulated apps and alternative parts of the Internet.

“We call on the Australian government to engage with industry constructively to find a better way forward, such as incentivizing all of industry to raise the standard in providing safe, privacy-preserving, age-appropriate experiences online, instead of blanket bans,” it said.

According to researchers at the University of Queensland, teenagers on social media have increased exposure to harm, social isolation, depression, anxiety and cyber-bullying.

A 2024 study from Orygen, the world’s leading research and knowledge organization for youth mental health, found nearly all Australian youth reported daily social media use with nearly 40% spending three or more hours online a day.

England will be among the favourites for this year’s tournament but have underperformed at World Cups in recent years.

They have failed to reach the final of any of the past three T20 World Cups and lost to South Africa in the semi-finals of last year’s 50-over competition under new coach Charlotte Edwards.

Amid fervent support, hosts India beat the Proteas in the final and Edwards believes similar home backing this summer could help her side win the tournament for the first time since she captained England to victory in the inaugural World T20 in 2009.

“Having played in a home World Cup myself in 2009, I think it plays a massive part,” Edwards told BBC Sport.

“Being out in India and watching that all unfold out there, you really sense that home support and what that can do for the team and also what it can do for the game.

“That’s just as important to us, leaving a legacy for this tournament moving forward as we did in 2017 so it’s a really exciting time.”

England open the 12-team tournament against Sri Lanka at Edgbaston, with New Zealand, West Indies and two other qualifiers also in their group.

The final takes place on 5 July at Lord’s. Matches will also be played at Headingley, Old Trafford, The Oval, Bristol and Southampton.

Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt said: “It’s hugely exciting to have sold 100,000 tickets already for this summer’s World Cup, and amazing that we’ve already outsold the whole of the 2017 World Cup.

“That tournament really felt like a turning point for the women’s game in England and Wales.

“Our game’s audience grew so much basically overnight because of that tournament, and it’s unbelievable that more tickets have been sold six months out this time round than across that whole of 2017.”

Jan. 12 (UPI) — Britain on Sunday announced it was developing a new ground-launched tactical missile with a range of more than 300 miles to bolster Ukraine‘s defense against Russia’s invasion.

Under Project Nightfall, London seeks to provide Ukraine with what London is describing as “a powerful, cost-effective long-range strike option, with minimal foreign export controls.”

According to Britain’s Ministry of Defense, the missiles will be capable of being launched from a range of vehicles in rapid succession in high-threat battlefields with heavy electromagnetic interference.

The missiles will give Ukraine the ability to rapidly hit key military targets and withdraw within minutes before Russia can retaliate, it said.

“A secure Europe needs a strong Ukraine,” MP Luke Pollard, the minister for Defense Readiness and Industry, said in a statement.

“These new long-range British missiles will keep Ukraine in the fight and give [Russian President Vladimir] Putin another thing to worry about.”

Defense Secretary John Healey announced Project Nightfall after visiting Ukraine on Thursday, when overnight Russia launched large-scale strikes against Kyiv and across Ukraine, including with the reported use of a nuclear-capable hypersonic missile, one of the few reported uses of such a weapon.

At least four people were killed and 16 injured.

On Sunday, Healey said the attack was proof Putin thinks he can act with impunity.

“We were close enough to hear the air raid sires around Livi on our journey to Kyiv. It was a serious moment and a stark reminder of the barrage of drones and missiles hitting Ukrainians in sub-zero conditions,” he said.

“We won’t stand for this, which is why we are determined to put leading-edge weapons into the hands of Ukrainians as they fight back.”

Ukraine has long called on allies to supply it with long-range missiles in order to strike Russia within its borders.

During Healey’s visit to Kyiv last week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he briefed Britain’s defense minister on Moscow’s attempt to “use cold weather as a tool of terror, which is why work on additional air defense capabilities for Ukraine is now an urgent priority.”

“We know which partners have the relevant missiles and equipment, and I am sincerely grateful to the United Kingdom for its readiness to help,” Zelensky said in a statement.

London on Sunday said the new missiles will be able to carry a 440-pound conventional warhead. It will have a high-precision production rate of 10 systems a month and at a maximum cost of about $1 million per missile.

Three companies will each be awarded about $12 million to design, develop and deliver their first three missiles for test firings in 12 months.

Jan. 11 (Asia Today) — South Korean tenants who pay monthly maintenance fees in studio apartments and multi-family homes are increasingly disputing who must cover repair costs when in-unit equipment breaks, as housing lease mediation applications have surged in recent years.

Park Geon-ho, 28, said a washing machine in his one-room unit in Seoul’s Dongjak district broke less than two weeks after he moved in last January. When he asked the landlord to fix it, Park said he was told the cost could not be covered until an official service center confirmed the cause.

Needing laundry service immediately, Park said he hired a private repair company. He later split the 400,000 won ($310) repair bill with the landlord. Park said tenants often pay first even though they pay monthly maintenance fees and he said he was never told what those fees include.

A tenant in an officetel in Seoul’s Gwanak district said an air conditioner was heavily contaminated before he moved in last December. The tenant said a cleaning company warned it could be harmful and advised against using it but he said the unit was not replaced after he notified the landlord. He said he has since dealt with recurring throat and skin problems and installed a ventilation filter on his own.

Critics say the disputes are fueled by vague definitions of what maintenance fees cover in studio apartments and multi-family housing, where monthly charges may be fixed but management responsibilities are unclear.

According to the Housing and Commercial Building Lease Dispute Mediation Committee, housing lease dispute mediation applications rose from 44 cases in 2020 to 665 cases in 2023 and 709 cases in 2024.

The report said an institutional gap affects studios and multi-family homes because they are not covered by the Apartment Management Act. As a result, there are no standardized rules for fee items, calculation criteria, a requirement to provide statements or clear boundaries for what management includes. While maintenance fees are often explained as covering shared utilities such as electricity and water, responsibility for repairs to in-unit facilities such as washing machines or boilers is often left to a landlord’s discretion.

President Lee Jae-myung ordered a review last September of broader measures to address maintenance fee disputes in studios and multi-family homes, calling for improvements to collective building management and fact-finding, the report said.

Lawmakers are also reviewing revisions. A proposed amendment to the Housing Lease Protection Act submitted Dec. 9 would require landlords to specify total maintenance fees and calculation standards for each item in lease contracts, including for multi-unit housing outside mandatory management rules, according to the report.

Real estate industry officials said collecting maintenance fees implies a level of management responsibility and urged tenants to report defects immediately upon move-in to help clarify liability. They also called for maintenance scope to be spelled out at the contract stage to prevent repeat disputes.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Jan. 11 (Asia Today) — Asia Today interviewed Sejong University business administration professor Kim Dae-jong on Tuesday about the 2026 economic outlook and strategies for coping with rising foreign exchange risks and fiscal pressures. Below are highlights in a question-and-answer format.

Q: Do you believe there is a real possibility of another foreign exchange crisis like the one in 1997?

A: “South Korea’s current foreign exchange defense capabilities are extremely vulnerable. The country’s foreign exchange reserves relative to GDP stand at around 22%. This is woefully inadequate compared to Taiwan, which holds reserves equivalent to 80% of its GDP. Meanwhile, the Korean won’s share of international payments is a mere 0.1%, making it a currency that no one will accept during a crisis. With an 84% probability of an upward trend in the exchange rate, the won is projected to surge to between 1,550 and 1,600 won per dollar by 2026. Without government preparedness, the likelihood of a foreign exchange crisis approaches 30%. We must significantly increase foreign exchange reserves to Taiwan’s level and establish safety nets through measures like Korea-Japan currency swaps. The interest losses from holding reserves are a cost we must bear given the potential losses from a crisis.”

Q: The government claims its finances are robust. What do the actual indicators show from your perspective?

A: “The government reassures us with a debt ratio of 52%, but this is merely an illusion. Broad national debt, including public enterprise debt and unfunded pension liabilities, has already surpassed 130% of GDP. The 2026 budget proposal shows an 8.1% increase to 728 trillion won ($560 billion), more than four times the inflation rate, pursuing loose expansionary fiscal policy. The IMF classifies countries with non-reserve currencies as risky when their debt ratio exceeds 60%. South Korea is expected to cross this threshold by 2029. Securing fiscal soundness is crucial for national survival.”

Q: What are the fundamental causes and solutions for the youth employment rate being only 45%?

A: “Companies are fleeing overseas to avoid high taxes and regulations. Korea’s corporate tax rate of 26% is higher than the global average of 21% and higher than places like Singapore and Ireland. The United States encourages innovation through negative regulation, but Korea is stifled by positive regulation. Allowing Uber alone could create more than 300,000 jobs, yet we are cutting off the buds of new industries. We need concrete action to create a business-friendly environment. Instead, the government raised the corporate tax rate by 1 percentage point.”

Q: In this situation, how can individuals protect their assets and become wealthy?

A: “I recommend a top-ranked stock strategy: invest 90% of your assets in the top U.S. market cap companies and 10% in the top Korean company. As dollar-denominated assets, they protect wealth when the exchange rate rises. Apartment subscription accounts should never be canceled and should be maintained. Statistically, the net asset threshold for the top 1% of wealthy Koreans is 3 billion won. By building expertise at work and consistently investing 25% of your salary into top-tier stocks, you can join that group.”

Interviewer: Kim Lee-seok, Editorial Advisor

Compiled by: Lee Jung-ho, Staff Reporter

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Jan. 11 (UPI) — President Donald Trump said Sunday that Cuba must strike a deal with the United States or face deeper economic hardship as its access to Venezuelan oil diminishes.

On Truth Social, Trump posted: “Venezuela now has the United States of America, the most powerful military in the World (by far!), to protect them, and protect them we will. THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA – ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.”

Trump’s comments followed remarks he made on Jan. 4, when he said the Cuban government could collapse without direct U.S. intervention following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by American forces.

In addition, Trump reposted a Truth Social user’s message suggesting that Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a Cuban American, should serve as Cuba’s president, responding, “Sounds good to me.”

Rubio has been vocal about Cuba’s political and economic situation in the wake of changes in Venezuela and has said Havana is in “serious trouble” and that its leaders have reason to be concerned.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel posted on X Sunday, “Cuba is a free, independent, and sovereign nation. No one dictates what we do. Cuba does not aggress; it is aggressed upon by the United States for 66 years, and it does not threaten; it prepares, ready to defend the Homeland to the last drop of blood.”

On Friday, the United States seized another oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea, the Olina, as part of efforts to control Venezuelan oil that had been bound for the region, including Cuba.

U.S. Southern Command wrote on X that it’s “unwavering in its mission to defend our homeland by ending illicit activity and restoring security in the Western Hemisphere.”

North Korea claimed Saturday that South Korea infringed on its sovereignty with drone incursions in September last year and earlier this week, saying that Seoul should be ready to “pay a high price” for what it called a provocation.

But South Korea’s defense ministry rejected Pyongyang’s claim, saying the South’s military did not operate drones on the dates asserted by the North.

A spokesperson of the General Staff of the Korean People’s Army issued a statement denouncing South Korea as “the most hostile” enemy, insisting that Seoul has continued to stage provocative acts, contradicting its overtures for dialogue with Pyongyang, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

“The Republic of Korea (ROK) should be ready to pay a high price for having committed another provocation of infringing on the sovereignty of the DPRK with a drone,” the spokesperson said, referring to South Korea by its official name. DPRK is short for the North’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

On Jan. 4, North Korea’s military captured and tracked an air target moving northward from the sky over South Korea’s Ganghwa County, Incheon, and struck the drone with special electronic warfare assets, forcing it to fall in Muksan-ri near the North’s border city of Kaesong, the KCNA said.

It also said that on Sept. 27, a drone, which took off from the South’s border city of Paju, fell into Jangphung County, Kaesong, after being struck down by the North’s electronic means. The drone was returning after infiltrating the sky above Phyongsan County, North Hwanghae Province, it said.

The spokesperson said that the drone, which crashed this week, was equipped with surveillance devices, while citing the North’s analysis that the drone was set to record the North’s major objects while flying a distance of 156 kilometers for more than three hours.

North Korea released photos of debris from the drones, recording devices and images presumed to have been filmed by the unmanned aerial vehicles. It described South Korea as a “perfect copy of Kiev’s lunatics,” likening the South to Ukraine fighting against Russia.

Pyongyang accused the South Korean military of being behind the drone infiltrations, saying those drones freely passed over areas where the South Korean Army’s radar systems for detecting low-altitude targets and anti-drone equipment are located.

“The ROK is the enemy most hostile towards us that can never be changed in nature, and the object to be certainly collapsed by us if it attacks,” the spokesperson said. “The ROK military warmongers will be surely forced to pay a dear price for their unpardonable hysteria.”

In response to an inquiry by Yonhap News Agency, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back rejected North Korea’s claim as “absolutely not true,” noting the drones shown in the photos released by the North are not models owned by the South Korean military.

The defense ministry said President Lee Jae Myung ordered a “thorough” investigation into the matter and relevant government agencies are verifying it.

Experts assessed the drones disclosed by the North do not appear to be aerial vehicles operated by the military, noting they are likely made up of cheap parts not fit for military purposes.

In October 2024, North Korea said South Korean drones carrying anti-North Korea propaganda leaflets were detected over Pyongyang three times that month, threatening to respond if such flights occur again.

The South Korean military is suspected of having sent drones over Pyongyang during former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s administration in an apparent bid to provoke North Korea and use it as a pretext for his martial law bid in December 2024.

North Korea’s claims of drone infiltrations came as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has declared inter-Korean ties as those between “two states hostile to each other.”

Since taking office in June, the administration of President Lee has been seeking to mend ties with North Korea and resume dialogue with it.

Expert said North Korea is apparently cementing its hard-line stance toward Seoul ahead of an upcoming key party congress set for January or February. The North is expected to formulate a five-year policy line covering diplomacy, the economy, the military and other areas.

“North Korea is expected to reflect the ‘two hostile states’ stance in the ruling party’s rules and regulations at the party congress and seek to revise the constitution to codify it at a key parliamentary meeting in the first half,” Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, said.

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“Take nothing away from Subriel – he’s a great champion.

“I didn’t really stick to the tactics tonight. I played him at his own game.

“I gave my dad a bit of a heart attack in there as that wasn’t the gameplan, but I took all his best shots and thought ‘you can’t hurt me’. I knew I’d get to him.”

Smith joins heavyweight Fabio Wardley, welterweight Lewis Crocker, super-featherweight Jazza Dickens and featherweight Nick Ball as one of the UK’s five current male world champions.

Ticket sales were reportedly modest, but there was no shortage of noise from travelling supporters as Smith walked to the ring to ‘When the sun goes down’ by Arctic Monkeys, who are from his home town of Sheffield.

Yet it felt like a home fight for Matias, with New York’s strong Puerto Rican population firmly behind the 33-year-old.

He appeared so relaxed that he stopped for selfies with family members during his ring walk.

Making the first defence of the title he won against Alberto Puello in July, Matias has at times been a slow starter and Smith exploited that by banking the opening round with sharp, crisp punches to head and body.

Matias edged the second, forcing Smith on to the back foot as blood trickled from the Briton’s nose.

After a scrappy third, Smith unexpectedly chose to trade with the champion.

With 22 knockouts in his 23 wins, Matias entered with a reputation for relentless pressure and heavy hands. Smith, however, also carried stoppage power, having recorded 13 knockouts of his own.

He landed several heavy left hooks to close the fourth round. Then came the career-defining moment that truly announced Smith on the world stage.

After briefly stumbling from a Matias combination, an unfazed Smith came roaring back in a fifth-round firefight.

He landed two straight left-right combinations that snapped Matias’ head back, before the decisive overhand right.

There was a brief protest from Matias at the referee’s decision, while Smith’s trainer and father, Grant, rushed into the ring in celebration.

Jan. 10 (UPI) — The U.S. military and allied forces carried out “large-scale” retaliatory strikes on ISIS targets in Syria as part of the military’s ongoing Operation Hawkeye Strike campaign.

The aerial strikes were carried out against multiple targets at 12:30 p.m. EST on Saturday, U.S. Central Command said in a news release.

“The strikes today targeted ISIS throughout Syria as part of our ongoing commitment to root out Islamic terrorism against our warfighters, prevent future attacks and protect American and partner forces in the region,” CentCom officials said.

“U.S. and coalition forces remain resolute in pursuing terrorists who seek to harm the United States,” they added. “Our message remains strong: if you harm our warfighters, we will find you and kill you anywhere in the world, no matter how hard you try to evade justice.”

More than 90 precision munitions carried by more than 24 aircraft were used to strike more than 35 targets throughout Syria, CNN reported.

CentCom launched Operation Hawkeye on Dec. 19 in retaliation for the ISIS attack on U.S. and Syrian forces in Palmyra, Syria, on Dec. 13.

The attack killed two Iowa National Guard members and their U.S. civilian interpreter, and Operation Hawkeye Strike is named after the nickname of the soldiers’ home state of Iowa.

Iowa residents Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, were part of an 1,800-member troop deployment to Syria when they were ambushed and killed.

Also killed was interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat, 54, of Macomb Township, Mich., and three other soldiers were wounded.

The U.S. military has hundreds of personnel deployed in Syria amid an effort to eradicate ISIS there.