Europe Russia Intensified web control, restrictions and widespread internet shutdowns are now surpassing those of the PRC in scope and impact; businesses disruption, estimated in over $60 million in Moscow alone in 5 days, sparked criticism beyond opposition groups
Europe Italy The 15th International Tattoo Expo opened yesterday in Trieste, with 150 acclaimed tattoo and piercing artists from around the world and large crowd of spectators and clients from across Italy and Europe lining up at the entrance
Oceania Vanuatu Twenty-one custom chiefs from across Vanuatu have convened to call for an urgent review of the Land Reform Act, saying the legislation has not fully benefited indigenous landowners since its introduction
America Mexico Mass protests against violence in Mexico have ended in clashes near the National Palace, leaving at least 120 injured, as citizens demand justice for murdered officials like Uruapan’s mayor and criticize President Sheinbaum’s security policies
America Saint Lucia After years of delays and controversy, St Jude Hospital has been handed over to the Government after reconstruction; though the facility is not yet ready to accept patients, the ceremony marked the first step towards full operational readiness
Europe Serbia A special law will declare "relevant for the Republic" the redevelopment of former Yugoslav Army General Headquarters in Belgrade, a landmark socialist-era building bombed by NATO in 1999; the project is already linked to Jared Kushner's investment firm
Asia Bangladesh A Bangladesh court sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, 78, to death after she was convicted in absentia of crimes against humanity
Oceania Fiji Several correctional facilities in Fiji have been visited by Commonwealth Secretariat officials as part of preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Justice Ministerial Meeting, which Fiji will host in February 2026
Europe Finland Two forestry companies registered in Sotkamo are under criminal investigation for suspected large-scale human trafficking, aggravated extortion, and illegal immigration for misuse of work-based residence permits and visas issued to 180 foreigners
America Ecuador A national vote has been scheduled to decide whether to lift Ecuador's constitutional ban on foreign military bases amid rising violence and calls for US assistance in combating drug trafficking
Asia Cambodia Chef Mariya Un Noun of the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse in Phnom Penh has worked in top Michelin-star kitchens in Europe, placing Khmer dishes on international menus, training Cambodian talents, an ambassador of khmer culinary heritage on the global stage
Europe North Macedonia An official agreement was signed with Bulgaria for the construction of a cross-border tunnel completing the long-discussed railway connection along Corridor VIII; the signing ceremony took place at the Gyueshevo station, near the border
Africa Cape Verde Felisberto Moreira was elected president of the NGO Platform with 99% of the votes; his priority is the administrative and financial reorganization to resolve sensitive issues such as debts and salary regularization
Asia Yemen Looting and vandalism has struck archaeological sites across Yemen’s central Dhamar Governorate, with outrage of communities and cultural heritage advocates; local sources report that organized gangs excavate artifacts damaging irreplaceable structures