European countries, including Norway, Germany, Poland, and the Baltic states, are actively preparing for a potential war with Russia by increasing defense budgets and strengthening infrastructure. Some states, like Norway, are considering the possibility of confiscating civilian property for defense needs.
A year has passed since the inauguration of Donald Trump, marked by a decrease in illegal immigration and the failure of his promise regarding the war in Ukraine. There were also conflicts with Elon Musk, the 'Epstein files' scandal, and tensions with European allies over Greenland.
Putin's administration and "United Russia" have identified five leaders for the State Duma elections in September 2026. The list includes Medvedev, Lavrov, Golovin, Lysenko, and Poddubny.
Rising tensions between the US and Iran, as well as internal protests, pose a threat to the security of Tehran's nuclear assets. Experts are concerned about the loss of control over highly enriched uranium and possible sabotage at nuclear power plants.
In early 2026, Donald Trump once again raised the issue of acquiring Greenland, leading to an escalation of relations with the US and European allies. Greenland's and Denmark's refusal led to the introduction of trade tariffs against European countries.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that a US invasion of Greenland would make Putin the happiest man, legitimizing his invasion of Ukraine. Such a move would be a death sentence for NATO, Sánchez emphasized.
Donald Trump's threats regarding Greenland have caused outrage in Europe, which could lead to a "divorce" from America. European officials are considering creating a new alliance without the US, using a "coalition of the willing" to support Ukraine as a basis.
Elite units of the British Royal Marines are undergoing intensive training in Norway, preparing for a potential conflict with Russia. The exercises are taking place at the 'Viking' camp at temperatures below minus 20°C.
The first Trump-class battleship could cost up to $22 billion, making it the most expensive combat ship. The vessel, with a displacement of over 35,000 tons, will be equipped with hypersonic and nuclear missiles, as well as an electromagnetic railgun.
Russian occupation forces continue to use the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant as a military facility. They launch drones from the plant's territory and store weapons near the power units.
Reza Cyrus Pahlavi, son of the last Shahanshah of Iran, has pledged to abandon the nuclear program, recognize Israel, and restore relations with the United States should the current regime fall. He also stated that Iran would become a peaceful and prosperous country.
The United States has begun withdrawing some military personnel from bases in Qatar. This is due to Iran's threats to strike American bases in the region.
Donald Trump is once again showing interest in Greenland, calling it a "big real estate deal" and a matter of US strategic security. This has caused concern among Danish and European leaders, who see it as a threat to sovereignty and NATO's integrity.
The United Kingdom is imposing new sanctions on Iran, targeting the financial, energy, and other sectors. This comes amid protests and reports of the country's violent response.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that the US has no intention of annexing Greenland. He also called for stronger sanctions against Iran and emphasized the strength of the partnership between Germany and the US.
The US has accused Russia of a "dangerous and inexplicable escalation" of the war in Ukraine, citing the launch of the "Oreshnik" missile. This comes amid attempts by the Trump administration to push for peace talks.
Israel has put its armed forces on high alert due to possible US military intervention in Iran. This happened against the backdrop of anti-government protests in Iran and Trump's statement about his readiness to help the Iranian people.
The UN Security Council will convene on January 12 due to massive shelling of Ukraine with 'Oreshnik' missiles. Kyiv expects effective mechanisms to influence the aggressor.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth visited Castelion to review the progress of the "Blackbeard" hypersonic missile. The missile is designed for mass and rapid production, as well as for non-nuclear deterrence.
The British Prime Minister, and the leaders of Germany and France condemned the killing of protesters in Iran. They called on the Iranian authorities to exercise restraint and respect citizens' rights.
Russia likely has only a few Oreshnik missiles, which is a variant of the Rubezh RS-26 ballistic missile. On January 8, 2026, Russia launched this missile at Lviv, covering a distance of 1622 km.
Violent clashes continue in Iran between anti-government protesters and security forces. The unrest, caused by the economic crisis, has engulfed 111 cities and towns, leading to the deaths of at least 34 protesters and four security personnel.
President of the European Council António Costa stated that the security guarantees agreement is a key step towards achieving a just peace in Ukraine. He also emphasized that Ukraine's accession to the EU is an important security guarantee.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has not received a clear answer from partners regarding the defense of Ukraine in the event of a renewed Russian attack. He noted that Ukraine must rely on its own forces, and the number one guarantee is a strong army.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that future security guarantees do not involve extending a "nuclear umbrella" to Ukraine. Discussions focus on troop contingents, ground, air, and sea defense, air defense systems, and strengthening and additional funding for the army.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban believes that the European Union will collapse on its own, but his country will not leave the EU. He also stated that he would not give money to Ukraine because "Ukrainians will not give it back."
Iran's leaders are trying to quell protests, as US actions in Venezuela are causing concern in Tehran. Tehran's capabilities are limited by Trump's threats and a prolonged economic crisis.
The leaders of China and South Korea have agreed to intensify trade cooperation and protect regional stability. The visit of South Korean leader Lee Jae-myung took place against the backdrop of North Korea's ballistic missile tests.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally observed the test of a new hypersonic missile on January 4. He emphasized the need to improve offensive weapons and nuclear deterrence.
At least 16 people have died in Iran during a week of unrest as protests against soaring inflation spread across the country, leading to violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
