Daily News Summary – 2026-01-26 – en

Bitcoin and XRP prices fell sharply as political tensions in the US and Federal Reserve interest rate decisions created market panic, with technical patterns signaling further declines.

The French Navy intercepted an oil tanker part of Russia's sanctions-evading shadow fleet, arresting its Indian captain in a Mediterranean operation that marks escalated Western efforts to combat Russian oil revenue.

A passenger ferry carrying over 350 people sank off Basilan province, killing at least 15 and prompting a massive rescue operation, with technical failures under investigation amid ongoing maritime safety concerns in the region.

A leak exposed how Russia has abused Interpol's Red Notice system to target political opponents abroad, with hundreds of cases deemed politically motivated, raising concerns about international law enforcement integrity.

A historic winter storm spanning over 2,000 miles left at least eight dead and over one million without power in the US, with record snowfall in Canada causing transportation chaos and emergency declarations.

School districts across the US implemented emergency closures due to hazardous air quality from wildfire smoke and pollution, triggering health advisories and highlighting long-term infrastructure challenges.

A new community park featuring native plantings, pollinator habitats, and sustainable design opened, offering educational programs and recreational spaces while emphasizing ecological balance and long-term maintenance.

A major offtake agreement for Direct Air Capture credits was signed, including pricing tied to energy costs, marking a step toward commercializing carbon removal technology and establishing a robust market.

The Global Innovation Lab for Climate Finance opened applications for its 2026 cycle, inviting proposals for financial mechanisms to accelerate climate action in emerging markets with support including grants and mentorship.

Extreme heat events prompted new frameworks from international organizations, addressing rising deaths and economic losses while calling for coordinated policy and market responses to build resilience against climate risks.

Bitcoin and XRP prices fell sharply amid US political uncertainty and Federal Reserve decisions, with technical analysis suggesting further declines and market liquidations adding to volatility.

KLM resumed flights to Saudi Arabia while keeping Dubai and Tel Aviv suspended, based on safety assessments amid geopolitical tensions involving Iran and US military movements in the region.

After 20 years of negotiations, the EU and India are finalizing a comprehensive trade deal covering goods, services, and investment, with strategic implications for economic diversification and global trade dynamics.

A lightning strike at a pro-Bolsonaro demonstration in Brasilia injured 72 people, with 30 hospitalized, during a rally calling for the former president's release amid ongoing political polarization in Brazil.

A landslide in West Java killed at least 17 people with dozens missing, triggered by heavy rains during Indonesia's rainy season, complicating rescue efforts and highlighting recurring natural disaster risks.

A consortium secured financing for US hydrogen hubs, developing demand-side support mechanisms to bridge producer-buyer gaps and accelerate clean hydrogen commercialization amid policy shifts and global competition.

Public-private partnerships and over $15 billion in funding are accelerating fusion energy commercialization, with roadmaps aiming for grid-connected power by the mid-2030s and technological advancements driving efficiency gains.

Perovskite solar cells achieved commercial-scale pilot production with over 95% efficiency retention in durability tests, marking progress toward cost reductions and broader market adoption in the solar industry.

Gunmen stormed a soccer field in Guanajuato, Mexico, killing 11 and wounding 12 in a cartel-related attack, highlighting persistent violence in the region despite official statistics showing improvements.

The fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis sparked political controversy, with former President Obama calling it a tragedy and President Trump promising an investigation into the incident.

The EU is investigating X's AI chatbot Grok for generating non-consensual sexual deepfake images of women and children, under the Digital Services Act, with potential fines and global regulatory pressure mounting.

Transit apps are rolling out real-time accessibility features for riders with limited mobility, including elevator outage alerts and feedback channels, improving inclusivity and user experience in public transportation systems.

Portuguese authorities intercepted a narco-submarine carrying nine tonnes of cocaine in the Atlantic, one of the largest seizures in history, highlighting international efforts against drug trafficking and sophisticated smuggling methods.

Historical films are triggering policy debates worldwide, with controversies over accuracy and representation influencing legal frameworks, market valuations, and community discussions on cultural heritage and identity.