Category: WORLD

Washington / Greenbelt, January 3:
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has officially closed its largest and oldest research library located at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, as part of a broader infrastructure reorganisation and cost-cutting exercise. Established in 1959, the library played a critical role in supporting NASA scientists, engineers and researchers for more than six decades, housing tens of thousands of books, technical manuals, journals and historical documents related to space science missions. The closure comes amid NASA’s plan to shut down several ageing facilities across the Goddard campus by March 2026 to address rising maintenance costs and modernise operations, with a greater shift towards digital access and centralised resources.

Following public concern and media reports suggesting that valuable books and research materials would be “tossed away,” NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman issued a strong clarification, stating that such interpretations were misleading. He asserted that NASA is not discarding important scientific or historical knowledge and that all materials are undergoing a structured review process. According to officials, selected collections will be preserved in government archives or transferred to other institutions, while duplicate or outdated materials will be handled in line with federal guidelines. NASA reiterated that the decision reflects evolving research practices and space-efficient management, assuring scientists that access to critical information will remain uninterrupted through digital repositories and collaborative networks.

Mexico City, January 3:
A powerful earthquake struck parts of southern and central Mexico, triggering panic among residents as terrifying visuals captured the exact moment buildings shook violently and people rushed to safety. The tremors were felt across several regions, including Mexico City and Guerrero state, prompting emergency alerts and evacuations. According to authorities, the earthquake caused structural damage in multiple areas, with cracks reported in buildings and disruption to daily life as residents scrambled outdoors amid fears of aftershocks.

Officials confirmed that the earthquake resulted in fatalities and injuries, with emergency services swiftly deployed to assess damage and assist affected communities. The widely circulated video footage highlighted the intensity of the tremors, showing shaking structures and debris falling as people screamed and fled. Authorities stated that rescue and relief operations are ongoing, while residents have been advised to remain cautious as aftershocks continue. The incident has once again underscored Mexico’s vulnerability to seismic activity and the importance of disaster preparedness in quake-prone regions.

United Nations, January 3, 2026: United States Ambassador to the United Nations Michael Waltz strongly criticised the Islamic Republic of Iran on Saturday, accusing Tehran of trying to “whine” to the UN while ignoring its long record of sponsoring terror and violently repressing its own people. In a social media post, Waltz said Iran’s recent appeal to the UN Security Council and the Secretary-General sought international sympathy but “ignores decades of sponsoring terrorism & crushing their own people,” and reiterated that the United States and President Donald Trump stand “firmly with Iranians yearning for freedom.”

Waltz’s remarks came in response to a letter sent by Iran’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Amir Saeed Iravani, who urged UN leaders to condemn what Tehran described as “unlawful threats” from President Trump amid ongoing domestic protests over economic hardship and rising living costs. In the letter, Iran accused the United States of interference and warned of serious violations of international law if Washington continued to escalate its rhetoric and pressure against Tehran.

Colombo, January 2:
Sri Lanka’s Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has said that India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy has delivered tangible and timely support to Sri Lanka, particularly during periods of severe economic and humanitarian crisis. Speaking at a public interaction, Premadasa acknowledged India’s role in extending financial assistance, fuel supplies, medicines, and essential commodities when Sri Lanka faced unprecedented shortages. He stated that India’s approach demonstrated genuine regional responsibility and solidarity, strengthening bilateral ties beyond diplomatic formalities.

Premadasa further noted that India’s assistance helped stabilise critical sectors and provided relief to ordinary citizens during difficult times. He emphasised that constructive engagement with neighbouring countries is essential for regional stability and economic recovery, adding that Sri Lanka values India’s consistent support and partnership. Political observers said his remarks reflect a broader recognition within Sri Lanka’s political spectrum of India’s strategic and humanitarian outreach under the ‘Neighbourhood First’ framework, which aims to promote cooperation, mutual growth, and long-term stability across South Asia.

Omaha, January 2:
Legendary investor Warren Buffett has announced that he is stepping back from his day-to-day role at Berkshire Hathaway at the age of 95, marking the end of an era in the world of finance and investment. Buffett, widely regarded as one of the greatest investors of all time, built Berkshire Hathaway into a global conglomerate and became a symbol of long-term value investing. His decision reflects both his advancing age and a focus on succession planning, ensuring that the company is well-positioned for future leadership.

Buffett’s career has spanned more than seven decades, during which he has been known for his disciplined investment philosophy, philanthropy, and straightforward communication style. Analysts noted that while he may step back from daily management, his influence on the company and the broader investment community will remain significant. Berkshire Hathaway officials stated that succession plans have been carefully structured over the years, ensuring continuity in leadership while honoring Buffett’s enduring legacy and guiding principles.

Caracas, January 2:
Venezuela has expressed willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States to strengthen efforts against drug trafficking, officials confirmed. The announcement comes amid growing international concern over the flow of narcotics from South America into global markets. Venezuelan authorities stated that collaborative measures could include intelligence sharing, coordinated enforcement operations, and joint initiatives to dismantle drug networks operating across borders.

Venezuelan officials emphasized that dialogue and cooperation with the US are crucial to effectively tackling organized crime and ensuring regional security. While political tensions have historically complicated bilateral relations, both sides appear to recognize the shared interest in curbing the production and transit of illegal drugs. Observers noted that any progress in negotiations could pave the way for more structured and sustained collaboration between the two nations in addressing a persistent global challenge.

Pyongyang, January 2:
Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Ju Ae, made her first confirmed public visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, North Korea’s mausoleum for the country’s late leaders, according to state media reports. The visit, which has drawn significant attention both domestically and internationally, marks the youngest member of the ruling family participating in a high-profile public appearance, highlighting her increasing visibility in state affairs. Observers noted that such appearances are often carefully orchestrated to signal continuity within the Kim dynasty and to reinforce loyalty to the regime.

State media coverage described Ju Ae paying respects to the preserved bodies of her grandfather Kim Il Sung and father Kim Jong Il, accompanied by senior officials and family members. Analysts suggest that her participation in ceremonial events at Kumsusan may indicate gradual grooming for a more prominent public role in North Korea’s political or symbolic hierarchy. The visit comes amid growing speculation about the younger generation of the Kim family taking on official responsibilities, reflecting the regime’s focus on consolidating its leadership and projecting stability both internally and externally.

Banjul, January 2:
At least seven people have died and dozens remain missing after a migrant boat capsized off the coast of Gambia, authorities confirmed. The vessel, carrying more than 50 passengers attempting to reach Europe, reportedly encountered rough sea conditions, leading to the tragic incident. Rescue operations were immediately launched by local authorities and coast guard teams, who managed to save several survivors, while the search for the missing continues amid challenging weather conditions.

Officials stated that the incident highlights the ongoing dangers faced by migrants attempting perilous sea journeys in search of better opportunities. Humanitarian organizations have expressed concern over the increasing number of deaths along the route and called for coordinated international efforts to provide safety, support, and legal pathways for migrants. The Gambia government has vowed to intensify surveillance and rescue measures along its coastline while coordinating with regional partners to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Toronto, January 2:
Canadian aviation authorities have called for a thorough investigation after an Air India pilot was reportedly found under the influence of alcohol ahead of a scheduled flight, officials confirmed. The incident, which occurred at a major Canadian airport, has raised serious concerns over aviation safety and regulatory compliance. Authorities have stated that the pilot was immediately removed from duty, and the airline is cooperating fully with investigators to determine the circumstances surrounding the breach.

Officials emphasized that ensuring passenger safety remains the top priority and that any violation of aviation safety norms is treated with utmost seriousness. Air India has assured that it will follow all protocols and support the ongoing investigation while reviewing its internal monitoring mechanisms to prevent such incidents in the future. Aviation experts noted that the episode highlights the need for stringent checks and regular monitoring of flight crew, particularly during international operations, to uphold global safety standards.

Washington D.C., December 30:
As Donald Trump completes the first year of his second term as US President, political analysts are reviewing a year marked by trade tensions, economic policies, and high-profile controversies. Trump’s administration continued to leverage tariffs as a key tool in trade negotiations, impacting relations with major global economies including China, the European Union, and Canada. Observers noted that while some policies aimed at protecting domestic industries and promoting “Made in America” initiatives yielded short-term benefits, they also triggered retaliatory measures that created uncertainty in international markets.

Beyond trade, the year was characterised by a volatile political climate, with Trump frequently clashing with Congress, media outlets, and foreign leaders. Analysts highlight that his unconventional style and frequent use of social media kept both supporters and critics on edge, shaping public discourse domestically and internationally. Experts believe that the first year of Trump’s second term underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing assertive domestic policies with diplomatic considerations, while setting the stage for potential policy shifts and political battles in the coming year.