Leaked U.S.-Russia Call Sets Off Global Game of Clue: Who Did It—And Why?

Former U.S. President Donald Trump advised Japan to temper its rhetoric regarding Taiwan following a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which raised concerns in Tokyo about escalating tensions in the region. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi had previously suggested a military response if China were to attack Taiwan, prompting a strong reaction from Beijing.

The Department of Homeland Security has announced that hundreds of thousands of Haitians in the U.S. will lose their legal protections and work permits in February, requiring those without the right to stay to return to Haiti. This decision affects approximately 340,000 individuals who have been living under Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

A devastating fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong, resulting in at least 44 fatalities and approximately 279 individuals reported missing. Hundreds of firefighters are engaged in ongoing rescue operations as they work to extinguish the blaze and locate those unaccounted for.

Russia's Kremlin spokesman stated that discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine are serious, but emphasized that no concessions will be made. This statement comes as U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for an end to the war, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced new support measures for the lumber and steel sectors as the steel industry faces significant challenges following the imposition of 50% tariffs on Canadian steel by U.S. President Donald Trump in June. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to affected industries and impose stricter quotas on foreign steel imports.

U.S. diplomatic efforts are intensifying to negotiate an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with discussions involving a revised peace plan initially drafted during the Trump administration. Recent meetings have included U.S. officials and a Russian delegation in Abu Dhabi, following significant amendments made by Ukrainian representatives to the proposed deal.

A leaked recording has revealed that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff advised a senior aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin on how to present a peace plan regarding Ukraine to President Trump. This has reignited long-held suspicions among Ukrainians about Witkoff's loyalties and intentions.

Paramilitary expansion in Lithuania indicates significant war preparations along NATO's eastern frontier, as civilians increasingly prepare for potential conflict amid rising sabotage and drone attacks across Europe.