BTS announces return with new world tour in 2026 and 2027

A global survey conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations indicates that Donald Trump's America-first policy is perceived as enhancing China's global standing rather than strengthening the United States. The survey reveals that traditional adversaries of the U.S. feel less threatened, while allies, particularly in Europe, express growing distance from the U.S. leadership.

Traces of glyphosate, a weedkiller classified as a probable carcinogen by the World Health Organization since 2015, have been detected in playgrounds across the UK, raising concerns among campaigners about children's exposure to this pesticide. Local authorities are reportedly still using significant quantities of glyphosate-based herbicides in public green spaces despite the health risks associated with its use.

The town of Tecumseh, Ontario, is facing a potential loss of approximately $3.2 million in housing funding after a recent vote against the default approval of fourplex developments. This decision aligns Tecumseh with Toronto, which has also encountered similar funding risks.

A federal appeals panel has upheld California's Proposition 50, allowing temporary changes to congressional district maps aimed at benefiting Democrats, amidst a Republican effort to block these changes. This decision comes as a response to gerrymandering actions in Texas, where Republican leaders sought to redraw maps to increase their representation in the US House.

Montreal, Toronto, and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are preparing for significant snowfall as a winter storm approaches, prompting city officials to outline snow removal priorities and timelines for clearing roads.

A 550-pound black bear that had been living in the crawlspace of a home in Altadena, California, was successfully removed by the Bear League, a wildlife non-profit organization. This bear had been a source of concern for local residents, particularly homeowner Ken Johnson, who had been dealing with the bear's presence since late November. However, reports have emerged of other bears appearing under different homes in the area, suggesting a growing trend.

Supporters of the Irish-language punk-rap group Kneecap gathered outside the Royal Court of Justice in London to protest against a court appeal related to the band. The demonstration highlights the ongoing support for the group's pro-Palestine stance amid legal challenges.

On January 13, 2026, leaders from Japan and South Korea met in central Japan, where they engaged in a surprise drum performance to popular K-pop hits, signaling a cultural connection while discussing deeper cooperation on economic security, defense, and diplomatic issues.