Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces his resignation
On January 6, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unexpectedly announced his resignation, citing "internal conflict" within the ruling Liberal Party. He said he could no longer lead the party before the election scheduled for October.
Speaking in Ottawa, he acknowledged growing internal pressure and a decline in his popularity in opinion polls as the decisive factors. Mr. Trudeau called for the start of the search for a new leader and asked to suspend Parliament until March 24. Since taking office in 2015, Mr. Trudeau has faced criticism over his policies and his popularity has declined.
The first ASEAN country to officially join BRICS
Indonesia has become the first official member of ASEAN to join BRICS, according to an announcement from Brazil, the rotating chair of BRICS. The move marks an important step forward in the international integration of Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country.
BRICS, established in 2009, initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and later South Africa, now serves as a strategic forum for developing countries. The Indonesian government is committed to reforming global institutions and promoting South-South cooperation, making a strategic contribution to the common voice of developing countries.
US strategic aircraft carrier attacked in the Middle East
On January 6, the Houthi forces announced an attack on the US aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman in the southern Red Sea to prevent air strikes on Yemen. According to spokesman Yahya Saree, the attack used two cruise missiles and four UAVs, causing "significant impact".
The Houthis also revealed drone attacks on military targets in Israel but did not announce any damage. The US and Israel have not responded to this information. The USS Harry Truman was deployed to the Middle East from December 2024 to ensure regional security.
Strong earthquake in Tibet, hundreds of casualties
On the morning of January 7, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Tingri County, Tibet, killing at least 95 people and injuring 130. The epicenter was located at a depth of 10 km, damaging more than 1,000 houses.
The quake was felt in Nepal, Bhutan, and India, but no damage was reported. Tingri, near the Everest region, continued to be hit by strong aftershocks. Local authorities are assessing the damage and launching rescue operations. The death toll is expected to rise.
WHO confirms HMPV is not a new virus
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that the HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) virus is not a new virus, but a common pathogen with symptoms similar to the common cold.
The WHO stressed that the level of respiratory infections in China is currently under control and lower than the same period last year. HMPV, discovered in 2001, usually circulates in winter and does not pose an urgent risk.
Advanced testing technology has improved the ability to detect this virus, contributing to raising public awareness and effective disease management.
Hollywood Hills on fire, many superstars lost their homes due to wildfires
The Sunset Fire broke out on the evening of January 8 in the Hollywood Hills, near the Hollywood Bowl, causing chaos and forcing thousands to evacuate. Many areas such as Calabasas, Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades suffered heavy damage, including at least 1,000 structures burned down.
Celebrities including Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton, and Billy Crystal have confirmed they have lost their homes. The mayor of Los Angeles has warned that the risk remains high despite the reduced winds. The wildfires have caused not only extensive damage but also disruption to schools, businesses, and the entertainment industry.
