Author: Rachel Maddow

Geoeconomic Tensions Take Center StageRising economic conflicts between major powers — including sanctions, tariffs, and other trade restrictions — are now considered the biggest threat to global stability, according to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 2026 Global Risks Report. Released ahead of the WEF’s annual meeting in Davos next week, the report draws on the views of more than 1,300 leaders from business, government, academia, and civil society. The study places geoeconomic confrontation above misinformation, social polarization, extreme weather, and armed conflict as the most pressing global risk. Half of respondents expect the world to be turbulent or stormy over…

Amber Glenn has captured her third consecutive U.S. Figure Skating Championship, demonstrating consistency and skill that put her in strong contention for the upcoming Winter Olympics. The American figure skater delivered a flawless performance during the national championship, impressing judges and fans alike. Glenn’s routines showcased her technical precision, artistic expression, and ability to perform under pressure. Glenn’s victory marks a remarkable achievement in her skating career. Winning three straight national titles is rare and highlights her dominance in U.S. figure skating. Her performances have been praised for combining athleticism with elegance, earning high scores in both technical and artistic…

AI Hype Fuels Investor ConfidenceGoogle’s parent company, Alphabet, has officially crossed the $4 trillion mark, becoming the fourth company to reach that milestone after Nvidia, Microsoft, and Apple. Investors have been eager to back tech giants positioned at the forefront of artificial intelligence, despite warnings — even from Google’s CEO — that valuations may be overheating. Alphabet’s stock has surged roughly 75% over the past year and nearly 7% since the start of January, cementing its place as the world’s second-most valuable company behind Nvidia. A significant boost came from Apple’s decision to integrate Google’s Gemini AI model into its…

Germany is leading the charge for a new EU-India free trade agreement, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz signaling that the deal could be signed by the end of January. His comments come just days after EU countries approved the controversial Mercosur trade pact, which Germany has strongly supported as part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on the United States and China. Merz Calls for Action as Protectionism Grows Speaking from India on Monday, Merz stressed the urgency of finalizing a trade agreement with New Delhi, describing India as “the fastest-growing economy of the G20” and a “pivotal partner in…

Tensions are escalating in Iran as protests enter their third week, the death toll climbs, and Washington and Tel Aviv reportedly discuss the possibility of US military action. Meanwhile, Tehran has issued stark warnings of retaliation, and the country remains in a near-total communications blackout. US and Israel Consider Intervention as Iran Issues Threats Iranian officials have made it clear that any US strike would be met with direct retaliation. Speaking in parliament on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said that US military sites, shipping centres, and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” if Washington attacks. Iran does…

Governments around the world are facing mounting pressure to take serious action against the role of extreme wealth in the climate crisis. Campaigners are calling for bans on high-polluting luxury goods and tougher taxes on fossil fuel profits, arguing that these measures are crucial if global climate targets are to remain within reach. Oxfam’s latest research highlights the staggering scale of carbon inequality. The richest one per cent of people on Earth had already used up their entire annual carbon budget just ten days into 2026. This marks the point where emissions exceed levels compatible with limiting global warming to…

The United States has seized another tanker attempting to transport Venezuelan oil in defiance of US sanctions, marking the fifth such interception in recent weeks. The vessel, named Olina, is part of what authorities describe as a “ghost fleet” — ships that conceal their identities or national registration to illegally move oil from Venezuela. Ghost Fleet Targeted US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called the seizure a significant step in cracking down on these clandestine operations. She stated that the Olina had left Venezuelan waters attempting to evade US forces and warned that such ships would not “outrun justice.” The…

Iran’s protest movement intensified dramatically this week as crowds took to the streets of Tehran and other cities following a call for mass demonstrations by exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi. Human rights groups say the unrest has already turned deadly. Streets Fill as Communications Are Cut Witnesses in Tehran said chants echoed through neighbourhoods late Thursday night, with people shouting both from balconies and on the streets after Pahlavi urged Iranians to demonstrate at 8pm local time. Cries of “Death to the dictator!” and “Death to the Islamic Republic!” rang out, while some protesters voiced support for the former monarchy,…

Recent polls indicate that Americans are increasingly viewing immigration as beneficial for the country. The data show a notable rise in the number of people who believe immigration strengthens communities, supports the economy, and adds cultural diversity. At the same time, fewer Americans favor reducing immigration levels. Experts say this change reflects a growing recognition of the positive impact immigrants have on society and local economies. Many citizens now see immigration as a source of innovation and opportunity rather than a challenge. Political analysts note that this shift in public opinion could influence future policy decisions. Lawmakers may consider these…

The White House has said that the use of the US military remains a possible option as President Donald Trump revives his controversial push to bring Greenland under American control, arguing the Arctic island is vital to US national security. Trump first floated the idea of buying Greenland during his initial term in office, but has renewed the call following a recent US military operation abroad, saying Washington must act to counter growing Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic. Trump Administration Signals Hard Line on Greenland White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Trump sees Greenland as a…