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1. Facial recognition becomes widespread in London
London is leading Europe in video surveillance, with facial recognition technology becoming more common. The Metropolitan Police claim this enhances their efficiency in making arrests, but residents express concerns about privacy implications.
2. Germany’s vice chancellor warns EU on Trump
Germany’s vice chancellor and finance minister, Lars Klingbeil, has criticized the European Commission for its slow response to the Greenland crisis. He emphasized the need for the EU to remain vigilant and proactive, especially in light of changing political dynamics.
3. Amsterdam bans advertising for meat and fossil fuels
Amsterdam’s local council has approved a ban on advertising for meat and fossil fuels, effective this summer. This decision targets promotions for items like hamburgers and diesel cars, reflecting the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
4. Female taekwondo teacher released by Taliban
Khadija Ahmadzada, a 22-year-old Afghan woman who was running a taekwondo gym for girls, has been released after 13 days in detention. The Taliban confirmed her release, stating she was held for violating regulations concerning women’s sports facilities.
5. Power cuts and freezing temperatures in Kyiv
Kyiv is facing severe challenges as Russian attacks on energy infrastructure lead to widespread power cuts. As temperatures drop, nearly half a million residents have fled the city, leaving those who remain struggling with unreliable heat, electricity, and water.
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6. The South African court ruling allows the sale of Nelson Mandela’s personal items, including significant artefacts from his life. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, as these items hold deep historical value for the nation.
7. President Trump has rescinded Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s invitation to his Board of Leaders following a public disagreement at the Davos summit. The spat escalated tensions between the two leaders, highlighting ongoing diplomatic strains.
8. Ukrainian President Zelensky has voiced concerns over security issues in the Arctic, criticizing European leaders for their inaction. This shift in rhetoric comes ahead of crucial talks in the UAE, with analysts suggesting it may be a strategy to strengthen ties with the United States.
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UK pharmacists are facing a significant shortage of aspirin, raising concerns about the impact on patients. Olivier Picard, chair of the National Pharmacy Association, expressed worries over the implications of this shortage, noting that 51 million aspirin items were prescribed in the U.K. between January and October last year. He highlighted that for pharmacies able to secure supplies, the costs will far exceed what they are reimbursed by the National Health Service.
In other news, TikTok has finalised a deal that allows its American operations to continue by establishing a new entity separate from its global business. This move raises questions about the potential impact on TikTok’s ambitions worldwide. BBC Asia Business Correspondent Suranjana Tewari provides insights into what this could mean for the company’s future.
Turning to the weather. In Riga, -8 degrees with sunny riga can expect a bitterly cold day. In London, 5 to 8 degrees with patchy rain possible. In Paris, 5 to 10 degrees with patchy rain possible. In Brussels, 4 to 9 degrees with overcast. In Berlin, 0 degrees with sunny berlin can expect a bitterly cold day. In Stockholm, -2 degrees with light snow stockholm can expect a bitterly cold day. In Madrid, 2 to 7 degrees with moderate rain.
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