Poland’s President Andrzej Duda has called for the dismantling of Nord Stream pipelines, warning against resuming Russian gas flows even if a peace deal with Ukraine is reached. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Duda emphasized that reopening the pipelines would threaten Central Europe and reinforce Russian dominance. He urged European leaders to uphold sanctions and reject pressure to restore energy ties with Moscow. Highlighting Poland’s history with Soviet influence, Duda insisted that Ukraine must participate in any peace talks. He warned against allowing Russia to retain occupied Ukrainian territories, calling it a violation of international law.

Selena Gomez broke down in tears over Trump’s mass deportation operations, calling it an attack on her Mexican community. In a now-deleted Instagram video, she tearfully stated, "My people are getting attacked, the children." Gomez, of Mexican descent, apologized emotionally and vowed to "try everything" to support those affected. Critics, including a Republican Senate candidate, called for her deportation, to which she humorously responded, "Thanks for the laugh and the threat." The deportations, touted as the largest in U.S. history, involve military aircraft. Mexico has reported receiving 4,094 deportees since Jan. 20. Gomez remains vocal about immigrants’ rights.

The 11th Kolkata International Children's Film Festival, running from January 22-28, showcases 116 films from over 30 countries, including 12 Bengali titles. With a "Fantasy" theme, the festival brings iconic characters from Harry Potter, Aladdin, and Frozen to life. Screenings take place thrice daily at eight venues, such as Nandan and Rabindra Sadan, with free evening shows at Ektaara Mukta Mancha. Acclaimed Bengali films like Hirak Rajar Desh and Adventures of JoJo feature alongside global classics. Film-making workshops at Gaganendra Exhibition Hall add to the immersive experience, delighting children and film enthusiasts alike.

Brazil expressed outrage after 88 deported Brazilians arrived in Manaus from the US, handcuffed and reportedly denied water or air conditioning during the flight. Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski condemned the "flagrant disregard" for human rights. One passenger, Edgar Da Silva Moura, described the "nightmare" conditions, including heat, dehydration, and respiratory issues. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva mobilized a Brazilian Air Force aircraft to ensure the deportees reached their destinations with dignity. Brazil's Foreign Ministry has demanded an explanation from the Trump administration, which recently intensified immigration crackdowns under a 2017 bilateral deportation agreement.

Selena Gomez shared a tearful video about Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, saying, “I’m sorry. I wish I could do something.” She expressed sorrow for the mass deportations and the suffering of children. “All my people are getting attacked. I don’t understand,” she added.   The singer later deleted the video but wrote in a follow-up post, “Apparently it’s not ok to show empathy.” Her emotional plea highlighted the humanitarian impact of Trump’s policies, including a recent operation that arrested 956 people. Gomez has consistently used her platform to advocate for human rights and social justice issues.

Israel said eight hostages, due to be freed in the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire deal, are dead. Hamas provided a list confirming their deaths, matching Israeli intelligence. Families have been informed. Since the ceasefire on 19 January, seven hostages have been released in exchange for over 290 Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations for releasing the remaining 87 hostages, including three abducted before the war, continue. Israeli officials fear delays in freeing the remaining hostages, with some held in tunnels under Gaza for months. Talks for the next phase, including troop withdrawal and Gaza's reconstruction, start on 4 February.

The Kremlin announced that it is still waiting for "signals" from the United States regarding a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and newly-inaugurated US President Donald Trump. Both leaders expressed their readiness for contact last week, but neither side has specified when or how the meeting might take place. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia is waiting for confirmation from the US. Tensions remain high due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict, with Trump offering to meet Putin immediately to discuss ending the war. Ukraine has expressed concerns about being excluded from such talks.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has urged the makers of Vicky Kaushal’s upcoming film Chhaava to balance creativity with historical accuracy. Reacting to ongoing controversies, Fadnavis emphasized that Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s history should be depicted correctly. The film, which portrays the Maratha ruler, faced criticism over a scene showing Sambhaji Maharaj dancing. Minister Uday Samant had threatened to block its release unless the scene was removed. Following objections, director Laxman Uttekar met Raj Thackeray and assured that the disputed scenes would be cut. Chhaava is slated for release on February 14, 2025.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in discussions with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, emphasized that India and China should foster mutual understanding and avoid suspicion or alienation. The meeting follows an October agreement on disengaging forces at Demchok and Depsang along the LAC. Wang underscored the importance of improving bilateral relations for the benefit of the Global South. Talks included resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, cross-border river data sharing, and border trade. Recent high-level engagements reflect efforts to normalize ties strained by a four-year standoff. India remains cautious, addressing issues like visa restrictions and further de-escalation in Ladakh.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed Haryana to submit a report by January 28 on allegations by AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi about high ammonia levels in Yamuna water disrupting Delhi’s water supply. Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal accused BJP-ruled Haryana of contaminating water ahead of Delhi assembly elections, labeling it "political sabotage." Atishi claimed 30% of Delhi faces water shortages due to affected treatment plants. Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini dismissed the claims as baseless. The ECI's involvement underscores the issue’s significance during election season, with both sides exchanging sharp accusations.