Over 500 people gathered at Parliament Square in London on January 21, 2026, demanding international action against the alleged persecution of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Despite cold and rainy weather, participants from diverse backgrounds joined the protest organised by the Bangladesh Hindu Association (BHA) with support from INSIGHT UK and other groups. Protesters highlighted long-standing discrimination, violence and killings of minorities. The demonstration attracted wide media coverage and strong online engagement, amplifying the issue globally. Organisers said the protest marked a renewed push to raise awareness and demand justice for affected communities. (PC: X)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the first Russia-US-Ukraine trilateral meeting at the technical level will be held January 23-24 in the United Arab Emirates. Speaking at Davos after meeting US President Donald Trump, Zelensky said "it's better than not having any dialogue" and hoped it would help end the war. He indicated Ukrainian officials met with Trump's team Thursday, who will then meet with Russian representatives. Zelensky emphasized "Russians should be ready for compromises," adding "everyone should be ready, not just Ukraine." He also stated Europe relies too heavily on US security and needs its own armed forces, questioning what happens if America doesn't help defend the continent. (PC: NDTV)

Former US President Donald Trump, attending the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, stated that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war must end. Trump confirmed he had met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the forum and announced plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin soon to discuss peace. Emphasizing dialogue, he called for negotiations and a swift resolution to the conflict, highlighting the humanitarian and economic toll of the war. His comments come amid ongoing global efforts to mediate and stabilize the region, as world leaders convene at Davos to address geopolitical and economic challenges. (PC: Reuters)

Pakistan has been confirmed as a member of former US President Donald Trump’s newly formed “Board of Peace,” an international body aimed at promoting stability and peace in conflict zones, including overseeing reconstruction in Gaza. Israel has voiced strong opposition to Pakistan’s inclusion, citing concerns over Islamabad’s alleged links to Hamas and other militant groups. India, also invited to join the board, has not yet responded to the offer. The Board of Peace includes several other nations and is envisioned by Trump as a platform to address global conflicts, though some major Western countries have declined membership. (PC: Reuters)

A suspected gunman remains at large following a deadly shooting in Lake Cargelligo, New South Wales, Australia on Thursday afternoon, police said. Emergency services were called to Walker Street around 4:40 p.m. after reports of gunfire. Three people — two women and a man — were killed, and another man was seriously injured and taken to hospital in a serious but stable condition, authorities added. A major police operation and manhunt is underway in the small country town of about 1,500 residents, with armed units deployed and residents urged to stay indoors. The shooting occurred on a national day of mourning for victims of a previous mass shooting in Sydney, intensifying concern and prompting heightened law enforcement response. (AFP)

Global financial markets rebounded sharply as U.S. President Donald Trump walked back threats to impose tariffs on several European countries and ruled out seizing Greenland by force, easing investor concerns about potential trade wars. European stocks climbed, and Asian equities, especially South Korean markets, strengthened, lifting broader indexes. The U.S. S&P 500 notched its largest gain in months, while gold prices retreated from recent highs and the U.S. dollar steadied. Positive Australian jobs data lifted the Australian dollar, and traders eyed upcoming central bank meetings and economic data. Despite relief, analysts cautioned that volatility could return amid geopolitical uncertainties. (PC: AP)

US President Donald Trump has paused planned tariff threats against several European nations after talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Trump said the two sides agreed on a “framework of a future deal” linked to Greenland and the wider Arctic region. He said the tariffs due from February 1 would not take effect. However, Trump repeated his interest in Greenland, citing security needs, missile defence plans and access to critical minerals. He said further talks would continue under senior US officials. NATO chief Rutte said Greenland’s status did not come up in talks. Denmark welcomed the pause but stressed respect for its sovereignty and Greenlandic rights. (PC: HT)

The House of Lords voted 261–150 to support an Australian-style ban on social media use for under-16s, amending the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. Peers urged MPs to consider the measure, citing rising online harms impacting children’s wellbeing and education. Campaigners, including actor Hugh Grant, backed the amendment, arguing parents are in an “impossible position” over children’s exposure to harmful content. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall announced a three-month consultation that will assess a ban’s pros and cons, possible overnight curfews and measures to curb “doom-scrolling,” with results due in summer. Critics say delay risks further harm. (PC: PA)

U.S. President Donald Trump has cancelled threatened tariffs on eight European allies over Greenland, announcing that he and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte agreed on a “framework of a future deal” concerning Greenland and the broader Arctic region. Trump made the announcement on social media from Davos during the World Economic Forum, saying the understanding means he will not impose tariffs scheduled for February 1. Details of the framework remain vague, with no confirmed sovereignty changes, and discussions will continue on Arctic security cooperation. The move eases tensions with European allies after earlier controversial threats. (PC: AP)

3 Palestinian journalists were killed in an Israeli strike in central Gaza, first responders said on Wednesday. Gaza’s Hamas-run civil defence said their car was hit in the al-Zahra area. The journalists were identified as Mohammed Salah Qeshta, Anas Ghunaim, and Abdul Raouf Shaat.   The Israeli military said it struck suspects operating a drone linked to Hamas and said the incident is being examined. A humanitarian group said the vehicle was clearly marked and on a relief mission.   The Committee to Protect Journalists said Gaza remains the deadliest conflict for journalists. At least 466 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire began in October. (PC: EPA)