A Tesla Cybertruck loaded with fuel canisters and fireworks exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, killing the driver and injuring 7 others, police confirmed. Authorities are investigating potential links to the New Orleans truck attack that left 15 dead on New Year’s Day. Dramatic footage showed the truck bursting into flames, with multicolored fireworks erupting. The FBI is probing whether terrorism or connections to President-Elect Donald Trump or Tesla CEO Elon Musk are involved. Trump’s son, Eric Trump, expressed gratitude to responders. The hotel was evacuated, and officials assured the public of no ongoing threat.

India may drop Rishabh Pant for the crucial Sydney Test as head coach Gautam Gambhir and skipper Rohit Sharma consider changes to the playing XI. Pant’s lackluster performance, with just 154 runs in 7 innings, has drawn criticism, including Sunil Gavaskar’s fiery remarks. Dhruv Jurel may replace Pant. Fast bowler Akash Deep is ruled out due to a back injury, likely paving the way for Harshit Rana’s return. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on the line, India is expected to adopt a four-seamer strategy, potentially resting either Ravindra Jadeja or Washington Sundar for Prasidh Krishna’s inclusion.

Russia launched a drone attack on Kyiv’s central Pechersky district, killing 2 and wounding 6 in the early hours of 2025. Apartment blocks and a central bank building were damaged as debris from intercepted drones fell. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, accusing Russia of targeting Ukraine even on New Year’s night. Ukraine’s air defense neutralized 109 of the 111 drones launched. Russian President Vladimir Putin had recently threatened strikes on Kyiv, citing Ukraine’s use of U.S.-supplied weapons. The attack heightened tensions ahead of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, with concerns over potential peace terms favoring Moscow.

A pickup truck attack on New Year’s Day in New Orleans left 10 dead and over 35 injured. The FBI identified the attacker as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, from Texas, and recovered an Islamic State flag from the vehicle. Mayor LaToya Cantrell labeled it a “terrorist attack,” with Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick calling it an intentional act. The attacker opened fire before being killed by officers, wounding two. U.S. President Joe Biden vowed to combat violence, while investigators scoured the area for explosives. The attack occurred near Bourbon Street as the city prepared for the Sugar Bowl football game.

Sushila Meena, a 10-year-old from Rajasthan, became an overnight sensation after Sachin Tendulkar shared a video of her impressive bowling action, likening it to Zaheer Khan's style. Despite her viral fame, Sushila admits she doesn’t recognize Tendulkar due to her family’s lack of television access. Her rural school, led by teacher Ishwarlal Meena, promotes cricket to engage students, yet lacks resources. While her fame has brought gifts, including bats, Sushila still practices with rubber balls. Her mother vows to support her passion despite societal criticism. Local officials have promised improvements, but Sushila’s journey highlights challenges faced by talented rural athletes.

The UK faces a three-day yellow snow warning from Saturday midday until Monday morning, impacting England (excluding the South West), Wales, and parts of Scotland. Forecasters predict heavy snowfall, with temperatures plunging to -10°C in northern areas. Up to 30 cm of snow is expected on high ground, while power cuts, travel delays, and potential rural isolation are warned. Greater Manchester declared a major incident after floods forced evacuations and disrupted transport. The Met Office advises motorists to prepare for hazardous conditions and pack essentials. Weather alerts continue for snow, ice, and freezing fog across various regions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the end of Russian gas transit through Ukraine "one of Moscow's biggest defeats." Speaking on Wednesday, Zelensky highlighted that over 25 years ago, Russia pumped 130+ billion cubic meters of gas annually through Ukraine to Europe. Today, that figure stands at zero. "This marks a significant failure for Moscow," Zelensky stated on social media. The cessation reflects the collapse of energy dependency that once tied Europe to Russian supplies. The milestone underscores Ukraine's strategic progress in resisting Russian aggression while bolstering European energy diversification amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Delhiites faced major traffic jams and overcrowded Metro stations as the city welcomed 2025. Key Metro stations, including Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat, saw long queues and packed platforms. Major roads like India Gate's C-Hexagon, Connaught Place, and Ashoka Road witnessed heavy congestion. Popular temples, including Bangla Sahib Gurdwara and Hanuman Mandir, also drew large crowds. Delhi Traffic Police reported disruptions due to deep potholes and waterlogging on Rohtak Road. A visitor at Qutub Minar expressed frustration over the long wait times, dampening the New Year excitement. Authorities ensured heightened security and urged residents to plan journeys wisely.

A vehicle rammed into a crowd on New Orleans' Canal and Bourbon Street during New Year celebrations, killing 10 and injuring 30. Witnesses reported the driver exiting the SUV, opening fire, and being fatally shot by police. Improvised explosive devices were found at the scene, raising terrorism concerns. Mayor LaToya Cantrell called it a “terrorist attack,” while the FBI leads the investigation. The heavily crowded area was celebrating the New Year, with a live jazz band nearby. Victims were rushed to hospitals, and the public is advised to avoid the area. Officials described the attack as "deliberate carnage."

Delhi experienced cold day conditions for the third consecutive day as the maximum temperature dropped to 15°C, 4.3°C below normal. The minimum temperature stood at 7.4°C. Shallow fog in the morning and hazy sunshine marked the day. The cold wave also impacted north India, including Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. Relief is anticipated after January 3, with improved visibility and slightly warmer days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts below-normal rainfall for north India from January to March, potentially affecting rabi crops. Western disturbances, crucial for winter rains, are expected to be less impactful this season.