Iran enters week two of nationwide anti-government protests, with demonstrators facing heightened security measures and threats of severe legal repercussions, including the death penalty. The unrest, described as the largest protests in years, has drawn international attention as President Trump and U.S. officials are reportedly briefed on military options. Iranian authorities have labeled protesters as ‘enemies of God’, with the Attorney General warning of harsh punishments under Iranian law. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has blamed acts of urban damage on sabotage, alleging links to U.S. interference and oil interests and accused Washington of encirclement strategies in Latin America. WATCH 

Ukraine is facing its darkest winter challenge yet. On the night of January 9, 2026, Russia launched a massive aerial assault involving over 240 drones and ballistic missiles, including the experimental "Oreshnik." The attack specifically targeted Ukraine`s energy grid during a severe cold snap, leaving millions without heat and water in sub-zero temperatures.