- US Forces Capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro: President Donald Trump announced that U.S. forces captured Maduro and his wife in an audacious raid; the U.S. intends to “run” the country until a transition takes place while Maduro faces trial in New York for narco-terrorism.
- Deadly Swiss Ski Resort Fire Kills 40: A criminal case has been opened following a fire at a bar in Crans-Montana likely caused by sparklers on champagne bottles; authorities report 40 people died in the blaze, which may have involved a rapid “flashover.”
- Venezuela’s Interim Leader Defies U.S. Control: Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, sworn in as interim leader, rejected President Trump’s claim that the U.S. would run the country, demanding Maduro’s return and denouncing U.S. military aggression.
- U.S. Closes Caribbean Airspace Following Raid: The FAA has restricted U.S.-controlled airspace over the Caribbean citing safety risks from the military operation in Venezuela, leading to widespread airline flight cancellations.
- Tensions Rise Over Iran Protests: President Trump warned he would “rescue” peaceful protesters if they are killed, while Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei called for rioters to be “put in their place” as demonstrations over inflation grow.
- Zelensky Shakes Up Ukrainian Leadership: President Volodymyr Zelensky has named Kyrylo Budanov as his new Chief of Staff and announced a “wave of personnel changes,” including the appointment of a new defense minister.
- Two Dead After Magnitude 6.5 Earthquake in Mexico: A powerful earthquake struck southern and central Mexico on Friday, leaving two people dead and several others injured.
- New York City Mayor Accuses Trump of Violating International Law: Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the president to criticize the military strikes in Venezuela, marking his first major clash with the administration since taking office.
- Famed “Beer-Ambassador” Elephant Dies: Craig, a 54-year-old elephant known as a lager promoter and an icon of conservation, has passed away.
- Jake Paul Loses WBA Ranking Following Joshua Loss: After losing a heavyweight bout to Anthony Joshua in December, the American boxer has been removed from the WBA cruiserweight rankings.