Summary:

Polish prime minister Donald Tusk expressed his desire for a "Breturn" rather than Brexit during talks with Sir Keir Starmer in Warsaw, reflecting on the UK's departure from the EU. Tusk, who was president of the European Council during the Brexit referendum, emphasized his optimism for a potential return of the UK to the EU, despite the UK prime minister's stance on not rejoining certain aspects of the trading bloc. Tusk highlighted his emotional response to the Brexit referendum results and his hopes for a reversal of the decision, acknowledging the challenges but remaining hopeful for a potential "Breturn." Full Article

India and Indonesia are increasing naval cooperation to stabilize and safeguard mutual interests in the Indian Ocean Region as part of their shared Indo-Pacific vision. This includes port calls, training, and joint exercises. President Prabowo Subianto's visit to India will further enhance defence cooperation. The focus is on enhancing information sharing and addressing maritime security issues in the region. Military and naval exercises have been organized to strengthen bilateral mechanisms. The goal is to establish an open, inclusive, and transparent cooperation for peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Full Article

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey outlined plans to address affordability, transportation, and homelessness in her State of the Commonwealth address. She highlighted tax relief measures, housing affordability initiatives, and efforts to increase primary care physician availability. Healey also praised improvements in the MBTA system, including the elimination of slow zones and increased regional transit authority funding for fare-free service and expanded commuter rail service. Full Article

Quebec Liberal leadership candidate Denis Coderre suggests using Quebec's water resources as leverage against U.S. president-elect Donald Trump's tariffs on Quebec goods, proposing to threaten to turn off the tap to Americans. Coderre believes that Quebec should utilize its water supply as a strategic weapon in the trade dispute with the U.S., highlighting the potential impact it could have on Trump's policies towards Quebec. By leveraging its water resources, Quebec could potentially negotiate a more favorable trade agreement with the U.S. Full Article

Deputy Prime Minister Saade el-Shami and UN Humanitarian Coordinator Imran Riza announced an extension of emergency efforts in Beirut through March 2025, targeting vulnerable populations affected by the largest conflict escalation since the 2006 Lebanon War. The appeal focuses on immediate relief for Lebanese citizens, Syrian and Palestinian refugees, and migrants, addressing key priorities such as food assistance, winterization support, and healthcare infrastructure. Despite the devastating impact of the conflict, efforts are ongoing to provide humanitarian assistance, stabilize basic services, and support recovery for those affected. Full Article

out of the summary. Mark Carney is seeking a unicorn of taxes on Fantasy Island, aiming to implement a global tax system for digital companies. The proposal is part of efforts to combat tax avoidance by multinational corporations. Carney's plan faces challenges but could potentially lead to significant changes in the international tax landscape. Full Article

Former contestants of The Traitors BBC reveal behind-the-scenes secrets of the show, including the tension around breakfast order and lack of clocks in the castle. Days are spent chatting and waiting for filming, with the roundtable discussions lasting hours and evoking intense emotions. Contestants are blindfolded on car journeys to secret lodgings, where they are closely monitored by security guards, and the food receives mixed reviews. Full Article

Asset management giant Vanguard has agreed to pay over $100 million to settle SEC charges related to disclosures around target date investment funds, stemming from a 2020 change that led to redemptions and taxable distributions for remaining shareholders. The SEC found Vanguard failed to disclose the impact of lowering the minimum investment requirement for its institutional target date funds, resulting in larger capital gains distributions and tax liabilities for retail investors. Vanguard, known for its low-cost, investor-friendly reputation, will distribute the settlement to harmed investors without admitting or denying the SEC's findings. Full Article

In Tijuana, Mexico, a Cuban nurse, Karla Figueredo, stayed with Martha Rosales, a local resident, while waiting to legally enter the U.S. using the CBP One app. Rosales, a former bank cleaner, now runs a migrant shelter for Cubans referred to as "’Tía Martha." The CBP One program, which may be discontinued under the new administration, has helped bring order to the border while creating high demand for appointments among migrants seeking entry to the U.S. Full Article

Kid Rock criticizes Michelle Obama for not attending Trump's inauguration, emphasizing the importance of respect. Michelle Obama, who turned 61, has been avoiding public appearances and will skip the inauguration due to her disdain for the president-elect. Despite rumors of marital issues, both Barack and Michelle Obama are set to attend the event, with former presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush also slated to be present. Full Article

Today's top stories include the Israeli security cabinet set to vote on a ceasefire deal with Hamas, the U.S. Supreme Court expected to rule on a TikTok ban, and a polar vortex bringing frigid temperatures to millions of Americans. NPR's Life Kit also offers expert guides for setting goals for 2025. Full Article

The Australian Open saw a dramatic turn of events as American player Danielle Collins clashed with Australian fans, leading to a controversial celebration and taunts towards the crowd. Novak Djokovic also faced rowdy hecklers during his match, acknowledging the disruptive behavior but commending Collins for her response. The upcoming match between Collins and Madison Keys promises to be a must-watch showdown, highlighting the captivating dynamic between 'good' and 'evil' in sports. Full Article

Federal Judge overseeing Donald Trump's 2020 election interference case condemned attempts to rewrite U.S. Capitol attack history while sentencing Jan. 6 rioters before potential pardons by the incoming Republican president-elect. She emphasized the seriousness of the events and the need for accountability, signaling a firm stance against efforts to distort the truth surrounding the violent insurrection. The judge's statement serves as a reminder of the gravity of the Capitol attack and the importance of upholding justice in the face of attempts to rewrite or downplay its significance. Full Article

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a law requiring TikTok to divest its Chinese ownership to prevent a nationwide ban, citing national security concerns over data collection practices. The ruling acknowledges TikTok's importance as a platform for expression and community for over 170 million Americans but emphasizes the need for divestiture. All nine justices rejected TikTok's argument that the law violates First Amendment rights, ensuring compliance with Congress' national security objectives. Full Article

Eagle-eyed royal fans have noticed Prince Harry sporting a fuller and darker head of hair in an official photo released by BetterUP, where he serves as chief impact officer. Speculation has arisen about whether the Duke of Sussex has undergone a royal makeover, with hair specialist Jay Dharamshi suggesting he may have had non-surgical treatments to enhance his hair volume. In the past, experts have also pointed out that Prince Harry may be using hair fibers to create the illusion of thicker and denser hair. Full Article