Get your house in order, Europe — or face 'ongoing decline,' economists warn

President Donald Trump has confirmed that he will impose 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada starting on February 1, following through on previous threats. The tariffs will not include oil imports at this time, as the decision will depend on how the two countries "treat us properly" and the pricing of oil. Trump cited reasons for the tariffs including immigration issues, drug smuggling, and trade deficits, stating that the tariffs are necessary due...

Japanese police arrested Vincent Yat Sum Yeung, a Canadian national residing in Yokohama, on suspicion of smuggling 320 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden in industrial machinery from the US. The drugs, valued at $137 million, were found in a milling machine shipped from Los Angeles in December 2023. Police suspect accomplices were involved and continue to investigate, with the machine and drugs discovered in a warehouse in Kuki, north of Tokyo. Full Article

Israel has launched a wave of attacks on Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, violating a fragile ceasefire with Hezbollah by targeting multiple Hezbollah sites near the Syrian border. Despite a deadline extension, Israel refused to withdraw its troops from Lebanon, citing the Lebanese army's failure to meet its obligations. The conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and violations of the ceasefire agreement, with Israeli forces killing at least 83 people in Lebanon and injuring many more. Full...

Costco shoppers in Texas, Michigan, and New York shared mixed opinions on the company's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, with some supporting merit-based hiring practices while others advocating for DEI. Despite other corporations scaling back their DEI efforts, Costco remains firm in its stance, with shareholders rejecting an anti-DEI proposal. While some customers believe DEI is essential, others prioritize lower grocery prices over hiring practices. Full Article

Mount Taranaki, also known as Taranaki Maunga, in New Zealand has been granted legal personhood, with the rights and responsibilities of a human being, as part of an agreement to redress historical injustices against the Māori people. Renamed Te Kāhui Tupua, the mountain will be represented by a newly created entity with members from local Māori iwi and the Conservation Minister. The recognition acknowledges the mountain's significance as an honored ancestor and source of sustenance...

UNRWA is a humanitarian agency established in 1949 to aid Palestinian refugees, providing services to 5.9 million people in various locations. Israel is banning UNRWA due to allegations of antisemitism, incitement of violence, and connections to terrorist activities. Israel is canceling the agreement, impacting operations in Gaza and the West Bank, potentially affecting aid distribution in the region. Full Article