A Russian spy ring was uncovered in the UK, with members operating out of a guesthouse in Norfolk. The group, led by Orlin Roussev and Biser Dzhambazov, had been working for Russia's intelligence services since August 2020. They were found to have amassed a vast array of technical equipment for intrusive surveillance, including devices capable of capturing mobile phone numbers, tracking GPS locations, and intercepting digital communications data on unsecured wi-fi networks. The group planned to use these tools to gather information from Ukrainian servicemen being trained at a US military base in Germany. They were also found to have wearable technology such as wristwatches, pens, ties, sunglasses, and jewelry with hidden cameras and microphones. The devices could be used for covert surveillance and communication, and some had SIM cards that allowed them to stream directly to other members of the spy ring.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14268025/inside-russian-spy-guesthouse-gadgets-equipment.htmlDeputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks with senior European Union officials in Amman, Jordan on strengthening relations between Jordan and the EU. The discussions focused on finalizing a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement that would enhance economic, investment, trade, defense, and security cooperation. Safadi met with European Council President Antonio Costa, who commended King Abdullah's leadership in resolving regional crises and achieving peace. The talks also covered regional developments, including efforts to achieve an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the situation in Syria. Safadi discussed ways to deepen Jordan-EU cooperation on regional challenges and shared concerns with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas. He also met with European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič and Chair of EU Political and Security Committee Delphine Pronk, emphasizing the need to end Israeli aggression in Gaza and provide humanitarian aid.
https://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/safadi-holds-talks-eu-senior-officials-bilateral-relations-gaza-syriaSerbia has taken delivery of Chinese-made FK-3 air defense systems, marking a significant expansion of Beijing's presence in the Balkan country. The system, an export variant of China's HQ-22 surface-to-air missile system, can target aircraft and missiles flying at speeds up to 1,000m/s over distances of up to 100 kilometers. This deal was initially signed with China Aerospace Science & Industry Corporation (CASIC) in 2020, despite warnings from the US that it could jeopardize Serbia's bid to join the European Union. The purchase is part of a broader trend of Serbia seeking military equipment from both Russia and China while also maintaining ties with Western countries such as France.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/01/09/serbia-completes-fielding-of-chinese-air-defense-system/Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibikha urged the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) to expand its efforts to document war crimes committed by Russia, specifically focusing on the deportation of children, capture of civilians, and the fate of three Ukrainian OSCE employees held captive. He also highlighted the need for the OSCE to address the execution of Ukrainian prisoners of war as a priority. Sibikha met with Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, who holds the rotating chairmanship of the organization, in Kiev to discuss these issues and potential new initiatives to strengthen international support for Ukraine.
https://www.fakti.bg/en/world/940261-ukraine-to-osce-expand-investigations-into-russian-crimesTensions are rising between Tajikistan and the Taliban, with both sides accusing each other of carrying out attacks in Afghanistan. The situation has prompted Russia and Pakistan to urge the two parties to cool off their rhetoric, as they are concerned about conflict on the border. Meanwhile, France is seeking to strengthen its ties with Tajikistan, which it sees as a key partner in addressing regional security concerns related to Afghanistan. In other developments, China's military is increasing its combat readiness at bases in Central Asia, while India and Pakistan are navigating their complex relationship amidst a thaw in relations between the two countries. The US may also be considering intervening to secure the release of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan from detention.
https://thediplomat.com/2025/01/tajikistan-and-the-russian-scheme-to-pay-taliban-to-target-americans-in-afghanistan/US President-elect Donald Trump plans to use the International Economic Emergency Powers Act to implement a new tariff programme, which could include tariffs of up to 60% on Chinese goods and 25% on Canadian and Mexican imports. The move is reportedly being considered as a national emergency measure, although it has not yet been confirmed.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1270090-trump-mulls-national-economic-emergency-declaration-to-allow-for-new-tariffs-reportThe global financial markets are experiencing a significant downturn due to concerns over inflation risks and the policies of US President Donald Trump. The Federal Reserve's minutes from its December meeting highlighted potential inflation risks, leading to a net outflow of $582 million from Bitcoin ETFs and $159 million from ether ETFs. Meanwhile, XRP has surged 300% since November amid optimism for Trump's crypto-friendly policies, with some analysts predicting another 40% surge. Bitfinex Derivatives is relocating its services to El Salvador after obtaining a license to operate under the country's crypto-friendly framework. The global bond market is also experiencing a selloff, with yields reaching multi-year highs in the US, UK, and Eurozone due to inflation risks and concerns over Trump's tariff threats. In Asia, central banks are facing challenges as the strong US dollar devalues their currencies, raising import costs and complicating their economic strategies.
https://www.coindesk.com/daybook-us/2025/01/09/crypto-daybook-americas-turmoil-across-the-pond-as-bitcoin-defends-93-k-after-300-b-wipeoutThe US dollar rose to its highest level since April 25, reaching 4.73% on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note, after President-elect Donald Trump considered declaring a national economic emergency to implement tariffs on allies and adversaries. This move is expected to boost economic growth through deregulation and lower taxes, but may lead to increased inflation. The dollar index rose 0.28% to 109.00, with the euro falling 0.2% to $1.0318. Markets are pricing in a 39 basis point interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve this year, with a first cut likely to happen in June.
https://channelnewsasia.com/business/dollar-up-us-10-yr-yield-hits-8-12-month-high-tariff-report-4844301Incoming US President Trump has vowed not to back down from threats made against several countries, including Canada, Greenland, and Panama. In a press conference on Tuesday, he threatened military action to secure the Panama Canal and Greenland, and previously stated that he would impose 25% tariffs on Canadian imports when he takes office on January 20. This move could have severe consequences for Canada, which relies heavily on exports to the US, sending 75% of its goods across the border. In response, officials in Canada are preparing to retaliate, potentially sparking a trade war between the two nations.
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