webfact

File photo for reference only. Thailand is debating a potential social media ban for those under 16, inspired by Australia's recent implementation. The Online Safety Amendment Bill in Australia restricts access to platforms like TikTok and Instagram to tackle digital addiction and harmful content. This initiative prompts Thailand to explore similar measures to protect its youth. The move aligns with an Ipsos survey, showing 87% of Thais favour a ban on under-14s, the highest globally. However, issues like enforcement and data protection pose challenges. Critics urge that bans should cover not only social media but also dating and gaming platforms to fully shield children. Thai educators and parents express mixed feelings. Some argue that a ban could improve students' focus and well-being, while others call for balanced solutions. Parents propose involving them in monitoring children's online activity to ensure both safety and education. Looking ahead, Thailand weighs its options amid increasing calls for digital safety. As discussions continue, policymakers will need to consider enforcing effective regulations that involve parents and protect young Thais. This ongoing debate reflects the global challenge of ensuring safe online environments for children. , reported the Bangkok Post Key Takeaways Thailand considers a social media ban inspired by Australia. 87% of Thais support banning under-14s from platforms. Parents suggest involving them in monitoring online activity for safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2026-01-12

File photo Lord Mandelson, in a revealing BBC interview, stated he was unaware of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes and was "kept separate" from that aspect of the financier's life due to his sexuality. Mandelson, recently dismissed from his role as the UK's ambassador to the US, stressed he never witnessed any misconduct at Epstein's properties. He declined to apologise to Epstein's victims, stating he did not know of Epstein's activities. Epstein, who died in 2019 while in custody, had a history of sex crime convictions. Following his 2008 conviction, Mandelson's supportive emails to Epstein were uncovered, leading to his dismissal. Lord Mandelson asserted he only encountered housekeepers during visits to Epstein’s properties and was unaware of any illegal activities. The government expressed concerns about Mandelson's communications with Epstein, which suggested an unexpected depth to their relationship. Labor's Heidi Alexander commented on Mandelson's "naiveté" and criticised his decision to maintain ties with Epstein. Mandelson's statements about Epstein's wrongful conviction further complicated matters, as noted by Downing Street. Looking forward, Mandelson is focused on moving past the controversy, acknowledging the government's decision to dismiss him. He admitted surprise at the content of his past emails, acknowledging he did not recall sending them. Meanwhile, the government aims to ensure more stringent evaluations for such high-profile positions, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: Lord Mandelson claims ignorance of Epstein's actions due to a lack of exposure. Mandelson's supportive emails to Epstein led to his dismissal as ambassador. Government seeks to reassess vetting for government roles following the incident. Related Story: Lord Mandelson's Shocking Epstein 'Best Pal' Birthday Message Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2026-01-12

US President Donald Trump is contemplating military intervention in Iran following violent protests that have resulted in substantial casualties. Recent briefings presented Trump with various strategies to confront Iran's regime, should it resort to lethal actions against demonstrators. Among these are potential strikes on Tehran's security forces, although concerns exist over potential backlash. These military options aim to pressure Iran, but there's apprehension they might unintentionally bolster support for the Iranian government or provoke military retaliation. Alongside, Trump is considering alternatives like cyber operations against military or regime targets and has not ruled out further economic sanctions. There's also mention of enhancing internet connectivity in Iran, akin to past US initiatives, to help protestors access information despite government blackouts. Given the complexity, numerous agencies have been tasked to develop strategies, with a high-level meeting expected next week as violence escalates. Iran's parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, has issued stern warnings, signalling potential retaliation against US interests if military action is taken. Though Trump has yet to finalise a decision, he remains intent on supporting Iranian protests as civilian casualties rise. Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) report thousands of arrests and hundreds of deaths during the unrest, though these figures remain unverified by independent sources. Trump has publicly declared the US’s readiness to act should Tehran’s regime escalate its aggressive stance. Conversations between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have occurred, focusing on protests and regional stability in Syria and Gaza. Meanwhile, the Israeli Defence Forces are monitoring the situation and maintaining readiness amidst rising tensions, according to CNN. Key Takeaways Trump considers military and non-military options in response to Iran's clampdown on protestors. Iranian retaliation threats surface as the US deliberates on intervention measures. Regional and international actors, including Israel, remain vigilant and prepared. Relates Stories: Iran Collapse Under Trump? The New "Maximum Pressure" Strategy Protester Scales Iranian Embassy Balcony in London Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2026-01-12

Pheu Thai Unveils Inclusive Growth Vision for Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Pheu Thai has laid out an ambitious vision to turn Chiang Mai into a leading example of inclusive growth. In a public forum attended by prime ministerial candidates Yodchanan Wongsawat and Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the party engaged with the LGBTQIA+ community, cultural workers, and business leaders to discuss innovative policies. The aim is to integrate creative industries, cluster tourism, and educational reform to boost economic growth and embrace diversity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384337-pheu-thai-unveils-inclusive-growth-vision-for-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Pheu Thai has laid out an ambitious vision to turn Chiang Mai into a leading example of inclusive growth. In a public forum attended by prime ministerial candidates Yodchanan Wongsawat and Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the party engaged with the LGBTQIA+ community, cultural workers, and business leaders to discuss innovative policies. The aim is to integrate creative industries, cluster tourism, and educational reform to boost economic growth and embrace diversity. On Saturday, the candidates highlighted plans for government support for small cultural and arts sector players, expanding opportunities in digital arenas and e-sports. They also focused on enhancing equality and human rights, especially for the LGBTQIA+ community, and targeted financial and economic issues. Yodchanan proposed a ‘cluster tourism’ model for Chiang Mai, interconnecting destinations to enhance visitor experiences beyond traditional landmarks. He noted that true charm lies in stories and experiences found in local settings, like small cafés. His vision includes the government's role in supporting content creators and small entrepreneurs, with proposals for identifying talent and providing funding for new opportunities. This approach aims to transition Thailand's tourism sector towards high-value services for sustainable income. On diversity and inclusion, Yodchanan stated that these are universal matters touching various communities, including Muslims and Christians, advocating for mutual respect rooted in human dignity. He tied this to education, suggesting reforms to inspire students with role models and flexible learning environments. This aligns with fostering talent for future creative economies, as reported by the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways Pheu Thai aims to transform Chiang Mai through inclusive growth policies. Initiatives include support for creative industries and cluster tourism. Emphasis on equality, human rights, and educational reforms. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2026-01-12

Nattapong Leads PM Race, People's Party Tops NIDA Poll Nattapong Ruengpanyawut (C). Picture courtesy of Amarin TV People’s Party leader Nattapong Ruengpanyawut emerges as the top choice for prime minister, with the reformist People’s Party leading in popularity for both party-listed and constituency-based elections ahead of the upcoming 2026 general election, as per the latest NIDA poll. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384336-nattapong-leads-pm-race-peoples-party-tops-nida-poll/

Nattapong Ruengpanyawut (C). Picture courtesy of Amarin TV People’s Party leader Nattapong Ruengpanyawut emerges as the top choice for prime minister, with the reformist People’s Party leading in popularity for both party-listed and constituency-based elections ahead of the upcoming 2026 general election in Thailand, as per the latest NIDA poll. The survey, conducted nationwide with 2,500 respondents, shows 24% support for Nattapong as the preferred PM. Anutin Charnvirakul, the current caretaker prime minister and Bhumjaithai leader, follows with 20%. Meanwhile, 14% of respondents couldn't identify a suitable candidate for the top political role at this time. Further results reveal 12% backing for former Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva's return as head of government, while 9% support Yodchanan Wongsawat, nephew of Thaksin Shinawatra and a Pheu Thai contender, for prime minister. The People's Party leads with 30% in the party-listed elections, followed by Bhumjaithai at 22%. Pheu Thai garners 15%, Democrats secure 12%, and 7% remain undecided. In constituency-based elections, People's again leads with 30% support. Bhumjaithai follows at 22%, Pheu Thai at 15%, and Democrats at 12%, with 8% undecided. Previously, the Move Forward Party held 151 MPs as the largest camp before its 2024 dissolution by the Constitutional Court. Its successor, the People's Party, has since gained reformist momentum, reported Thai Newsroom. Key Takeaways Nattapong Ruengpanyawut is the top choice for PM at 24% in the poll. People’s Party leads both election modes, with Bhumjaithai second. 2023's Move Forward dissolved, leading to People's rise in popularity. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2026-01-12

File photo In a fiery statement, US President Donald Trump has urged Cuba to "make a deal" or see oil supplies from Venezuela cut off. This comes as the Trump administration intensifies its focus on Cuba following the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Venezuela, a key ally of Cuba, has been supplying around 35,000 barrels of oil daily to the island. The situation escalated after US forces seized Maduro in a raid in Caracas on 3 January. Responding to Trump's remarks, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez asserted Cuba's right to import fuel without US interference, while President Miguel Diaz-Canel boldly declared that "no one dictates what we do." The Trump administration's actions have already exacerbated Cuba's fuel and electricity issues, with the seizure of a fifth oil tanker carrying Venezuelan oil on Friday. In his message on Truth Social, Trump made it clear that Cuban support for Venezuela's past regimes will no longer yield oil and financial benefits. However, Trump did not elaborate on the potential consequences Cuba might face. Rodriguez stressed Cuba's right to independently import fuel and rejected any form of US coercion. Cuba has historically provided security services to Maduro, a relationship that has resulted in casualties during the US raid, which left 32 Cubans dead. Trump underscored that Venezuela now has US military support, stating it no longer needs Cuban protection. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signalled looming trouble for Cuban leaders, suggesting potential challenges ahead. Diaz-Canel criticised those who turn politics into businesses, while Trump revived the "Monroe Doctrine" for modern times, dubbing it the "Donroe Doctrine." As US foreign policy increasingly targets Latin American leaders with ideological differences, Trump has hinted at possible actions against other countries in the region, further straining diplomatic relations, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: Trump warns Cuba about losing the Venezuelan oil supply, urging a deal. Cuban leaders assert independence and the right to import fuel amid US pressure. Tensions heighten, reflecting shifting US foreign policy in Latin America. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2026-01-12

Car Driver Loses Control, Hits Parked Vehicles, Killing Two Pictures courtesy of Kaoded Two men were killed after a car driver lost control and crashed into several parked vehicles on Kanchanaphisek Road in Bang Bua Thong, Nonthaburi, in the early hours of 10 January 2026. The impact caused extensive damage to multiple vehicles parked along the roadside and prompted an emergency response from police and rescue teams. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384287-car-driver-loses-control-hits-parked-vehicles-killing-two/

Immigration Police Bust Foreign Poker Den in Chonburi Pictures courtesy of Khaosod Immigration Police have arrested a Chinese fugitive and uncovered an illegal foreign-run poker den operating in central Chonburi, leading to the detention of multiple foreign nationals and one Thai organiser. The raid disrupted an active gambling operation that authorities said was designed to evade detection by frequently changing locations. One suspect was also found to be overstaying his visa, triggering additional immigration charges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384288-immigration-police-bust-foreign-poker-den-in-chonburi/

Russian Tourist Killed as Speedboat Hits Fishing Boat Near Phi Phi Pictures courtesy of Matichon A speedboat carrying tourists collided with a fishing vessel in the Andaman Sea near Phi Phi Island, Krabi province, on the morning of 11 January 2026, prompting an urgent rescue operation. The incident occurred at about 9.10am and involved dozens of passengers, 11 of whom sustained injuries, with one reported to be in a serious condition. All those on board were rescued and brought safely ashore. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384311-speedboat-carrying-tourists-hits-fishing-boat-near-phi-phi/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 12 January 2026https://aseannow.com/topic/1384314-thailand-live-monday-12-january-2026/

Bomb & Arson Attacks Hit 11 Fuel Stations in Southern Thailand Picture courtesy of Daily News A coordinated wave of bombings and arson attacks struck 11 PTT petrol stations across three southern Thai provinces in the early hours of 11 January 2026, causing widespread property damage but no reported casualties. The incidents, which also affected convenience stores at some sites, prompted immediate security lockdowns as authorities moved to secure the areas and assess the damage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384300-bomb-arson-attacks-hit-11-fuel-stations-in-southern-thailand/

US Announces $45M Aid to Bolster the Thailand-Cambodia Truce Top US State Department official for East Asia Michael DeSombre (L) shakes hands with Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman Sihasak Phuangketkeow (R). The United States unveiled a substantial aid package on Friday, committing approximately 1.55 billion Thai baht to strengthen a fragile ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. Michael DeSombre, a senior official in charge of East Asian affairs, made the announcement during his diplomatic visit to the region. The initiative aligns with the efforts of US president Donald Trump to promote the ceasefire as a significant diplomatic success. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384217-us-announces-45m-aid-to-bolster-the-thailand-cambodia-truce/

Top US State Department official for East Asia Michael DeSombre (L) shakes hands with Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman Sihasak Phuangketkeow (R). The United States unveiled a substantial aid package on Friday, committing approximately 1.55 billion Thai baht to strengthen a fragile ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. Michael DeSombre, a senior official in charge of East Asian affairs, made the announcement during his diplomatic visit to the region. The initiative aligns with the efforts of US president Donald Trump to promote the ceasefire as a significant diplomatic success. The US will allocate around 690 million baht to combat the rising issues of drug trafficking and cybercrime in Cambodia. Additionally, 518 million baht will support those displaced by recent hostilities, with a further 345 million baht dedicated to demining operations. DeSombre emphasised the US's commitment to supporting both governments in implementing the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords to restore peace and stability across the region. This peace accord, signed in October during Trump's presence in Malaysia, aimed to mitigate the escalating tension over a longstanding border dispute between the two nations. Although a truce was agreed upon on December 27 after renewed clashes, accusations of ceasefire violations continue. Cambodia has urged Thailand to withdraw its military presence from border zones claimed by Phnom Penh as their own. The conflict traces back to disagreements over colonial-era border demarcations, involving territorial claims and disputes over ancient temple sites. Trump has cited resolving this conflict among his achievements, linking it to other international peace efforts he claims to have facilitated. Critically, the ceasefire comes after the US administration heavily reduced foreign aid, focusing instead on projects aligned with US strategic interests, reported AFP. Key Takeaways The US commits roughly 1.55 billion Thai baht to support the Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire. Aid includes support for drug trafficking prevention, displacement, and demining. Conflict stems from colonial-era border disputes, with recent truce still under strain. Adapted by ASEAN Now from AFP via Thai PBS WORLD 2026-01-10

Female PM Candidate Sirikanya Pledges No Secret Coalition Deals Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Sirikanya Tansakun, a prime ministerial candidate from the People's Party, has promised that coalition government discussions will be public if their party leads after the 8th February elections. Speaking on 9th January, she vowed there would be no secret negotiations, marking a shift from previous practices. This move aims to bring transparency and restore public trust in political processes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384216-female-pm-candidate-sirikanya-pledges-no-secret-coalition-deals/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Sirikanya Tansakun, a prime ministerial candidate from the People's Party, has promised that coalition government discussions will be public if their party leads after the 8th February elections. Speaking on 9th January, she vowed there would be no secret negotiations, marking a shift from previous practices. This move aims to bring transparency and restore public trust in political processes. The backdrop to this pledge lies in last September's events. The People's Party had previously supported Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul for prime minister in an attempt to amend the constitution. However, the attempt was unsuccessful and led to the parliamentary dissolution. This history has prompted the People's Party to assure voters of their commitment to open dialogue going forward. Sirikanya emphasised that the People's Party would steer clear of clandestine dealings. She reassured the public about the transparency of future talks, citing lessons learnt from past events. The party's stance is clear: it seeks to form a coalition through honest negotiations, regardless of the election outcome. Moving forward, the People's Party's strategy includes revealing prospective cabinet members to assure voters of their qualifications. The purpose of this tactic is to empower voters to make informed decisions during the election. "By publicising candidate qualifications, the party aims to build confidence and emphasise its commitment to change," reported Thai Newsroom. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2026-01-10

EC under fire after flawed referendum instructions revealed Picture courtesy of Election Commission The Election Commission (EC) has admitted to an error in sample referendum ballots, risking voter confusion. An oversight in the booklet's instructions for a crucial upcoming referendum is that it fails to specify that voters need to mark an "X," triggering criticism from former commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384214-ec-under-fire-after-flawed-referendum-instructions-revealed/

Picture courtesy of Election Commission The Election Commission (EC) has admitted to an error in sample referendum ballots, risking voter confusion. An oversight in the booklet's instructions for a crucial upcoming referendum is that it fails to specify that voters need to mark an "X," triggering criticism from former commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn. The EC Secretary-General, Sawaeng Boonmee, acknowledged the mistake, explaining that the booklet advised voters to make “only one mark” but not explicitly an “X”. To correct this, the EC plans to enhance public communication to clarify the proper voting method. Sawaeng pointed out that the cabinet prepared the booklet containing the sample, leaving the EC solely responsible for its printing and distribution. Somchai Srisutthiyakorn talked about the potential for widespread voter confusion and invalid ballots due to this oversight. He criticised the EC for distributing 19 million erroneous booklets ahead of the constitutional referendum, highlighting the need for prompt clarification and a public apology. He emphasised professionalism and urged EC to take greater care of such critical matters. On another front, Yingcheep Atchanont, director of iLaw, supports drafting a new constitution, suggesting opposition indicates hidden motives. He argued that those with nothing to conceal should advocate for empowering citizens to participate in their governance. Yingcheep believes that lack of public awareness remains a significant barrier and urged informed citizens to educate others, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways: The EC's omission in voting instructions could mislead voters. 19 million booklets with the error have been distributed nationwide. Experts call for the EC to rectify the mistake and enhance public awareness. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2026-01-10

Thai Gold Trading Faces Limits to Tame Baht's Strength Thailand is tightening its grip on gold trading to curb its impact on the baht. Authorities plan to cap daily online gold trading between 100 million and 200 million baht, as announced by Bank of Thailand Governor Vitai Ratanakorn. Additionally, a cap on foreign currency transactions at money changers is set at 800,000 baht daily. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1384197-thai-gold-trading-faces-limits-to-tame-bahts-strength/

Thailand is tightening its grip on gold trading to curb its impact on the baht. Authorities plan to cap daily online gold trading between 100 million and 200 million baht, as announced by Bank of Thailand Governor Vitai Ratanakorn. Additionally, a cap on foreign currency transactions at money changers is set at 800,000 baht daily. This move comes as the country tackles the record-breaking rally of gold, which affects the currency's value. Led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, officials discussed improving financial data collection and tightening measures for reporting gold trades. Daily gold trading volumes have often surpassed those on the Thai Stock Exchange, with gold deals representing 50–60% of dollar trading, per the central bank. Experts highlight that gold transactions in the local currency have contributed to abnormal strength in the baht. New regulations now require gold transactions above $200,000 to have clear sourcing and documentation. Thai gold dealers are planning to upgrade their platforms for dollar transactions within the next few months. Last year's gold trading hit around 10 trillion baht, showing a significant increase from 2024. Thailand imported 180 tonnes of gold and exported 110 tonnes, as stated by the Thai Gold Traders Association. To address illicit financial activities, the government is launching a Data Bureau for high-quality data collection to counteract money laundering. Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas highlighted recent strict controls on money laundering activities. The Data Bureau will link financial information across sectors to facilitate better tracking of suspicious transactions. The Anti-Money Laundering Office will oversee gold trading data, with stricter reporting requirements planned. For digital assets, the SEC is considering implementing the Travel Rule to track transactions between digital wallets more effectively. Concerns have grown regarding money laundering through gold and digital assets since 2024-25, with a notable rise in gold exports to Cambodia raising red flags due to potential ties to illegal activities, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways Thailand will limit daily online gold trading to control the baht's strength. New measures include caps on foreign currency transactions and enhanced data gathering. Authorities target money laundering, linking gold trade and digital assets to illicit activities. Related story: Baht Hits Four-Year High, Puts Pressure on Bank of Thailand Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2026-01-10

Britain's MOD is reportedly facing a £28 billion funding shortfall over four years as it seeks to make its armed forces "war-ready." This revelation follows reports from The Times and The Sun indicating that the current defence budget may not cover the government's ambitious plans. The required funds far exceed the initial allocation, putting the country's military readiness in question. The Ministry of Defence had anticipated completing its investment plan last autumn, but delays now push the expected release to the spring. This plan is necessary to outline future funding for new defence equipment and infrastructure following a comprehensive review last June. Among the projects requiring additional financial support are next-generation jets and submarines, underscoring the government's pledge to boost military readiness. Concerns over the funding gap were highlighted by Sir Richard Knighton, chief of the defence staff, during a meeting with Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves last Christmas. Despite government pledges, a spokesperson acknowledged challenges ahead, mentioning potential deployments, such as policing Ukraine if an agreement ends its conflict with Russia. Labour has committed to increasing defence spending to 2.5% of national income by 2027, costing an additional £6 billion annually and eventually rising to 3.5% by 2035. This commitment aligns with Nato goals, aiming to bolster the UK's military capabilities. The MoD's budget is slated to grow by 3.6% by 2029, primarily aiding investment in new technology rather than everyday costs like salaries. Previous analyses reveal longstanding budgetary challenges. An examination under the previous government found the department's projected equipment plan exceeded its budget by £16.9bn. Rising costs linked to maintaining the nuclear weapons system and inflation were significant contributors. The prolonged delay in the investment plan also impacts the release of a savings document, estimating potential savings of £6bn by 2029. An MoD spokesperson emphasised ongoing efforts to finalise the investment plan, pointing out that the current government inherited an "underfunded defence programme." These financial constraints raise questions about the UK's ability to meet its defence ambitions without additional resources, according to the BBC. Key Takeaways The UK's MoD faces a £28bn shortfall in its defence budget over four years. The Labour Party plans to increase defence spending to achieve NATO-aligned goals. Delays in the MoD's investment plan have impacted the detailing of cost-saving measures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2026-01-10

video screenshot Tens of thousands remain without power in the UK as Storm Goretti unleashes snow, ice, rain, and strong winds. The chaos has prompted yellow weather warnings across most of the country, extending until Saturday afternoon. While the worst winds have subsided in the southwest, many still grapple with power outages. The National Grid reports restoring power to nearly 170,000 properties, though 38,000 remain in the dark around southwest England. The situation continues to affect thousands in the West Midlands and over 200 properties in Wales. MP Noah Law cautions that the electricity problems in mid Cornwall might continue until Sunday. Storm Goretti has been unlike any in recent memory, according to Cornwall Council, with emergency crews working tirelessly to clear debris and conduct repairs. The storm's wrath directly affected Tia White, a resident of St Buryan, as it blew off her home's roof and chimney. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for vast areas due to snow and ice. These regions include Scotland, the north of England, the East Midlands, and more. The amber warning for snow lifted on Friday morning, but disruptions linger. Travel is in disarray, with flights, roads, and rail services severely affected. Heathrow experienced flight cancellations, and airports in Birmingham and East Midlands faced temporary closures. The disruption of rail services, including West Midlands Railway and East Midlands Railway, encourages passengers to plan ahead. Drivers should exercise caution on the roads due to the icy conditions. Traffic Scotland has issued additional alerts, while the AA warns of sudden drops in visibility. Schools across the Midlands, Cornwall, and Wales remain closed, as do hundreds in Scotland, due to ongoing severe weather, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways Storm Goretti causes extensive power outages and weather warnings in the UK. The National Grid manages to restore power to numerous areas, yet thousands remain impacted. Travel disruptions include flight cancellations, rail service suspensions, and icy roads. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2026-01-10

Russia has launched a massive attack on Ukraine, deploying the rarely used Oreshnik ballistic missile. Continuous explosions lit up the night sky in Kyiv, resulting in four fatalities and 25 injuries. The Oreshnik strike represents the missile's second deployment, with its initial use occurring in November 2024 against Dnipro. The Russian defence ministry stated the strike was a countermeasure to a supposed Ukrainian drone attack on President Putin's residence in December, which Ukraine denies. Videos surfaced showing explosions near Lviv, despite the Oreshnik's specific target remaining unannounced. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that the missile hit infrastructure in Lviv, close to the Polish border. The Oreshnik, capable of reaching 5,500 km, uses warheads that fragment into several separately targeted projectiles, causing multiple explosions. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha labelled the strike as a grave security threat to Europe, considering its proximity to EU and NATO borders. The EU has expressed scepticism about the alleged drone attack against Putin, and on Friday, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that Russia's actions were a warning to Europe and the US. President Zelensky reported the attack also included 13 ballistic missiles, 22 cruise missiles, and 242 drones, damaging energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, including at the Qatari embassy. The attack heavily targeted Kyiv, damaging key buildings and energy facilities and causing widespread power outages in severe winter conditions. Mayor Vitali Klitschko urged residents to seek temporary warmth elsewhere, as many remained without heat due to infrastructure damage. Russia's focus on power plants has been a consistent strategy, leading to escalating energy crises as Ukraine responds in kind. Concurrently, Russian regions experienced power losses due to retaliatory actions, such as Ukrainian shelling in Belgorod and strikes in Oryol, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways Russia's rare use of the Oreshnik missile has resulted in significant damage. Kyiv continues to struggle with power outages amidst severe winter conditions. Tensions escalate as both sides target each other's energy infrastructure. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2026-01-10

video screenshot US forces have seized a fifth oil tanker, the Olina, in the Caribbean as part of ongoing efforts to control Venezuelan oil exports. The operation aims to exert pressure on Venezuela's interim government and dismantle the "dark fleet" of over 1,000 tankers transporting sanctioned oil. Already under sanctions, the Olina continues a recent trend of US interventions in the region. Background details reveal that this incident is part of a larger US campaign initiated by the Trump administration. The Olina was previously sanctioned in January for alleged involvement in financing Russia's military activities by transporting oil. Recent weeks have seen multiple seizures, including two other tankers linked to Venezuelan oil, as the US intensifies its blockade efforts. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the operation, a dawn raid executed by Marines and sailors, as both “safe” and “effective”. The seized vessel attempted to evade US forces by leaving Venezuelan waters under a false registration from Timor-Leste. Experts from Vanguard Tech noted the vessel had been untraceable for over 50 days, confirming its covert operations. Looking to the future, speculation regarding US and Venezuelan relations continues. Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned the possible sale of seized oil, valued at 100 billion Thai baht, to benefit the Venezuelan populace. Meanwhile, US diplomats are assessing the potential reopening of the embassy in Caracas, reflecting early talks to restore relations severed in 2019, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: The US seizes a fifth Venezuelan-linked oil tanker in a Caribbean operation. The Olina, part of over 1,000 tankers, was targeted amid ongoing sanctions. Diplomatic movements hint at the potential restoration of US-Venezuelan ties. Related Stories: US Seizes Second Oil Tanker Amid Venezuela Tensions US Seizes Russian Oil Tanker After High Seas Drama Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2026-01-10