Deadly Ski Resort Fire in Switzerland and NYC Welcomes New Mayor Zohran Mamdani – 1/2/2026, 4:24:34 PM

Top world news stories as of January 2, 2026, highlight a deadly fire in Switzerland, geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East, Zohran Mamdani’s inauguration as NYC mayor, and severe weather in the US.[1][2][4]

Major International Incidents

• A devastating fire at a ski resort bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, during New Year’s celebrations killed at least 40 people and injured over 115 others; authorities are identifying victims amid tributes from mourners.[1][2][4]
• Russian forces launched major air strikes and one of their largest drone attacks on Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine; President Zelenskyy called for increased international support.[1]
• Taiwan vowed to defend its sovereignty following China’s recent military drills.[3]
• Protests in Iran turned deadly amid nationwide unrest, with former President Trump stating the US would “come to their rescue” if Tehran kills protesters.[1][4]

US and Political Developments

• Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City mayor, delivering an inaugural speech promising to govern “expansively and audaciously” and announcing executive orders on housing and tenant protections.[1][2][4]
• A storm is drenching Southern California, raising flooding concerns, while a cold blast brings wind chills down to 11-19 degrees below zero in New York City and the Northeast.[2]
• Trump delayed proposed tariff increases.[4]
• US strikes on three vessels prompted a search-and-rescue operation for survivors.[4]

Other Notable Events

• Bulgaria switched to the euro, eliciting mixed reactions from citizens.[1]
• A historic church (Vondelchurch) in Amsterdam was destroyed by fire.[1]
• Investigations continue into the killing of an Ohio dentist and his wife.[4]

These stories dominate morning bulletins from Euronews, GMA, ABC News, and ANC, focusing on Europe, Asia-Pacific tensions, and US domestic issues.[1][2][3][4]