US Strikes Venezuela, Captures President Maduro Amid Global Reactions – 1/3/2026, 4:24:18 PM

US launches major military strike on Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. President Donald Trump confirmed the “large-scale strike” targeted military areas in Caracas, with multiple explosions reported; world leaders are reacting to the operation.[2][3][5][6]

Deadly fire at Swiss resort leaves dozens missing, including six Italians. The blaze, possibly started by sparklers, prompted a visit from Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and five days of national mourning in Switzerland, described as one of the country’s most traumatic events.[1][2][4]

Iran protests turn deadly amid crackdown, drawing Trump warning. Clashes killed at least six; Iran’s supreme leader demanded rioters be “put in their place,” while Trump stated the US is “locked and loaded” to respond if more protesters die.[1][2][3]

Ukraine-Russia war developments: Zelenskyy appoints intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov as new chief of staff. This occurs as a US-brokered peace deal is reportedly 90% ready, with talks starting Saturday involving EU, US, and Ukrainian officials; Russia reports 27 dead in a Ukrainian drone strike on a Kherson café.[1][2][3]

Migrant boat capsizes off Gambia, dozens missing. A vessel carrying over 200 people sank, prompting a search effort announced by Gambia’s president.[3]

Other notable events:
– Bulgaria adopts the euro amid political crisis and mixed public reactions, with smooth bank transitions reported.[2][4]
– Building collapse in Nairobi, Kenya, traps unknown number of people.[4]
– Military-backed party leads early Myanmar election results.[3]
– Russia launches large drone attack on Zaporizhzhia; Zelenskyy calls for more support.[4]
– Dozens missing after Swiss bar fire; questions linger two days later.[2][4]