Trump’s Greenland Claims, Iran Protests: Tensions Spike Amid International Outcry – 1/12/2026, 12:25:07 PM

Top world news stories as of January 12, 2026, center on U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive rhetoric on Greenland and Iran, massive anti-government protests in Iran with heavy casualties, and escalating U.S.-Iran tensions amid international reactions.[1][2][3][4]

U.S.-Greenland Tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated claims that the U.S. will acquire Greenland from Denmark “one way or the other,” rejecting short-term leases and speaking aboard Air Force One.[1] Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson criticized the rhetoric as undermining international law, while German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil stated the decision belongs solely to Denmark and Greenland; British Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander did not rule out UK troop deployment.[1]

Iran Protests and U.S. Threats

Anti-government protests in Iran have entered their 12th day, resulting in over 500 deaths, at least 10,000 arrests, and a near-total internet blackout imposed by the government.[2][3][4] President Trump stated his administration is considering “very strong options,” including potential military action, while activists report hundreds dead from security forces; Iran threatened U.S. and Israeli bases as “legitimate targets” if attacked.[1][2][3][4][5] Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urged citizens to avoid “destructive actions,” and protests drew solidarity rallies in Montreal, Paris, and other cities.[1][2][3] UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting on Ukraine at 2000 GMT today, amid related regional concerns.[1]

U.S. Federal Reserve Investigation

The U.S. Department of Justice launched a criminal probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell over a multi-billion-dollar headquarters renovation, with subpoenas served; Powell vows to stand firm.[1][2][4]

Other Key Developments

• Philippines Landfill Collapse: 6 dead, 31 missing after a deadly incident; relatives mourn losses.[2]
• Hawaii Volcano: Kilauea erupts, with lava fountains up to 20 feet high.[2]
• Ukraine/Russia: Russian hypersonic missile strike reported; Syrian army-Kurdish clashes in Aleppo displace residents; 4 killed in overnight Russian attacks on Ukraine.[2][3]
• Canada-China: Prime Minister Mark Carney to visit China January 14-17, first in 8 years.[1][2]
• Venezuela/Cuba: Acting President Delcy Rodriguez calls for unity amid complexity; Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel rejects U.S. accusations of aiding Venezuela for oil; Trump warns Cuba to deal with U.S. “before it is too late.”[1][3]
• Malaysia: Blocks access to xAI’s Grok chatbot over obscene content concerns.[1]
• Afghanistan: Border force detains 507 in human trafficking thwart near Iran.[1]
• Lebanon: President vows disarmament of armed groups despite Israeli attacks.[1]
• Israel-Germany: Sign declaration for expanded security cooperation on counter-terrorism and cyber defense; Israel urges EU to designate Iran’s IRGC as terrorist group.[1]

These stories reflect reports from January 11-12, with ongoing geopolitical volatility.[1][2][3][4]