Global Pulse

标签： Oceania

大洋洲

  • Trump to unveil ‘Board of Peace’ at Davos after Greenland backtrack

    Trump to unveil ‘Board of Peace’ at Davos after Greenland backtrack

    DAVOS, SWITZERLAND – President Donald Trump is poised to introduce his controversial ‘Board of Peace’ initiative during Thursday’s sessions at the World Economic Forum, following his unexpected reversal on proposed tariffs against Europe and military action regarding Greenland.

    The newly established conflict resolution body, which requires a $1 billion commitment for permanent membership, will host a charter signing ceremony with approximately 35 world leaders having committed participation according to senior administration officials. The board has attracted leaders including Russia’s Vladimir Putin, Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, and Saudi Arabia’s leadership, though key European allies remain notably skeptical.

    Trump enthusiastically promoted the initiative during meetings with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Wednesday, declaring it ‘the greatest board ever formed.’ The announcement comes against the backdrop of the President’s expressed frustration at not receiving Nobel Peace Prize recognition despite his claims of resolving multiple international conflicts.

    Originally conceptualized for Gaza reconstruction following the Hamas-Israel conflict, the board’s charter deliberately avoids geographical limitations, raising concerns among diplomats that it might evolve into a parallel organization to the United Nations. This development occurs alongside continuing Ukraine peace negotiations, with Trump scheduled to meet President Volodymyr Zelensky following the board’s inauguration.

    The President reiterated his controversial assessment that both Russian and Ukrainian leadership would be ‘stupid’ not to reach a peace agreement, while simultaneously announcing a breakthrough in NATO discussions regarding Greenland’s strategic importance. Trump revealed he had established a ‘framework of a future deal’ with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, resulting in the cancellation of tariffs previously scheduled for February 1st against European allies.

    Special envoys including Jared Kushner and businessman Steve Witkoff are scheduled to travel directly from Davos to Moscow for Thursday discussions with President Putin, underscoring the administration’s multifaceted diplomatic approach.

  • Australian Open 2026: American Ben Shelton made light work of local Dane Sweeny

    Australian Open 2026: American Ben Shelton made light work of local Dane Sweeny

    American tennis sensation Ben Shelton delivered a commanding performance on Thursday, extinguishing Australian hopes at Melbourne Park with a decisive straight-sets victory over local qualifier Dane Sweeny. The eighth-ranked Shelton demonstrated why he’s considered a serious title contender with a masterclass in serving precision, overwhelming his opponent 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in just over an hour of play.

    The left-handed powerhouse unleashed 19 aces throughout the match, maintaining relentless pressure that prevented Sweeny from earning even a single break point opportunity. While the Australian crowd briefly rallied behind Sweeny when he captured the opening game of the third set, this momentary success only seemed to intensify Shelton’s focus as he promptly reclaimed control of the contest.

    This defeat marked a disappointing day for Australian tennis, coming shortly after compatriot Rinky Hijikata also exited the tournament. Hijikata managed to claim a set against 31st-seeded Valentin Vacherot of Monaco but ultimately fell 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-2. Both Australian players found themselves outserved by higher-ranked opponents, highlighting the gap between emerging local talent and established international competitors.

    Shelton now advances to the third round where he’ll face Vacherot, setting up an intriguing matchup between two rising stars in men’s tennis. The American’s dominant performance signals his strong form early in the tournament and establishes him as a player capable of challenging the established hierarchy in men’s tennis.

  • Keys into Melbourne third round with Sinner, Djokovic primed

    Keys into Melbourne third round with Sinner, Djokovic primed

    Defending Australian Open champions Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic are poised for their second-round matches following a day of dramatic contests at Melbourne Park. American Madison Keys, the reigning women’s finalist, navigated a turbulent performance to secure her place in the third round with a 6-1, 7-5 victory over compatriot Ashlyn Krueger.

    Keys demonstrated dominant form in the opening set, concluding it within 23 minutes on John Cain Arena. However, the match dynamics shifted dramatically in the second set as Krueger mounted a formidable challenge, pushing Keys to rally from a 2-5 deficit. The 29-year-old acknowledged her opponent’s resilience, stating, ‘I fully expected her to raise her level and she did. It got away from me a bit.’

    In other women’s draw action, sixth seed Jessica Pegula delivered a commanding performance with a 6-0, 6-2 win against McCartney Kessler. Meanwhile, tournament witnessed a significant upset as Spain’s 25th seed Paula Badosa fell to Russia’s 101st-ranked Oksana Selekhmeteva in straight sets.

    The men’s competition features defending champion Jannik Sinner preparing to face Australian James Duckworth after his first-round match concluded prematurely when French opponent Hugo Gaston retired with Sinner leading 6-2, 6-1. Novak Djokovic, pursuing an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title, commenced his campaign with a dominant 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victory over Spain’s Pedro Martinez – marking his 100th Australian Open win.

    The Serbian legend, currently tied with Margaret Court for most major titles, expressed satisfaction with his performance: ‘I couldn’t ask for more. Obviously a great serving performance.’ Djokovic now prepares to face Italy’s Francesco Maestrelli as he continues his historic quest.

    Other notable contenders advancing include Czech Republic’s Jakub Mensik and Russia’s Karen Khachanov, while the tournament continues with highly anticipated matches featuring Iga Swiatek, Amanda Anisimova, and Elena Rybakina.

  • Footage captures moment NZ landslide starts in Mount Maunganui

    Footage captures moment NZ landslide starts in Mount Maunganui

    Dramatic footage has emerged showing the terrifying moment a landslide was triggered on New Zealand’s Mount Maunganui, capturing an Australian tourist’s narrow escape from the cascading debris. The video evidence provides a firsthand perspective of the sudden geological event, with the visitor describing the instinctual flight for survival as earth and rock began tumbling downhill.

    The incident highlights ongoing concerns about geological stability in popular tourist destinations, particularly following periods of heavy rainfall that can destabilize slopes. Emergency services responded to the scene, though no injuries were reported thanks to the quick reactions of those present. Geologists are examining the area to assess further risks while local authorities have cordoned off vulnerable sections of the mountain.

    This event serves as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability, even in developed tourist areas with generally safe track records. Tourism operators in the region are reviewing safety protocols and considering additional warning systems for visitors during periods of elevated geological risk. The rapid response and fortunate outcome demonstrate the importance of both awareness and preparedness when exploring natural environments.

  • AFL 2026: Marcus Bontempelli, Patrick Cripps named State of Origin captains

    AFL 2026: Marcus Bontempelli, Patrick Cripps named State of Origin captains

    In a landmark moment for Australian Rules Football, two of the AFL’s most revered figures have been bestowed with the prestigious honor of captaining their respective states in the upcoming State of Origin clash. Western Bulldogs icon Marcus Bontempelli will lead Victoria, while Carlton’s inspirational leader Patrick Cripps will captain Western Australia in the first elite-level interstate showdown in over a quarter-century.

    The historic match, scheduled for February 14 at Perth’s Optus Stadium, marks the revival of a cherished football tradition that had been dormant since the late 1990s. Both captains expressed profound reverence for their appointments, recognizing the significance of representing their states in what promises to be a capacity-crowd event.

    Bontempelli, reflecting on the deep historical significance of the Big V jersey, described the captaincy as an eternal honor. ‘There’s a deep history and pride that comes with representing your state,’ the Victorian skipper remarked, emphasizing his anticipation of leading Victoria’s finest footballers onto the field.

    Meanwhile, Cripps, who hasn’t experienced his hometown’s support from the opposing side since his 2013 drafting to Carlton, conveyed special emotional connection to leading Western Australia. The Carlton champion highlighted the unique opportunity to perform before home supporters while wearing state colors, expressing his determination to make the local faithful proud.

    The appointment of these two modern-day greats adds another chapter to their already distinguished careers, connecting them to the rich legacy of state-based football competition that once defined the Australian sporting landscape.

  • ‘They poisoned us’: grappling with deadly impact of nuclear testing

    ‘They poisoned us’: grappling with deadly impact of nuclear testing

    A groundbreaking report from Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) reveals nuclear weapons testing has inflicted catastrophic global health consequences, causing approximately four million premature deaths from cancer and related illnesses worldwide. The comprehensive 304-page study documents how over 2,400 nuclear detonations conducted between 1945 and 2017 continue to affect populations across continents.

    The research highlights how radiation exposure from atmospheric testing has left radioactive isotopes in the bones of every living person today. The report identifies particularly severe impacts on communities near test sites in 15 countries, many former colonies of nuclear-armed states, where residents experience elevated rates of cancer, congenital abnormalities, and intergenerational trauma.

    Hinamoeura Cross, a 37-year-old Tahitian parliamentarian who developed leukemia at age 24, represents the human toll of these tests. Her family history includes thyroid cancer in her grandmother, mother, and aunt—conditions she attributes to France’s 193 nuclear explosions in French Polynesia between 1966 and 1996. ‘These weren’t just tests. They were real bombs,’ Cross stated. ‘We were treated as guinea pigs.’

    The study condemns a persistent culture of secrecy among nuclear-armed nations, with critical health and environmental data remaining classified in locations like Kiribati and Algeria. Compensation programs, where they exist, primarily function to limit liability rather than provide meaningful support to victims.

    Medical experts contributing to the report emphasize that ionizing radiation from testing causes DNA damage, cardiovascular disease, and genetic effects even at low doses. Children and fetuses face the highest risks, with females 52% more vulnerable to radiation-induced cancer than males.

    The findings emerge amid concerning geopolitical developments, including former President Trump’s 2020 suggestion that the United States might resume nuclear testing. Researchers warn that renewed testing would compound existing health crises and undermine global non-proliferation efforts.

  • Israeli strike kills three Gaza journalists including AFP freelancer

    Israeli strike kills three Gaza journalists including AFP freelancer

    An Israeli military strike in Gaza’s Al-Zahra district has resulted in the deaths of three Palestinian journalists, including AFP freelance contributor Abdul Raouf Shaat. The incident occurred Wednesday while the journalists were documenting humanitarian aid distribution operations.

    According to Gaza’s civil defence agency, the casualties included Mohammed Salah Qashta, Abdul Raouf Shaat, and Anas Ghneim. Shaat had established himself as a regular contributor to AFP through his photojournalism and videography work, though he was not on assignment for the agency at the time of the strike.

    The Israeli military released a statement indicating its forces had targeted “suspects” operating a drone allegedly affiliated with Hamas, claiming the device posed a threat to troops. Military representatives stated the details remained under review but maintained the strike was conducted with precision.

    Eyewitness accounts and statements from the Egyptian Relief Committee contradict this narrative, reporting that the journalists were using a drone to capture images of aid distribution when their accompanying vehicle was struck. Mohammed Mansour, spokesperson for the Egyptian Relief Committee in Gaza, emphasized that all committee vehicles bear clear identifying logos and described the targeting as “criminal.

    AFP leadership expressed profound grief over Shaat’s death, remembering him as a “kind-hearted colleague with a gentle sense of humour” and a “deeply committed journalist.” The news agency has called for a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

    Media watchdogs responded with strong condemnation. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) expressed “deep anger” at the incident, with crisis desk head Martin Roux suggesting the strike “could indicate targeting and constitute a war crime.” The Committee to Protect Journalists similarly stated it was “appalled” by the event, with Middle East coordinator Sara Qudah noting Israel’s advanced surveillance technology makes “any claims of misidentification implausible.

    This incident occurs against the backdrop of a fragile US-sponsored ceasefire that took effect October 10, with both sides alleging frequent violations. According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli forces have killed at least 466 Palestinians since the ceasefire began, while the Israeli military reports three soldier fatalities from militant attacks during the same period.

    RSF data reveals a alarming pattern: nearly 220 journalists have been killed by Israeli forces since the conflict began in October 2023, making Gaza the world’s most dangerous location for media professionals. The organization documented at least 29 Palestinian journalist fatalities in Gaza between December 2024 and December 2025 alone.

  • Greenlanders doubtful over Trump resolution

    Greenlanders doubtful over Trump resolution

    Residents of Greenland have responded with profound skepticism to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent declaration regarding the future status of the autonomous Danish territory. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump announced he had established a satisfactory framework agreement concerning Greenland’s geopolitical position, though he provided no substantive details to support this claim.

    The announcement follows weeks of increasingly confrontational rhetoric from the American president regarding his administration’s interest in acquiring strategic control over the Arctic island. Despite Trump’s assertion that he reached this understanding during discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Greenlanders remain largely unconvinced.

    In interviews conducted in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, residents expressed overwhelming doubt about the validity of Trump’s statements. Mickel Nielsen, a 47-year-old technician, characterized the announcement as ‘quite simply a lie,’ adding, ‘I don’t believe a word he says, and I don’t think I’m the only one.’

    This sentiment was echoed by Anak, a 64-year-old care worker, who stated unequivocally, ‘Trump? I don’t believe him. Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.’ Another resident, identifying themselves as Miki, noted the inconsistency of Trump’s declarations, observing that ‘he can say something and two minutes later he says completely the opposite.’

    According to NATO spokesperson Allison Hart, the discussion between Trump and Rutte was ‘very productive,’ with allies prepared to examine a framework addressing U.S. security concerns about potential Russian and Chinese influence in Greenland. Hart indicated that subsequent negotiations would involve Denmark, Greenland, and the United States with the stated objective of preventing economic or military footholds by rival powers.

    However, Greenlandic political representatives have challenged the legitimacy of these discussions. Aaja Chenmitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, emphasized that ‘NATO has absolutely no right to negotiate anything without us, Greenland. Nothing about us without us.’ She further characterized the idea of NATO influencing decisions about Greenland’s territory and mineral resources as ‘completely insane.’

    These developments occur against the backdrop of overwhelming public opposition to integration with the United States. A January 2025 poll revealed that 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining the United States, with only 6% expressing support for such a move.

  • Real Madrid top football rich list as Liverpool surge

    Real Madrid top football rich list as Liverpool surge

    Real Madrid has solidified its position as football’s financial powerhouse, maintaining the top spot in Deloitte’s annual Money League rankings with unprecedented revenue generation during the 2024/25 season. The Spanish giants amassed approximately €1.2 billion ($1.4 billion) despite failing to secure major silverware, demonstrating the club’s remarkable commercial resilience.

    The comprehensive redevelopment of Santiago Bernabeu Stadium has emerged as a transformative revenue driver, with commercial operations alone generating €594 million – sufficient to secure a top-ten position independently. Barcelona ascended to second position with €975 million, achieving this milestone while playing their entire season away from Camp Nou due to ongoing redevelopment delays.

    German champions Bayern Munich claimed third position with €861 million, narrowly surpassing Paris Saint-Germain whose Champions League victory provided significant financial impetus. The Premier League’s representation remained robust, with Liverpool leading English clubs for the first time following stadium expansion, Champions League participation, and domestic league triumph that collectively boosted revenues to €836 million.

    Notable shifts occurred in the rankings as Manchester City descended from second to sixth position following early European elimination and third-place domestic finish. Manchester United fell to eighth behind Arsenal after missing Champions League qualification and finishing 15th in Premier League competition.

    Collectively, Europe’s top 20 revenue-generating clubs achieved an 11% revenue increase to €12.4 billion. Deloitte Sports Business Group lead partner Tim Bridge observed: “The ranking’s upper echelon reflects strategic emphasis on commercial revenue development as domestic broadcast rights stabilize. Clubs are fundamentally transforming their business models through brand optimization and stadium asset maximization.”

    The emerging trend of multifunctional stadium facilities – incorporating breweries, hotels, and restaurants – demonstrates strategic diversification toward year-round entertainment destinations. The inaugural 32-team Club World Cup significantly influenced rankings, propelling Bayern into top-three positioning for the first time since 2020/21.

    In women’s football, Arsenal emerged as highest-earning club for the first time following their Champions League victory, generating €25.6 million to surpass London rivals Chelsea and Barcelona.

  • ‘One Battle After Another,’ ‘Sinners’ tipped to top Oscar noms

    ‘One Battle After Another,’ ‘Sinners’ tipped to top Oscar noms

    The film industry stands on the precipice of a historic Oscar nomination announcement, with Warner Bros’ cinematic juggernauts “One Battle After Another” and “Sinners” positioned to dominate the awards landscape. Industry analysts project both films could achieve an unprecedented nomination count, potentially challenging the longstanding record of 14 nominations jointly held by “All About Eve,” “Titanic” and “La La Land.”

    Paul Thomas Anderson’s revolutionary thriller “One Battle After Another” has generated exceptional momentum throughout awards season, already securing the record for most nominations from Hollywood’s actors guild. The film features Leonardo DiCaprio in a performance that virtually guarantees his seventh Academy acting nomination, portraying a retired revolutionary navigating a complex web of radical violence and white supremacists while searching for his missing daughter.

    Meanwhile, Ryan Coogler’s blues-infused period horror “Sinners” has emerged as a groundbreaking force in Oscar politics. The film’s exploration of racial tensions in 1930s Mississippi, featuring Michael B. Jordan in a dual role as twins combating vampires and racists, has been described by Variety’s Clayton Davis as entering “a statistical stratosphere no filmmaker has ever touched.”

    The Warner Bros dominance comes during a potentially transformative period for the studio, which remains the target of an intense bidding war between Paramount Skydance and Netflix. This corporate uncertainty adds dramatic subtext to what might represent the studio’s final independent distribution year.

    Netflix maintains its own formidable contenders including Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein,” the pioneering Western drama “Train Dreams,” and animated musical phenomenon “KPop Demon Hunters.” The streaming giant faces competition from international cinema, with three non-English language films—Norway’s “Sentimental Value,” Palme d’Or winner “It Was Just An Accident,” and Brazil’s “The Secret Agent”—potentially disrupting the best picture category.

    This year introduces the groundbreaking best casting Oscar, creating speculation about voting criteria for this inaugural honor. The nominations announcement, scheduled for Thursday at 5:30 AM PST in Los Angeles, will set the stage for the 98th Academy Awards ceremony on March 15th.