A coordinated assault by armed militants on the village of Kasuwan Daji in Nigeria’s Niger State has resulted in a devastating death toll and multiple kidnappings, according to official statements. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, saw assailants set a local market ablaze and systematically loot shops for supplies before executing civilians. Niger State police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed that over 30 individuals were killed, with an undisclosed number abducted during the raid. Contradicting this figure, local church authorities reported the death count exceeded 40, alleging that security forces were absent for hours during the bandits’ operation. Images verified by AFP depict victims with their hands bound behind their backs, indicating executions. President Bola Tinubu’s administration attributed the violence to terrorists potentially displaced by recent U.S. airstrikes in northwestern Nigeria targeting Islamic State-affiliated militants. Tinubu vowed that perpetrators and accomplices would face justice, emphasizing a renewed commitment to national security reforms, including increased defense allocations and recent ministerial changes. The incident underscores Nigeria’s escalating security crisis, where jihadist insurgencies, banditry, and inter-communal violence strain military resources nationwide. This attack occurred merely 20 kilometers from the site of November’s mass abduction of 250 students and staff from a Catholic school, highlighting the region’s persistent vulnerability.
标签： Oceania
大洋洲
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Danish PM calls on US to stop ‘threatening’ Greenland
In a sharp diplomatic rebuke, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has publicly called upon the United States to cease what she termed ‘threatening’ behavior towards Greenland. This condemnation follows a series of provocative statements from Washington regarding the strategic Danish autonomous territory.
The tension escalated when President Donald Trump, in an interview with The Atlantic magazine published Sunday, reaffirmed his administration’s interest in Greenland, stating, ‘we do need Greenland, absolutely. We need it for defense.’ This comment came just one day after a controversial U.S. military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro.
Further inflaming the situation, Katie Miller—spouse of Stephen Miller, a senior White House advisor and key architect of Trump’s policies—shared a contentious image on social media platform X. The post depicted Greenland’s map overlaid with the colors and stars of the American flag, captioned with the single word: ‘SOON.’
Prime Minister Frederiksen characterized the notion of U.S. control over Greenland as ‘absolutely absurd’ and urged Washington to respect its historical alliance with Denmark. Greenland’s own Premier, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, denounced the social media post as ‘disrespectful,’ while simultaneously seeking to calm concerns by asserting, ‘Our country is not for sale, and our future is not decided by social media posts.’
The U.S. intervention in Venezuela has evidently rattled European allies, casting a new light on Trump’s repeated expressions of desire to annex Greenland. The administration has justified its interest by citing the territory’s strategic Arctic positioning and its wealth of critical minerals essential for high-tech industries.
Jesper Moeller Soerensen, Denmark’s Ambassador to the U.S., responded with a pointed ‘friendly reminder’ on X, emphasizing Denmark’s expectation of ‘full respect for territorial integrity.’ He highlighted Denmark’s status as a NATO ally that has ‘significantly boosted its Arctic security efforts’ in cooperation with the U.S., underscoring that the nations should ‘continue to work together as such.’
Stephen Miller, recognized as a principal influence on Trump’s hardline immigration and domestic policies, finds his wife’s actions adding a personal dimension to the diplomatic friction. Katie Miller, who held communications roles in the Trump administration and for former Vice President Mike Pence, has not publicly commented further on her post.
The incident underscores growing concerns among U.S. allies regarding the administration’s foreign policy tactics and its public disregard for established international norms and diplomatic protocols.
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Djokovic quits players’ union he co-founded
Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic has announced his complete departure from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), the organization he established alongside Canadian player Vasek Pospisil in 2020. The unexpected move comes amid growing concerns about the union’s operational transparency and governance standards.
In a social media statement released Sunday, the 24-time Grand Slam champion expressed dissatisfaction with how his voice and image had been represented within the association. Despite acknowledging pride in the original vision behind the PTPA—which sought to provide tennis professionals with a stronger, independent platform—Djokovic indicated that his personal values no longer aligned with the organization’s current trajectory.
The PTPA gained significant attention in March 2025 when it initiated legal proceedings against tennis’ primary governing bodies. The lawsuit challenged what it described as ‘anti-competitive restraints and abusive practices’ within the sport, particularly highlighting the demanding tournament schedule that keeps players competing for eleven months annually across both ATP and WTA circuits.
Djokovic, currently ranked world No. 4, emphasized that his decision resulted from careful deliberation. The 38-year-old champion stated he would now concentrate on his tennis career, family life, and contributing to the sport through avenues that better reflect his principles and integrity. His immediate competitive focus remains on capturing an unprecedented 25th major title at the upcoming Australian Open, with preparation beginning at the ATP event in Adelaide from January 12-17.
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Australian shares open higher in amid Venezuela geopolitical tensions
Australian equities commenced the trading week on a positive note, with the S&P/ASX 200 index advancing 15.20 points, or 0.17 percent, to reach 8743.00 in morning transactions. This upward movement allowed the benchmark to reclaim its position above the 50-day moving average, though it continues to trade approximately 4 percent below its 52-week peak, demonstrating limited momentum over recent sessions.
The market’s early strength was predominantly driven by significant rallies within the energy and uranium sectors. This investor focus emerged in direct response to extraordinary geopolitical developments over the weekend, wherein US forces conducted a military operation resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. US President Donald Trump subsequently announced the nation would remain under temporary US oversight pending the installation of a new administration, though specific transition details remain unspecified.
Despite these heightened tensions, the global oil market exhibited remarkable stability. Analysts quickly noted that Venezuela’s oil production infrastructure remained undamaged, with worldwide markets maintaining ample supply buffers. This assessment was reinforced by OPEC+’s weekend decision to maintain current output levels, signaling no urgent need for intervention despite crude prices declining over 18 percent in 2025 and fresh geopolitical risks emerging.
Kyle Rodda, senior financial market analyst at Capital.com, observed that ‘OPEC isn’t rushing to put a strong floor under prices, ostensibly adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach to market conditions.’ Technical analysis indicates crude remains in a definitive downtrend, with the 50-day moving average representing significant resistance and approximately $55 per barrel establishing a major support level.
Market specifics revealed uranium enterprises leading the ASX advance: Silex Systems surged 10.89 percent, Paladin Energy jumped 9.18 percent, and NexGen Energy rose 8.53 percent. Modest losses were concentrated in financials and mining sectors, with AUB Group declining 2.09 percent and Aristocrat Leisure slipping 1.78 percent. The Australian market’s reaction provided among the first global indicators of investor response to the Venezuela developments, demonstrating resilience amid ongoing oil price weakness that saw US crude settle at $57.32 and Brent at $60.75 per barrel.
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Grim warning for northern Queensland as floodwaters rise
Northern Queensland communities are confronting a severe weather crisis as unprecedented rainfall triggers major flooding while meteorologists monitor a developing weather system that could potentially intensify into a tropical cyclone. The region has experienced what officials describe as “catastrophically above average” precipitation levels, with the coastal city of Townsville recording 381mm of rainfall within just five days—surpassing its entire December total of 330mm.
The Bureau of Meteorology indicates that while inland flood-affected areas may experience temporary relief as the heaviest rainfall shifts coastward, the situation remains critical. Senior meteorologist Livio Regano explained that a trough currently positioned near Townsville is expected to evolve into a monsoon trough later this week, potentially developing into a cyclonic system over the Coral Sea.
Despite concerns about cyclone formation, Regano noted that the system’s movement could paradoxically benefit flooded regions by drawing heavy rainfall away from the mainland. However, forecasts suggest the low-pressure system might return toward the coast by weekend, bringing renewed heavy rainfall regardless of whether it achieves cyclonic status.
Current flood emergencies persist along the Western and Flinders Rivers, where waters continue rising with the Flinders River at Walkers Bend reaching 15.93 meters. Authorities have issued stern warnings against entering floodwaters and anticipate multiple flood peaks across river systems in coming days as additional rainfall is expected later in the week.
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Ex-Australia batter Martyn wakes up from coma in ‘miracle’ recovery
Former Australian cricket star Damien Martyn has emerged from a medically induced coma and is demonstrating what his family describes as a “miraculous” recovery following a sudden meningitis diagnosis. The 54-year-old cricket veteran, who represented Australia in 67 Test matches between 1992 and 2006, was hospitalized on December 27 after falling ill in late December.
In an official statement released on Sunday, former teammate Adam Gilchrist conveyed the remarkable turnaround in Martyn’s condition. “It’s been an unbelievable turn of events in the last 48 hours,” Gilchrist stated. “[Martyn] has responded extraordinarily well since coming out of the coma to the point where his family feels it’s like some sort of miracle.”
The medical prognosis has improved so significantly that healthcare professionals are considering transferring Martyn from the intensive care unit. Gilchrist emphasized the rapid nature of this recovery, noting the condition was “so positive” that medical staff were hopeful about his continued progress.
Meningitis, the infection that attacked the protective membranes surrounding Martyn’s brain and spinal cord, is known for its potentially rapid progression and can prove fatal within hours if not treated promptly.
The family expressed profound gratitude to the medical team at Gold Coast University Hospital, acknowledging their exceptional care during this critical period. While Martyn will remain hospitalized for ongoing treatment, his recovery has been described as nothing short of miraculous.
Martyn’s wife Amanda noted that her husband is in “good spirits and overwhelmed by the support” from well-wishers worldwide, adding that the “love, goodwill and sense of care” from supporters has significantly contributed to his recovery process.
The cricket champion, who made his Test debut at age 21, compiled an impressive career including 4,406 Test runs at an average of 46.37. Martyn participated in four Ashes series, won two World Cups with Australia, and delivered a memorable performance in the 2003 World Cup final where he scored an unbeaten 88 despite batting with a broken finger. His ODI career was equally distinguished with 5,346 runs from 208 matches.
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Eels settle on Zac Lomax replacement with Brian Kelly heading to Parramatta on a two-year deal
In a significant roster move, the Parramatta Eels have successfully acquired experienced centre Brian Kelly on a two-year contract, effectively addressing the void created by Zac Lomax’s unexpected departure. The strategic acquisition comes after the Eels granted Lomax an early release to explore opportunities beyond rugby league, with strong indications pointing toward a code switch to rugby union.
Kelly brings substantial high-pressure experience to Parramatta, having represented both Country Origin and the Indigenous All Stars during his career. While his defensive capabilities have drawn some scrutiny, the 29-year-old veteran compensates with exceptional offensive prowess, demonstrated by his remarkable record of 66 tries across 190 NRL appearances for Manly and Gold Coast Titans.
Eels football general manager Mark O’Neill emphasized the strategic nature of the signing: “We identified an opportunity to strengthen our outside backs, which represented a positional area of critical need. Brian perfectly addresses that requirement while bringing nearly 200 games of NRL experience that will undoubtedly benefit our broader squad dynamics. Our coaching staff anticipates integrating his distinctive attacking dimensions into our gameplay.”
The transition materialized through Kelly’s early release from his final contract year with Gold Coast Titans, where he had spent seven productive seasons. This departure significantly alters the Titans’ left edge composition, following Kieran Foran’s retirement and the recent exit of speedster Alofiana Khan-Pereira to Warriors.
Gold Coast management acknowledged Kelly’s contributions in an official statement: “The Titans extend gratitude to Brian for his dedicated service across seven seasons and wish him success in his future professional endeavors with Parramatta.”
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Man City held by Chelsea in major title blow, Liverpool denied in Fulham thriller
The Premier League title landscape underwent a seismic shift this weekend, delivering significant blows to the aspirations of Manchester City and Liverpool in a series of dramatic fixtures.
At the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City’s pursuit of league leaders Arsenal suffered a severe setback in a stunning 1-1 draw with Chelsea. Despite taking the lead through a Tijjani Reijnders strike in the 42nd minute, Pep Guardiola’s squad conceded a devastating equalizer deep into stoppage time. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez delivered the crucial blow, capitalizing on City’s failure to secure the victory. The result leaves City trailing Arsenal by a concerning six-point margin, intensifying pressure on their title defense. The match was notably managed by Chelsea’s Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane following the recent departure of manager Enzo Maresca.
Simultaneously, Liverpool faced their own heartbreak at Craven Cottage in a thrilling 2-2 stalemate with Fulham. After conceding an early goal to Harry Wilson, the Reds mounted a spirited comeback with Florian Wirtz leveling the score before Cody Gakpo seemingly secured a dramatic victory in the 94th minute. However, Harrison Reed delivered an extraordinary response for Fulham, unleashing a spectacular long-range strike to equalize at the death and deny Liverpool two critical points.
In other Premier League action, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim sparked speculation about his future following a tense 1-1 draw with historic rivals Leeds United. Despite Matheus Cunha’s equalizer canceling out Brenden Aaronson’s opener, Amorim delivered pointed comments regarding his long-term position at Old Trafford.
Additional results saw Tottenham’s struggles continue with a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, Brentford climbed to seventh position powered by Igor Thiago’s hat-trick in a 4-2 victory over Everton, and Newcastle secured a comfortable 2-0 win against Crystal Palace.
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Delcy Rodriguez: From Maduro’s ‘tigress’ to acting Venezuelan president
Following the dramatic capture of Nicolás Maduro by US forces, Delcy Rodríguez has ascended to the role of Acting President of Venezuela, marking an unprecedented moment as the first woman to hold executive power in the nation. The Venezuelan Supreme Court formally authorized her assumption of presidential duties in an acting capacity, a move subsequently endorsed by the country’s military establishment.
Rodríguez, a 56-year-old lawyer by training, has been a central figure in successive administrations led by both Maduro and his predecessor, Hugo Chávez. Her political trajectory includes significant roles as Foreign Minister, Vice President since 2018, and most recently, Minister of Hydrocarbons—a position of critical importance in an economy fundamentally reliant on oil exports.
Known for her staunch anti-imperialist stance and once dubbed ‘the tigress’ by Maduro himself, Rodríguez now faces the complex task of navigating Venezuela’s political transition while maintaining cohesion within the Chavista movement. Her immediate response to Maduro’s capture was to assert that he remains the ‘only president’ and to demand his unconditional release, simultaneously positioning herself as a stabilizing force.
Her political lineage is deeply intertwined with Venezuela’s socialist movement. Her brother, Jorge Rodríguez, currently leads the National Assembly, and their family history is marked by political activism—their father, a Marxist activist, died in government custody in 1976. Analysts suggest this personal history has profoundly influenced her political motivations and leadership style.
In recent years, Rodríguez demonstrated pragmatic governance by moderating her rhetoric and engaging with Venezuela’s business community—a sector historically criticized by socialist leadership. As Economy Minister from 2020 to 2024, she implemented eased trade controls and accommodated dollarization, earning cautious approval from economic stakeholders despite facing international sanctions herself for alleged democratic undermining and human rights violations.
The international response remains cautiously observant. Former US President Donald Trump indicated that Rodríguez had expressed willingness to collaborate with Washington, though he issued stern warnings should she fail to meet US demands regarding policy reforms and oil access. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US would evaluate potential cooperation based on actions rather than declarations, explicitly downplaying the prospects of opposition leader María Corina Machado.
Political analysts note that while Rodríguez requires formal swearing-in, she effectively operates as de facto president. Her challenge lies in balancing internal party expectations, international pressures, and the management of the world’s largest proven oil reserves amidst profound national and geopolitical uncertainty.
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France, UK conduct joint strikes against IS in Syria
In a significant display of multinational military cooperation, British and French armed forces executed coordinated airstrikes against Islamic State positions in northeastern Syria on Saturday night. The joint operation targeted a subterranean weapons storage facility utilized by the terrorist organization in the sparsely populated desert region north of Palmyra.
The UK Ministry of Defence released video documentation showing Royal Air Force Typhoon aircraft conducting aerial refueling maneuvers during the mission. Military authorities from both nations confirmed the operation was conducted under the umbrella of Operation Inherent Resolve, the United States-led international coalition against Islamic State forces across Iraq and Syria.
According to official statements, the targeted complex was situated in an area devoid of civilian population, with no indications of collateral damage or civilian casualties reported. The strategic strikes aimed to disrupt ISIS’s logistical capabilities and prevent the terrorist organization from regrouping and reestablishing operational strength in the region.
The operation comes amid heightened security concerns following last month’s attack in Palmyra, where an ISIS gunman killed two American soldiers and a civilian contractor. This incident prompted retaliatory strikes by US forces against dozens of ISIS targets throughout Syria.
The historic city of Palmyra, home to UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites, previously served as a stronghold for jihadist fighters before being liberated from ISIS control. The recent military action underscores ongoing international efforts to maintain security stability under the administration of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed power following the ouster of former leader Bashar al-Assad approximately one year ago.