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📅January 1, 2026 at 1:00 AM
Global New Year's 2026 celebrations dazzle worldwide amid heightened security, geopolitical tensions in Ukraine, Taiwan, and Iran, plus Bulgaria's euro adoption.
1

Russia Signals Retaliation After Attack on Putin's Residence

Signs emerge that Russia will retaliate following an attack on Putin's residence, with the doomsday radio station broadcasting retaliation signals. Russia faces disadvantages in Kupyansk, and Putin orders expansion of the buffer zone in Ukraine for 2026.Source 1 International headlines highlight escalating tensions.Source 1

2

Bulgaria Adopts Euro as 21st Eurozone Member

On January 1, Bulgaria officially adopts the euro, becoming the 21st member state of the eurozone.Source 2 Cyprus begins its presidency of the Council of the European Union on the same day.Source 2 This marks a significant economic milestone for the region.Source 2

3

Trump Issues First Veto in Second Term

President Trump uses his veto power for the first time in his second term, as reported in international news updates.Source 1 Details on the vetoed legislation remain emerging.Source 1 This action underscores early policy assertions.Source 1

4

Japan Protests China's Military Drills Around Taiwan

Japan voices concerns over China's military exercises around Taiwan, stating they increase tensions across the Taiwan Strait.Source 1 Tokyo has expressed worries to Beijing amid U.S. arms sales to Taiwan worth $11.1 billion.Source 1 Regional stability is at risk.Source 1

5

India Surpasses Japan as World's 4th Largest Economy

India has overtaken Japan to become the fourth largest economy globally, according to recent economic reports.Source 1 This shift highlights India's rapid growth trajectory.Source 1 Implications for global trade are significant.Source 1

6

Iran Vows Strong Response to Any Attacks

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian declares a strong retaliation if attacked, amid U.S. warnings and arms deals.Source 1 Trump stated military action against Iran's nuclear program if revived.Source 1 Tensions escalate post-Netanyahu meeting.Source 1

7

Sydney Fireworks Proceed Amid Heightened Security Post-Shooting

Australia's Sydney welcomed 2026 with fireworks over Harbour Bridge, under heavy police presence after the Bondi Beach Hanukkah mass shooting killing 15.Source 4 Over 2,500 officers patrolled, many with rifles.Source 4 Thousands gathered despite the pall.Source 4

8

Paris Cancels New Year's Concert Over Crowd Fears

Paris cancelled its Champs-Élysées New Year's Eve concert due to unpredictable crowd risks, opting for Arc de Triomphe projections.Source 4 10,000 police mobilized for security.Source 4 Enhanced measures addressed urban safety concerns.Source 4

9

Xi Jinping Reiterates Taiwan Reunification in New Year Address

China's Xi hailed tech progress but renewed Taiwan threats, calling reunification unstoppable after drills condemned as provocative.Source 4 Military exercises concluded around the island.Source 4 Kinship bonds emphasized across the Strait.Source 4

10

Kiribati First to Welcome 2026

Pacific nation Kiribati was the first on Earth to enter 2026, leading global celebrations.Source 3 South Pacific countries followed, 18 hours ahead of New York.Source 8 This underscores time zone traditions.Source 6

11

Global Fireworks Light Up Skies from Dubai to Manila

Spectacular displays marked 2026 in Dubai's Burj Khalifa, Manila, Bangkok, and Seoul's Lotte Tower.Source 6 Japan's temple bells and Philippines fireworks added cultural flair.Source 4 Revelers worldwide celebrated amid lights.Source 7

12

US Set to Exit WHO on January 22

The United States will officially leave the World Health Organization on January 22, 2026.Source 2 This follows scheduled international events.Source 2 Impacts on global health cooperation pending.Source 2