Global Developments: Wildfires in Los Angeles, Germany’s New Security Division, Trump Legal Battles, and Rising Tensions in Europe and Asia

Forest fires in Los Angeles destroy 34,000 acres, worsen air quality and endanger health. Particulate matter levels are far above WHO limits. Authorities advise people to stay indoors; masks are distributed. Children, the elderly and people with pre-existing conditions are particularly at risk. Long-term health consequences are possible.

The Bundeswehr establishes a new homeland security division to help secure infrastructure and military facilities in Germany. It will consist of reservists and active soldiers and will be subordinate to the army from April 1. Its tasks will include the protection of ports, railroad facilities, pipelines and digital infrastructure as well as administrative assistance in crisis situations. The Homeland Security Division is intended as a reserve in the event of defense and to support NATO. The formation of the division will begin in March, with the reintroduction of military service also planned.

A judge has sentenced future US President Donald Trump to an unconditional discharge, despite his conviction for paying hush money to a porn actress. Trump remains unpunished as the constitution protects sitting presidents, but the conviction still stands. Trump, who denies the allegations, plans to appeal. The conviction makes him the first president with a criminal record. The case, which took place during his successful election campaign, is a political burden for him and highlights the legal tensions ahead of his inauguration on January 20.

Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede is willing to talk to Donald Trump about the future of the island, but emphasized the desire for independence. Trump described control of the Arctic region as “necessary” and did not rule out military or economic means. Egede called for respect for Greenland's autonomy and explained that independence efforts do not mean the end of relations with Denmark. Greenland, a strategically important region with a US military base, is striving for independence in the long term.

The US House of Representatives has voted 243 to 140 in favor of sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC). The reason for this is the issuing of arrest warrants against Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a former defense minister over the Gaza conflict. The law aims to sanction individuals who prosecute US citizens or allies such as Israel before the ICC. Republicans unanimously support the bill, while 45 Democrats voted in favor. Critics warn that the measures could jeopardize the work of the court and deprive victims of international crimes of justice.

The US Supreme Court is signaling support for a law forcing TikTok to be sold or banned by January 19. The justices are focusing on national security risks, including possible espionage by the Chinese government. TikTok argues that the law violates freedom of expression as it would effectively shut down the platform. Some judges expressed concerns about long-term risks from data use, while others pointed to potential restrictions on free speech. A decision could have a lasting impact on US-China relations and digital rights.

Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro was sworn in for a third term in office despite international criticism and electoral disputes. The USA increased the reward for information leading to his arrest on drug trafficking charges to 25 million dollars. The opposition recognizes Edmundo Gonzalez as the legitimate president, but he remains under threat after fleeing into exile. The EU, the UK and Canada have also imposed sanctions on Maduro allies. Meanwhile, Venezuela continues to suffer from a severe economic crisis that has forced millions to flee the country. In his speech, Maduro emphasized sovereignty and announced a constitutional reform.

The fires around Los Angeles claim eleven lives, three fires are still out of control. The “Palisades Fire” is particularly affected, where evacuations have been extended. Over 12,000 buildings have been destroyed and 100,000 people have had to flee. Fire chief Kristin Crowley criticizes budget cuts that are making it more difficult to fight the fires. Governor Gavin Newsom responded to criticism from Donald Trump and invited him to visit the disaster area and pay his respects to those affected.

The German government is arguing about additional aid for Ukraine. The Greens are calling for three billion euros more to increase military support in view of the situation in Ukraine, while Chancellor Scholz rejects this before the parliamentary elections. Scholz sees no urgent need for action and wants to leave the decision to the next government. Foreign Minister Baerbock and Defence Minister Pistorius support the Greens' demand, as Ukraine still urgently needs air defense and other weapons. Critics accuse Scholz of misjudging the situation, while the SPD backs him. There are no official statements from the German government.

In Slovakia, thousands protested against the pro-Russian policies of Prime Minister Robert Fico, who recently met with President Putin in Moscow. Critics accuse Fico of turning away from the West and supporting Russia. The demonstrators, who gathered in several cities, criticized Fico for his course, which in their view represents a “submission” to Russian interests. They demanded that Slovakia take a clear stance against Russian aggression towards Ukraine. Fico defended his meeting in Moscow and threatened Ukraine with various retaliatory measures. Further protests are planned for January 24.

The stricken tanker “Eventin” off the coast of Rügen, which was carrying 99,000 tons of oil, is currently being towed eastwards for safety reasons. The ship is part of the so-called Russian shadow fleet, a group of ships that circumvent Western sanctions. The CCME is working to stabilize the tanker and other vessels have been deployed to assist with the tow. Despite the difficult weather conditions, there are currently no signs of oil pollution. Environment Minister Till Backhaus warned of the constant threat posed by the shadow fleet, which is endangering the Baltic Sea. Russia uses these ships to circumvent sanctions and transport oil around the world.

Donald Trump has appointed Ed Russo, former environmental advisor for Trump's company, to head a new environmental task force. This is intended to support Trump's policy for clean air, water and the extraction of fossil fuels. Russo described Trump as an “environmental hero”. Trump's appointment is causing concern among climate activists, as he is likely to pull out of the Paris Climate Agreement again.

After the Romanian Constitutional Court annulled the results of the first round of the presidential election shortly before the run-off, a new presidential election has now been set for May.”

China is rapidly building specialized ships for amphibious landings, raising concerns about possible action against Taiwan. Naval News reports that at least five of these ships are being built at the Guangzhou shipyard. With their 120-meter-long road bridges, they can bring heavy military equipment such as tanks directly to previously inaccessible beaches, potentially enabling large-scale attacks.