World

[Despite efforts to reduce emissions, Rhode Island saw an 8.2% increase in greenhouse gases, primarily from transportation and electricity sectors, potentially missing its 2020 climate goal.]

A massive cyberattack on Viasat's satellite network impacted thousands of internet users and wind turbine systems across multiple European countries in the early stages of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with Ukrainian officials alleging Russian involvement.

Poland announces plan to end Russian oil imports by year's end, while Germany warns about gas levels. The European Union seeks to reduce reliance on Russian energy supplies amid ongoing tensions from the Ukraine conflict.

The United States is calling for tougher UN sanctions following North Korea's test of its largest intercontinental ballistic missile. Kim Jong Un claims the launch is part of expanding his country's "nuclear war deterrent" and preparing for a long-term confrontation with the US. Analysts suggest the missile tests aim to pressure the US into recognizing North Korea as a nuclear power.

Climate activists from Fridays for Future staged global protests across Indonesia, Europe, and the United States, calling for systemic changes to combat climate change and criticizing G20 economies for continuing to fund environmentally destructive practices.

Russian forces appear to be scaling back their initial invasion goals, moving away from Kyiv and concentrating on the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. This strategic shift suggests a potential reassessment of military objectives, though it remains unclear whether this represents a genuine withdrawal or a tactical regrouping for future operations.

The Ukraine war is pushing Western Europe closer to the United States, with President Biden offering to help Europe reduce its 40% reliance on Russian natural gas. This move addresses a critical economic and geopolitical challenge stemming from years of European energy dependence on Russia.

The United States and European Union have signed a breakthrough data transfer deal, resolving long-standing privacy concerns. President Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the agreement in Brussels, providing relief for thousands of companies struggling with data privacy regulations.

President Biden and Western allies announced new sanctions and humanitarian aid for Ukraine, pledging to welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees and provide $1 billion in essential supplies. Leaders discussed potential responses to potential chemical, biological, or nuclear threats from Russia.

The U.S. Trade Representative's office reinstated 352 product exclusions from Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports, covering industrial components, car parts, consumer goods, and more. The exclusions are effective retroactively from Oct. 12, 2021, through Dec. 31, 2022.