U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that American forces carried out a major overnight military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Explosions were reported in Caracas, with key military installations allegedly targeted. The Venezuelan government has condemned the action as “imperialist aggression” and declared a national emergency, as international reaction continues to mount.

Germany has begun issuing a mandatory military service questionnaire to all citizens turning 18, marking a significant shift in defence policy more than a decade after conscription was suspended. While the government insists the measure stops short of a full draft, critics warn it effectively lays the groundwork for future compulsory service if voluntary recruitment fails. The move has reignited national debate around militarisation, youth consent, and Germany’s preparedness for a rapidly deteriorating European security environment.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen a long range strategic cruise missile launching drill, according to state media reports carried by Reuters, in a move likely to further heighten tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The test, conducted on December 28, was described by Pyongyang as a demonstration of its nuclear deterrent and rapid counter strike capability, as regional militaries confirmed they were monitoring the launches closely.