BBC News Digest
Thursday, 29 January 2026
Ukraine receives bodies of 1,000 soldiers from Russia
Ukraine and Russia confirm soldier body exchange, enabling families to bury loved ones as the conflict continues.
White House ‘Border Czar’ announces shift in Minnesota tactics
White House “Border Czar” Tom Homan said federal immigration agents will conduct “targeted” operations in Minnesota.
German star latest to take aim at Trump ahead of FIFA World Cup in US
Bayern Munich midfielder and German international Leon Goretzka says European teams are emboldened heading to World Cup.
Key questions about US military build-up near Iran
Trump is building up a military force in the Middle East, saying the US is ready to strike Iran.
What’s UpScrolled, the app gaining popularity after TikTok’s US takeover?
Disgruntled TikTok users are flocking to the platform which is promising a ‘transparent tech’ experience.
Trump border security chief Homan doubles down on Minnesota operations
Top official vows shift in operations after killings of US citizens, but says Trump not ‘surrendering’ mission.
Israel hands over 15 bodies of Palestinians in last stage of captive swap
Palestinians still waiting for the Red Cross to turn over the bodies either in Khan Younis or Gaza City.
Bangladesh approves shooting team India tour, days after T20 World Cup ban
Bangladesh cricket lost their place at T20 World Cup after refusal to play in India, but shooting team heads to Delhi.
Family blames ICE for disabled son’s death after father’s detention
Wael Tarabishi died after weeks in intensive care while his father, his primary caregiver, was held in ICE detention.
US-Iran tensions soar: What do both sides want?
From enriched uranium and ballistic missiles to sanctions and regional influence, the differences are many.
Anti-ICE protesters tear-gassed outside Texas detention centre
Anti-ICE protesters tear-gassed outside Texas detention centre
China bans 73 and punishes top football clubs in latest corruption scandal
China’s former football chief and national team coach are among 73 to receive lifetime bans for match-fixing.
Why is ‘Deuce Bigalow’ rooting for Viktor Orban in Hungary?
A washed-up American comedian’s endorsement offers a window into Hungary’s central role in the global far right.
Why is the UK’s Keir Starmer in China and what does he want to achieve?
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has portrayed his trip as a pragmatic move to improve UK-China relations.
Video: Palestinians in Gaza wait for vital Rafah crossing to open
Palestinians in Gaza are waiting with uncertainty for the partial Israeli reopening of Gaza’s Rafah border crossing.
Israel raids several occupied West Bank towns after killing Hebron youth
Raids come as Israeli settlers storm Joseph’s Tomb in Nablus, said to be the burial ground of biblical father of Jesus.
Video emerges of Dutch police assault on two Muslim women
Two Muslim women who were kicked and hit by a police officer in Utrecht have made a formal complaint.
Italy’s Winter Olympics security plan keeps ICE in advisory role
Italy to control Olympic security operations with 6,000 officers, drones and cyberunit, but ICE will be present.
If Cuba falls, the Global South is to blame, too
As the United States tightens the screws, Cuba’s supposed allies respond with empty gestures and selective solidarity.
Sabalenka, Rybakina to meet in Australian Open final
World no 1 Aryna Sabalenka to meet former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in first women’s grand slam final of 2026.