Trump's tariffs took effect at midnight - 25% on Canada and Mexico, 10% additional on China - marking the first phase of his renewed trade offensive. Markets reacted with concern about global economic impacts.
The Yashio sinkhole rescue operation reached a milestone with ramp completion, but repeated attempts to begin heavy machinery operations were thwarted by water infiltration and unstable ground conditions. As the search passed 100 hours, rescue teams suspended operations until morning due to weather forecasts predicting snow.
Reports emerged of record Chinese tourist spending in Japan, up 30% and driven by individual wealthy travelers. The Philadelphia medical aircraft crash dominated international coverage, while LA finally contained its three-week wildfire after 29 confirmed deaths. In Tokunoshima, an 18-year-old student was arrested for the November murder of a nursery teacher.
