Bitcoin Plunges, Global Tensions Rise

Bitcoin prices fell to their lowest level in 15 months, reaching $66,000 (48,700), despite former US President Donald Trump's public support for cryptocurrency, according to BBC Business. The drop, which represents a 24% decrease since the start of the year, followed a period of surging prices that saw Bitcoin hit an all-time high of $122,200 in October.

Meanwhile, in Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled a plan to bolster the country's auto industry and support its electric vehicle transition, as reported by BBC Business. The new measures, announced on Thursday, are part of Canada's efforts to reduce reliance on the US, amid Trump's push for more domestic car production. The strategy includes financial incentives for carmakers to invest in Canada and the reintroduction of rebates for EVs. Trump last year imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian cars and car parts.

In other international news, Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine remained in hiding nearly three weeks after a disputed election, as reported by The Guardian. His whereabouts were unknown since he fled what he said was a night raid on his home by police and military. A high-stakes social media feud with the country's military chief was also escalating.

Cuba expressed its willingness to engage in talks with the United States "without pressure," according to The Guardian, after months of threats from Donald Trump. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel made the statement amid the island's deepening economic crisis.

Finally, authorities in Norway were investigating former Prime Minister Thorbjorn Jagland on suspicion of corruption due to his ties to the late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as reported by Al Jazeera. The probe followed the release of documents by the United States Department of Justice last week, which revealed years of communications between Jagland and Epstein, including emails suggesting that Jagland stayed at Epstein's home.