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From Tokyo to New York, the opening of 2026 mixed hopeful diplomacy, civic milestones and cultural energy: Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said a peace deal is about 90% ready in his New Year address, while Japan’s Emperor Naruhito used his own New Year remarks to stress peace and shared hope for the world; at home Japan marked two years since the Noto Peninsula quake, highlighting ongoing rebuilding and community resilience. In sports, Naomi Osaka will lead Japan into the United Cup, drawing inspiration from family as she kicks off her season. Across the Atlantic, Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City’s mayor in a striking, historic ceremony at a decommissioned beaux‑arts subway station, a symbolic start to his term. Meanwhile in Europe, Germany enters 2026 focused on key domestic debates—pensions, migration and conscription—and closely watching how political dynamics, including the far right’s performance in upcoming state votes, shape the year ahead. Together these stories underscore a moment of renewal, civic transition and a mix of cultural and political priorities setting the agenda for the months to come.