Latest stories from this desk, published newest first.
Ukraine’s president said a U.S. security agreement is prepared for signing and would then move to ratification, while Russia’s attacks continue to pressure energy systems and civilian life during winter. Kyiv is pushing for additional air defenses and seeking clearer commitments as diplomacy and battlefield realities move in parallel.
Bottled water may increase microplastic exposure compared with tap water, even as many Americans choose it to avoid contaminants like lead or PFAS. Experts recommend practical steps—such as avoiding heat-exposed bottles, testing private wells and using effective filtration—to reduce risk while keeping water safe and affordable.
A major winter system stretching from the South into the Northeast triggered widespread school closures, dangerous road conditions and major flight disruptions on January 26, 2026. Officials urged people to limit travel as ice and heavy snow complicated commutes, strained power systems and forced districts and universities to switch to remote learning.
The New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks are headed to Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., setting up a high-profile rematch. The matchup was finalized after New England’s AFC title win and Seattle’s NFC Championship victory, with kickoff scheduled for February 8, 2026.
U.S. stock indexes rose modestly while gold surged to another record and the dollar slid. Investors are weighing tariff threats, a busy earnings calendar and shifting currency dynamics that rippled across Asian markets.
A major winter storm continued to disrupt travel across the United States, with thousands of cancellations and a serious incident at a Maine airport. Federal investigators are examining a private-jet crash that happened during takeoff as conditions deteriorated.
Ethiopia has declared the end of its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease after a 42-day period with no new confirmed infections. Health authorities and WHO officials said quick surveillance and contact tracing contained the outbreak, while warning that preparedness and infection-control capacity must be sustained.
European regulators have opened a formal investigation into X over alleged failures to prevent AI-generated sexual deepfakes linked to Grok. The inquiry tests how the EU’s Digital Services Act applies when generative AI tools amplify illegal or non-consensual content.
The Timberwolves’ return to the court against the Warriors came under a heavy cloud, with Minneapolis grieving and protesting after a fatal shooting tied to a federal immigration operation. Coaches, players and fans struggled to focus as the city’s crisis spilled into the sports world.
Ethiopia has declared its first-ever Marburg virus outbreak over, meeting the 42-day standard with no new confirmed infections. Health officials and international partners said the response strengthened surveillance, contact tracing and infection-control measures in affected areas.
A fatal shooting during a federal immigration operation in Minneapolis has sparked protests, lawsuits and sharp criticism from Minnesota officials. The White House faces pressure to provide evidence and accountability after video appeared to contradict federal statements.
After another fatal encounter involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, Donald Trump indicated the operation may be modified or scaled back. The incident triggered bipartisan criticism, calls for investigations, and conflicting statements from senior officials about the circumstances and classification of violence.