Iniaes

Abu Dhabi hosts Russia–Ukraine peace talks focusing on territorial issues

Abu Dhabi is hosting further peace talks on Saturday aimed at ending Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with the United States, Ukraine, and Russia taking part, and territorial questions set to be a key focus.

Edinburgh defence company introduces HAMMER one-way attack drone

Edinburgh Drone Company has launched the UK-built HAMMER one-way attack drone at an event in East Lothian, following flight trials and live munitions testing. Developed with Aero Solutions Ltd as part of a UK manufacturing hub involving engineering SMEs, the fixed-wing system is designed for simple, scalable, lower-cost production using UK manufacturing with European-sourced components. EDC says HAMMER offers a standard range of 22 km, up to 50 km with an upgrade, catapult launch, manual flight options, and a payload capacity tested at at least 3.5 kg. Munition configurations include a 2.5 kg warhead, a user-fillable cassette, and RPG-7-type payloads.

Famous birthdays on Jan. 24 include Carrie Coon and Neil Diamond

Jan. 24 features notable birthdays including actor Carrie Coon turning 45 and musician Neil Diamond turning 85.

Jan. 24, 2011: Suicide bombing at Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport kills 37

On Jan. 24, 2011, a suicide bomber struck the international arrivals area at Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport, killing 37 people and injuring more than 170.

Russia Strikes Ukraine as US-Led Peace Talks Continue

Russia launched strikes on Ukraine, killing one person and injuring 23, as trilateral discussions in Abu Dhabi were set to resume in an effort to end the war.

New York City fire: Crews respond to major blaze on upper floors of Bronx high-rise

Emergency crews rushed to a 4-alarm fire at a 17-story apartment building on Bivona Street in the Bronx shortly after midnight, following reports of a gas leak and a possible explosion. Thick black smoke was seen pouring from the upper floors as the fire spread to multiple apartments, prompting evacuations and the opening of a nearby reception center for displaced residents. Officials reported several civilian injuries and one firefighter injured, while online claims of additional casualties have not been confirmed.

Pentagon plans to scale back support for U.S. allies under new defense strategy

The Pentagon plans to offer more limited support to U.S. allies in a defense strategy shift, as the new National Defense Strategy signals a reduction in U.S. backing for partners and indicates that China is no longer considered the country’s top security priority.

From hardship to professional tennis success

Surviving bombs and hunger to become a professional tennis player highlights how a sport often seen as reserved for the wealthy has also produced stars from modest backgrounds, including Novak Djokovic and Elina Svitolina, who built successful careers despite early hardship.

First Look at MikroTik and Getting Started

A first look at MikroTik and getting started covers initial impressions of a first MikroTik device, including getting up and running with RouterOS, basic system setup, backup and restore steps, home lab network planning, and fundamental routing concepts.

Charli XCX says her three Sundance film roles mark a shift from “Brat Summer”

Charli XCX spoke at the Sundance Film Festival on Friday about taking on three acting roles in films screening at the festival, describing the projects as a pivot as she moves on from the “Brat” phenomenon that defined much of 2024.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen Visits Greenland to Show Support

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen traveled to Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, to meet with the territory’s leader, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, after a turbulent week and to signal Denmark’s support.

'Love Letters' Exhibition Explores 500 Years of Written Emotion

The National Archives in London has opened a new exhibition, “Love Letters,” showcasing how people have put love and its many emotions into words on paper across 500 years.

PECO Crews Prepare for Potential Power Outages as Winter Storm Approaches

PECO crews are getting ready for possible outages as a winter storm moves into the region, with the risk of widespread power failures depending more on the type and weight of precipitation than on total snowfall.

Philadelphia Bars and Restaurants Plan to Remain Open During Sunday Snowstorm

As a major snowstorm is expected Sunday, some Philadelphia bars, restaurants, and cafés say they plan to stay open for locals who can walk to neighborhood spots. Businesses are preparing with comfort food, warm drinks, fireplaces, and events such as karaoke and NFC Championship game watch parties, with examples including McGillan’s Olde Ale House and Famous 4th Street Deli. Other venues across the city and nearby areas also plan to operate, though some may adjust hours or close if conditions worsen.

British tourist, 25, dies after violent altercation in Cape Verde resort

A 25-year-old British tourist from south-east London, Dean Taylor, died after being assaulted during a late-night street fight in Santa Maria on the island of Sal in Cape Verde on January 7, police said. Investigators reported he was struck with a chair and repeatedly punched and kicked, and he died while being taken to Dr. Ramiro Figueira Hospital. Five suspects have been detained, and the UK Foreign Office said it is supporting the family and liaising with local authorities.

ISMG and CyCube partner to improve cybersecurity training for the AI era

ISMG has teamed up with Israeli startup CyCube to strengthen CyberEd.io’s hands-on cybersecurity training. The investment will add real-world threat labs, along with personalized, adaptive exercises and assessments, to help security teams keep pace with threats accelerated by generative and agentic AI.

Temple University Hospital to Remain Open During Philadelphia Snowstorm

Temple University Hospital plans to stay open and fully staffed 24/7 during the upcoming Philadelphia snowstorm, with emergency and facilities crews prepared to keep routes clear for patients and ambulances. The hospital has space for staff to sleep and shower if overnight stays are needed. Temple Health urges residents to check on neighbors, charge phones and medical devices, refill prescriptions before the storm, and stay off the roads unless a medical emergency requires care.

Russia’s Bid to Revive the Russia-India-China (RIC) Format Is Unlikely for Three Reasons

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says Moscow wants to restart the Russia-India-China dialogue, but major obstacles remain. China and India’s recent thaw is still tentative, their border disputes continue to constrain deeper cooperation, and India faces heightened U.S. pressure—including over Russian oil imports and regional security ties—that makes joining a revived RIC politically risky. Leaders might still meet informally at upcoming BRICS or SCO gatherings, but any interaction is likely to be symbolic rather than a meaningful restart of the format.

New Filtration Technology Could Significantly Improve Removal of PFAS “Forever Chemicals”

New filtration technology developed at Rice University uses a copper-aluminum layered double hydroxide, or LDH, material that can absorb long-chain PFAS up to 100 times faster than common filtration systems, potentially speeding pollution cleanup. The positively charged LDH attracts negatively charged PFAS and can be used as a drop-in material with existing filtration infrastructure. Researchers also report a related process to destroy captured PFAS by heating the concentrated chemicals to about 400 to 500 degrees Celsius, trapping fluoride as a stable calcium-fluoride waste, though scaling both approaches for industrial deployment remains a major challenge.

New Jersey Declares a State of Emergency Ahead of a Winter Storm

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has declared a State of Emergency in preparation for a winter storm expected this weekend.

Smoke Report at Seoul Subway Line 1 Jongno 3-ga Station Prompts Evacuation

Smoke was reported coming from beneath a subway train at Jongno 3-ga Station on Seoul Subway Line 1 on Friday afternoon, prompting officials to evacuate passengers as a precaution.

James Cameron Says the U.S. Is Deeply Divided

Oscar-winning director James Cameron said he left the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic and has permanently relocated to his 12,000-acre farm in New Zealand. He described the U.S. as a place where people are constantly in conflict and said he wanted to live somewhere that “believes in science.”

Osaka police arrest six suspected of operating unlicensed taxis for Chinese tourists

Osaka Prefectural Police arrested six Chinese nationals on suspicion of running unlicensed taxi services targeting Chinese tourists, allegedly exploiting permit rules to operate illegally.

Power outage: Five safe ways to stay warm and one method to avoid

The piece outlines practical, safe steps to keep warm during a power outage, highlighting five recommended approaches and warning against one dangerous option.

73 South Koreans Repatriated from Cambodia in $33.6 Million Scam Investigation

South Korean police took 73 South Korean nationals into custody after they were forcibly repatriated from Cambodia as part of an investigation into alleged large-scale online scams involving about $33.6 million.

Pennsylvania Gov. Shapiro Declares Disaster Emergency Ahead of Weekend Storm

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed a disaster emergency proclamation ahead of this weekend’s storm and urged residents to stay off the roads if possible.

CISA Will Not Attend the RSA Conference This Year

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, CISA, will not attend the annual RSA Conference in March, according to an agency spokesperson. Former CISA director Jen Easterly, now the RSA Conference CEO, is expected to be there.

China’s youth unemployment rate falls to 16.5% in December

China’s youth unemployment rate eased to 16.5% in December, marking a fourth straight monthly decline. Despite the drop, youth joblessness remains high, offering only limited signs of improvement.

JD Vance Says Further Action on Abortion Restrictions Is Expected

Vice President JD Vance told March for Life attendees he understands their frustration and said additional steps are coming to reduce abortions, signaling more policy efforts aimed at tightening abortion access.

AMC Will Screen Oscar-Nominated Films, Including 'Sinners' and 'Bugonia'

AMC is offering screenings of this year’s Oscar-nominated films, including “Sinners” and “Bugonia,” on a schedule that lets viewers watch all the Best Picture nominees in just two days.

Interactive Map Shows Expected Snowfall During the Storm

An interactive map shows expected snowfall by area during the storm. As dangerously cold Arctic air spreads across much of the U.S. on Friday, at least 177 million people are under watches or warnings for ice and snow.

Vance and Loomer Clash Over Republicans’ Abortion Messaging

Vice President JD Vance and conservative influencer Laura Loomer argued on social media Friday after Loomer criticized Republicans for emphasizing abortion messaging ahead of the November midterm elections, warning the party had not learned from past electoral setbacks.

Microsoft reportedly provided BitLocker encryption keys to U.S. federal investigators

Microsoft’s BitLocker encryption may not fully protect users from government access, after reports the company provided the FBI with encryption keys to unlock Windows laptops tied to a fraud case. The incident underscores that strong device encryption depends on users retaining control of their own encryption keys.

Trump Says the U.S. Is Sending Naval Forces Toward Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States is moving an “armada” toward Iran and warned Tehran against resuming its nuclear program, saying Washington is closely monitoring developments. Anonymous U.S. officials told Reuters the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and several guided-missile destroyers were expected to arrive in the Middle East soon, with additional air defense deployments under consideration. Trump also claimed Iran halted nearly 840 executions after U.S. warnings, a claim Iran’s judiciary denied as false.

House Democrats request visit to prison holding Ghislaine Maxwell

The top Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee and the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee have asked to visit the prison where Ghislaine Maxwell is being held. Reps. Robert Garcia and Jamie Raskin raised concerns about possible preferential treatment for Maxwell and alleged efforts to cover up sexual abuse at the facility in a letter requesting access.

Davos Sends a Jolt Through the Global Order

Davos delivered what felt like an electric shock to the international system, as strain from more than a year of President Trump cooling relations with key U.S. allies showed signs of breaking old habits. European leaders who had been working hard to accommodate him are increasingly questioning whether that strategy is worth it, underscored by French President Emmanuel Macron leaving Davos without meeting Trump.

Jealousy Allegation Raised in London Trial Involving a Call From Barron Trump

A London court heard conflicting accounts in the trial of Matvei Rumianstev, a 22-year-old Russian man accused of raping and assaulting his former girlfriend in January last year. Prosecutors say the alleged attack was triggered after he saw an incoming FaceTime call from Barron Trump on the woman’s phone and “flew into a rage,” later sending a message suggesting jealousy. Rumianstev has pleaded not guilty. He admitted he was “jealous to some extent,” but denied being angry or acting out of jealousy, saying he answered a later call to try to calm the situation. The court was told Barron Trump witnessed the incident on FaceTime and later contacted British police, and the woman testified his actions helped save her life.

Indiana Judge and Wife Allegedly Shot by Gang Associate Who Had a Pending Trial in the Judge’s Court

Police say Indiana Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly Meyer, were shot at their home Sunday after a suspect allegedly knocked on the door, said, “We have your dog,” and fired through the door. Authorities arrested five people—Thomas Moss, Blake Smith, Amanda Milsap, Raylen Ferguson, and Zenada Greer—and said the couple is in stable condition. Court records indicate one suspect was due to appear in Meyer’s courtroom within days. Investigators also allege ties between the suspects and motorcycle club gangs, with a probable cause affidavit stating Smith previously bought a firearm matching the one used in the attack.

Coca-Cola CEO Suggests a Possible New Soft-Drink Trend

Coca-Cola’s CEO hinted that a new soft-drink trend could involve adding an ingredient that can be mixed into beverages with its flavor largely hidden.

Morocco pitches itself at Davos as a Europe to Africa bridge

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Morocco made the rounds selling the Kingdom as a stable, competitive hub linking Europe and Africa, because when trade routes fracture and supply chains wobble, everyone suddenly “discovers” geography.

Minnesota groups plan big anti-ICE protests and an “economic blackout”

More than 100 groups, including labor unions, progressive organizations, and religious groups, say they will stage major demonstrations and an “economic blackout” on Friday to pressure ICE officers to leave Minnesota. Washington’s favorite hobby remains turning human beings into a policy prop.

Ex-councillor pleads guilty to drugging and raping his ex-wife for 13 years

Former councillor Philip Young pleaded guilty to multiple sexual offences against his ex-wife, Joanne Young, admitting he drugged and raped her over a 13-year period. This is not “a scandal”; it is sustained violence, and the only punchline is that it took this long to reach a guilty plea.

Former Eagles lineman Kevin Johnson dies after violence at LA homeless camp

Former Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Kevin Johnson died after suffering stab wounds and head trauma at a homeless camp in Los Angeles, according to records. A grim snapshot of how America treats homelessness like background scenery until somebody famous is in the frame.

Storm Ingrid floods western France

Storm Ingrid caused flooding across parts of western France, with orange weather alerts still in effect in Finistere and Morbihan for heavy rain, flooding, and wave overtopping.

Call for Congress to modernize US air traffic control by 2026

A push is building for Congress to finally deliver a modern air traffic control system by 2026, as infrastructure strains after decades of neglect. Nothing says “serious country” like running critical aviation tech on vibes, legacy parts, and prayers.

Trump administration cancels and revises Biden-era green loans totaling $83B

The administration says it is canceling $30 billion in Biden-era green loans and revising another $53 billion, affecting $83 billion total after reviewing $104 billion in loan obligations. Climate policy, now with extra executive whiplash.

Stephen Dubner talks Spotify, the New York Times, prediction markets, and a self-funded TV project

Freakonomics co-creator Stephen Dubner joined Ben and Max to explain why he never sold his show to Spotify, argue that The New York Times has shifted from informing readers to shaping opinions, and describe a new self-funded TV project designed to recycle podcast revenue. He also touched on celebrity gossip traps, prediction markets over punditry, insider trading rules, and a strangely compelling idea involving a pizza place and a Michelin-starred chef.

Labour MPs split on Andy Burnham for Gorton and Denton by-election

Labour MPs are divided over whether Andy Burnham should be selected as the party’s candidate for the Gorton and Denton by-election, with strong views on whether to bring him back to frontline politics—because internal party drama is the one renewable resource Westminster actually invests in.

Leaving Iran Amid Renewed Protests

Escaping Iran looks increasingly urgent as recent protests draw renewed attention to dissent under the country’s authoritarian government, highlighting the risks faced by those who challenge state power and the pressures pushing some people to leave.

Europe Gains the Upper Hand Over Trump

Trump arrived in Davos with a diplomacy style best described as “insult first, negotiate never,” lobbing threats and mockery at European leaders while floating demands like Greenland. Instead of folding, Europe pushed back, and Trump dropped his latest tariff threats in exchange for a vague “framework” that delivered the United States little to nothing beyond what it already had—while helping unify Europe against his pressure tactics.

NATO and Denmark agree to strengthen Arctic security after Trump retracts Greenland remarks

NATO and Denmark said the United States, Denmark, and Greenland will negotiate measures to strengthen Arctic security, aiming to prevent Russia and China from gaining a foothold in Greenland.

China scales back funding for African projects

China has sharply reduced lending for African projects as its banks become more risk-averse and African borrowers face tighter constraints from post-pandemic shocks and debt restructuring. Total Chinese lending in 2024 was $2.1 billion, more than 90% below the 2016 peak, and loans to Africa fell nearly half from 2023, averaging just over $2 billion a year since 2020 after routinely topping $10 billion in the 2010s. Angola received about 70% of 2024’s lending—largely for a Luanda coastal road—while energy lending remained flat, and more loans are being denominated in yuan, which may lower dollar exposure but adds currency-reserve risks for some countries.

Man Dies After Being Stabbed by a Relative at Home in Northeast Philadelphia

A man was fatally stabbed inside a home in Northeast Philadelphia, and a family member has been identified as the attacker.

The United States Officially Leaves the World Health Organization

The United States has formally ended its membership in the World Health Organization after nearly 80 years.

Driver admits killing teenager after his release from a Dubai prison

Marcus Fakana, 19, was killed in a car crash shortly after being released from prison in Dubai, and the driver has admitted causing his death.

Mandela’s Prison Key, Sunglasses and Shirt May Be Sold After His Daughter Wins Court Case

Mandela’s prison key, sunglasses, and a shirt can be sold and exported after his daughter won a court battle, overturning efforts by authorities who argued the items should be kept in South Africa as part of the national heritage.

Amazon-Sold Baby Teething Toy Recalled After More Than 30 Choking Incidents

A baby teething toy sold on Amazon has been recalled after more than 30 reported choking incidents. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says consumers should stop using the product immediately.

Capital One to Acquire Startup Brex for $5.15 Billion

Capital One is buying startup Brex for $5.15 billion, marking another major deal under founder-CEO Rich Fairbank following the bank’s acquisition of Discover Financial.

Freezing Rain Could Leave Millions Without Power and Heat

Freezing rain is threatening to damage power systems across the eastern two-thirds of the United States, prompting officials to warn that millions could lose electricity and heat.

Andy Robertson holds talks about joining Premier League rivals after nine years at Liverpool

Tottenham have intensified their pursuit of Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson, with talks under way about a possible January move rather than waiting for the summer. The Scotland captain has months left on his contract and has seen his playing time drop to four league starts this season after Milos Kerkez’s arrival. Robertson said he will weigh his options with his family as he considers whether to stay at Liverpool or move on.

IMEC’s future is uncertain again

IMEC’s future is once again in doubt as the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor remains stalled after regional wars and renewed political friction. The project depends on Saudi–Israeli normalization to connect its Gulf and Israeli hubs, but Saudi demands for at least symbolic movement on Palestinian statehood clash with Israel’s current stance. Added strains—Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, Saudi moves in Yemen that unsettle Israel, and a sharp deterioration in Saudi–UAE trust—make a workable compromise hard to see, leaving India’s trade to rely on traditional maritime routes and raising the possibility IMEC never materializes.

Merz travels to Italy for summit with Meloni to propose EU reforms

Friedrich Merz is traveling to Italy for a summit with Giorgia Meloni, aiming to build a closer alliance and advance proposals to reform EU bureaucracy. The partnership is positioned as a potential shift in Europe’s power balance after decades of Franco-German dominance.

Harry Styles says his new single "Aperture" is the finishing touch on his comeback

Harry Styles said his new single "Aperture" is the “perfect little bow” on his comeback, as he announced a 50-show run across seven cities, including six nights at London’s Wembley Stadium.

Online jewellery demand lifts December retail sales

Demand for online jewellery helped push December retail sales up more than expected, though the festive period remained difficult for many retailers.

Minister criticizes Trump’s remarks about NATO troops in Afghanistan

A minister said Donald Trump’s comments about NATO forces in Afghanistan were disappointing after he claimed allied troops “stayed a little back” during the war.

Erin Cuthbert on Chelsea, change and learning to be more direct

Chelsea and Scotland forward Erin Cuthbert told BBC Sport’s Emma Sanders about adapting to change and the importance of being more “direct,” while also sharing a personal story about her mother teaching her how to use a tumble dryer.

Trains Between Strood and Rochester Cancelled Due to Track Defect

Southeastern has cancelled train services between Strood and Rochester after a track defect was identified, with a safety inspection now required.

Robert Jenrick urges Suella Braverman to join Reform UK

After defecting to Reform UK, Robert Jenrick publicly encouraged former Home Secretary Suella Braverman to consider joining the party, saying he respects her and would like to see her take a more prominent role in politics. He defended his record in government on housing and migration, rejected claims he helped design the migrant hotel system, and said he worked to reduce small-boat crossings and start closing hotels. Reform leader Nigel Farage said more defections could follow before a May 7 deadline, prompting Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch to convene an emergency meeting of MPs.

Podcast: From Davos Meetings to Emergency Talks in Brussels: What Comes Next for the EU?

From Davos handshakes to Brussels emergency talks, what comes next for the EU? Donald Trump has backed off his threat to impose tariffs on some European countries, but the EU is weighing whether this is a lasting shift or just a pause—and whether it should stay on alert.

Notable birthdays on Jan. 23 include Mariska Hargitay and Robin Zander

Notable birthdays for Jan. 23 include actor Mariska Hargitay turning 62 and musician Robin Zander turning 72.

Jan. 23: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inducts Its First Class

On Jan. 23, 1986, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted its first class, honoring pioneers including Chuck Berry, James Brown, Ray Charles, Fats Domino, the Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Elvis Presley.

AccuWeather: Winter storm watches issued ahead of a major storm this weekend

AccuWeather reports that winter storm watches have been issued ahead of a major storm expected this weekend. Forecast models indicate heavy snow, with a chance of sleet and even rain in parts of the area on Sunday.

Six injured in a mass stabbing in Belgium, described as an act of terror

Six people were wounded in a knife attack at Operaplein in Antwerp, Belgium, with two victims in critical condition. The stabbings broke out around 7:20 p.m. as a peaceful protest against violence toward Kurds in Syria was ending, with four victims found at the square and two nearby. Police on site provided first aid, and emergency teams transported the injured to hospital. Two suspects were arrested as an investigation began. A Kurdish community organisation, Navbel, called the attack an act of terror targeting Kurds and urged authorities to treat it as such.

Salt shortage strains suppliers ahead of winter storm

A regional salt shortage is leaving many stores with low supplies and is putting pressure on suppliers as demand rises ahead of an approaching winter storm.

Jeong’s Merger Proposal Deepens Divisions Within South Korea’s Democratic Party

South Korea’s Democratic Party has split into competing factions after party leader Jeong Cheong-rae abruptly proposed merging with the Rebuilding Korea Party.

Temple University Warns Students After Two Off-Campus Robberies

Temple University issued an alert after two students were robbed off campus this week, with their phones stolen in separate incidents. Police said the robberies occurred around 6 a.m. Wednesday on the 1800 block of West Montgomery Avenue and around 1:30 a.m. Thursday on the 1500 block of Oxford Street. In both cases, suspects displayed a handgun, and in one incident a suspect fired a shot into the air while fleeing. No injuries were reported and no arrests have been made. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact Philadelphia police or Temple police.

Temple Students Concerned After Three Armed Robberies Near Campus in 24 Hours

Temple University students are feeling uneasy after three armed robberies were reported near campus within a 24-hour period. Campus police say they are working to identify two male suspects caught on video who are believed to be connected to two of the incidents, including one involving a student.

Delroy Lindo says he learned about his Oscar nomination while in bed

British actor Delroy Lindo said he found out about his Oscar nomination while still in bed. He and his Sinners co-star Wunmi Mosaku are the only two UK-born actors nominated for an Oscar this year.

South Korea’s Coast Guard Carried Over 22.7 Billion Won in 2025 Project Funds

South Korea’s Coast Guard failed to spend 22.7 billion won allocated for projects by the end of 2025, according to data submitted to the National Assembly.

Trump criticizes Newsom over Davos trip amid speculation about a 2028 presidential run

President Trump criticized California Gov. Gavin Newsom after Newsom appeared at the World Economic Forum in Davos, a shift from Trump’s earlier comments calling him a “good guy.” Trump argued that Newsom, whom he described as leading a struggling state and nearing the end of his term, should not be attending Davos, as Newsom is seen as a possible contender for the 2028 presidential race.

ByteDance Sells Majority Stake in TikTok’s U.S. Business Before Divestment Deadline

TikTok said Thursday that its China-based parent, ByteDance, has sold a majority stake in TikTok’s U.S. business rights to a group of non-Chinese investors, ahead of a deadline requiring divestment or a potential U.S. ban.

Slavery exhibit removed at Philadelphia’s President’s House

Crews dismantled plaques describing the lives of nine enslaved people who lived at the President’s House while owned by George Washington, after a Trump administration directive. Nothing says “patriotism” like deleting the parts of history that make the powerful look like monsters.

Trump’s NATO comments spark backlash from veterans and allies

Veterans and senior officials reacted angrily after Donald Trump claimed British forces in Afghanistan “stayed a little back” and implied Europeans might not support the US in a crisis. NATO chief Mark Rutte pushed back, noting allies did come to America’s aid and suffered heavy losses, including that for every two Americans killed, one soldier from another NATO country died. British leaders cited the UK’s role in Helmand and the 457 British personnel killed, calling the remarks offensive and factually wrong. It is impressive how quickly people forget sacrifice when it does not fit the sales pitch.

Jane Fonda warns of authoritarianism spreading through federal government

On “The Late Show,” Jane Fonda said authoritarianism has spread into “every single nook and cranny” of the federal government, raising the issue while discussing federal immigration enforcement raids. She argued taxpayers fund the government and should be in charge, saying officials are failing to meet public needs.

House votes down bid to strip $1.3 billion in earmarks from funding bill

The House rejected an amendment from Rep. Ralph Norman that would have removed about $1.3 billion in earmarks from the Labor–HHS portion of a broader funding package, 291–136. Republicans split: 136 backed the amendment and 76 joined Democrats to oppose it, while several GOP leaders did not vote. Conservatives criticized earmarks, including funds for institutions that also provide gender-related medical services for minors, and Norman renewed calls to ban earmarks as the package advances.

Minnesota officials say public-assistance fraud fixes are complicated amid huge alleged losses

Minnesota budget and finance official Erin Campbell told a bipartisan anti-fraud committee there is no single solution to widespread fraud in public-assistance programs, pointing to decades-old systems and complex state structures. Lawmakers from both parties cited alleged losses that could exceed $9 billion and nearly 100 federal charges since 2022, while Campbell said her office lacks the capacity and authority to police individual agencies. Republicans pressed for accountability and raised allegations involving Gov. Tim Walz, which Campbell denied. Legislators expect proposals on tighter controls, tech upgrades, eligibility changes, and whistleblower protections when the Legislature reconvenes.

Menopause “masking” can worsen stress and burnout risk

Many women feel pressure to conceal menopause symptoms, but experts warn that “masking” can backfire by adding stress and exhaustion, potentially increasing burnout risk.

All eight Harry Potter films set for theatrical re-release

All eight Harry Potter movies are scheduled for a summer theatrical re-release, timed for the 25th anniversary of the first film. Nothing screams “magic” like a nostalgia lap engineered to make your wallet levitate.

Front pages highlight Davos developments and UK political maneuvering

Friday’s front pages focus on further developments at the Davos summit, including a strongly worded speech by President Volodymyr Zelensky, alongside reports that the Prime Minister’s allies are working to prevent Andy Burnham from launching a potential leadership challenge.

Two men charged after funeral plan provider collapse left tens of thousands of Britons out of pocket

Two men have been charged in connection with the collapse of pre-paid funeral provider Safe Hands Plans Ltd, which left around 46,000 customers out of pocket and creditors claiming about £70.6 million. The Serious Fraud Office has charged Richard Wells, 39, with conspiracy to defraud, alongside Neil Debenham, 43, a former senior executive. Both are due at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on February 5. Safe Hands entered administration in 2022, shortly before the sector came under Financial Conduct Authority regulation, with many planholders receiving only about 4p per pound lost.

Trump Appoints Marco Rubio to Lead the U.S. Bid for the 2035 World Expo

President Trump on Thursday appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to chair the United States’ effort to secure the 2035 World Expo, adding another major assignment to Rubio’s expanding portfolio. Rubio is also serving as acting administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development and acting archivist.

Trump appoints Joint Chiefs adviser as U.S. top diplomat in Venezuela

President Trump selected Laura F. Dogu, a foreign policy adviser to the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former U.S. ambassador, to serve as the United States’ top diplomat in Venezuela. The move comes after the administration’s reported capture of Nicolás Maduro and amid an effort to increase U.S. influence over Venezuela’s oil sector.

LeAnn Rimes Tries $10,000 Plasma Therapy as Part of Her Health Focus After Onstage Dental Incident

LeAnn Rimes says she is entering a “season of healing” after a demanding year of touring and filming and has turned to therapeutic plasma exchange at a Nashville wellness clinic, a procedure priced at about $10,000 per session. She said the treatment is meant to help remove “micro-toxins” such as mold and microplastics, and that she added stem cells to support overall repair, sharing photos and details on Instagram. Her renewed health focus follows a widely publicized concert moment last summer when a dental bridge fell out onstage, continuing a long history of dental problems and surgeries.

Clipse and Pharrell Williams to Perform at the 2026 Grammy Awards

Clipse and Pharrell Williams have been announced as performers at the 2026 Grammy Awards, joining a lineup that also includes Addison Rae and Leon Thomas.

Al Gore booed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick during a speech in Davos

Al Gore booed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick during a Tuesday speech at a VIP dinner in Davos, Switzerland. The Financial Times reported the event turned contentious after Lutnick made combative remarks, prompting an uproar that included European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde leaving the dinner, with other attendees also expressing displeasure.

House to vote on final funding bills as special counsel Jack Smith faces GOP questioning over Trump investigations

The House is set to vote Thursday afternoon on its final round of funding measures, including a Department of Homeland Security bill and a minibus appropriations package, as Congress moves closer to avoiding a partial government shutdown at the end of the month. The legislation would still need Senate approval, while special counsel Jack Smith is also expected to face questioning from Republicans over the Trump investigations.

Taegan Goddard Says Democrats Can’t Go Back to the Old Way of Governing

Taegan Goddard argues that Democrats are shifting from talking about restoring guardrails to moving quickly and using power unapologetically to reverse what Donald Trump has done. He points to New Jersey governor Mikie Sherrill’s promise to govern with urgency, including relying on emergency powers and bypassing incrementalism, and to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s call to act with the same governing capacities Trump has claimed. The core message: the response to “move fast and break things” is to move fast and fix things.