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Freezing and in the dark, Kyiv residents are stranded in tower blocks as Russia targets power system

Kyiv is facing prolonged winter power outages as Russian missile and drone attacks continue to damage Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. With temperatures well below freezing, electricity cuts lasting up to 17 hours a day have left many residential buildings without heating, running water or functioning elevators. Rolling blackouts are used to prevent a total grid collapse while prioritizing hospitals and critical services. Much of the capital’s housing consists of Soviet-era high rises with poor insulation, creating challenges for elderly residents and people with disabilities. Authorities are investing in decentralized energy solutions as repairs continue under intensified strikes.

Music fills Duluth City Hall as Lyric Opera of the North begins artist residency

DULUTH, Minn. — The rotunda at Duluth City Hall filled with music and voices from Lyric Opera of the North as Mayor Roger Reinert welcomed the 2026 Artists in Residence to the City Hall on the afternoon of Wednesday, Jan. 21. This year marks the opera company’s 20th year of performances and education in the community. At the event, guests…

Trump administration’s defense strategy tells allies to handle their own security

The Pentagon has released a National Defense Strategy that chastises U.S. allies to take control of their own security and reasserts the Trump administration’s focus on dominance in the Western Hemisphere over a longtime goal of countering China. The document released late Friday is highly political for a military blueprint, criticizing partners from Europe to Asia for relying on previous U.S. administrations to subsidize their defense. It calls for “a sharp shift — in approach, focus, and tone.” That translates to a blunt assessment that allies must take on more of the burden countering nations from Russia to North Korea. It caps off a week of animosity between President Donald Trump’s administration and traditional allies like Europe.

Trump stirs talk of ‘new world order’ as leaders signal shifting global alliances

President Donald Trump has revoked an invitation to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to join his Board of Peace. This decision follows Carney’s critical remarks about U.S. foreign policy. Trump also threatened tariffs on Switzerland and pressed Denmark to support U.S. control of Greenland. Critics say Trump’s actions are undermining the rules-based order that has governed U.S. foreign policy since World War II. Carney and other leaders are pushing back, advocating for a united front against Trump’s tactics. Concerns are growing that Trump’s approach could damage U.S. standing globally and strengthen ties between other countries and China.

Mayor Reinert comments on Duluth City Hall protest

DULUTH, Minn. — As many Minnesotans participated in anti-ICE protests, and some businesses shut down for the day as part of statewide demonstrations. Nearly 100 community members gathered at the Duluth City Hall rotunda for a civil protest organized by Twin Ports Democratic Socialists of America. Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert spoke on the protests and addressed the city’s role. “We…

The Latest: Global leaders say world economy shows resilience

Leaders at the World Economic Forum urged countries and businesses to filter out the turmoil from a week of clashes with the Trump administration and focus on boosting growth and fighting inequality. The global economy is showing unexpected resilience despite the noise. But while growth is holding up, troubles like worrisome levels of government debt and inequality loom. That resilience is holding up despite disruptions from U.S. trade policy under President Donald Trump and his threats to impose tariffs on countries supporting Greenland against a U.S. takeover bid, then withdrew the tariff proposal.

US carries out first known strike on alleged drug boat since Maduro’s capture

The U.S. military says it’s carried out a deadly strike on a vessel accused of trafficking drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, the first since the raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro earlier this month. U.S. Southern Command said Friday on social media that the boat was “engaged in narco-trafficking operations” and that the strike killed two people and left one survivor. It said it notified the Coast Guard to launch search and rescue operations. The U.S. military has focused lately on seizing sanctioned oil tankers with connections to Venezuela since the Trump administration launched an audacious raid to capture Maduro. The last boat strikes occurred in late December.

Duluth man charged with 9 counts of ‘porch piracy’

Gerald August Mattson DULUTH, Min. –  A Duluth man has been charged with nine counts of felony mail theft. Duluth Police say Gerald August Mattson stole nine packages over the time span from December 31, 2025 to January 21, 2026. The packages were intended for various apartments in the Grandview Manor on East 2nd Street in Duluth.  That is where…

Minnesota activist releases video of arrest after manipulated White House version

A Minnesota activist who was charged for her role in an anti-immigration enforcement protest at a church has released her own video of her arrest, after the White House posted a manipulated image online. The video, shot by civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong’s husband and released by her organization, shows her being approached by federal agents. At no point does she appear to cry, contradicting the White House’s portrayal. In the video, she asks agents not to record and they say the video will not end up on Twitter, now called X.

No. 17 Alabama plans to play 7-footer Charles Bediako, who turned pro in 2023, against Tennessee

Alabama coach Nate Oats says 7-foot center Charles Bediako, who gave up his college eligibility in 2023 to enter the NBA draft, will play against Tennessee on Saturday. Although Oats called the NCAA system that is allowing professional players to return to college “broken,” he is taking advantage of the loophole. The 23-year-old Bediako practiced with the 17th-ranked Crimson Tide a day after a judge in Tuscaloosa temporarily reinstated the player’s college eligibility and blocked the NCAA from retaliating for his return. Bediako has signed several NBA developmental contracts since 2023, including playing for the Motor City Cruise in the NBA’s G League as recently as last week. He spent two seasons at Alabama before turning pro.

Large group of community members attend ICE out of Duluth Sit-in at City Hall

DULUTH, Minn.–Bright and early on a freezing Friday morning, a large group of community members, gathered in solidarity to protest against ICE escalations. “I was very impressed with the turnout. Our car didn’t start, so I didn’t know if it was going to be a little bit lower of a turnout, but everyone did definitely turn out,” said Kaylee Spencer,…

Duluth Human Rights Commission holds ‘ICE OUT’ press conference

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Human Rights Commission held a press conference at the city hall during an ‘ICE OUT’ sit-in that took place Friday. Members of the commission spoke before people gathered for the sit-in, calling attention towards the ongoing presence of ICE agents in Minnesota. The press conference focused on letting protesters know they are supported in their…

Police arrest protesters at airport as Minnesota gears up for anti-immigration enforcement protest

(CNN) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Police arrested anti-immigration enforcement demonstrators at Minnesota’s largest airport Friday after they overstepped their permit, officials said, as a mass mobilization to protest the Trump administration’s crackdown began across Minnesota despite Arctic temperatures seizing the state. A network of labor unions, progressive organizations and clergy had urged Minnesotans to stay away from work, school and even shops…

Vance touts the Trump administration’s record against abortion at a Washington rally

Vice President JD Vance is encouraging anti-abortion activists to celebrate progress in limiting abortion. Vance highlights the Trump administration’s achievements, including expanding a ban on U.S. foreign aid for groups that support abortion services. Vance spoke Friday at the annual March for Life in Washington, emphasizing the importance of increasing birth rates in the U.S. The Republican vice president also praises the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision overturning Roe v. Wade and President Donald Trump’s leadership in appointing conservative jurists. The March for Life has become more celebratory since that Supreme Court ruling.

Judge rules Trump administration must keep funding child care subsidies in 5 states for now

A federal judge ruled Friday that President Donald Trump’s administration must keep federal funds flowing to child care subsidies and other social service programs in five Democratic-controlled states — at least for now. The ruling Friday from U.S. District Judge Vernon Broderick extends by two weeks a temporary one issued earlier this month that blocked the federal government from holding…

Judge rules Trump administration must keep funding child care subsidies in 5 states for now

A federal judge says the Trump administration must keep the money flowing for now for programs aimed at helping low-income families with children in five states. The ruling extends by two weeks an earlier one in which a judge ordered the money to continue to flow to California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York. Judge Vernon Broderick says he’ll decide later whether to order the money be kept moving as the challenge to the action is decided. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said on Jan. 6 that it was withholding money because it had “reason to believe” there was fraud in those states, although it didn’t present details or evidence.

The next Eric Heiden? US speedskater Jordan Stolz draws comparisons ahead of Milan Cortina Olympics

Jordan Stolz appreciates that people liken what he’ll be trying to do at the Milan Cortina Winter Games to Eric Heiden’s record five speedskating gold medals at Lake Placid in 1980. Stolz calls it a cool comparison. But the 21-year-old from Wisconsin also acknowledges what he will try to do at the Olympics in February is not quite the same as Heiden. Still, Stolz is a favorite in the men’s 500, 1,000 and 1,500 meters and a contender for gold in the mass start, too. There is even a chance he could enter a fifth event.

TikTok finalizes a deal to form a new American entity

TikTok has finalized a deal to create a new American entity, avoiding the looming threat of a ban in the United States that has been in discussion for years on the platform now used by more than 200 million Americans. The social video platform company signed agreements with major investors including Oracle, Silver Lake and the Emirati investment firm MGX to…

The coming winter storm: There’s an app for that. But how reliable is it and what’s inside?

That snowflake icon on your smartphone app might be quick and handy — it just might not be as accurate as a human when the weather gets rough. Experts say that’s especially important during winter storms like the one forecasted to smack the eastern U.S. with a mix of heavy snow, treacherous ice and subzero temperatures. The popular Weather Channel app, for example, uses artificial intelligence to analyze everything from computer models to citizen weather reports. But humans always have the last word. Most experts say the best place to get the most accurate forecast is still probably local television meteorologists.

Former Olympic snowboarder on the FBI’s ‘Most Wanted’ list, has been arrested

Ryan Wedding Most Wanted Poster WASHINGTON (AP) — Ryan Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder for Canada who was among the FBI’s top fugitives and faces charges related to multi-national drug trafficking and the killing of a federal witness, was arrested Friday, two people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. Wedding, 44, is accused of running a drug trafficking operation, and officials…

An ancient forest in Ecuador is the last stand for a tiny hummingbird facing extinction

The Yanacocha Reserve in the Ecuadorian Andes is the last refuge for a tiny hummingbird facing extinction. The Black-breasted puffleg, emblematic of Quito, measures just 3.5 inches and is among the most threatened species globally. The International Union for Conservation of Nature says its population has dwindled to between 150 and 200 birds. Founded 25 years ago, the reserve protects Andean biodiversity. Conservationists are racing to restore the high-altitude forests crucial for the puffleg’s survival, as these areas face pressure from agriculture and grazing.

To clear ice and snow, there are rock salt alternatives that are safer for your pets and yard

Winter has its fans, but even those who enjoy playing in the snow probably dislike the chore of clearing up after a big storm that dumps several inches or even feet of snow and ice. Many people run straight to the closest hardware store for a bag of salt to clear driveways, sidewalks and stoops. But there are some environmental factors to consider when tackling snow and ice. The salt comes in different formulations that perform differently in different conditions, with blends and coatings that makers say can make it work better and reduce some of the harmful effects. And there are alternatives to salt, too.

Network shutdown leaves Wisconsin lawmakers meeting outside of public view

The shutdown of Wisconsin’s version of C-SPAN amid a shortfall of fundraising has left the state as perhaps the only one in the country where its legislative floor debates are not being broadcast. The absence of WisconsinEye has led to complaints from open government advocates and pressure on lawmakers to reach a deal to revive the network. A bipartisan proposal to bring the network back was introduced on Thursday, but it is unclear if it has enough support to pass. WisconsinEye had broadcast every floor session of the state Senate and Assembly since 2007 for free before it went dark in mid-December.

Toll in Iran’s protest crackdown reaches at least 5,002 dead as Trump says US ‘armada’ approaching

Activists report that Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests has killed at least 5,002 people. Many more are feared dead, but information is scarce in part because Iran has imposed the most comprehensive internet blackout in its history. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency provided the latest death toll Friday and noted more than 26,800 people have been detained. Iran’s government says 3,117 have died, but it has a history of giving lower tolls for political reasons. The Associated Press has been unable to verify these numbers due to the two-week internet shutdown. Meanwhile, the U.S. has moved an aircraft carrier group closer to the Middle East, and President Donald Trump is warning of potential action against Iran.

Longstanding Downtown Duluth businesses to close for ‘ICE Out of Minnesota’ day

DULUTH, Minn. – At least two longtime downtown Duluth businesses, Sir Benedicts Tavern and Carmody Irish Pub, are closing Friday in support of the “ICE Out of Minnesota” day. The owners of both establishments released videos on social media Thursday evening with personal messages to their customers and the community. “Both my wife and I have worn the uniform of…

Driver injured after vehicle strikes moose on Highway 135

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn. — A driver was injured after a vehicle struck a moose in northern Minnesota. Minnesota State Patrol says a Lincoln Continental was traveling southbound on Highway 135 near Mile Marker 25 when it collided with a moose. The driver was transported from their residence to Essentia Health–Northern Pines with non-life-threatening injuries. Road conditions were snow- and…

Duluth businesses embrace the deep freeze with fun opportunities

DULUTH, Minn.– When it comes to experiencing the arctic-like air, many businesses decide to close their doors. However, a few of them around town see it as an opportunity. “Our hot shop comes in at a nice hot 2100 degrees,” said Katie Timmerman, Director of Operations at Lake Superior Art Glass. “Even though the ovens are hot, it’s colder than…

SWL&P plans to replace water filters

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Superior Water Light and Power is hoping to make some upgrades. They filed an application with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to replace their water filters. 2.5 million gallons of water go through their four filters daily before being sent throughout the city. If the project is approved, they’ll replace two at a time, so it…

Minnesota Attorney General warning of crowdfunding scams tied to ICE activity in Minnesota

Keith Ellison at news conference announcingMinnesota and Twin Citiesare suing Trump administration over widespread immigration operations ST. PAUL, Min. – Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is warning people of crowdfunding scams purporting to help those impacted by immigration enforcement activity in Minnesota. The Attorney General’s Office is saying “bad actors” are taking advantage of people’s generosity.  The Attorney General’s Office…

BCA: Feds have not given them name of officer that shot man following chase

Law enforcement uses flash bang before entering home in search of suspect following ICE-involved shooting (January 14, 2026) ST. PAUL, Min. – Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) say federal authorities are not cooperating with their investigation into a January 14, 2026 shooting involving federal officers. Minneapolis Police Department asked the BCA to investigate.  In a…

Hoops Brewing set to close after nearly 10 years of business

  DULUTH, Minn. —  Hoops Brewing is set to close after nearly 10 years of operation. In a video posted to Facebook, owner Dave Hoops announced that the brewery would close on February 23. “For more than 10 years, this place has been bigger than beer. It’s been a community, neighbors, friendship, and it’s been home,” said Hoops. The Duluth-based…

Vance heads to Minneapolis and says ‘far left’ should stop resisting immigration enforcement

TOLEDO, Ohio (AP) — Vice President JD Vance, speaking in his home state of Ohio before visiting Minnesota on Thursday, blamed the “far left” for turmoil surrounding the White House’s deportation campaign. “If you want to turn down the chaos in Minneapolis, stop fighting immigration enforcement and accept that we have to have a border in this country,” Vance said in Toledo. “It’s not…

A woman who led a protest at a Minnesota church service has been arrested, Bondi says

Cities Church is seen in St. Paul, Minn. where activists shut down a service claiming the pastor was also working as an ICE agent, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026 in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Angelina Katsanis) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A woman who led an anti-immigration enforcement protest that disrupted a service at a Minnesota church has been arrested, Attorney General Pam…

Former Uvalde officer acquitted in trial over police response to Robb Elementary attack

A family pays their respects next to crosses bearing the names of Tuesday’s shooting victims at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, Thursday, May 26, 2022. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (AP) — A former Uvalde schools police officer was acquitted Wednesday of charges that he failed in his duties to confront the gunman at Robb Elementary during the critical…

Cold weather to temporarily close Second Harvest Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Upcoming cold weather on Friday has temporarily closed Second Harvest Duluth. In a post to Facebook, the organization said that due to the upcoming weather, they will be closed on Friday, January 23. The post states it is for the safety of their staff, volunteers, and neighbors. The Grand Rapids location of Second Harvest will remain open….

Minnesota Twins players meet with fans in Duluth during Winter Caravan tour

DULUTH, Minn.– Duluth welcomed in some extra special visitors today as part of their Winter Caravan Tour throughout the state. Wednesday morning, Minnesota Twins players Justin Topa and Mick Abel, stopped by the Elite Sports Complex in West Duluth. The turf was filled with excited community members, ready to get their winter baseball fix. Fans got to check out a…

45th annual Arrowhead EMS Association draws in around 700 attendees

DULUTH, Minn.– For 45 years, first responders, medical professionals, and EMS from all over the region have met to collaborate and learn from one another. This year, the DECC is expecting to welcome in nearly 700 first responders. Each attendee will participate in a series of classes, keynote speakers, as well as the national expo. Getting familiar with one another…

2026 National Blood Donor Month press conference highlights blood emergency

DULUTH, Minn. — The 2026 National Blood Donor Month press conference highlighted a critical blood shortage in Minnesota. Over the past few weeks, blood donations fell 40% below hospital needs, leaving less than a two day supply of blood available for patients across the state. Blood donations are typically down during the winter season, but this year’s donation rate is…

Healthcare provider shares cold weather safety tips

SUPERIOR, Wis. — With the recent and upcoming low temps, a health care provider with Essentia Health shares cold-weather health tips. Family Nurse Practitioner Julie Pearce encourages safety during cold temperatures. She emphasizes the importance of dressing in layers, avoiding extended exposure to cold and not getting wet to prevent heat loss. With the temps reaching into the negatives this…

Lifelong skier shares video of chair lift rescue at Lutsen Mountains

LUTSEN, Minn. – It was a wild ride, of sorts, in the stand-still position over the weekend for a few dozen skiers and snowboarders at Lutsen Mountains. The chair lift malfunctioned, leaving people stuck in the air for hours during dangerously cold air and wind. Courtesy: Andrew Schultz The Lutsen Fire Department said nobody was seriously injured as crews worked…

House Republicans vote to lift 20-year ban on mining near pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area

  Congressional Republicans moved closer Wednesday to lifting a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, pushing a resolution to end the moratorium through the House despite environmentalists’ warnings that it could devastate a premier destination for campers, kayakers and canoeists. The resolution now goes to the Senate, and approval there would send it to President…

Immigration enforcement arrives in Maine as a court freezes restrictions on tactics in Minnesota

Law enforcement officers stand amid tear gas at the scene of a reported shooting Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Adam Gray) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Maine became the latest target of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement crackdown, while a federal appeals court on Wednesday suspended a decision that prohibited federal officers from using tear gas or pepper spray against peaceful protesters…

Vice President Vance coming to Minnesota to meet with ICE agents

Vice President JD Vance (CNN) – Vice President JD Vance is planning to travel Minneapolis on Thursday where he will meet with ICE agents and give remarks defending their immigration operations, White House officials told CNN. Vance’s visit comes days after the Justice Department subpoenaed several high-profile Minnesota officials, including Democratic Gov. Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Attorney General…

Wisconsin man sentenced to 15 years for 12th DUI

  James Knuuttila Sr.(Bayfield County Sheriffs Office) BAYFIELD, Wis. — An Iron River man has been convicted to the maximum penalty for receiving his 12th DUI. 77-year-old  James Knuuttila Sr. was sentenced Wednesday to a 15-year prison sentence with 10 years initial confinement, and 5 years extended supervision. This sentencing comes after a 2024 rollover that Knuuttilas was involved in….

From the NFL sidelines to a US Senate race: Michele Tafoya’s new play

FILE – NBC Sports reporter Michele Tafoya is seen before an NFL football game between the New Orleans Saints and the Buffalo Bills, Thursday, Nov. 25, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman, File) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya launched her campaign for the U.S. Senate on Wednesday, hoping to win the Republican nomination for the…

Coffee Conversation: 2026 Twins Winter Caravan stops through Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Players and staff of the Minnesota Twins are making Duluth one of their stops along their 2026 Twins Winter Caravan. Bruce Ciskie of Midwest Communications, one of the presenters of the event, stopped by the morning show to preview what people can expect from the open-to-the-public event. The Twins Winter Caravan stops through the Elite Sports Complex…