News Archives - Page 6 of 902

ICE agents to have security role at Milan Cortina Olympics

January 27, 2026

The Associated Press,

Olympic rings MILAN (AP) — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents will have a security role during the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Games, according to information shared with local media by sources at the U.S. Embassy in Rome. The Associated Press independently confirmed the information with two officials at the embassy. The officials who confirmed ICE participation on Tuesday said that…

Trump’s immigration crackdown led to drop in US growth rate last year as population hit 342 million

January 27, 2026

The Associated Press,

(AP) ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — President Donald Trump’s crackdown on immigration contributed to a year-to-year drop in the nation’s growth rate as the U.S. population reached nearly 342 million people in 2025, according to population estimates released Tuesday by the U.S. Census Bureau. The 0.5% growth rate for 2025 was a sharp drop from 2024’s almost 1% growth rate, which…

Judge orders ICE chief to appear in court to explain why detainees have been denied due process

January 27, 2026

The Associated Press,

Courtesy: Associated Press (file) MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (AP) — The chief federal judge in Minnesota says the Trump administration has failed to comply with orders to hold hearings for detained immigrants and ordered the head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement to appear before him Friday to explain why he shouldn’t be held in contempt. In an order dated Monday, Chief Judge…

Not ready for robots in homes? The maker of a friendly new humanoid thinks it might change your mind

January 27, 2026

By MATT O'BRIEN - AP Technology Writer

A new humanoid robot named Sprout, developed by Fauna Robotics, is making its debut. Unlike sleek and powerful-looking machines from companies like Tesla, Sprout is designed to be approachable and friendly. Standing at 3.5 feet tall, it features a soft, foam exterior and expressive features. Fauna Robotics aims to create a new industry of “approachable” robots for homes, schools and social spaces. Sprout is more of a software developer platform, priced at $50,000, targeting university labs and tech entrepreneurs. Early customers include Disney and Boston Dynamics. The robot’s design draws inspiration from beloved science fiction characters like WALL-E, Baymax and R2-D2.

ICE agents will have a security role at Milan-Cortina Olympics, US sources say

January 27, 2026

AP

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents will have a security role during the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Games, according to sources at the U.S. embassy in Rome. The sources who confirmed ICE participation on Tuesday said that federal ICE agents would support diplomatic security details and not run any immigration enforcement operations.

Spectators and players try to cool down during Australian Open heatwave

January 27, 2026

AP

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. More AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis Categories: US & World News

Takeaways from AP’s report on how Bangladeshi workers were tricked into fighting in the Ukraine war

January 27, 2026

By SAMYA KULLAB - Associated Press

Bangladeshi workers were lured to Russia under the false promise of civilian work and then forced to fight in the Ukraine war. That’s the finding of an Associated Press investigation. AP conducted interviews with three men who escaped Russia and the families of three others who are missing, The investigation documented a pattern of deception by labor recruiters who enticed workers with promises of lucrative job opportunities. Instead, they unknowingly signed contracts for military service. Returning Bangladeshi men recounted harrowing experiences. That included being forced to transport supplies to front-line positions, evacuate the wounded and collect dead bodies.

Sabalenka beats 18-year-old Jovic to reach Australian Open semifinals. Svitolina stuns Coco Gauff

January 27, 2026

By JOHN PYE - AP Sports Writer

Aryna Sabalenka beat 18-year-old Iva Jovic 6-3, 6-0 to reach the semifinals of the Australian Open before searing heat on Day 10 forced matches to be played under cover. Elina Svitolina stunned third-seeded Coco Gauff in under an hour in a night match to move into the final four. Alexander Zverev got the benefit of playing under a roof at Rod Laver Arena and advanced to the final four with a 6-3, 6-7, 6-1, 7-6 win over 20-year-old Learner Tien on a hot afternoon at Melbourne Park.

UK’s Starmer heads to China seeking a thaw in relations but risking a rift with Trump

January 27, 2026

By JILL LAWLESS - Associated Press

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is heading to China, aiming to improve relations with Beijing amid tensions with the United States. Starmer hopes for an economic boost for Britain but risks backlash from China hawks at home and U.S. President Donald Trump. Starmer will be accompanied by a delegation of corporate leaders on the visit, starting Wednesday, and is due to meet with President Xi Jinping. Britain is seeking Chinese technology and investment, along with greater access to the Chinese market for U.K. financial services, cars, and Scotch whisky. Starmer’s visit comes as some U.S. allies reconsider their ties with Washington amid Trump’s “America First” foreign policy.

Trump’s about-face in Minnesota after Pretti’s death is latest in pattern of sudden shifts

January 27, 2026

By AAMER MADHANI and STEVE KARNOWSKI - Associated Press

President Donald Trump is taking a more conciliatory approach with Democratic leaders in Minnesota. This change follows the second fatal shooting there by federal agents this month. The incident has raised doubts about the administration’s aggressive deportation tactics — including from some Republicans. On Monday, Trump spoke with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, saying they were now on a “similar wavelength.” This marks a sharp U-turn from Trump’s previous personal attacks on Walz. It’s not the first time Trump has initially taken a maximalist position only to later retreat. This month, he has backtracked on threats over tariffs and on military action against Iran.

Workers from Bangladesh sought jobs in Russia but instead got sent to combat in Ukraine

January 27, 2026

By SAMYA KULLAB - Associated Press

An Associated Press investigation found that Bangladeshi workers were lured to Russia by the false promise of civilian jobs and thrust onto the battlefield in the Ukraine war. Many were threatened with violence, imprisonment and death. AP spoke with three Bangladeshi men who escaped from the Russian military and the families of three others who are still missing. They shared harrowing accounts of being coerced into front-line tasks against their will. Those duties included advancing ahead of Russian forces, transporting supplies, evacuating wounded soldiers and recovering the dead. Neither the Russian Defense Ministry nor the Bangladeshi government responded to questions from AP.

India’s prime minister says it has reached a free trade deal with the EU

January 27, 2026

By RAJESH ROY - Associated Press

Prime Minister Narendra Modi says India and the European Union have reached a free trade agreement to deepen their economic and strategic ties. The accord was concluded after nearly two decades of negotiations. It was dubbed the “mother of all deals” by both sides. It touches a whopping 2 billion people and is one of the biggest bilateral engagements on commerce. The timing comes as Washington targets both India and the EU with steep import tariffs. Modi says the agreement will bring major opportunities for the people of India and Europe. It represents 25% of global GDP and one-third of global trade.

Trump to visit Iowa in an effort to focus on affordability amid fallout from Minneapolis shooting

January 26, 2026

By SEUNG MIN KIM and HANNAH FINGERHUT - Associated Press

President Donald Trump is heading to Iowa as the White House tries to focus on affordability ahead of the midterm elections despite fallout over the administration’s immigration crackdown. While there, Trump will visit a local business and deliver a speech at the Horizon Events Center in Clive. Tuesday’s trip also highlights energy policy as part of a plan to have Trump travel weekly before the elections. This visit comes amid the Trump administration’s handling of the shooting death of ICU nurse Alex Pretti in Minnesota. Republicans hope Trump’s visit will refocus attention on the tax bill, a key part of their campaign strategy.

Russia offers cash bonuses, frees prisoners and lures foreigners to replenish its troops in Ukraine

January 26, 2026

By DASHA LITVINOVA - Associated Press

Russian authorities use various strategies to recruit new troops to replenish its supply of soldiers for its nearly 4-year-old full-scale invasion of Ukraine. They are offering financial incentives, freedom for convicts and simplified paths to citizenship paths for foreigners who are willing to sign military contracts to go into battle. This effort aims to avoid a nationwide mobilization of men, which could be unpopular. When a limited mobilization of 300,000 men was tried in 2022, tens of thousands of Russians fled abroad. Recruiting foreigners, including migrants in Russia and those from other countries, appears to be a part of that strategy.

Minnesota killing produces backlash against Trump administration from Second Amendment advocates

January 26, 2026

By BILL BARROW and NICHOLAS RICCARDI - Associated Press

Prominent Republicans and gun rights advocates helped elicit a White House turnabout this week after bristling over the administration’s characterization of Alex Pretti as responsible for his own death because he lawfully possessed a weapon. Pretti was the second U.S. citizen and protester killed this month by a federal officer in Minneapolis. His death produced no clear shifts in U.S. gun politics or policies, even as President Donald Trump shuffles the lieutenants in charge of his militarized immigration crackdown. But important voices in Trump’s coalition have been criticizing inconsistencies in some Republicans’ Second Amendment stances since the killing.

At least 6,126 people killed in Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests, activists say

January 26, 2026

By JON GAMBRELL - Associated Press

Activists say that at least 6,126 people were killed in Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests and many more are still feared dead. The new figures Tuesday came from the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, which has been accurate in multiple rounds of unrest in Iran. The group verifies each death with a network of activists on the ground in Iran. The Associated Press has been unable to independently assess the death toll given authorities cutting off the internet and disrupting calls into the Islamic Republic. Iran’s government has put the death toll at a far lower 3,117, saying 2,427 were civilians and security forces, and labeled the rest “terrorists.”

The shootings in Minneapolis are upending the politics of immigration in Congress

January 26, 2026

By LISA MASCARO, JOEY CAPPELLETTI and MARY CLARE JALONICK - Associated Press

The shooting deaths of two American citizens at the hands of federal law enforcement in Minneapolis have upended the politics of the Trump administration’s deportation agenda. Democrats have awakened to what they see as a moral moment for the country. At the same time, Republicans who have championed President Donald Trump’s tough approach to immigration are signaling second thoughts. It all comes as Congress faces a Friday deadline to approve funding for Homeland Security and other agencies or risk a partial shutdown. Democrats say they won’t provide the security funds without restraints and changes to the immigration and deportation operation.

Pipe burst leaves Lakeside Early Learning with thousands of dollars in damage

January 26, 2026

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– On Sunday afternoon, the extreme cold caused a pipe burst that has wrecked half of Lakeside Early Learning Center. We’re told, luckily no children or staff were harmed while this occured. However, the incident has left the daycare with at least $25,000 in damage so far. The executive director said, thousands of gallons of water soaked through all…

What we know about the investigations into the Minneapolis shooting death of Alex Pretti

January 26, 2026

By REBECCA SANTANA - Associated Press

The fatal shooting of Minneapolis man Alex Pretti by federal immigration officers has sparked calls for an independent investigation. The Trump administration has launched three federal probes, but details remain unclear. Tensions are high in Minneapolis, with conflicting narratives about the incident. The FBI is assisting in processing evidence, but there’s no indication their Civil Rights Division intends to investigate Pretti’s case. The incident highlights mistrust between state officials and the Trump administration over the investigation. Minnesota’s governor, in a call with President Donald Trump, said he called for impartial investigations.

Walz and Frey both talk to President Trump today; Say positive conversations

January 26, 2026

Matt McConico,

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said he spoke to President Donald Trump about the immigration crackdown in his city and some federal officers will begin leaving. A photo of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, who was fatally shot by a U.S. Border Patrol officer over the weekend, is displayed at the shooting scene Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, in Minneapolis. Frey…

Trump threatens to hike tariffs on South Korean goods over inaction on trade deal

January 26, 2026

By JOSH BOAK - Associated Press

President Donald Trump says he is increasing tariffs on South Korean goods because the country’s national assembly has yet to approve the trade framework announced last year. Trump said on social media Monday that import taxes would be raised on autos, lumber and pharmaceutical drugs from South Korea with the rate on other goods going from 15% to 25%. The U.S. president previously imposed the tariffs by declaring an economic emergency and bypassing Congress, while South Korea needed legislative approval for the framework announced in July and affirmed during Trump’s October visit to the country. The threat was a reminder that the tariff drama unleashed last year by Trump is likely to be repeated again and again this year.

Border Patrol commander Bovino and some agents expected to leave Minneapolis

January 26, 2026

The Associated Press,

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A senior Border Patrol commander and some agents are expected to leave Minneapolis as early as Tuesday, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. U.S. Border Patrol Cmdr. Gregory Bovino walks with Federal agents outside a convenience store on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Angelina Katsanis) The departure of Border Patrol commander…

In their words: An examination of statements Trump officials made about what led to Pretti’s death

January 26, 2026

By MEG KINNARD and HANNAH FINGERHUT - Associated Press

The Trump administration has portrayed 37-year-old Alex Pretti as an armed threat who intended to harm federal agents during a Minneapolis protest. But video footage reviewed by The Associated Press seems to contradict some of these statements. Pretti is seen holding a phone in the video and was licensed to carry a concealed weapon, but was reportedly not brandishing one when he was shot by federal agents on Saturday. Border Patrol officials say Pretti resisted being disarmed, which led to his shooting. President Donald Trump has blamed Democrats for chaos he links to immigration issues. Local officials urge calm and have questioned the administration’s narrative.

What to know about Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, as he heads to Minneapolis

January 26, 2026

By SAFIYAH RIDDLE - Associated Press

President Donald Trump has announced that his border czar, Tom Homan, will visit Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of an ICU nurse. Homan’s visit coincides with bipartisan calls for an independent investigation into immigration enforcement tactics. Homan, a former ICE director, is known for his alignment with Trump’s immigration policies. Despite promises to target public safety threats, recent arrests have raised concerns. Aside from his allegiance to Trump’s policies, Homan has also faced bribery accusations, which the Trump administration dismissed as an effort to entrap him by the Biden administration.

Bucks have no timetable on when Giannis Antetokounmpo might return from right calf strain

January 26, 2026

By STEVE MEGARGEE - AP Sports Writer

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s potential return date remains uncertain as the Milwaukee Bucks forward recovers from a calf strain that he had predicted might keep him out for four to six weeks. The two-time MVP said after the Bucks’ 102-100 loss to Denver on Friday that an MRI would determine he had a calf or soleus strain in his right leg. Bucks coach Doc Rivers confirmed the calf strain diagnosis Monday but didn’t speculate on when Antetokounmpo might return. Antetokounmpo previously missed eight games from Dec. 5-26 with a right calf strain.

Penske’s Porsche clinches 3rd straight Rolex 24 win, offering hope amid challenging year

January 26, 2026

By JENNA FRYER - AP Auto Racing Writer

Team Penske’s Porsche Penske Motorsports program shined in 2025, despite a tough year for their IndyCar and NASCAR teams. The IndyCar team only managed two wins and faced a major inspection infraction at the Indianapolis 500. NASCAR’s three-year championship streak ended as drivers Joey Logano and Ryan Blaney failed to reach the finale. However, Penske’s No. 7 Porsche won the Rolex 24 at Daytona on Sunday, marking its third consecutive victory in this prestigious race. This success highlights the strength of Penske’s sports car program, which also won the IMSA championship in 2024 and 2025.

Publishers Clearing House scams making rounds in Northern Minnesota

January 26, 2026

Matt McConico,

Publishers Clearing House Logo DULUTH, Minn. – The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office says there have been numerous reports of scammers calling people claiming they had won a Publishers Clearing House prize. The calls have been made within the past week. Scammers are claiming the person won a cash sum and often a brand-new vehicle. The caller then requests that they…

Case dismissed for man arrested in Virginia ICE operation

January 26, 2026

Matt McConico,

Jose Espinoza-Espinoza DULUTH, Minn. – The criminal case against Jose Espinoza-Espinoza, accusing him of “assaulting, resisting, or impeding a Federal Officer,” has been dismissed. Espinoza-Espinoza was arrested on January 16, 2026, by federal agents near the Cazadores Mexican restaurant in Virginia. Agents said Espinoza-Espinoza was in a car they suspected was “transporting illegal aliens”. On the morning of January 26,…

A Minnesota nurse is the 6th person to die during the US immigration crackdown

January 26, 2026

By RUSS BYNUM - Associated Press

Alex Pretti, a Minnesota nurse, is the sixth person to die during the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement campaign in the U.S. Federal authorities immediately said Pretti was a threat to federal officers. But videos showed his hands were only holding a phone. Pretti’s death was the second in Minneapolis. Renee Good was shot while slowly driving her vehicle in early January. In September, a Mexican man was shot in suburban Chicago during a traffic stop. Two men died in California and Virginia after being struck by vehicles while fleeing authorities. A California farmworker fell from a greenhouse roof during a raid in July.

Minnesota GOP gubernatorial candidate Chris Madel drops out, faults Trump immigration policy

January 26, 2026

By SCOTT BAUER - Associated Press

Republican candidate for Minnesota governor Chris Madel has ended his campaign in a surprise video announcement. Madel is a Minneapolis attorney and the lawyer for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer who shot and killed Renee Good earlier this month. The move on Monday comes amid growing calls from Republicans to investigate federal immigration tactics in Minnesota after a U.S. Border Patrol agent fatally shot Alex Pretti in Minneapolis on Saturday. Madel says that while he supports the goal of deporting “the worst of the worst,” he thinks President Donald Trump’s administration’s immigration enforcement operation in the Twin Cities has gone too far and is an “unmitigated disaster.”

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’ office says call with President Trump was ‘productive’

January 26, 2026

The Associated Press,

ST. PAUL, Min — A Monday morning call between President Donald Trump and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz about fatal shootings by immigration officers appears to have been well-received by both sides. Walz’ office said the call was “productive.” “The Governor made the case that we need impartial investigations of the Minneapolis shootings involving federal agents, and that we need…

Arizona still unanimous No. 1 in AP Top 25 poll ahead of showdown with No. 13 BYU

January 26, 2026

By DAVE SKRETTA - AP Basketball Writer

Arizona remains the unanimous No. 1 in the AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll. Nebraska climbed to a program-best fifth place. Duke held steady at No. 4, while Gonzaga moved up two spots to sixth. Michigan, Iowa State, Illinois and Houston round out the top 10. Purdue dropped to No. 12 after back-to-back losses last week. North Carolina made the biggest climb, moving up six spots to No. 15. The Big 12 and Big Ten continue to dominate the rankings with the former having six Top 25 teams and the Big Ten with five.

Positively 3rd Street Bakery to donate profits to Minneapolis families affected by ICE activity

January 26, 2026

Xavier Walt, Adam Jagunich,

DULUTH, Minn. — Positively 3rd Street Bakery announced a new campaign to raise donations for Minneapolis residents affected by ICE. The bakery announced that all profits until Feb. 1, will be donated to the International Institute of Minnesota, which will use the funds to buy groceries or provide rent relief for families affected by the ongoing ICE-related activity. The small…

SEC sets record with 10 ranked teams, a 1st in 50-year history of women’s AP Top 25; UConn, UCLA 1-2

January 26, 2026

By DOUG FEINBERG - AP Basketball Writer

The Southeastern Conference has set a record with 10 teams in The Associated Press women’s Top 25 basketball poll. Georgia enters at No. 23 after defeating then-No. 11 Kentucky. This gives the SEC the most teams ever in a single week in the poll’s 50-year history. UConn remains the unanimous No. 1 choice and is the only undefeated team in women’s college basketball. UCLA moves up to No. 2 after South Carolina’s overtime loss to Oklahoma. After the SEC, the Big Ten has seven ranked teams. The Big 12 has four teams in the Top 25.

Minnesota GOP gubernatorial candidate drops out, citing opposition to federal ‘retribution’

January 26, 2026

The Associated Press,

Chris Madel (CNN) MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Chris Madel, a Minneapolis attorney who provided legal support to the ICE agent who shot and killed Renee Good, ended his GOP campaign in a surprise video announcement Monday. Madel called the recent immigration enforcement operation in the Twin Cities an “unmitigated disaster.” “I cannot support the national Republican’s stated retribution…

He left the US for an internship. Trump’s travel ban made it impossible to return

January 26, 2026

By MAKIYA SEMINERA - AP Education Writer

The Trump administration has thrown up new obstacles for international students, from travel bans to a pause in visa appointments and new layers of vetting. Arrivals of new international students to the U.S. plunged last fall. New would-be students had to look elsewhere, but the hurdles have made life particularly complicated for ones like Patrick Thaw who were well into their U.S. college careers. Thaw, a Myanmar native, had planned to return to the University of Michigan for his junior year after completing a research internship in Singapore last summer. Instead, he was stranded half a world away by a shift in U.S. immigration policy.

What to know about a French ex-senator on trial for drugging a lawmaker to sexually assault her

January 26, 2026

By SYLVIE CORBET - Associated Press

A former French senator is on trial in Paris, accused of drugging a lawmaker to sexually assault her. Joel Guerriau is accused of putting ecstasy in a glass of champagne served to parliament member Sandrine Josso. She felt unwell and left his apartment. Guerriau denies intending to drug her. Blood tests revealed Josso ingested a significant amount of MDMA, known as ecstasy. Guerriau faces charges of drug use, possession, and administering a substance to commit assault. This case follows the landmark Pelicot trial, which highlighted drug-facilitated sexual abuse in France.

Former candidate Perry Johnson joins crowded Republican field running for governor of Michigan

January 26, 2026

By ISABELLA VOLMERT - Associated Press

A Michigan Republican businessman has joined a crowded field of candidates vying for to be the state’s next governor. In a video released Monday announcing his campaign, Johnson describes Michigan’s government as inefficient. Johnson, a management consultant, ran for governor of the battleground state in 2022 and ran a long shot bid for president ahead of 2024. Johnson’s 2022 bid ended after failing to collect enough valid signatures, but not before he spent nearly $8 million. In an interview with the Detroit News, he has pledged to spend big ahead of the Aug. 4 primary.

The Latest: Federal judge to hear arguments on Minnesota’s immigration crackdown after shootings

January 26, 2026

By The Associated Press

A federal judge will hear arguments on whether she should at least temporarily halt the immigration crackdown in Minnesota that has led to the fatal shootings of two people by government officers. The state of Minnesota and the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul sued the Department of Homeland Security earlier this month, five days after Renee Good was shot by an Immigration and Customs officer. The shooting of Alex Pretti by a Border Patrol officer on Saturday has only added urgency to the case.

Talks with US and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi were constructive but major challenges remain, Kremlin says

January 26, 2026

By The Associated Press

Negotiations to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are showing signs of progress, but major challenges remain, according to a senior Kremlin official. Talks between Ukraine, Russia and the United States in Abu Dhabi were described as constructive, with another round planned for next week. However, no major breakthroughs have been reported. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also called the talks constructive and mentioned that a document for U.S. security guarantees is ready but needs formal signing. Meanwhile, the war continues, with both sides engaging in drone attacks over the weekend. Negotiators will meet again in early February.

European Union opens investigation into Musk’s AI chatbot Grok over sexual deepfakes

January 26, 2026

By KELVIN CHAN - AP Business Writer

European Union regulators have opened a formal investigation into Elon Musk’s social media platform X after its AI chatbot Grok started producing nonconsensual sexualized deepfake images. The scrutiny from Brussels comes after Grok sparked backlash by using AI to undress people, including children, in images. Sme governments have banned the service or issued warnings. The EU’s executive is examining whether X has met its obligations under the Digital Services Act to contain illegal content. An X spokeswoman said the platform remains committed to safety and has zero tolerance for child sexual exploitation and non-consensual nudity.

AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Minnesota’s special legislative elections

January 26, 2026

By ROBERT YOON - Associated Press

Two Minnesota special elections in heavily Democratic Twin Cities-area state legislative districts will decide control of the state’s House of Representatives for the third time in less than a year. Republicans hold a 67-65 advantage in the chamber after two Democratic representatives were elected to other offices in November. The chamber has operated under a power-sharing agreement between the two parties for much of the last year. Tuesday’s contests take place just days after a U.S. Border Patrol agent fatally shot a man in Minneapolis, sparking protests and renewed calls for federal immigration officers to leave the state.

‘A Team’ of real estate brokers faces sex crimes trial in New York

January 26, 2026

By MICHAEL R. SISAK and LARRY NEUMEISTER - Associated Press

Three brothers, including two once dubbed “The A Team” for their skill at selling high-end real estate, face opening statements at a New York trial where they are charged with drugging and raping numerous women. The Alexander brothers — Tal and twins Alon and Oren — have pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking charges. Their lawyers insist that prosecutors are criminalizing sexual activity between consenting adults. Opening statements are scheduled for Tuesday. The men have been held without bail since their 2024 arrest in Miami, where they lived. Oren and Tal sold real estate in New York, Miami and Los Angeles. Their brother ran the family’s private security firm.

10 years, 3,000 creatives: the uphill battle for Black talent in Italian fashion

January 26, 2026

By COLLEEN BARRY - AP Fashion Writer

Michelle Francine Ngonmo, a Cameroonian-Italian, has dedicated her career to promoting Africans and people of color in Italian fashion. She founded the Afrofashion Association a decade ago to address the lack of representation. Ngonmo produces runway shows, mentors talent, and launched the Black Carpet Awards. The association has worked with 3,000 people of color, with 92 in creative jobs. Despite initial momentum from the Black Lives Matter movement, attention has waned. Ngonmo now focuses on supportive institutions like the Italian National Fashion Chamber, which backs emerging Black talents like Victor-Hart.

Yemen rebels threaten new Red Sea attack as US aircraft carrier heads toward Iran

January 26, 2026

By JON GAMBRELL - Associated Press

Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have threatened new attacks on ships in the Red Sea corridor. This move seems to support Iran, which is concerned about a U.S. aircraft carrier approaching the region. The Houthis released a video showing a ship on fire with the caption “Soon.” They attacked over 100 ships during Israel’s war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip but halted after a ceasefire. The threat comes as the USS Abraham Lincoln moves toward the area. Meanwhile, Iran has renewed warnings to Israel and the U.S., saying any attack would be met with a strong response.

Private jet with 8 aboard crashes on takeoff in Maine, FAA says

January 26, 2026

AP

The Federal Aviation Administration says a private aircraft with eight people on board has crashed on takeoff from Bangor International Airport in Maine. The Bombardier Challenger 600 crashed around 7:45 p.m. Sunday. There was no immediate word on the conditions of those aboard and an airport statement said the airport was closed and emergency crews were at the site. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating. The crash occurred as New England and much of the country grappled with a massive winter storm. Bangor had steady snowfall Sunday like much of the northeastern United States.

Hundreds rescued from deadly ferry disaster in Philippines

January 26, 2026

By JIM GOMEZ - Associated Press

An inter-island ferry with more than 350 on board has sunk in the southern Philippines after midnight and rescuers have saved at least 316 passengers and retrieved 15 bodies. Officials say the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, a cargo and passenger ferry, was sailing from the port city of Zamboanga to southern Jolo island in Sulu province with 332 passengers and 27 crew members early Monday when it apparently encountered technical problems and sank. Coast guard officials said the cause of the accident was not immediately clear, but noted that the boat was cleared by the coast guard before departing and did not appear to be overcrowded.

Investigators will detail the causes of the midair collision over Washington and recommend changes

January 26, 2026

By JOSH FUNK - AP Transportation Writer

So many things went wrong last Jan. 29 to contribute to the collision between an airliner and a U.S. Army helicopter that killed 67 people that the National Transportation Safety Board isn’t likely to identify a single cause at its hearing Tuesday. Instead, the investigators will detail all the things they found that played a role in the crash near Washington, and the board will recommend changes that should be made to help prevent a similar event from happening again. Family members of the victims hope those suggestions won’t be ignored the same way many past NTSB recommendations have been after other crashes.

T-wolves and Warriors return to play in ‘bizarre, sad’ game with grieving Minneapolis on their minds

January 25, 2026

By DAVE CAMPBELL - AP Sports Writer

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors have returned to the court after their game was postponed following the fatal shooting of a man in Minneapolis by federal immigration officers. Timberwolves coach Chris Finch was clearly and deeply moved by the situation as he expressed on behalf of the organization his heartbreak for the community’s collective fear and pain from the ongoing crackdown. The Timberwolves held a moment of silence for Alex Pretti prior to the national anthem. Warriors coach Steve Kerr also shared his sadness and said he felt a “pall that’s been cast over the city.”

Judge set to hear arguments on Minnesota’s immigration crackdown after fatal shootings

January 25, 2026

By STEVE KARNOWSKI - Associated Press

A federal judge is set to hear arguments Monday on whether to pause an immigration crackdown in Minnesota. This follows the fatal shootings of two people by government officers. The state and the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul sued the Department of Homeland Security two weeks ago. They want to restore conditions before the Trump administration’s Operation Metro Surge began in December. Democratic Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison plans to attend the hearing. Justice Department attorneys have called the lawsuit legally frivolous. The case could have implications for other states facing similar immigration enforcement operations like that underway in Minnesota.