US & World News Archives - Page 19 of 91

Eating snow cones or snow cream can be a winter delight, if done safely

January 28, 2026

By HOLLY RAMER - Associated Press

Getting outdoors to enjoy simple pleasures is unlikely to be front of mind for people in a 1,300-mile stretch of the United States where a massive weekend storm brought deep snow and bitter cold. But as communities recover, some residents of lesser-affected areas might be tempted to make snow cones, whip up bowls of “snow cream” or to try “sugar on snow.” But how safe is it to turn snow into a treat? Experts say eating a bit of snow is probably fine if you live someplace with generally clean air, but staying away from plowed snow is a sensible precaution. It might contain deicing chemicals, debris and other contaminants.

A new report warns that combined war casualties in Russia’s war on Ukraine could soon hit 2 million

January 28, 2026

By KAMILA HRABCHUK - Associated Press

A new report warns that the number of soldiers killed, injured or missing in Russia’s war in Ukraine could reach 2 million by spring. The report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates that Russia has suffered the largest troop deaths for any major power since World War II. It estimates Russia suffered 1.2 million casualties, including up to 325,000 deaths, since February 2022. It said Ukraine has suffered between 500,000 to 600,000 casualties, including up to 140,000 deaths. Officials said Wednesday that two people were killed near Kyiv after Russian strikes and at least nine were injured in attacks across Ukraine.

Bill Belichick snubbed by Pro Football Hall of Fame in first year of eligibility, report says

January 28, 2026

By JOSH DUBOW - AP Pro Football Writer

ESPN has reported that six-time Super Bowl champion head coach Bill Belichick didn’t get voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. Citing four unidentified sources, ESPN said Belichick didn’t receive the necessary 40 votes from the 50-person panel of media members and other Hall of Famers. ESPN said Belichick received a call from the Hall of Fame last Friday with the news. The Hall of Fame class of 2026 will be announced at NFL Honors in San Francisco on Feb. 5.

Here are 5 great, small and used SUVs you can get for under $20,000

January 28, 2026

By NICK KURCZEWSKI - Edmunds

With the average cost of a new vehicle hovering around $50,000, buying a new SUV might seem well out of reach if you’re on a tight budget. But automakers have increasingly been selling entry-level SUVs that are smaller and less expensive than all-star SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. And if you buy used, it’s easy to get one of these small but versatile SUVs for less than $20,000. Edmunds’ auto experts highlight what you’ll want to know about the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Kia Soul and Subaru Crosstrek.

‘I was lucky’ says Djokovic after setting up Australian Open semifinal against Sinner

January 28, 2026

By JOHN PYE - AP Sports Writer

Novak Djokovic is back in the Australian Open semifinals after Lorenzo Musetti retired with an injury in the third set of their quarterfinal. The 10-time Australian Open winner next faces two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner. The No. 2-ranked Sinner fended off No. 8 Ben Shelton in straight sets. The fifth-seeded Musetti won the first two sets of the earlier quarterfinal but took a medical timeout for treatment on his upper right leg after being broken in the third game of the third. He played on for another game but couldn’t continue. Djokovic will now continue his bid for an 11th Australian title and a record 25th major but says he was “lucky this time.”

Sarah Mullally confirmed as archbishop of Canterbury, first woman to lead the Church of England

January 28, 2026

By DANICA KIRKA - Associated Press

Sarah Mullally was confirmed as archbishop of Canterbury on Wednesday, becoming the first woman to lead the Church of England. The worldwide Anglican Communion, which includes the Episcopal Church in the U.S., has no formal head, but the archbishop traditionally has been seen as its spiritual leader. Mullally, a cancer nurse turned cleric, officially took up the responsibilities of her new job Wednesday as judges presided over a legal ceremony confirming her appointment, which was announced almost four months ago. The Church of England ordained its first female priests in 1994 and its first female bishop in 2015.

Federal Reserve may keep rates unchanged for months as economy shows signs of health

January 28, 2026

By CHRISTOPHER RUGABER - AP Economics Writer

Federal Reserve officials are expected to keep their short-term interest rate unchanged Wednesday after three cuts last year, ignoring huge pressure for lower borrowing costs from the White House in favor of waiting to see how the economy evolves. A key issue that Chair Jerome Powell will likely address at his news conference Wednesday is how long the Fed will remain on hold. The rate-setting committee remains split between those officials opposed to further cuts until inflation comes down, and those who want to lower rates to further support hiring. In December, just 12 of the 19 participants in the committee’s meetings supported at least one more rate cut this year.

No. 5 Nebraska’s run of 24 wins in a row is over after narrow loss to No. 3 Michigan

January 28, 2026

By ERIC OLSON - AP Sports Writer

Major college basketball’s longest winning streak ended at 24 games with No. 5 Nebraska’s 75-72 loss at No. 3 Michigan on Tuesday night. Nebraska did not score over the last 3:20, missing its last five shots after leading most of the game despite two key players being out of the lineup. Rienk Mast missed the game with an illness as did double-digit scorer Braden Frager, who was out for a second straight game with an ankle injury.

More ‘No Kings’ protests planned for March 28 as outrage spreads over Minneapolis deaths

January 28, 2026

By MEG KINNARD - Associated Press

Organizers are planning what they anticipate will be the largest “No Kings” protests yet, targeting what they call authoritarianism under President Donald Trump. Scheduled for March 28, the demonstrations will focus on the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis, where recent clashes have resulted in deaths. Ezra Levin from Indivisible predicts up to 9 million participants. This will be the third “No Kings” event, following protests last year against Trump’s policies. Organizers emphasize nonviolent resistance and ongoing training to defend constitutional rights. They stress that the movement is about preserving democracy, not partisan politics.

Being a night owl may not be great for your heart but you can do something about it

January 28, 2026

By LAURAN NEERGAARD - AP Medical Writer

Being a night owl can be bad for your heart. That’s according to a study showing night owls had poorer overall cardiovascular health than most people, plus a modestly higher risk of a first heart attack or stroke. Unhealthy behaviors like too little sleep, smoking and a poor diet were key reasons. The body’s circadian rhythm, or internal clock, governs when people feel sleepy and awake. Researchers say night owls will have to work harder on healthy behaviors like getting enough sleep in a morning person’s world — but the health advice is good for everyone.

South Korea’s former first lady sentenced to 20 months in prison for corruption

January 28, 2026

By HYUNG-JIN KIM - Associated Press

A South Korean court has sentenced former first lady Kim Keon Hee to 20 months in prison for corruption. The sentencing Wednesday in Seoul Central District Court came about three weeks ahead of a verdict on against Yoon for disgraced former President Yoon Suk Yeol. He faces a rebellion charge over his martial law imposition a year ago. Investigators say Kim wasn’t involved in Yoon’s martial law enforcement. Kim was sentenced for receiving bribes from the Unification Church in return for business favors. Kim’s defense team says the 20-month prison term is relatively high. The defense attorneys say they will discuss whether to appeal.

A month after Iran protests began, worry and fear pervades Mideast over possible US strike

January 28, 2026

By JON GAMBRELL - Associated Press

Iranian officials have reached out to the Middle East as fears grow of a possible U.S. military strike. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have said they won’t allow their airspace to be used for attacks. The U.S. has moved military assets into the region, but it’s unclear what President Trump will decide. Protests in Iran have led to a violent crackdown, with over 6,000 people reportedly killed. Iran’s state media calls protesters “terrorists,” and internet access has been cut off. Diplomacy efforts are ongoing, with calls between Iran and Arab nations to prevent further instability.

What to know about UK-China relations as Prime Minister Keir Starmer visits Beijing

January 28, 2026

By KEN MORITSUGU - Associated Press

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer visits Beijing for a four-day visit to China aimed at repairing ties and expanding opportunities for British businesses in the world’s second-largest economy. He is the first British leader to come to Beijing since Theresa May in 2018. The relationship has deteriorated in recent years over growing concern about Chinese spying and surveillance, China’s support for Russia in the Ukraine war and Beijing’s crackdown on civil liberties in Hong Kong, the former British colony.

Man arrested after spraying unknown substance on Rep. Ilhan Omar at Minneapolis town hall

January 28, 2026

By LAURA BARGFELD and HANNAH SCHOENBAUM - Associated Press

A man has sprayed an unknown substance on U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar before being tackled to the ground during a town hall she was hosting. The incident took place in Minneapolis, where tensions over federal immigration enforcement have come to a head after agents fatally shot an intensive care nurse and a mother of three this month. The audience cheered as the man was pinned down and his arms were tied behind his back. In video of the incident, someone in the crowd can be heard saying, “Oh my god, he sprayed something on her.” Omar continued the town hall after he was ushered out of the room.

The EU is seeking new trade partnerships. Here’s why

January 28, 2026

By SAM McNEIL - Associated Press

The European Union and India have reached a free trade agreement to deepen economic and strategic ties after nearly two decades of negotiations. The agreement announced Tuesday reflects a new priority for the 27-nation EU, the world’s largest trading bloc, after the Trump administration threatened to impose tariffs because of opposition to American control of Greenland. It comes as many European leaders are calling for limiting the old consensus with Washington in favor of new partnerships across the globe. The accord could affect as many as 2 billion people and will see free trade on almost all goods between the EU’s 27 members and India.

Three months after rapidly scheduled arguments, Supreme Court has yet to decide on Trump’s tariffs

January 27, 2026

By MARK SHERMAN and LINDSAY WHITEHURST - Associated Press

When the Supreme Court granted an unusually quick hearing over President Donald Trump’s tariffs, a similarly fast resolution seemed possible. After all, Trump’s lawyers told the court speed was of the essence on an issue that is central to the president’s economic agenda. But nearly three months have elapsed since arguments in the closely watched case and the court isn’t scheduled to meet in public for more than three weeks. No one knows for sure what is going on among the nine justices. But the timeline for deciding the tariffs case now looks more or less typical and could reflect the normal back-and-forth that occurs not just in the biggest cases, but almost all the disputes the justices hear.

Rubio set to warn of future military action if Venezuela’s new leaders stray from US goals

January 27, 2026

By MATTHEW LEE - AP Diplomatic Writer

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to warn that the Trump administration is ready to take new military action against Venezuela if the country’s interim leadership strays from U.S. expectations. Rubio will testify Wednesday before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. According to prepared testimony, Rubio plans to say the U.S. isn’t at war with Venezuela but the Trump administration wouldn’t rule out using additional force if needed following the ouster of former President Nicolás Maduro. Rubio will defend Trump’s decisions to remove Maduro, strike suspected drug boats and seize sanctioned tankers carrying Venezuelan oil. Democrats have condemned the actions as exceeding President Donald Trump’s authority.

Red Wings’ Kane ties Stars’ Modano as highest-scoring American-born players in NHL history

January 27, 2026

AP

Patrick Kane of the Detroit Red Wings has tied Dallas’ Mike Modano as the highest-scoring U.S.-born players in NHL history. Kane matched Mike Modano by recording his 1,374th point on an assist on a goal by Alex DeBrincat late in Detroit’s 3-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night. He got there a couple of months after turning 37, while Modano was 40 when he scored a goal to register point No. 1,374.

Trump warns Iraq against returning former PM al-Maliki to power amid worries about Iran influence

January 27, 2026

By AAMER MADHANI - Associated Press

President Donald Trump is warning Iraqi officials that the U.S. would no longer support the country if its former prime minister, Nouri al-Maliki, returns to power. Trump made the threat on Tuesday, days after a dominant political bloc known as the Coordination Framework announced it had backed al-Maliki. Trump derided al-Maliki’s previous stewardship of Iraq and warned the U.S. “will no longer help Iraq” if he returns to power. The United States has long viewed al-Maliki as being too close to Iran. Iraq held elections in November but its caretaker prime minister was unable to form a government. That cleared the field for al-Maliki.

McKenney makes go-ahead layup as No. 3 Michigan hands No. 5 Nebraska its first loss, 75-72

January 27, 2026

By LARRY LAGE - AP Sports Writer

Trey McKenney made a tiebreaking layup with 1:07 left and No. 3 Michigan rallied past No. 5 Nebraska 75-72 to hand the Cornhuskers their first loss this season. Morez Johnson Jr. had 17 points and 12 rebounds for the Wolverines, who trailed for 36-plus minutes before holding Nebraska scoreless over the final 3:20. Jamarques Lawrence missed a 3-pointer with 4 seconds remaining for the short-handed Cornhuskers, and Sam Hoiberg missed a jumper just before the buzzer. Nebraska had won 24 straight games dating to last season, including four victories in the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament at Las Vegas last April. That was the longest winning streak in Division I since the 2014-15 Kentucky team went 38-0 before losing to Wisconsin in the Final Four.

What travelers can expect as Southwest Airlines introduces assigned seats

January 27, 2026

By RIO YAMAT - AP Airlines and Travel Writer

Southwest Airlines passengers are making their final boarding-time scrambles for seats as the carrier prepares to end its signature open-seating system. Customers on Southwest flights will have assigned seats starting on Tuesday. The airline began selling tickets shaped by the new policy in July. New airfare tiers include the option of paying more to get a preferred seat closer to the front of a plane or seats with extra legroom. An eight‑group boarding structure is replacing the find-your-own-seat scrum. Southwest says the boarding groups are based on seat location, fare class, loyalty tier status and benefits from the airline’s credit card rewards program.

‘Doomsday Clock’ moves closer to midnight over threats from nuclear weapons, climate change and AI

January 27, 2026

By The Associated Press

A science-oriented advocacy group moved its “Doomsday Clock” to 85 seconds to midnight, saying the Earth is closer than ever to destruction. The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists on Tuesday cited threats from nuclear war, climate change, potential misuse of biotechnology and artificial intelligence. Last year, the clock advanced to 89 seconds to midnight. Since then, “global understandings are collapsing, accelerating a winner-takes-all great power competition and undermining the international cooperation” needed to reduce risks, the group said. The advocacy group began using a clock in 1947 to symbolize the potential and likelihood of people doing something to end humanity.

Judge issues temporary order barring removal of boy, 5, and father who were detained in Minnesota

January 27, 2026

By VALERIE GONZALEZ and HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH - Associated Press

A federal judge has issued a temporary order barring the removal of a 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy and his father whose arrest last week in Minnesota became another lightning rod for divisions on immigration under the Trump administration. U.S. Judge Fred Biery ruled Monday that any removal or transfer of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, is on hold while a court case proceeds. The father and son are now at family detention facility in Dilley, Texas, near San Antonio. They were taken into custody last week outside their home in Minnesota.

UPS retires fleet of MD-11 aircraft involved in deadly Kentucky crash

January 27, 2026

By DYLAN LOVAN - Associated Press

UPS says it has retired its fleet of McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo planes just months after one crashed in Louisville, killing 15 people. CEO Carol Tome said during a fourth-quarter earnings call Tuesday that the company decided to accelerate its plans while all MD-11s remain grounded by the Federal Aviation Administration. The plane’s three-person crew and 12 others on the ground were killed after the plane’s left engine fell off. The company is rebuilding its fleet with 18 new Boeing 767s in the next 15 months. The company also announced plans to cut up to 30,000 jobs this year as it reduces its shipments for Amazon.

Peralta willing to consider multiyear deal with Mets but wants to get settled in New York first

January 27, 2026

By JERRY BEACH - Associated Press

Freddy Peralta says he’s willing to consider a multiyear contract with the Mets before reaching free agency, but he wants to get settled in New York first. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns expressed a similar sentiment after acquiring Peralta in a trade with Milwaukee last week, saying he would definitely allow the All-Star pitcher an adjustment period before potentially broaching a long-term arrangement. Peralta is due to make $8 million this season after the Brewers picked up their club option on a deal he signed in 2020. He can become a free agent following the World Series.

Judge issues temporary order barring removal of boy, 5, and father who were detained in Minnesota

January 27, 2026

The Associated Press,

(CNN) SAN ANTONIO (AP) — A federal judge has issued a temporary order prohibiting removal of a 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy and his father whose arrest last week in Minnesota quickly become another lightning rod for America’s divisions on immigration under the Trump administration. U.S. Judge Fred Biery ruled Monday that any removal or transfer of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and…

Judge finds Virginia Democrats’ redistricting resolution illegal

January 27, 2026

By OLIVIA DIAZ - Associated Press/Report for America

A Virginia judge has ruled that a proposed constitutional amendment letting Democrats redraw the state’s Congressional maps is illegal. Tazewell Circuit Court Judge Jack Hurley Jr. says lawmakers’ proposed constitutional amendment was invalid due to a technicality under state law that says such proposals must be passed and published by the clerk’s office at least three months before a general election. Lawmakers advanced their mid-decade redistricting resolution in October, less than a week before their statewide races. The ruling threatens Democrats’ efforts to pick up more U.S. House seats in the state in November.

TikTok faces app deletions, censorship claims and glitches in days after its ownership change

January 27, 2026

By BARBARA ORTUTAY - AP Technology Writer

Censorship claims, technical problems and a report of a surge in app deletions are just some of the challenges TikTok is facing this week as it adjusts to a new ownership structure in the U.S. The company said this week it was experiencing a “major infrastructure issue triggered by a power outage” at one of its U.S. data center partner sites. The outage led to bugs such as creators temporarily seeing zero views on their videos even if people had looked at them, as well as slow load times and timeout requests when posting videos.

Families of 2 men killed in boat strike sue Trump administration over attack they call ‘unlawful’

January 27, 2026

By ERIC TUCKER and BEN FINLEY - Associated Press

Families of two Trinidadian nationals killed in a Trump administration boat strike last October are suing the federal government, calling the attack a war crime and part of an “unprecedented and manifestly unlawful U.S. military campaign.” The lawsuit filed Tuesday is thought to be the first wrongful death case arising from the three dozen strikes the administration has launched since September on boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. Government officials have defended the strikes as necessary to stem the flow of drugs into the United States but many legal experts say they amount to a brazen violation of the laws of armed conflict.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day, in photos

January 27, 2026

By The Associated Press

People throughout Europe and beyond observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day, reflecting on the massacre of millions and the attempts to eliminate Jewish life in Europe more than 80 years ago. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Categories: US & World News

What to know about Gregory Bovino, the commander of Trump’s immigration crackdown

January 27, 2026

By The Associated Press

The commander of President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown in Minneapolis is leaving the city after federal agents fatally shot two people in less than three weeks. Gregory Bovino had been the go-to architect for the large-scale immigration crackdowns ordered by Trump and the public face of his administration’s city-by-city sweeps. The Border Patrol chief led agents in Los Angeles, Chicago and New Orleans before he headed to Minnesota in December for what the Department of Homeland Security called its largest-ever immigration enforcement operation. He’s also been heavily criticized for his norm-breaking tactics.

Shooting involving Border Patrol leaves 1 in critical condition near US-Mexico border

January 27, 2026

The Associated Press,

ARIVACA, Ariz. (AP) — One person was shot and in critical condition Tuesday in a shooting involving the Border Patrol near the U.S.- Mexico border, authorities in Arizona said. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said it was working with the FBI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection in response to the shooting in Arivaca, Arizona, a community about 10 miles…

Caitlin Clark joining NBC’s ‘Sunday Night Basketball’ for Lakers-Knicks pregame at MSG

January 27, 2026

By TIM REYNOLDS - AP Basketball Writer

Caitlin Clark is joining NBC’s pregame coverage for “Sunday Night Basketball.” NBC announced Tuesday that the Indiana Fever star will be part of its team when the Los Angeles Lakers play the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. She’ll return on March 29 for another pregame role. NBC calls Clark “a special contributor” alongside host Maria Taylor and analysts Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady. A two-time WNBA All-Star, Clark has a marketing relationship with Xfinity. She says she’s excited to join the crew and share her insights on the game she loves.

Pinterest will lay off 15% of its workforce as the platform pivots resources to AI

January 27, 2026

AP

Pinterest plans to lay off under 15% of its workforce, as part of broader restructuring that arrives as the image-sharing platform pivots more of its money to artificial intelligence. In a Tuesday filing, the company says these cuts support “transformation initiatives,” which include reallocating resources to AI roles and products. Pinterest also says it will reduce office space. The restructuring is expected to finish by the end of September, with pretax charges of $35 million to $45 million. Pinterest’s job cuts will impact hundreds of workers. Shares of Pinterest fell more than 9% as of midday trading Tuesday.

How artist Gordon Parks’ foundation keeps his legacy growing 20 years after his death

January 27, 2026

By GLENN GAMBOA - AP Business Writer

Civil rights photographer and artist Gordon Parks’ legacy continues to grow, even as the 20th anniversary of his death approaches. The Gordon Parks Foundation, also celebrating its 20th anniversary, faces challenges in funding its arts and social justice programs. Executive Director Peter W. Kunhardt, Jr. says the foundation is sensitive to the changing funding landscape and is dependent on support for events like its annual gala. This year’s gala on May 19 in Manhattan will honor John Legend, Chance the Rapper, Mellon Foundation President Elizabeth Alexander, artist Henry Taylor, and the entire family of Muhammad Ali.

Trump administration’s trust and credibility tested in wake of Pretti’s death in Minneapolis

January 27, 2026

By STEVEN SLOAN - Associated Press

Lawmakers in both parties are calling for investigations following the killing of Alex Jeffrey Pretti by a U.S. Border Patrol officer. Some warn that the credibility of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security is at stake. Videos from the scene show Pretti being pushed by an officer, contradicting initial claims that he acted violently. The White House has tried to ease tensions, with President Donald Trump and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz having a productive conversation. Lawmakers from both parties are urging independent investigations and emphasizing the importance of trust. The situation highlights ongoing challenges with credibility in the Trump administration.

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…

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.