US & World News Archives - Page 5 of 87

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.