President Donald Trump stated that Cuba's economy is struggling and may fail soon due to the U.S. capture of Venezuela's leader, Nicolás Maduro, which disrupted Cuba's oil supply from Venezuela. The Trump administration has focused on tough policies toward Cuba and is reportedly aiming to change the country's leadership.
Key Facts
President Trump announced that Cuba's economy is at risk of failing soon.
The capture of Venezuela's leader, Nicolás Maduro, has cut off Cuban oil supplies from Venezuela.
Cuba previously received about a third of its oil from Venezuela.
The Trump administration is considering actions against Cuba, aiming for leadership change.
Mexican oil shipments to Cuba have also stopped amid U.S. pressure on Cuba.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the Cuban government as problematic.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that the U.S. lacks moral authority to impose a deal on Cuba.
Reports suggest the U.S. seeks Cuba's leadership change and is finding allies within Havana.
Newsweek has introduced a feature called "New & Noteworthy," highlighting new products in various categories. The feature is in partnership with the Best New Product Awards. This week's products include Sony earbuds, Silk soy milk, and Hello whipped toothpaste.
Key Facts
Newsweek's "New & Noteworthy" highlights new products in categories like food, personal care, and household goods.
Sony released new wireless earbuds called LinkBuds Clip, designed for comfortable all-day wear.
Silk launched a high-protein soy milk with 13 grams of plant protein per serving.
Hello introduced a whipped fluoride toothpaste with a foamy texture.
Bloom Nutrition offers a clear protein supplement with whey protein isolate and collagen.
Nature’s Garden Clusters are nut and seed snacks available in multiple flavors.
Pixi Beauty expanded its blush stick range with three new shades.
Two U.S. lawmakers have proposed a bill that would make sure the government considers the full costs for veterans before starting any military action. The bill is called the Full Cost of War Act and aims to ensure that veterans' benefits are funded from the start. The bill, introduced for the second time, has been sent to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Key Facts
The Full Cost of War Act requires Congress to plan funding for veterans' benefits when authorizing military force.
The bill ensures costs for veterans' healthcare and compensation are considered before starting military actions.
Representatives Chris Deluzio and Ted Lieu, both veterans, introduced this bill.
The bill aims to highlight the country's responsibility to support veterans.
The bill was first introduced between 2023 and 2025 and has been reintroduced for 2025 to 2027.
It is currently with the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for consideration.
The official mascots for the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Italy are two stoats named Tina and Milo. Tina represents the Olympic Games and Milo represents the Paralympic Games. The designs for these mascots were created by students in Italy and selected through a nationwide competition.
Key Facts
Tina and Milo are sibling stoats chosen as mascots for their agility and adaptability.
Tina, the lighter-colored stoat, represents the Olympic Winter Games and embodies creativity and a love for nature.
Milo, who has darker fur and is missing a back paw, represents the Paralympic Games and symbolizes overcoming obstacles.
The names Tina and Milo are derived from the host cities Cortina d’Ampezzo and Milan.
The mascots were designed by students from the Istituto Comprensivo of Taverna and unveiled at the Sanremo Music Festival in 2024.
The other finalist design, a group of snowdrops called "The Flo," will also feature in the Games.
The mascots will appear in branding and promotional activities to promote creativity, resilience, and environmental themes before the Games.
Tennis players like Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula have spoken out about privacy concerns due to cameras filming them in private areas at the Australian Open. The cameras record behind-the-scenes footage, which some players feel is too intrusive. Tennis Australia states the cameras are meant to help fans connect more with players.
Key Facts
Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula have voiced concerns about privacy at the Australian Open.
Cameras record players in areas like the gym and corridors since 2019.
Some players feel watched constantly, similar to being "animals in a zoo."
Tournament organizers claim the footage helps fans connect with players.
Jessica Pegula plans to discuss privacy concerns further with the Australian Open.
Past incidents, like Coco Gauff smashing a racquet, prompted calls for more privacy.
Cameras capture both tense and lighter moments for fans.
Tennis Australia wants to balance player privacy with fan engagement.
Congressman Ilhan Omar was attacked with an "unknown liquid" during a town hall in Minneapolis. The attacker was quickly arrested, and no serious harm was reported. This incident is part of a growing number of threats against U.S. lawmakers.
Key Facts
Ilhan Omar, a U.S. Congresswoman, was targeted at a town hall meeting.
A man sprayed her with an unknown liquid using a syringe.
The attacker was identified as Anthony Kazmierczak, aged 55.
Minneapolis police arrested and charged him with third-degree assault.
Omar continued the town hall after the incident without injury.
The Capitol Police reported a rise in threats against Congress members, nearly 15,000 last year.
Google has introduced an updated AI guide for U.S. city leaders, called the "Mayors AI Playbook." The initiative aims to help cities implement AI in local government services. Google and other tech companies are eager to secure government contracts as cities invest more in technology.
Key Facts
Google released a new version of the "Mayors AI Playbook" with the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
The playbook provides guidance on using AI in city government operations.
Cities are investing more in technology but often lack the expertise to use AI effectively.
Google aims to help cities by offering AI-related services like cloud storage and cybersecurity.
Tech companies like OpenAI and Anthropic are also competing to provide AI solutions to cities.
A study found that almost half of surveyed local government officials considered AI a low priority.
Google shared examples of AI use in cities like New York City and Miami, which use AI to tackle tasks such as cybersecurity and zoning verification.
A recent shooting in Minneapolis has reignited national discussion and criticism over immigration policies under President Trump. Public reactions include condemnations from major corporations and widespread online criticism of immigration enforcement. President Trump has called for an investigation and is engaging with local leaders to address the situation.
Key Facts
Alex Pretti was killed in Minneapolis, causing public outcry.
This incident disrupted post-2024 election calm and increased corporate involvement in social issues.
Over 60 business leaders and sports teams have condemned the shooting.
Public confidence in ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is low.
Anti-ICE sentiments are increasingly visible on social media.
President Trump requested an investigation into the shooting.
Trump is distancing himself from those who labeled Pretti negatively.
WWE's Royal Rumble 2026 event takes place in Riyadh, with key matches in both the men's and women's divisions. Roman Reigns and Bianca Belair are among the favorites to win the Royal Rumble matches. Drew McIntyre is defending his Undisputed WWE Championship against Sami Zayn.
Key Facts
The event is named "Royal Rumble 2026" and is happening in Riyadh.
Roman Reigns and Bron Breakker are top contenders for the men's Royal Rumble match.
Bianca Belair and Liv Morgan are favorites for the women's Royal Rumble match.
Drew McIntyre will defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against Sami Zayn.
AJ Styles may end his wrestling career if he loses to Gunther.
The event features potential surprise appearances by wrestlers like Brock Lesnar.
The winners could earn title matches at future events like WrestleMania 42.
A man sprayed an unknown substance on Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall in Minneapolis. The incident happened amid high tensions over federal immigration actions, including a recent fatal shooting by immigration agents.
Key Facts
A man sprayed Rep. Ilhan Omar with an unknown substance at a Minneapolis town hall.
The audience members subdued the man after the incident.
The event occurred during increased tension over immigration enforcement.
Federal agents recently shot and killed an ICU nurse and mother in Minneapolis.
Rep. Omar called for the abolition of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Omar also urged for the resignation or impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
There are growing calls in Congress for Noem to resign after the recent shootings.
Few Republicans are supporting Secretary Noem in light of these events.
Charli XCX's mockumentary "The Moment," which premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, depicts a satirical view of fame and the music industry. The film features Kylie Jenner in a brief role and stars Charli XCX along with other notable actors. "The Moment" received mixed reviews, with some critics praising performances, especially from Charli XCX and Kylie Jenner.
Key Facts
"The Moment" is a satirical mockumentary about fame in the music industry.
The film premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.
Charli XCX, a musician whose real name is Charlotte Aitchison, stars in the film.
The film's directors and writers include Aidan Zamiri and Bertie Brandes.
The cast includes Rosanna Arquette, Kate Berlant, Jamie Demetriou, and others.
Kylie Jenner appears as herself and received positive reviews for her brief role.
Critics have mixed opinions about the film, but some praised Charli XCX's acting.
The film is set for general release on January 30, 2026.
A Russian drone attack hit a passenger train in Ukraine's Kharkiv region, resulting in the deaths of at least five people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the action terrorism.
Key Facts
A Russian drone attacked a passenger train in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine.
At least five people were killed in this attack.
The incident took place in northeastern Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy described the attack as terrorism.
The attack involves the use of drones, which are unmanned flying devices.
The Buffalo Bills have appointed Joe Brady as their new head coach. Brady signed a five-year contract, making him the youngest head coach in the NFL. Reactions to his promotion have been mixed among fans.
Key Facts
The Buffalo Bills promoted Joe Brady to head coach.
Brady signed a five-year contract with the team.
He will be the youngest head coach in the NFL.
Brady previously served as the team's offensive coordinator starting in 2023.
He has a close relationship with quarterback Josh Allen.
Fans have expressed varied opinions on social media about the decision.
Brady and the Bills will prepare for the 2026-27 season, which includes eight home games and nine away games.
Clorox must pay a $14.15 million penalty for not reporting a bacterial contamination risk in its Pine-Sol cleaners as soon as they knew about it. The government said Clorox delayed telling them about the problem, which could cause harm. The company has agreed to improve its internal safety procedures.
Key Facts
Clorox is paying a $14.15 million fine for delayed reporting of a bacterial risk in some cleaners.
The problem involved Pine-Sol scented multi-surface cleaners.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) criticized Clorox for not reporting this issue right away.
Clorox knew of potential contamination from as early as 2019 but only announced a recall in 2022.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a type of bacteria, was found in the products, posing a risk to people with weakened immune systems.
As part of the penalty, Clorox must enhance its safety measures and report on compliance efforts annually.
The CPSC focuses on minimizing injuries and deaths related to consumer products.
Uini Atonio, a rugby player for France, retired after being hospitalized for a heart issue. Atonio, who played internationally for France, has been a part of the French team since 2011 and contributed to several major victories. He was admitted to intensive care but is now stable.
Key Facts
Uini Atonio retired due to a health issue related to his heart.
He was admitted to a hospital in La Rochelle and is now in stable condition.
Atonio made his debut for France's national rugby team in 2014.
He played 68 matches for France, achieving significant victories like the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2022 and 2025.
Atonio was part of the squad selected for the World Cups in 2015 and 2023.
He spent his entire club career with La Rochelle, helping them win major titles.
Atonio's career began in New Zealand, where he was born, before moving to France for better opportunities.
More than 70,000 people have left Tirah, a region in northwestern Pakistan, due to fears of a military operation against the Pakistan Taliban. The government says bad weather, rather than military actions, is causing the exodus. Local authorities dispute this, and there are ongoing tensions about the possibility of military involvement in the area.
Key Facts
Over 70,000 people, mainly women and children, have fled Tirah, a region bordering Afghanistan.
Fears of a military offensive against the Pakistan Taliban prompted many to leave.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister says no military operation is planned, citing weather as the cause for the migration.
The exodus started after announcements urged residents to leave by January 23 to avoid conflict.
The Tirah area has a history of military activity, including a recent campaign against the Taliban in Bajaur.
Local authorities blame the federal government for the hardships faced by the displaced.
Approximately 10,000 families have registered as displaced, with an extended deadline until February 5.
Residents report recent violence, including mortar explosions, causing deaths and injuries.
Major League Soccer (MLS) has teamed up with Walmart to introduce the "Walmart Saturday Showdown," a weekly soccer match feature. Each Saturday, a key match will be highlighted and broadcasted on Apple TV and MLS platforms, starting February 21. The initiative aims to enhance fan engagement and foster a sense of community around soccer.
Key Facts
The "Walmart Saturday Showdown" will feature one highlighted match every Saturday during the MLS regular season.
Matches will be shown on Apple TV and MLS platforms with special features like the "Shot on iPhone" view.
Initial matches include LAFC vs. Inter Miami CF and LA Galaxy vs. Sporting Kansas City.
The first match will start on February 21 between Inter Miami CF and LAFC.
The initiative is part of a multiyear partnership between MLS and Walmart to boost fan engagement.
An immersive fan experience event in Los Angeles is scheduled for February 20, before the league’s opening weekend.
The goal is to make soccer matchdays more accessible and community-oriented for fans.
Maine Governor Janet Mills proposed sending $300 checks to approximately 725,000 residents to help with rising living costs. The proposal targets individuals earning under certain income thresholds and would be funded by the state's Budget Stabilization Fund. The initiative is part of an effort to provide financial relief amid growing economic pressures.
Key Facts
Maine Governor Janet Mills proposed $300 checks for residents to ease financial burdens.
The proposal targets individuals making under $75,000, heads of households under $112,500, and married couples under $150,000.
Approximately 725,000 people in Maine are estimated to be eligible for these checks.
The proposal could cost around $218 million, funded by the state’s Budget Stabilization Fund.
Maine’s Budget Stabilization Fund has over $1 billion, thanks to budget surpluses.
Democrats hold a majority in Maine’s state legislature, which will need to approve the measure.
Rising living costs in Maine have been driven by issues like tariffs and high home prices.
Oxfam refuses to give Israel the personal details of its Palestinian staff working in Gaza due to their ongoing humanitarian work amid conflict. Israel required NGOs, including Oxfam, to provide detailed information about their staff, which Oxfam has declined, citing concerns over safety and humanitarian principles. The situation has resulted in the withdrawal of licenses for multiple aid groups in the region.
Key Facts
Oxfam decided not to give Israel personal data about its Palestinian staff in Gaza, citing safety and humanitarian reasons.
Israel has demanded detailed information from NGOs about their workers in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.
Israel withdrew the licenses of 37 aid groups, including Oxfam and the Norwegian Refugee Council, for not meeting "security and transparency standards."
Over 500 humanitarian workers have been reported killed since October 7, 2023.
Israel's Ministry for Diaspora Affairs wants NGOs to give details such as passport copies and names of family members.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) agreed to a limited sharing of staff information, prioritizing safety.
The Palestinian NGOs Network criticized those complying with Israel’s demands, calling it a violation of international humanitarian law.
Israel claims that 23 organizations have agreed to these registration rules.
A U.S. Representative explained why he voted for a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill. The bill aims to improve oversight and accountability, especially concerning the use of force policies by federal agents and transparency of DHS operations. Key elements include increased funding for oversight measures and body cameras for immigration enforcement.
Key Facts
The DHS funding bill aims to ensure public safety with strong oversight and accountability.
The bill includes $20 million for body-worn cameras for ICE and Border Patrol.
The bill provides increased funding for the DHS Inspector General to oversee spending and operations.
The legislation emphasizes the importance of respecting human life in federal law enforcement actions.
Congress will oversee how nearly $200 billion in DHS funding is spent, including through the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act.
The bill ensures Americans can record DHS law enforcement operations under the First Amendment.
DHS agents will receive training on the public's right to observe and record their operations.
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations funding was cut by $115 million.
