UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the United Nations is facing a serious financial crisis due to unpaid dues from its member states. Guterres sent a letter urging these countries to either pay their dues or agree to change how the UN handles its finances. This warning comes as the US, under President Donald Trump, has reduced its financial contributions to the UN.
Key Facts
The UN is facing financial problems because member states have not paid their dues.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sent a letter to all UN member states about this issue.
Guterres asked member states to pay their dues or change the UN's financial rules.
President Trump has reduced US contributions to the UN and announced plans to leave some UN agencies.
The US contributes 22% of the UN's core budget, while China contributes 20%.
As of now, 36 out of 193 member states have paid their 2026 dues.
By the end of 2025, there was $1.57 billion in unpaid dues.
The UN budget for 2026 was reduced by 7% compared to the previous year.
"Bridgerton" Season 4 began streaming on Netflix with the first four episodes available on January 29, 2026. The remaining four episodes will be released on February 26, 2026. Viewers need a Netflix subscription to watch the series.
Key Facts
"Bridgerton" Season 4 premiered on Netflix on January 29, 2026, with the first four episodes.
The season will have a total of eight episodes.
Episodes 5 through 8 will be released on February 26, 2026.
Episodes will be available at midnight Pacific Time (PT) on February 26.
A Netflix subscription is required, with prices starting at $7.99 per month for a standard plan with ads.
The show follows character Benedict Bridgerton as he navigates life and love against a fairy-tale inspired backdrop.
A fifth season of "Bridgerton" has been confirmed.
This article discusses a promotional offer from Kalshi where users can receive a $10 bonus for making $100 in trades on NBA games. It highlights various NBA matchups and allows users to predict whether Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo will be traded before the deadline. The article provides information on signing up and using the promo code NEWSWEEK.
Key Facts
Kalshi offers a $10 bonus for users who trade at least $100 on NBA games.
Nine NBA games are available for users to predict outcomes.
The NBA trade deadline is approaching, creating more interest in futures predictions.
Kalshi allows predictions on various events, including sports and politics.
A major focus is on whether Milwaukee Bucks player Giannis Antetokounmpo will be traded.
Users can make predictions on which team Antetokounmpo might join.
To claim the bonus, users need to register with the promo code NEWSWEEK.
The Los Angeles Lakers will play against the Washington Wizards in an NBA game on Friday night. The Lakers are performing well this season, while the Wizards are struggling. The game airs on Spectrum SportsNet and can be streamed on DIRECTV.
Key Facts
The game is scheduled for Friday, January 29, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET.
The Lakers have a strong season record at 28-18 and are first in the Pacific Division.
Luka Doncic leads the Lakers, averaging 33.8 points and 8.8 assists per game.
The Wizards have a season record of 11-34 and are near the bottom of the Eastern Conference.
Trae Young joined the Wizards but has not yet played in games.
The game will be broadcast on Spectrum SportsNet and can be live-streamed on DIRECTV.
The U.S. Department of Justice has released more than 3 million documents and other media related to Jeffrey Epstein, as required by a Congressional law intended to increase transparency. President Trump and others have been mentioned in these documents, but there is no indication of any covered-up wrongdoing. The release still faced criticism for the heavy use of redactions.
Key Facts
The Justice Department released over 3 million pages, 2,000 videos, and 180,000 images about Epstein.
This release was required by the Epstein Files Transparency Act, passed by Congress.
The release faced scrutiny for heavy redactions to protect victims' privacy and ongoing investigations.
President Trump was mentioned in the documents, including past associations with Epstein but no evidence of criminal involvement.
The documents show various influential people in association with Epstein, though no new charges have been made against them.
Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s former associate, remains the only person charged and convicted in connection with Epstein’s activities.
Epstein died in jail in 2019 while facing federal charges for sex trafficking.
Melania Trump talked about her security concerns following two assassination attempts on President Donald Trump in 2024 in a new documentary. The film, titled "Melania," covers the weeks leading up to Trump's second inauguration and highlights her worries about safety during public appearances. The documentary has received significant investment but reportedly had low attendance at theaters.
Key Facts
The documentary "Melania" opened in theaters and covers events before President Trump's second inauguration in January 2025.
In July 2024, an assassination attempt at a campaign rally injured President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Another assassination attempt was foiled in September 2024 while Trump was playing golf in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Melania Trump expresses safety concerns for herself and her family throughout the documentary.
The film, directed by Brett Ratner, cost Amazon $75 million in total, which includes production and marketing expenses.
Despite the high production cost, theater attendance for the documentary was low nationwide.
Melania highlighted relief when the inauguration moved indoors due to weather, citing increased security.
Luka Doncic experienced an ankle injury during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite this, he plans to play in the Lakers' next game against the Washington Wizards. Other players like Austin Reaves are also listed as questionable due to injuries.
Key Facts
Luka Doncic hurt his ankle during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The injury happened after an awkward fall on the court.
JJ Redick mentioned a history of injuries on the Cavaliers' court.
Doncic is on the injury report as questionable but expects to play against the Washington Wizards.
Austin Reaves, another Lakers player, is dealing with a left calf strain and is also questionable for the game.
LeBron James started the season late due to past injuries.
The Lakers and Wizards are scheduled to play at 7 PM ET on Friday.
The latest episode of "All In With Ashley" features an interview with Adam Levitan, co-founder of Establish The Run. They discuss the best player prop bets for Super Bowl 60, including predictions on MVP Sam Darnold and possible touchdown scores.
Key Facts
The show "All In With Ashley" is focusing on Super Bowl 60 bets.
Adam Levitan, a guest on the show, co-founded Establish The Run.
They talk about various bets, including who might score a touchdown.
The discussion involves betting on the Super Bowl MVP, Sam Darnold.
They discuss a total game score prediction of 45.5 points.
Players like Rashid Shaheed, Mack Hollins, and George Holani were mentioned for touchdown bets.
U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro visited an ICE detention center in Dilley, Texas, where he met detained children, including a 5-year-old named Liam Ramos. Liam was detained with his father while returning home from school, and his case has gained widespread attention. Concerns have been raised about the conditions at the detention facility, including inadequate care and poor living conditions.
Key Facts
Rep. Joaquin Castro visited a detention center in Dilley, Texas.
Liam Ramos, a 5-year-old, was detained by ICE with his father.
The Department of Homeland Security said they were targeting the father, not the child.
There are claims of poor conditions at the facility, such as bad medical care and contaminated food.
The case has gained national attention and calls for the release of Liam and his father.
Other children and families at the facility also report distressing conditions.
Rep. Castro shared stories of traumatized children he met during his visit.
The article discusses a promotion for the sports betting app Betr, highlighting a $210 bonus offer when users sign up with a specific promo code. It mentions the opportunity to bet on various NBA games and potential player picks for an exciting basketball lineup. The app is linked to social media figures Jake and Logan Paul.
Key Facts
Betr offers a $210 bonus for new users who sign up with the promo code "NEWSWEEK".
The promotion includes a $10 instant bonus and up to $200 more with a 50% deposit match.
The bonus is available for upcoming NBA games such as Trail Blazers-Knicks and Cavaliers-Suns.
Betr Picks is a fantasy sports app co-owned by Jake and Logan Paul.
Notable NBA players available for picks include Zion Williamson and Stephen Curry.
The promotion requires users to make entries with players from at least two different teams.
The app allows users to choose between different payout options and the amount they want to risk.
Shares of Bombardier, a Canadian airplane company, dropped after President Donald Trump threatened a 50% tax on Canadian-made planes. Trump's statement raised concerns and confusion among airplane buyers and companies. Bombardier is in talks with the Canadian government to address the issue.
Key Facts
Bombardier's stock fell 9% after Trump's tariff threat.
Trump warned of a 50% tax on Canadian planes unless Canada approves US Gulfstream planes.
Bombardier employs over 3,000 people in the US and works with 2,800 US suppliers.
There are tensions between Canada and the US over trade policies.
US airlines like American Airlines and Delta use many Canadian-made planes.
Bombardier said it is discussing the issue with the Canadian government.
There are 5,425 Canadian-made aircraft in the US, including various types of jets and helicopters.
The last full Moon of the meteorological winter, called the Snow Moon, will be visible on Sunday, if cloud cover allows. It will rise in London at 16:13 GMT and set at 08:06 GMT on 2 February. The Snow Moon gets its name from the heavy snowfall typically seen in February in the northern hemisphere.
Key Facts
The Snow Moon is the last full Moon of the meteorological winter.
In London, the Moon will rise at 16:13 GMT on Sunday and set at 08:06 GMT on Monday.
A full Moon occurs when the Sun and Moon are on opposite sides of Earth.
February's full Moon is called the Snow Moon due to the usual heavy snowfalls this time of year.
Cloud cover might affect visibility; Northern Ireland might have the clearest skies.
The Moon's peak brightness occurs at 10:09 GMT but remains visible when it rises at night.
There will be an extra full Moon on 31 May, known as a Blue Moon, the second in its month.
A Micromoon, which appears smaller than usual, is the opposite of a supermoon.
A judge in New York dismissed some charges against Luigi Mangione, which prevents seeking the death penalty in the case related to the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO, Brian Thompson. Mangione still faces other charges that could lead to a life sentence. Jury selection for his federal case is set to start in September.
Key Facts
A New York judge dismissed murder and weapons charges against Luigi Mangione.
This dismissal stops prosecutors from seeking the death penalty against him.
Mangione still faces federal stalking charges that could result in life imprisonment.
He also faces state-level murder charges with the same potential life sentence.
Mangione is accused of killing Brian Thompson, UnitedHealthcare's CEO, in December 2024.
Surveillance video showed a masked gunman shooting Thompson from behind.
Jury selection for the federal trial is scheduled to begin on September 8.
President Trump’s administration aimed to execute him, but the judge's ruling blocked this path.
Newly released documents show that Elon Musk exchanged emails with Jeffrey Epstein in 2012 and 2013 about visiting Epstein’s private island in the Caribbean. The emails discuss potential travel plans, but it's unclear if Musk ever visited. Musk has previously denied visiting Epstein's island.
Key Facts
Emails between Elon Musk and Jeffrey Epstein were released, covering discussions from 2012 and 2013.
The emails mention travel arrangements to Epstein’s private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Epstein asked Musk how many people would be visiting by helicopter, and Musk mentioned himself and actress Talulah Riley.
Epstein suggested Musk visit after New Year and later offered to organize transportation.
It is unclear if Elon Musk ever visited the island.
Musk has publicly stated that he rejected Epstein’s invitations to visit the island.
Epstein died in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
A driver named Anthony Gilheaney was sentenced to life in prison for killing one man and injuring others in a drink-fueled car rampage in London's West End on Christmas Day. He was convicted of murder and other charges after driving into several people. The trial revealed his actions included racist and homophobic intentions.
Key Facts
Anthony Gilheaney, 32, was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 37 years.
He was found guilty of murder, attempted murder, and causing serious injuries.
The incident happened in London's West End on Christmas Day.
Gilheaney drove a Mercedes into people, killing Aidan Chapman and injuring others.
He targeted people after drinking and fighting, showing racist and homophobic motives.
The police arrested him after a high-speed chase through London.
Victim Impact Statements from Aidan Chapman's family expressed their grief.
Gilheaney's criminal record began at age 14, and he has shown remorse for his actions.
Border collies have consistently excelled in the Masters Agility Championship at the Westminster Dog Show since it began in 2014. The breed has won nine out of the twelve championships due to their intelligence and agility. In the 2025 competition, Emily Klarman's border collie, Swish, won the title.
Key Facts
Border collies have dominated the Masters Agility Championship since it started in 2014.
They have won nine out of the first twelve titles in this competition.
Their success is due to their intelligence, athleticism, and focus.
Emily Klarman's border collie, Swish, won the 2025 championship.
The Westminster Dog Show celebrated its 150th anniversary in early February.
President Donald Trump plans to nominate Kevin Warsh as the next chair of the Federal Reserve. Warsh would replace Jerome Powell when his term ends in May, if the Senate confirms him.
Key Facts
President Trump nominated Kevin Warsh for Federal Reserve chair.
The Federal Reserve is an independent agency that influences interest rates.
Warsh would take over from current Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
Jerome Powell was also nominated by President Trump previously.
President Trump has been pushing for lower interest rates.
Alexander Isak transferred from Newcastle United to Liverpool for a record fee, causing significant changes for both teams. Newcastle had to adapt after losing Isak, who was a key player. Isak is currently unable to play due to a leg injury.
Key Facts
Alexander Isak moved from Newcastle United to Liverpool for £125 million.
Isak scored 27 goals for Newcastle in the previous season.
His transfer was a topic of major discussion in football.
Isak is out with a leg injury and will not play against Newcastle.
Newcastle struggled to replace Isak, eventually signing Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa.
Wissa had a delayed debut due to a knee injury playing for DR Congo.
Woltemade took on a major role despite being new to playing outside Germany.
Newcastle and Liverpool will meet for the first time since the transfer deal.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has announced his opposition to an effort led by Republicans to expel Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick from Congress. This expulsion attempt stems from allegations of financial misconduct against her, but Jeffries believes it will fail since it requires a two-thirds majority and lacks sufficient Democratic support.
Key Facts
Hakeem Jeffries opposes the expulsion of Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.
The expulsion requires a two-thirds majority vote to pass.
Republican Rep. Greg Steube is leading the effort to expel Cherfilus-McCormick.
Allegations include laundering a COVID contract payment and campaign finance violations.
Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted in November but claims innocence.
Jeffries argues the expulsion attempt lacks solid legal basis and due process.
A special election in Texas may soon increase Democratic seats in the House.
The Kansas City Chiefs are looking to improve their running game to support quarterback Patrick Mahomes. They are considering adding a new player, Travis Etienne Jr., who has a strong track record, to help balance their offense. The team's running performance has been lacking, which affected their recent season outcomes and highlighted the need for a more effective running back.
Key Facts
The Kansas City Chiefs want to strengthen their running game for the upcoming season.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been under a lot of pressure due to a lack of effective running backs.
The Chiefs have struggled with running the ball effectively in recent seasons.
Travis Etienne Jr. is a potential candidate to join the Chiefs and improve their running game.
In 2025, Etienne had over 1,100 rushing yards, showing he can be a strong addition.
The Chiefs missed the playoffs in 2025 due to inadequate performance in both running and receiving.
The team's recent injuries, including Mahomes', have increased the need for a reliable running back.
