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On January 24, 2026, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse and immigration protester, was fatally shot by a federal Border Patrol agent during an ICE operation in Minneapolis. Officials claim Pretti approached armed officers with a handgun and resisted disarmament, prompting defensive gunfire. Videos show Pretti holding a phone, not a weapon, sparking protests and political backlash amid ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement in Minnesota.
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On January 22, 2026, former President Donald Trump filed a $5 billion lawsuit in Miami-Dade County, Florida, accusing JPMorgan Chase and CEO Jamie Dimon of politically motivated 'debanking' in February 2021. Trump alleges abrupt closure of multiple accounts with 60 days' notice disrupted his businesses and placed him on a banking 'blacklist.' JPMorgan denies political motives, citing legal and regulatory risks.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom and former President Donald Trump exchanged sharp words at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Newsom criticized Trump and California’s leadership, while Trump defended his record and relationship with Newsom. The week saw ongoing political sparring and international disputes, highlighting deepening US political tensions.
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The US launched Trump's 'Board of Peace' for Gaza reconstruction, but it faces widespread skepticism. Key countries, including Israel and the UK, oppose the initiative, citing legitimacy and regional concerns. Netanyahu's rejection of US invitations highlights tensions over regional influence and governance structures.
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One year into his presidency, the leader has taken sweeping actions that challenge traditional norms, including unilaterally restructuring agencies, issuing broad pardons, deploying military and law enforcement, and hinting at a third term. Experts see this as a move to expand executive authority, sparking debate over constitutional limits.
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President Trump is intensifying his foreign policy ambitions, including efforts to acquire Greenland, while facing growing domestic criticism over his handling of immigration, the economy, and international alliances amid rising global tensions and internal unpopularity.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized President Trump and the US government during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. He accused the US of abandoning the rule of law, was denied entry to a scheduled fireside chat, and engaged in public sparring with Trump allies. The event signals his potential 2028 presidential ambitions.
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On January 29, 2026, Venezuela's National Assembly passed a bill reforming the oil sector to allow private and foreign companies operational control, reversing decades of state monopoly. The Trump administration eased sanctions on Venezuelan oil, signaling increased US involvement following the January 3 US military capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez supports the reforms amid ongoing political tensions and US pressure.
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A historic winter storm has caused at least 38 deaths across 14 US states, with widespread power outages and dangerous cold temperatures. Emergency responses are ongoing, and the storm's impact is expected to persist with more snow and freezing conditions into early February.
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On February 2, 2026, the US government announced Project Vault, a $12 billion strategic stockpile of critical minerals funded by a $10 billion loan from the US Export-Import Bank and $1.67 billion in private capital. The initiative aims to reduce US dependence on China’s dominance in rare earth minerals, securing vital materials for manufacturing vehicles, electronics, and defense technologies. Over 55 countries are collaborating to diversify supply chains, while Japan pursues deep-sea mining innovations.
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The White House posted a manipulated image of civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong after her arrest, depicting her as hysterical. The image was widely criticized for spreading misinformation and undermining trust in government communications. The story highlights concerns over AI-generated disinformation in political messaging.
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Following the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minnesota, the Trump administration faces mounting criticism. Initial claims labeling Pretti a 'domestic terrorist' have softened amid video evidence and political backlash. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was attacked with a syringe during a town hall while condemning immigration enforcement. President Trump has ordered de-escalation and reassigned key officials amid calls for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's resignation.
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A documentary about Melania Trump, covering her final days as first lady, premiered at the Kennedy Center and in theaters nationwide. It offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at her transition into the role, with mixed reviews and high-profile attendees, amid questions over its political neutrality and funding.
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The Trump administration announced a partial withdrawal of 700 federal immigration enforcement officers from Minnesota amid ongoing protests and controversy over the deaths of two US citizens at the hands of federal agents. The move follows increased cooperation with local authorities and public pressure after fatal shootings by federal officers. The operation, which began over two months ago, has resulted in thousands of arrests and widespread unrest.
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Recent reports highlight the growing threat of AI-generated misinformation, with fake news spreading rapidly online. Experts warn this complicates public trust and investigations, especially in high-profile cases like the Southport murders and international incidents. Authorities call for urgent regulation and oversight.
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Former US President Donald Trump met with Honduran President Asfura at Mar-a-Lago, emphasizing security cooperation against cartels and migration. The meeting follows recent Honduran elections and Trump's controversial pardon of ex-president Hernandez, highlighting ongoing US-Honduras relations amid regional security concerns.
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Stephen Miller, deputy chief of staff, uses encrypted apps and graphic imagery to influence policy and public opinion, bypassing traditional channels. His private methods and direct public statements have increased his influence during Trump's second term, raising concerns about transparency and unchecked authority.
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Recent data indicates a sluggish US labor market with low job creation, declining job openings, and rising layoffs. Despite strong GDP growth, hiring remains subdued, raising questions about the economy's resilience and the Federal Reserve's future interest rate decisions.
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On February 19, 2026, the inaugural Board of Peace meeting chaired by former US President Donald Trump convened in Washington, D.C., with delegations from over 20 countries including Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The meeting aimed to raise billions for Gaza's reconstruction and discuss deploying an international stabilization force amid ongoing ceasefire violations and political tensions.
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On February 6-7, 2026, the US and India announced a trade framework reducing US tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, contingent on India halting Russian oil imports. India agreed to lower tariffs on US industrial and agricultural products and commit to $500 billion in US purchases over five years. The deal faces domestic opposition in India, especially from farmers and unions concerned about agricultural exposure.
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The 'Housing for the 21st Century Act' passed without a White House-backed investor ban, despite efforts from the Biden administration. The debate centers on whether limiting large institutional investors can make homes more affordable amid rising prices and low sales. The White House views the bill as incomplete without this restriction.
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On February 12, 2026, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized the repeal of the 2009 'endangerment finding' that classified greenhouse gases as threats to public health. Led by the Trump administration and EPA head Lee Zeldin, this marks the largest climate deregulation in US history, removing federal greenhouse gas emission standards for vehicles and threatening broader climate regulations. The rollback aims to reduce costs for automakers and fossil fuel industries but faces strong opposition from environmental groups and legal challenges.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky plans to announce election and referendum conditions amid US deadlines for peace. Russia continues missile and drone attacks disrupting energy supplies, while EU and US efforts seek a sustainable peace plan. Tensions remain high as negotiations stall and military strikes persist.
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U.S. Vice President Vance visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan, describing it as an honor to victims. An initial social media post calling it a 'genocide' was deleted after staff error. The incident highlights sensitivities around the term and U.S.-Turkey-Armenia relations.
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Nancy Guthrie, 84, was abducted from her Tucson home in early February. Authorities released images of a masked, armed individual tampering with her doorbell camera. The case has garnered national attention, with public appeals and ongoing investigations, but no suspects have been identified.
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The US and Israel are intensifying efforts to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions through diplomatic negotiations and military posturing. While talks in Oman and Geneva continue, the US has deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford to the Middle East, signaling increased readiness for potential conflict. Netanyahu remains skeptical of a deal.
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A federal judge in Illinois temporarily blocked the Trump administration from rescinding $600 million in public health grants allocated to four Democratic-led states, citing potential harm and constitutional violations. The case highlights ongoing political and legal battles over federal funding for health programs.
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The Biden administration's vehicle emissions standards are effectively eliminated following the Trump administration's regulatory rollbacks, including the end of greenhouse gas regulations and credits for start-stop technology. California plans to sue to maintain stricter standards amid industry support for deregulation.
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On February 5, 2026, President Trump's Truth Social account posted a video falsely alleging 2020 election fraud, ending with a brief clip depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. The post drew bipartisan condemnation, including from Republican senators. The White House initially defended the post as a meme, then deleted it, blaming a staffer. Trump denied seeing the full video and refused to apologize.
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President Trump delivered a lengthy prime-time speech to Congress, aiming to rally support amid economic setbacks, Supreme Court rulings, and escalating tensions with Iran. He highlighted economic gains, border policies, and peace efforts, while facing criticism over tariffs and his tone towards the judiciary.
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President Trump announced a new pledge requiring major tech firms to build their own power plants to meet rising electricity demands from AI data centers. The initiative aims to prevent higher consumer costs amid record power demand and utility rate hikes across the US, with several companies already planning on-site power solutions.
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On February 25, 2026, a speedboat registered in Florida entered Cuban territorial waters near Villa Clara province. Cuban border guards approached the vessel, which then opened fire, wounding a Cuban commander. Four of the ten men aboard the boat were killed, six wounded. The boat's occupants were Cuban-Americans allegedly aiming for infiltration with terrorist intent. The incident heightens US-Cuba tensions amid ongoing energy and political crises.
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On February 25-26, 2026, the Trump administration, led by Vice President JD Vance, announced a $259 million withholding of Medicaid funds to Minnesota, citing fraud concerns. Governor Tim Walz condemned the move as politically motivated retribution, highlighting ongoing disputes over fraud allegations and state efforts to improve oversight. The state has submitted a corrective plan and awaits federal response.
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Brady Tkachuk, captain of the NHL's Ottawa Senators, refutes a fabricated AI video showing him insulting Canada, calling it clearly fake. He also dismisses claims he shouted 'close the northern border' during Team USA's Olympic celebration. The story highlights concerns over AI manipulation and political tensions following the Winter Olympics.