Seton Hall baseball player Justin Ford sustained a catastrophic leg injury during a celebratory hop after hitting a two-run home run at the Puerto Rico Challenge. His left ankle buckled awkwardly upon landing, forcing him out of the game and likely ending his junior season. The injury occurred as Seton Hall briefly took a 4-3 lead against Boston College, a lead they ultimately could not hold, losing 6-4. The incident highlights the unpredictable risks in sports, even during moments of triumph.

15/100

Four astronauts from NASA's SpaceX Crew-12 mission successfully docked at the International Space Station on Saturday afternoon, following their Friday morning launch from Cape Canaveral. The crew, comprising two NASA astronauts, a French astronaut, and a Russian cosmonaut, will embark on an eight-month mission. Their primary objectives include conducting scientific research crucial for future deep-space human exploration and enhancing food production in orbit. This mission replaces the Crew-11 team, which departed early due to a medical evacuation, restoring the station's full staffing complement.

90/100

Burglars ransacked 14 of 728 safe-deposit boxes at a bank in Stuhr, Lower Saxony, Germany, though police have not yet identified the perpetrators or the stolen contents. The break-in occurred between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. local time, with witnesses reporting three men in blue overalls near the bank. A pungent, nauseating liquid was found at the crime scene, prompting treatment for two bank employees, though it posed no health risk. This incident follows a similar heist in Gelsenkirchen a month prior, where €30 million was stolen.

20/100

A year-long investigation by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office led to the bust of a massive brothel ring spanning over 30 residential and hotel locations across California, resulting in two arrests. Kebin Dong and Wei Nie, identified as operators of a sex services website featuring over 60 female sex workers, were apprehended in Hacienda Heights on suspicion of pimping, pandering, and conspiracy. Potential human trafficking victims were discovered at the sites and provided with support services. The suspects are currently held on $200,000 bail.

70/100

Great Britain's women's curling team achieved a significant upset at the Winter Olympics, defeating world champions Canada 7-6 after initial campaign struggles. Skip Sophie Jackson lauded Rebecca Morrison's fantastic play, suggesting a positive shift in momentum for the team. The men's team also secured a 7-4 victory against the Czech Republic, improving their record to three wins and one defeat, positioning them well for the semi-finals. Other British athletes competed in skeleton and big air skiing, with Tabby Stoecker finishing fifth in skeleton and Kirsty Muir qualifying for the big air final.

80/100

Former President Barack Obama criticized recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shootings in Minnesota, which resulted in two deaths, and the "unprecedented" deployment of over 2,000 agents in "Operation Metro Surge." In an interview, Obama labeled the agents' behavior as "rogue" and "dangerous," citing tactics like using children to bait parents and tear-gassing peaceful protestors. He commended the community's pushback, emphasizing that such actions do not align with American values, and expressed hope in citizens' collective efforts to restore decency.

40/100

Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Greenland's Prime Minister, firmly rejected US President Trump's attempts to acquire the autonomous Danish territory, stating it's a "red line" that compromises their integrity. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Nielsen welcomed increased military cooperation but emphasized that sovereignty is non-negotiable, despite satirical White House gestures. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also spoke, advocating for revitalized US-European alliances, though Trump's focus on Greenland as a security asset persists. The article highlights Greenland's unexpected geopolitical prominence, attracting investment and diplomatic presence since Trump's initial interest in 2019.

60/100

American speedskater Jordan Stolz won his second gold medal at the Milan Cortina Olympics, triumphing in the men's 500 meters with a new Olympic record of 33.77 seconds. This achievement places him alongside Eric Heiden as the only skaters to win both 500m and 1000m golds at the same Games. In other Olympic news, Brazil's Lucas Pinheiro Braathen made history by winning South America's first Winter Olympics gold in alpine giant slalom. Norway also saw Maren Kirkeeide take biathlon sprint gold and secured a cross-country relay victory after a Swedish competitor's ski binding snapped.

85/100

Figure skater Ilia Malinin, dubbed "the Quad God," experienced a significant setback at the Milan Cortina Olympics, falling from favorite to eighth place in the men's free skate. The 21-year-old struggled under the immense pressure, failing to execute the anticipated quadruple axel and making multiple mistakes. Former Olympic champion Tara Lipinski highlighted the unique, overwhelming stress of the Olympic stage, for which athletes cannot fully train. Malinin expressed frustration, suggesting more prior Olympic experience might have helped, but remains determined to regroup and dominate the sport in the future.

45/100

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reassured European leaders at the Munich Security Conference that the US would not abandon the transatlantic alliance, emphasizing their intertwined destinies and a desire to revitalize their friendship. While criticizing European policies on immigration, trade, and climate, his tone was notably more conciliatory than previous Trump administration remarks. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed reassurance, highlighting a shared goal for a strong Europe. Rubio also discussed the need to rebuild international cooperation, criticizing the UN's role in current conflicts, and reiterated calls for increased European defense spending.

65/100

Scotland delivered a rampant performance to defeat England 31-20 in a thrilling Calcutta Cup match at Murrayfield, securing a bonus-point win in the Six Nations. Orchestrated by Finn Russell, Scotland established a stunning 17-0 lead early on, with tries from Huw Jones, Jamie Ritchie, and Ben White. England struggled, playing 30 minutes with 14 men due to two yellow cards for Henry Arundell. Despite some English pressure and a late try, Scotland maintained control, showcasing an intensity and ruthlessness that had been absent in their previous match, sending England back to the drawing board.

85/100

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban declared the European Union a greater threat to Hungary than Russia, accusing Brussels of attempting to undermine his government by supporting the opposition. Speaking to supporters, Orban dismissed "fear-mongering about Putin" as unserious, asserting that Brussels represents a "palpable reality and a source of imminent danger." He claimed the rise of opposition leader Peter Magyar's Tisza party was orchestrated by EU figures, vowing to remove "foreign influence" from Hungarian civil society if re-elected in April. Orban, a staunch Trump ally, praised the former US president for challenging liberal global networks.

25/100

Cuba's annual Festival del Habano in Havana has been postponed indefinitely due to a severe fuel shortage exacerbated by the US oil blockade and seizure of Venezuelan oil shipments. The organizing committee cited the "complex economic situation" caused by the "economic, commercial and financial blockade" as the reason. The energy crisis has led to power cuts and aviation fuel shortages, impacting tourism and causing some airlines to suspend services. The festival, which attracts over 1,300 people globally to sample renowned Cuban cigars, aims to resume once conditions improve.

20/100

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy implored Western allies at the Munich Security Conference to expedite weapons deliveries, particularly anti-aircraft missiles, to counter Russia's extensive drone attacks and protect Ukraine's power supply. He thanked the West for support but stressed the urgent need for more, noting that missiles often arrive just before or during attacks. Zelenskyy also expressed concern over US pressure for elections during martial law and warned that Putin, whom he called a "slave to war," poses a threat beyond Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte backed the appeal, highlighting Russia's significant troop losses.

30/100

England's T20 World Cup campaign is struggling, with captain Harry Brook acknowledging the team's failure to make it "as easy as we would have liked" after a nervy win against Scotland. Despite previous World Cup successes after early losses, the team's current form, including a thrashing by West Indies, raises concerns about their ability to compete with top contenders. While opener Phil Salt believes England can be unbeatable at their best, the article highlights inconsistent batting, fielding improvements, and the need for the team to "click" soon to avoid an early exit from the tournament.

40/100

A US federal judge ruled that Venezuelan men illegally expelled to El Salvador, including Luis Muñoz Pinto, can return to the US to fight their immigration cases, with travel costs covered. Muñoz Pinto, an engineering student with no criminal record, was deported under the Alien Enemies Act after being falsely accused of gang affiliation due to tattoos. Despite the opportunity to clear his name, he expressed profound fear of re-detention and reliving the "nightmare" of abuse in El Salvador's notorious Cecot mega-prison. The Trump administration criticized the ruling, but the ACLU welcomed the decision for due process.

35/100

Archbishop Richard Moth, the newly appointed leader of Catholics in England and Wales, acknowledged the Church's failures, particularly concerning the abuse of vulnerable individuals, during his installation ceremony. He emphasized the vital yet fragile nature of the Church's evangelical work, which has been "adversely impacted by our failures in love, power and self control." Moth pledged a continuous focus on social justice and accountability, stressing the necessity of "listening to" and "learning" from those who have suffered grievously. This commitment extends to addressing major contemporary issues like peace, human dignity, and refugee plight.

70/100

Law enforcement in Tucson, Arizona, is "actively working a lead" at a residence near Nancy Guthrie's home, nearly two weeks after the 84-year-old's presumed abduction. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed the activity, linked to the missing mother of "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie. DNA not belonging to Guthrie or close contacts was found at her residence, and the FBI released a suspect description based on doorbell camera footage, showing a male wearing a ski mask, gloves, and a specific backpack. The FBI has doubled its reward to $100,000 as thousands of tips pour in, while the family pleads for her safe return.

40/100

Last week saw significant stock market swings, with industrials surging while financial and tech sectors declined due to growing artificial intelligence fears. Concerns about AI's impact on wealth management, particularly for Wells Fargo and Capital One, led to notable selloffs. Conversely, industrials like Eaton and Honeywell experienced an "Olympic-sized rally," reflecting investor confidence in economy-tied stocks. Mixed economic data, including stronger job growth and softer inflation, further complicated investor sentiment, reinforcing expectations for the Federal Reserve to maintain steady rates in March but boosting hopes for cuts later in the year. (not investment advice)

55/100

The US military announced it conducted over 30 airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Syria earlier this month, retaliating for a deadly December ambush that killed two US soldiers and an American civilian interpreter. Between February 3 and Thursday, weapons storage facilities and other IS infrastructure were hit in ten precision strikes, part of "Operation Hawkeye Strike." Since the December 13 attack in Palmyra, over 50 IS terrorists have been killed or captured, and more than 100 targets struck. This action follows the transfer of thousands of IS prisoners from Syria to Iraq for trial, and Syria's defense ministry claiming control of the Al-Tanf base.

50/100

The UK and European allies have publicly accused Russia of killing opposition leader Alexei Navalny using epibatidine, a toxin derived from a dart frog, two years after his death in a Siberian penal colony. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that "only the Russian government had the means, motive and opportunity" to deploy such a poison, which is not naturally found in Russia or produced by captive dart frogs. Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, welcomed the findings, confirming her long-held belief that her husband was poisoned. Russia has dismissed the findings as an "information campaign," while the UK informed the OPCW of the alleged Chemical Weapons Convention breach.

10/100

Newly released Justice Department documents show President Trump's longtime confidant, Tom Barrack, maintained regular and close contact with Jeffrey Epstein for years after Epstein's 2008 conviction for sexual misconduct involving teenage girls. The correspondence, analyzed by CBS News, places Barrack among influential figures who continued social and professional interactions with Epstein, even during Barrack's involvement in Trump's 2016 campaign and administration. While no evidence suggests Barrack participated in Epstein's criminal conduct, the exchanges included invitations, introductions to diplomats, and business discussions, with Epstein often encouraging encrypted communication. Barrack is currently serving as US ambassador to Turkey.

20/100

One week into the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Norway leads the overall medal count, including the most gold medals. Team USA has secured several golds, with Breezy Johnson winning in women's downhill and American figure skaters claiming gold in the team event, notably aided by Ilia Malinin. Other US medalists include Ben Ogden (cross-country silver), Alex Hall (freestyle ski silver), and Jordan Stolz (two speedskating golds). Brazil also made history with Lucas Pinheiro Braathen's first-ever South American Winter Olympics gold in alpine giant slalom, adding to the Games' diverse achievements.

80/100

The investigation into the abduction of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of "Today" host Savannah Guthrie, is facing increasing scrutiny over how authorities have handled the case as it stretches into its second week. Critics have questioned the Pima County Sheriff's Department's initial declaration of the crime scene as clear, allowing public access to vital evidence, and the pace of the probe. Ransom notes and the subsequent arrest of an imposter further complicated the case. Despite these challenges, new leads, DNA evidence, and a suspect description, along with a doubled FBI reward, offer hope amidst the ongoing search.

35/100

Over three dozen Democratic senators have initiated an inquiry into the US Environmental Protection Agency's decision to repeal a key measure for valuing health benefits from reducing air pollution. The EPA's move, which stops assigning monetary value to health outcomes like fewer premature deaths, is seen as a major setback to climate crisis efforts and a "failure to faithfully execute EPA’s statutory mandate." Senators criticize the policy as "particularly troubling," linking it to the Trump administration's broader anti-environmental agenda that benefits fossil fuel industry donors. They demand documents explaining the reasoning behind this controversial policy change.

30/100

Stephen Miller has emerged as a powerful figure in the Trump administration's second term, serving as a key architect and enforcer of controversial policies, particularly on immigration. Atlantic staff writer McKay Coppins notes Miller's consistent ideology, characterized by a belief in "provocation and performance in politics." While previously focused on Department of Homeland Security immigration policy, Miller now aims to reshape national perceptions toward immigrants, benefiting from what New York Times correspondent Zolan Kanno-Youngs describes as a "more of a tolerance for the policies he’s trying to implement."

40/100

This article provides an in-depth analysis of how figure skater Ilia Malinin, a favorite, unexpectedly lost the Olympic figure skating gold. It dissects the technical and performance aspects that led to his "upset," examining specific elements of his routine and the scoring implications. The article offers a detailed breakdown of the critical moments where Malinin's performance faltered, contributing to his overall placement. This analysis sheds light on the fine margins and immense pressure inherent in elite Olympic competition, particularly in a sport as technically demanding as figure skating.

45/100

A report by the Wall Street Journal claims the US military utilized Anthropic’s AI model, Claude, during an operation to kidnap Nicolás Maduro from Venezuela, leading to 83 deaths. This revelation marks a high-profile instance of AI deployment in US defense operations, despite Anthropic's terms of use prohibiting its model for violent ends or weapons development. While Anthropic declined to comment on the specific incident, it emphasized compliance with usage policies. The article highlights growing concerns among critics regarding the ethical implications and targeting mistakes associated with AI in warfare, as militaries increasingly integrate such technologies into their arsenals.

25/100

Ireland narrowly defeated Italy 20-13 in the Six Nations, surviving a significant scare to claim their first championship win in Dublin this year. Despite an early lead, Ireland found themselves trailing at halftime after Italy's Giacomo Nicotera scored a try and Ireland's Craig Casey received a yellow card. The hosts rallied in the second half with tries from Jack Conan and Rob Baloucoune, but Italy continued to press, even having a try disallowed. Ireland ultimately withstood frantic late pressure, denying Italy a historic first win in Dublin and securing a hard-fought victory.

70/100

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed world leaders at the Munich Security Conference, asserting that Europe must be prepared to fight to protect its people and values, and "stand on its own two feet" regarding defense. He announced the UK would deploy its carrier strike group to the Arctic and High North alongside NATO allies to counter Russian threats, emphasizing the need for "hard power." Starmer also called for deeper economic and cooperative links between the UK and EU, acknowledging current arrangements are "not fit for purpose." EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed calls for Europe to step up its defense responsibility.

60/100

California Governor Gavin Newsom's international and certain domestic travel, including recent climate diplomacy trips, are primarily funded by the California State Protocol Foundation, a non-profit supported by corporate donations. While this arrangement lessens the burden on taxpayers, critics like Consumer Watchdog argue it creates an avenue for corporate interests to gain influence with the governor. The foundation, which received over $1.3 million in 2024, covers travel, staff, and events, with its board appointed by Newsom. This long-standing practice for California governors has historically drawn scrutiny over transparency and potential conflicts of interest.

40/100

Casey Wasserman, a prominent Hollywood talent agent, is selling his agency after his past communications with Ghislaine Maxwell were revealed in the recently released Jeffrey Epstein files. Wasserman cited "past personal mistakes" and becoming a "distraction" to the company, despite the LA28 Olympic committee retaining him as chair after a review. The exposed suggestive messages with Maxwell from 2003 led to a client rebellion, with artists like Chappell Roan cutting ties due to a conflict with their moral values. Wasserman joins a growing list of figures stepping down over connections to Epstein and Maxwell.

20/100