Spanish figure skater Olivia Smart and former United States Olympic ice dancer Jean-Luc Baker announced their engagement after Baker proposed to Smart on Valentine's Day in Milan. The couple, who were once rivals competing for Team USA and Spain in the 2022 Beijing Games and World Championships, shared their joyful news on Instagram. Baker, a bronze medalist from the 2018 Winter Games, was present to support Smart at the Milan Cortina Games, where she finished ninth in the ice dance event. This heartwarming story of love blooming between competitors adds a personal touch to the ongoing Olympic narratives, celebrating a unique bond formed on and off the ice.

95/100

Investigators have successfully lifted DNA from an unknown male profile from a glove discovered approximately two miles from Nancy Guthrie's home, marking a significant development in the ongoing search for the missing 84-year-old. Sources briefed on the investigation confirmed that the glove appears to generically match those worn by a suspect captured on Guthrie's doorbell camera, with the FBI verifying the DNA retrieval. This new evidence, obtained from one of approximately 16 gloves collected, is being processed for entry into a national database. Authorities are now focusing on identifying potential suspects and eliminating others, shifting their investigative focus away from earlier leads involving family members and previously detained individuals. This advancement provides a crucial new avenue in the complex abduction case.

40/100

Former President Trump's quest for the Nobel Peace Prize reportedly influenced his foreign policy, as revealed by Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Støre recounted a text exchange where Trump linked Norway's decision not to award him the prize to his stance on acquiring Greenland. Trump's message expressed personal pique at not being lauded, stating he no longer felt purely obligated to peace, despite his claims of significant contributions to NATO. This exchange, discussed at the Munich Security Conference, highlights how Trump's personal motivations can impact international relations and underscores the staunch independence of the Nobel Committee from political interference.

45/100

Hungarian opposition leader Peter Magyar launched his election campaign in Budapest, aiming to end Prime Minister Viktor Orban's 16-year rule, combat corruption, and reorient Hungary towards Western Europe. Magyar, who assumed leadership of the center-right Tisza party in 2024, has quickly emerged as Orban's most formidable challenger, with his party securing approximately 30% of the vote in recent European Parliament elections. He criticized Orban's government for economic mismanagement, widespread corruption, and its antagonistic stance towards the EU and proximity to Russia. Magyar pledged to ensure total transparency in public contracts and strengthen democratic institutions to regain access to suspended EU funding.

60/100

The Met Office has issued new ice warnings for northern parts of the UK, anticipating sub-freezing temperatures overnight in eastern Scotland and north-east England, active from Sunday evening through Monday morning. These warnings follow a weekend of widespread snow and ice as Arctic air spread across the country, impacting various regions. Additionally, the Environmental Agency has issued 72 flood warnings and 191 flood alerts across England, indicating significant water-related risks. Commuters are strongly advised to remain vigilant due to the high risk of ice forming on untreated surfaces, which could lead to widespread travel disruptions and hazardous conditions.

50/100

President Trump's trade adviser, Peter Navarro, indicated the White House may compel data center builders, including Meta, to internalize all utility costs, such as electricity and water, amidst rising utility prices and voter dissatisfaction with the economy. Navarro stated the administration aims to make these companies pay not only for the electricity they consume but also for the resiliency they impact on the grid, along with water usage. Meta, however, claims it already covers its full energy costs and contributes to new local infrastructure. This proposal emerges as the Trump administration faces increasing public blame for high costs, despite recent pacts urging tech companies to finance new power plants. (not investment advice)

50/100

An article critiques Marco Rubio's speech at the Munich Security Conference, arguing that despite a more reassuring tone than his predecessor, Rubio misunderstands Europe and global threats. The article contends that Europe has significantly increased defense spending and aid to Ukraine independently of Trump's demands, and has also tightened border controls. The primary concern raised is Rubio's omission of the growing alignment between Russia, China, and North Korea as the most profound threat to the transatlantic alliance. This analysis suggests the Trump administration's strategy is dangerously naive by focusing on allies' shortcomings rather than adversaries.

35/100

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was allegedly killed using epibatidine, a deadly neurotoxin found in South American poison dart frogs, according to the UK and its European allies. Traces of this substance, 200 times more potent than morphine, were reportedly found in Navalny's body samples, leading to his death in a Siberian penal colony two years ago. Experts note epibatidine is extremely rare and not naturally found in Russia, suggesting deliberate administration. The allies assert that only the Russian state possessed the means and motive for such a deployment, a claim the Kremlin has dismissed as an "information campaign."

10/100

Team GB achieved a historic milestone by securing two Winter Olympic gold medals in a single day, with Matt Weston and Tabitha Stoecker winning the mixed team skeleton event. This victory followed Charlotte Bankes and Huw Nightingale's earlier gold in snowboard cross. Weston, who also won individual gold, became the first Briton to claim two gold medals at a Winter Olympics, demonstrating world-class performance with a sublime run. This achievement marks Great Britain's first time winning three gold medals at a single Winter Olympics, showcasing a significant resurgence in their skeleton program after a challenging 2022 Games.

90/100

White House border czar Tom Homan defended federal immigration officers wearing masks, despite his personal dislike for them, citing a significant increase in threats and assaults against ICE agents. He reported a 1,500% rise in assaults and an 8,000% increase in threats, though specific timeframes and sources for these claims were not detailed. This defense comes amidst a partial government shutdown, with Democrats demanding reforms such as banning masks, requiring identification, and mandating judicial warrants for private property arrests. Homan called some of these demands "unreasonable," asserting that ICE operates within federal law and does not engage in racial profiling, while emphasizing officer safety concerns.

45/100

The search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie, continues into its third week, marked by promising leads and disheartening setbacks. This article provides a detailed timeline of her disappearance, beginning with her last sighting on January 31, followed by her reported abduction on February 1. Key developments include the discovery of blood evidence, ransom notes, and the release of surveillance images of a masked suspect. Despite a detained person of interest being released, the FBI has offered a $100,000 reward, with the family making public pleas for her safe return and offering payment for information.

30/100

The US military has boarded a second oil tanker, the Panamanian-flagged Veronica III, in the Indian Ocean, after tracking it from the Caribbean Sea. This action is part of a US crackdown on sanctioned Venezuelan oil exports, with the Pentagon emphasizing that "distance does not protect you." The Veronica III, under US Treasury sanctions, departed Venezuela in January carrying 1.9 million barrels of crude oil and has been linked to Russian, Iranian, and Venezuelan oil transport since 2023. This marks the second such interception in a week, reinforcing the Trump administration's aggressive stance against sanctions evasion.

55/100

Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina publicly criticized President Trump's top advisors, Stephen Miller and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, stating they are "not taking care of" Trump's legacy on immigration and border security. Tillis, who is not seeking reelection, called them "amateurs" and accused them of incompetence that has damaged the Republican party's standing on an issue that helped elect the president. His comments come amidst scrutiny following the controversial Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis, which resulted in two civilian deaths and drew significant protests, highlighting internal party divisions over administration tactics.

45/100

Gisèle Pelicot, a survivor of sexual assault, bravely shared her horrifying story in her first U.S. interview, as detailed in her memoir "A Hymn to Life: Shame Has to Change Sides." In 2024, her ex-husband was found guilty in a notorious French mass sexual assault trial for drugging her and inviting dozens of men to abuse her while she was unconscious. Pelicot discussed her courageous decision to testify publicly rather than anonymously, and the inspiring trajectory her life has taken since these traumatic events. This segment from "CBS News Sunday Morning" highlights her remarkable resilience and advocacy for other survivors, underscoring the importance of speaking out against such crimes.

30/100

The United Nations reports that over 6,000 people were killed in three days during a "shocking" and "brutal" attack by Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on el-Fasher in late October. The offensive, aimed at capturing the last army stronghold in Darfur, involved widespread atrocities including mass killings, sexual assault, abductions, and torture, which the UN Human Rights Office deems war crimes and possible crimes against humanity. The report, based on witness testimonies and satellite imagery, details horrific incidents like hundreds killed in a university dormitory. The actual death toll is believed to be significantly higher, underscoring persistent impunity fueling violence.

5/100

The wreck of the luxury steamer Lac La Belle, which sank in Lake Michigan nearly 150 years ago, has been discovered by a team led by Illinois shipwreck hunter Paul Ehron. The 217-foot ship, a popular steamer in its time, went down in 1872 during a gale with 53 passengers and crew, resulting in eight fatalities. Ehron, who has sought the wreck since 1965, used side-scan sonar and a crucial clue to locate it 20 miles offshore between Racine and Kenosha, Wisconsin. The discovery, though delayed in announcement, adds to the growing number of shipwrecks found in the Great Lakes.

75/100

Republican Representative Thomas Massie publicly stated his lack of confidence in Attorney General Pam Bondi following her contentious House Judiciary Committee hearing on the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. Massie criticized Bondi's conduct, including her "name-calling" and refusal to acknowledge Epstein survivors present at the hearing. He accused the Justice Department of improperly redacting powerful men's names while exposing victim identities, and acknowledged that some redactions were reversed after his intervention. Massie's remarks highlight ongoing congressional dissatisfaction with the transparency and thoroughness of the DOJ's handling of the Epstein case documents.

35/100

Speed skater Femke Kok secured her first Olympic gold medal, dominating the women's 500m race with an Olympic-record time of 36.49 seconds. The 25-year-old Dutch athlete, a three-time world champion, leveraged her consistent sprint dominance to decisively win the event, with teammate Jutta Leerdam taking silver and Japan’s Miko Tahagi earning bronze. Defending champion Erin Jackson finished fifth, just narrowly missing a podium spot. Kok's remarkable performance, which included the fastest start and overall time, marks the sixth Olympic speed skating record of these Games, solidifying her status as the world's best in the event.

90/100

The T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan in Colombo underscored how their cricketing rivalry is increasingly overshadowed by political tensions. Pakistan initially boycotted the fixture in solidarity with Bangladesh, which forfeited its place after being denied games outside India. Despite polite formalities off-field, on-field interactions remained tense, reflecting the broader geopolitical climate. The match, won dominantly by India (8-1 in T20 World Cups), saw heightened security and political undertones in pre-match entertainment. This article suggests the political interference now offers more discussion points than the consistently one-sided sporting contests themselves.

40/100

Eleven people were killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza on Sunday morning, according to Palestinian civil defense and health officials, with strikes hitting both a tent encampment in the north and another location in the south of the strip. The Israel Defense Forces stated they targeted terror sites in response to ceasefire violations by Hamas, alleging militants emerged from a tunnel. Both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of near-daily ceasefire breaches since the agreement took effect on October 10. These latest strikes occur as preparations continue for the second phase of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement, which includes establishing an international force and disarming Hamas.

15/100

More than 1,000 ICE agents have been withdrawn from Minnesota following the controversial "Operation Metro Surge" immigration enforcement crackdown, which led to mass detentions and the deaths of two US citizens. White House border czar Tom Homan confirmed a "significant drawdown" but noted a "small" force would remain temporarily for agent protection and fraud investigations. The operation, launched in December, sparked angry demonstrations and fierce criticism from local officials over heavy-handed tactics. While immigration enforcement will continue, this withdrawal signals a scaling back of the highly contentious surge in the Twin Cities.

40/100

Sir Vince Cable has called for an investigation into Prince Andrew's conduct as a UK trade envoy, following revelations from recently released US Justice Department files. These files reportedly show Andrew forwarding confidential UK government documents and commercial information, including details about the Royal Bank of Scotland and Aston Martin, to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Cable, a former Secretary of State for Business and Trade, deemed Andrew's behavior "totally unacceptable," urging police and government inquiries into potential criminal corruption and how such actions were permitted. Labour MPs have also demanded Andrew face questioning and be stripped of his royal titles.

30/100

President Trump reportedly informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December that he would support Israeli strikes on Iran's ballistic missile program if diplomatic efforts failed. Internal US military and intelligence discussions have since contemplated assisting such Israeli actions, including aerial refueling and securing overflight permissions. This comes as the Trump administration engages in negotiations with Tehran over its nuclear program, with Netanyahu openly skeptical of diplomacy and insisting on broader restrictions. The US has also deployed a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, intensifying pressure and leveraging military power amidst ongoing talks to prevent war.

30/100

Ofelia Torres, a 16-year-old from Chicago, died of an aggressive form of cancer after publicly advocating for her father's release from ICE custody. Her father, Ruben Torres Maldonado, was detained during the Trump administration's "Operation Midway Blitz" in Chicago, while Ofelia was undergoing cancer treatment. Her family successfully challenged his detention, leading to his release and a judge later blocking his deportation due to family hardship. Ofelia's story drew widespread condemnation of aggressive immigration policies and inspired many, with politicians like Rep. Delia Ramirez and Mayor Brandon Johnson expressing condolences and criticizing the administration's actions.

10/100

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed strong confidence that Democrats will regain control of the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections, predicting a significant margin of victory. He cited recent Democratic wins in traditionally red territories, including mayoral and state legislative races, as evidence of a national trend. Jeffries stated that the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee considers 44 seats in play, including five new additions in areas not typically won by Democrats. He asserted that voters are responding to the party's focus on affordability, healthcare, and fair immigration enforcement, positioning them for success.

60/100

A market analysis article questions the clear winners in the rapidly evolving AI sector, noting a "puzzling phase" where incumbent software companies face disruption from new AI players like Anthropic and OpenAI. The article highlights concerns about hyperscalers wrecking balance sheets with massive capital expenditures, and the perceived devaluation of enterprise software firms. It suggests that while AI promises to automate "dull, dirty, or dangerous" jobs, current models' risk of crucial errors makes them less valuable for critical tasks. The author concludes that the only clear stock market winners currently are companies producing products in short supply, such as memory and cooling infrastructure. (not investment advice)

50/100

An off-trail avalanche in the Couloir Vesses area of the Mont Blanc massif in northern Italy resulted in the deaths of two skiers and injuries to a third on Sunday morning. Fifteen rescuers, three canine units, and two helicopters were deployed for the search and rescue operation in Courmayeur, near the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics venues. This incident follows a particularly dangerous week in the Italian mountains, where a record 13 backcountry enthusiasts died, with 10 of those fatalities attributed to avalanches caused by an exceptionally unstable snowpack due to recent snowfall and wind.

15/100

US President Donald Trump announced that member states of his "Board of Peace" have pledged over $5 billion for Gaza's reconstruction and humanitarian efforts. The formal unveiling of these commitments is scheduled for the board's meeting in Washington on Thursday, expected to draw delegations from more than 20 countries. Trump also urged Hamas to proceed with full disarmament as part of the US-mediated ceasefire plan, a condition Hamas has previously rejected. This financial commitment aims to address the estimated $70 billion reconstruction cost after two years of conflict, with Indonesia already committing 8,000 troops to a potential stabilization force.

55/100

An editorial criticizes President Trump's administration for eliminating Obama-era federal climate regulations, a move described as a consequential assault on environmental controls amidst escalating climate-related disasters in the US. The article contrasts this with China's progress in curbing carbon emissions and investing in clean energy, despite its status as the world's largest emitter. The editorial suggests Trump's framing of the decision as deregulation might be due to wider acceptance of climate science. This analysis highlights a concerning divergence in climate policy between two major global powers, raising alarms about the future of global heating.

25/100

Europe is urgently seeking to bolster its own defense capabilities and strategic autonomy amidst uncertainties regarding US commitment to the transatlantic alliance, as articulated at the Munich Security Conference. European leaders, including the EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas, emphasized Russia as the primary threat and the need for a cohesive European defense market. While acknowledging NATO's continued importance and increased European defense spending in response to US demands, the focus is shifting towards wider procurement and non-US partnerships. This signals a strategic re-evaluation to ensure European security, even as US officials offer reassurances.

60/100

Israel's government has approved a controversial new policy designed to facilitate land purchases for Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, further sidelining Palestinian authorities. This decision allows private Israeli citizens to buy land and shifts administrative control from military to civilian bodies, marking the first formal land-registration process since 1967. The Palestinian Authority, the EU, and several Arab states have condemned the move, with Germany calling it "a further step towards de facto annexation" and a violation of international law. Israeli ministers, however, hailed it as restoring "governance" and control over the territory.

20/100

America's long-standing tradition of free hotel breakfast, a staple of the hospitality industry, is facing new economic threats and evolving business models. Hotels like Hyatt Place and Holiday Inn are re-evaluating or modifying their breakfast offerings to cut costs and preserve thin margins, with some shifting to buffet-only or "Grab and Go" options. Industry experts suggest that what was once a loyalty play has become an expectation, making its cost harder to justify. While luxury brands may eliminate it, mid-tier hotels, like Best Western and Holiday Inn Express, largely intend to keep it due to its importance for guest satisfaction and value perception.

65/100

A former Ukrainian energy minister, German Galushchenko, was detained while attempting to leave the country, authorities reported. Galushchenko, implicated in an alleged $100 million embezzlement scheme, was apprehended on a train as part of the "Midas case" corruption probe. This scandal, which also led to the resignation of President Zelensky's chief-of-staff, has intensified pressure from the US for Ukraine to hold elections, which have been suspended since 2022. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine stated that Galushchenko and others systematically collected kickbacks from energy sector contractors, with funds allegedly laundered and transferred outside Ukraine.

40/100

France secured a dominant 54-12 victory over Wales in the Six Nations, keeping their Grand Slam hopes alive with an eight-try performance in Cardiff. This record win for France in Cardiff also marked Wales' 13th consecutive Six Nations defeat and their lowest home crowd for the tournament outside the Covid era. Wales, under head coach Steve Tandy, have now conceded 302 points and 42 tries in six games, highlighting significant struggles both on and off the field. The result leaves France as the only unbeaten team, while Wales faces a potential third successive Wooden Spoon.

70/100

An Amazon delivery van became stranded on The Broomway, a notorious mudflat footpath in Great Wakering, Essex, after its driver reportedly followed a GPS route to Foulness Island. HM Coastguard Southend responded to the incident on Sunday, confirming the driver had safely exited the vehicle and reported it to Amazon. The Broomway, known as the "deadliest footpath in Britain" with a history of fatalities, is strictly for walking and requires specialist knowledge to navigate safely. Amazon is investigating the incident, and arrangements were made to remove the vehicle, which had already endured high tide.

70/100

A man died after entering a flooded brook in Egginton during a police chase in the early hours of Saturday. Officers were pursuing a vehicle towing a caravan, suspected stolen, which eventually stopped after ramming police cars. While one man was arrested, the second fled into the swollen Egginton Brook. After several hours, the man was recovered from the water and later pronounced dead at Royal Derby Hospital. Derbyshire Police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, and another individual has been charged with various offenses related to the incident.

10/100

Team GB's men's curlers, led by Bruce Mouat, secured an accomplished 9-4 victory over Germany, moving closer to a Winter Olympics semi-final spot. The world champions have now won four of their opening five matches, with six victories likely guaranteeing a place in the last four. While the men's team demonstrated strong performance, the British women's team faced a more challenging day, falling to a 10-7 defeat against unbeaten Sweden. The women's semi-final hopes now hinge on securing at least four wins from their remaining five round-robin matches, starting against Denmark.

80/100

New research, including a study from Sweden's Lund University, indicates a deteriorating relationship between humans and nature, leading to increased "biophobia" or fear of nature. The study links this trend to growing urbanization, where children increasingly grow up in non-natural environments, lacking physical and sensory experiences. Experts like psychologist Dirk Stemper note this alienation is prevalent in industrialized nations, potentially impacting future generations' willingness to protect the environment. The article suggests that a lack of familiarity, coupled with media portrayals, contributes to viewing nature as dangerous or less "real" than virtual experiences, despite its proven benefits for mental health.

45/100

Federica Brignone, hailed as the "racing queen of Cortina," secured her second Winter Olympic gold medal in three days, dominating the giant slalom by over six-tenths of a second. This remarkable victory, following her Super-G win, ignited overjoyed Italian fans and showcased her once-in-a-lifetime form at her home Olympics. Her triumph is particularly significant given her recovery from a severe knee injury last April that threatened her career. In contrast, Mikaela Shiffrin, who previously beat Brignone in this event, struggled, finishing 11th while openly battling PTSD from a past crash.

90/100

New renderings provide the most detailed vision yet for President Trump’s proposed $400 million White House ballroom addition, depicting a vast, 90,000 sq ft structure level with the existing mansion. These images, submitted to the National Capital Planning Commission, precede a March 5 hearing on the controversial project. The ballroom has sparked public outcry, particularly after Trump began demolishing the East Wing without prior oversight body approval. Financed by private donors and major corporations, the project is defended by the administration as a long-term solution to White House issues and a future site for presidential inaugurations.

45/100

Top Democrats attending the Munich Security Summit sought to reassure European leaders about the enduring US commitment to its allies, emphasizing that President Trump's tenure is temporary. Governor Gavin Newsom notably stated, "Donald Trump is temporary. He'll be gone in three years," aiming to alleviate European anxieties about fraying transatlantic relations. Other Democratic legislators and governors reiterated the US would remain a strong partner, contrasting with some of the Trump administration's confrontational rhetoric and policies. This effort aimed to counter concerns about tariffs and shifts in American foreign policy, highlighting a different vision for international cooperation.

60/100