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Chronological wire record. Latest transmission first.
EU opens formal probe into X over Grok deepfakes and platform risk controls
European Union regulators launched a formal investigation into Elon Musk’s platform X after its AI chatbot Grok generated nonconsensual sexualized deepfake images, including material that may involve children. The probe examines whether X complied with the Digital Services Act requirement to assess and reduce systemic risks tied to illegal and harmful content. Regulators also widened scrutiny of X’s recommendation systems as the company moves to integrate Grok more deeply into how posts are surfaced.
Markets brace for Fed week as gold breaks $5,000 and storm snarls travel
U.S. stock futures were steady Monday as investors headed into a packed week featuring major tech earnings and the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate decision. Safe-haven buying pushed gold above $5,000 an ounce, while a major winter storm triggered widespread U.S. flight cancellations and delays. Trade uncertainty also resurfaced after President Donald Trump threatened steep new tariffs on Canada following a Canada–China trade arrangement. Meanwhile, USA Rare Earth surged after announcing significant federal backing tied to domestic supply-chain priorities.
Ethiopia declares end to its first Marburg outbreak after 42 days without new cases
Ethiopia has declared the end of its first Marburg virus outbreak after completing the required 42-day period with no new confirmed infections. The outbreak began in November 2025 in the country’s south near the South Sudan border and resulted in 14 confirmed cases, including nine deaths and five recoveries, with additional deaths classified as possible cases. Health officials, supported by the World Health Organization, strengthened surveillance, diagnostics, and infection-control measures. Marburg is a severe hemorrhagic fever linked to fruit bats and spreads through bodily fluids; there is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment.
Trump tells Walz he’ll ‘look into’ reducing ICE presence as Minnesota court fights intensify
President Donald Trump told Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz he would consider reducing the number of federal immigration agents deployed to the state and improving coordination with local authorities, Walz’s office said. The conversation comes after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents and amid escalating protests, legal challenges, and political pressure. Federal judges are weighing cases that could affect the legality and conduct of the immigration surge, while state officials argue the operation has interfered with investigations and public safety.
Timberwolves and Warriors return to court amid grief after Minneapolis shooting
The Minnesota Timberwolves resumed play against the Golden State Warriors in a subdued atmosphere after the NBA postponed the matchup following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by a federal officer. Coaches and players described the night as emotionally heavy, with a moment of silence held before tipoff. The game unfolded against the backdrop of large protests and community anger tied to a broader federal immigration crackdown, with athletes and the NBA players’ union voicing support for the city and calls for accountability.
Carney dismisses Trump’s tariff threat as Canada heads into USMCA review talks
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said President Donald Trump’s tariff threats should be seen as negotiating posture ahead of the scheduled review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The latest flare-up came after Trump warned of a 100% tariff on Canadian imports if Canada pursued a China deal—something Carney said Canada is not seeking in free-trade form. The dispute lands amid wider tensions over trade rules, industrial policy, and the politics surrounding Chinese electric vehicles and supply chains.
Rare-earths rush: USA Rare Earth shares jump on news of U.S. government backing
Shares of USA Rare Earth rose sharply after reports of major U.S. government support, as Washington looks to strengthen domestic supply chains for critical minerals and related manufacturing. The move underscores how geopolitical competition is accelerating industrial policy around strategic resources.
Minnesota AG blasts federal account of Minneapolis immigration shooting as protests intensify
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison sharply criticized the Trump administration’s public claims about the fatal shooting of nurse Alex Pretti during an encounter with federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, as new video evidence and ongoing protests increased pressure for transparency and oversight.
Markets brace for Fed decision and big tech earnings as gold hits fresh records
U.S. markets opened a high-stakes week with investors watching major technology earnings and an upcoming Federal Reserve rate decision, while geopolitical tensions and severe winter weather added uncertainty. Gold rose to record highs as traders sought safety.
USWNT rolls into next friendly after 6–0 win, using early 2026 matches to test new faces
The U.S. Women’s National Team opened its 2026 schedule with a dominant 6–0 friendly win over Paraguay and is set to face Chile next, with coach Emma Hayes expected to rotate lineups as the team balances evaluation and long-term World Cup planning.
Trump says Greenland security ‘framework’ reached at Davos, drops EU tariff threat
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, President Donald Trump said the U.S. had reached a new “framework” with NATO on Arctic security and announced he was dropping a threatened round of tariffs on several European countries, while still pressing his long-running ambition involving Greenland.
Winter storm slams U.S., triggering mass cancellations, closures and a push for safety
A sprawling winter storm swept across large parts of the U.S., closing schools, snarling roads and disrupting travel as weather alerts remained in place for millions. Officials urged residents to stay off icy streets while utilities and airports worked to restore service and normal schedules.

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