Actor Ashton Kutcher recently addressed persistent public rumors regarding his and wife Mila Kunis's personal hygiene, which originated from comments made on a podcast four years prior. He clarified that he showers regularly, especially after gym sessions, and detailed their family's approach to bathing, which involves cleaning children only when visibly dirty. Kutcher expressed amusement at the widespread scrutiny and humorous reactions their initial remarks generated, emphasizing that the public largely misunderstood their statements. The article highlights the couple's ongoing lighthearted response to the viral misunderstanding, asserting their commitment to basic cleanliness despite the media sensation and its humorous implications.

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President Trump has intensified his push to acquire Greenland, doubling down on threats to take control and impose tariffs on European countries that resist. During a press conference, he questioned the reciprocal commitment of NATO members to the U.S., despite asserting his own support for the alliance's global security role. European leaders, including French President Macron and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, strongly condemned Trump's rhetoric and proposed tariffs, emphasizing Greenland's sovereignty and the importance of international law. The article underscores the escalating diplomatic tensions and concerns over the stability of transatlantic alliances amidst these geopolitical maneuvers.

20/100

Asia-Pacific markets experienced widespread declines, mirroring significant overnight losses on Wall Street, following President Trump's escalated rhetoric concerning Greenland. Trump threatened new 10% tariffs, potentially rising to 25%, on exports from eight European countries if they continue to resist the U.S. bid to acquire the Danish territory. He also announced 200% tariffs on French wine and criticized the UK's Chagos Islands plan, citing national security. This aggressive stance, deemed "unacceptable" by European leaders, has revived fears of a global trade war, leading to a substantial rout in U.S. stocks, a spike in Treasury yields, and a decline in the U.S. dollar, indicating widespread financial instability. (not investment advice)

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Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen urged the island's population to prepare for "everything," including potential U.S. military action, as President Trump intensifies his demands to acquire the semi-autonomous Danish territory. While Nielsen acknowledged military force was unlikely, he stressed the need for preparedness given the U.S. has not ruled it out. The government is initiating an information campaign, advising citizens to store five days' worth of food and forming an emergency response team. This comes as Denmark's armed forces increase their presence in the Arctic, aligning with NATO's security demands in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

10/100

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced that the nation's general election will take place on November 7, stressing the importance of electing a stable government amidst global volatility. Luxon, who ascended to power in 2023, is navigating a challenging economic period characterized by elevated living costs, persistent housing affordability issues, and an unemployment rate exceeding 5%. His conservative coalition, consisting of the National Party, New Zealand First, and ACT, is campaigning on pledges of economic recovery to win re-election. Current polls indicate a close race against a Labour-led coalition, underscoring the public's focus on economic stability and solutions to domestic financial concerns.

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This opinion article discusses how Iran's escalating domestic unrest, characterized by recent widespread protests and government repression, is challenging China's long-held assumptions about the country's political predictability. Beijing has historically viewed Iran as a stable, strategically useful partner despite sanctions, relying on it as a primary economic lifeline and a source of discounted oil. However, the sustained instability now exposes the vulnerability of this model, suggesting that energy security and infrastructure projects could be at risk. The article argues that China's traditional non-interference policy may no longer be viable as Iran's internal turmoil deepens, potentially forcing a re-evaluation of its Middle East strategy.

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Emmy-winning actor Timothy Busfield, known for "The West Wing," has been granted release on his own recognizance as he awaits trial for child sexual assault allegations. A New Mexico judge ruled in his favor, citing the absence of a historical pattern of child-related offenses and insufficient evidence to suggest he would commit new crimes before trial, despite acknowledging the serious nature of the accusations. Busfield, who turned himself in last week, faces two felony counts stemming from claims of inappropriately touching two child actors on a TV set. His defense team presented audio where the children initially denied the touching and suggested the accusers' mother had a motive for revenge.

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Fiona Goddard, a woman sexually assaulted as a child in Bradford, expressed deep insult after West Yorkshire Police and Bradford Council denied her compensation claims. Goddard, whose abuse by groups of men began at age 14 while in local authority care, waived anonymity to highlight her ongoing struggle for justice. Despite public apologies from authorities for "huge failings" in her case, their private legal response dismissed her claims as "entirely without merit," which Goddard views as an attempt to shift blame. The article underscores the distress caused by the adversarial handling of survivors' compensation claims and calls for greater transparency and genuine apologies in the legal arena.

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The U.S. Justice Department has subpoenaed several top Minnesota officials, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz, as part of an investigation into alleged efforts to impede federal immigration enforcement. The subpoenas request documents related to immigration policies and communications concerning "hindering, doxxing, identifying, or surveilling immigration officers." Officials like Frey and Walz have strongly condemned the investigation as a "partisan distraction" and a "weaponization" of federal power, asserting their commitment to community safety and values. This escalation follows local protests against ICE tactics and a lawsuit filed by the state attorney general challenging federal immigration operations.

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The European Parliament is reportedly planning to suspend approval of a US trade deal agreed last July, marking a significant escalation in transatlantic tensions. This move comes after President Trump threatened new tariffs on European countries if they oppose his bid to acquire Greenland. The standoff has rattled global financial markets, with shares falling on both sides of the Atlantic and precious metals rising as safe-haven assets. European leaders view Trump's use of tariffs as leverage against territorial sovereignty as "unacceptable," and are considering retaliatory measures, including a "trade bazooka" instrument, while U.S. officials warn against retaliation. (not investment advice)

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A significant UK study, ELSA, indicates that offering all children a simple finger-prick blood test for type 1 diabetes could be highly effective, potentially preventing life-threatening complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis. Early identification allows for prompt treatment and comprehensive preparation, as exemplified by 12-year-old Imogen, who is now receiving a novel immunotherapy drug designed to delay the disease's onset. Diabetes charities and medical experts strongly advocate for this proactive screening, emphasizing its capacity to transform diagnoses from frightening emergencies into more manageable and prepared processes. The study's subsequent phase will broaden the screening offer to children aged 2-17, prompting discussions for potential national implementation across the UK.

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A 30-year study tracking 110,000 U.S. adults suggests that engaging in a variety of physical activities each week is more beneficial for longevity than focusing on a single exercise. Researchers found that active individuals who diversified their workouts were 19% less likely to die during the study period. While the total amount of exercise remains crucial, combining activities with complementary benefits, like resistance training and aerobic exercise, offers a wider range of health advantages. The article highlights how a mix of sports, such as triathlons, yoga, and weightlifting, can positively impact both physical and mental well-being, aligning with NHS guidelines for adult activity.

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Parents are increasingly seeking community support through initiatives like The Balance Project to delay smartphone access for their children, prioritizing independent play and real-world social interaction. This growing movement aligns with evolving guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which now advocates for a broader understanding of the digital ecosystem and its comprehensive effects on children, rather than solely focusing on screen time limits. Educators are also actively teaching children about the neurological impacts of "junk tech," empowering them to make informed choices about their digital device use. The article underscores a significant shift towards more holistic approaches to managing children's engagement with technology, emphasizing mental and behavioral well-being.

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A report by the Music Venue Trust reveals that over half of the UK's grassroots music venues failed to make a profit last year, leading to 30 closures and 6,000 job losses. Despite a 13% rise in attendance, financial pressures, including increased National Insurance payments, have made operations critically challenging for these vital incubators of musical talent. The MVT proposes a £1 levy on arena and stadium tickets to support the struggling sector, a scheme already adopted by major artists and venues. The article highlights calls for government assistance, such as scrapping VAT on concert tickets, to recognize the long-term cultural and economic value of these venues.

45/100

A federal judge has barred Lindsey Halligan from referring to herself as U.S. Attorney in court filings, citing a previous binding order that disqualified her from the position. Judge David Novak stated Halligan's continued use of the title "ignores a binding court order" and warned of potential disciplinary proceedings. This ruling follows a November decision that found her appointment as interim U.S. Attorney invalid, leading to the dismissal of cases she brought against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. The Justice Department, initially defending Halligan, later reversed course, instructing prosecutors to use "special attorney" instead.

50/100

South Carolina is grappling with a significant measles outbreak, reporting 646 cases since October, which raises serious concerns about the U.S. potentially losing its measles elimination status. The World Health Organization's criteria for elimination require no local transmission for 12 months or longer. The current outbreak is largely concentrated in Spartanburg County, predominantly affecting under-vaccinated, close-knit communities. Health officials attribute this surge to a decline in overall vaccination rates, which have fallen below the critical herd immunity thresholds necessary to prevent disease circulation. Experts express skepticism about the U.S. retaining its elimination status, warning of potential future outbreaks of other previously eradicated or rare diseases.

20/100

China's new H-6J maritime strike bomber, a naval variant of the H-6K, has been equipped with two additional reconnaissance pods, significantly enhancing its long-range strike and maritime surveillance capabilities. According to military analysts, these new pods provide the bomber with an "extra pair of eyes," allowing it to detect maritime targets at greater distances and across wider areas. Primarily designed as an anti-ship weapon, the H-6J is crucial for deterring vessels in various conflict scenarios, including potential conflicts over Taiwan. The article notes its recent training exercises in the South China Sea, where Beijing's territorial claims overlap with several neighboring nations.

35/100

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen strongly condemned President Trump's threat of tariffs against eight NATO allies over their stance on Greenland, calling it a "mistake" at the Davos economic conference. She warned that Trump's actions risk a "downward spiral" in transatlantic relations, which would only benefit shared adversaries. Von der Leyen emphasized Europe's commitment to Arctic security and full solidarity with Greenland and Denmark, asserting that their territorial sovereignty is "non-negotiable." She urged increased European investment in Arctic security and a united, proportional response to the U.S. threats, highlighting the importance of upholding international agreements among allies.

20/100

This opinion article argues that President Trump's aggressive pursuit of Greenland threatens to unravel the nearly 80-year-old NATO alliance and destabilize the global order. The author contends that Trump's antagonism towards European leaders, including tariff threats and not ruling out military force, risks an unthinkable scenario where NATO's Article 5 could be triggered against the U.S. The article details the scramble among European leaders at Davos to respond to Trump's demands, which are driven by a desire for increased American dominance and historical legacy. It highlights the administration's focus on purchase or economic incentives, while also considering military or economic pressure.

10/100

The Justice Department has issued grand jury subpoenas to multiple Minnesota officials, including Governor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, escalating a probe into alleged conspiracy to impede federal immigration officers. This action follows the deployment of thousands of ICE and Border Patrol agents to Minneapolis and the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer. Officials strongly condemn the subpoenas as a "partisan distraction" and "weaponization" of the justice system, especially after Ellison's office sued the Trump administration over ICE tactics. Legal experts express skepticism about the probe's legal basis, viewing it as criminalizing policy disagreements.

20/100

A commuter train derailed and crashed near Barcelona, resulting in the death of the driver and injuries to at least 37 people, five seriously. The incident occurred when the Rodalies train collided with a retaining wall that fell onto the tracks between Gelida and Sant Sadurní, amidst heavy storms battering northeastern Spain. Emergency services, including 35 fire crews and 11 ambulances, responded to the scene, rescuing one trapped passenger. This derailment follows another train incident in southern Spain just days prior, and a separate, non-injury derailment on the Barcelona commuter network on the same day, both attributed to storm-related dislodged rocks.

5/100

President Trump delivered a lengthy and often rambling White House briefing, marking his first year in office by listing accomplishments and veering into personal anecdotes. The article highlights his frequent references to "mentally insane" individuals, perceived insecurity, and dismissal of adversaries. Amidst this, Trump surprisingly called the fatal ICE shooting of Renee Good a "tragedy," noting her parents were supporters. His comments on Greenland, including "You'll find out" regarding acquisition methods, further fueled global concerns about the transatlantic alliance and his "neocolonial ambitions," leaving a "worried world" to watch his discombobulated performance.

15/100

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank gained a temporary reprieve from intense pressure following his team's 2-0 Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund. The win, featuring first-half goals from Christian Romero and Dominic Solanke, puts Spurs in a strong position for the knockouts and halted a four-game losing streak. Fans had largely turned against Frank, with some expressing continued skepticism despite the improved first-half performance. However, the players' evident work rate and desire suggested that Frank retains dressing room support. The article emphasizes that while the win buys him time, sustained impressive performances are needed to fully win back the fan base.

65/100

Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner discussed her new Amazon Prime Video heist drama "Steal," where she portrays a corporate worker at "rock bottom," finding a sense of liberation in embodying such a character. Turner, who has personally navigated challenging years including a divorce and a custody dispute, related to the character's feeling of freedom that emerges when one has nothing left to lose. The article highlights the show's broader themes of financial fairness and the struggles faced by young adults amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis, presenting a relatable narrative of feeling trapped in a societal "rat race." Filming the office-set drama provided a unique and immersive experience for the cast, who felt they truly lived an office life.

70/100

Snap, the parent company of Snapchat, has settled a significant social media addiction lawsuit just days before it was due to go to trial in Los Angeles. The terms of the settlement were not disclosed. The plaintiff, a 19-year-old woman, alleged that the algorithmic design of platforms like Snapchat led to addiction and negatively impacted her mental health. While Meta (Instagram), ByteDance (TikTok), and Alphabet (YouTube) remain defendants, this settlement marks a notable development in closely watched cases challenging the legal protections social media companies typically enjoy under Section 230, which shields them from liability for third-party content.

55/100

A four-year-old girl, Reese Donatelli, has become the target of death threats and online harassment after her viral NFL predictions, made on her dad's social media, proved inaccurate during playoff games. Previously adored for her sassy and often accurate picks, followers began to believe her choices were cursed, leading to messages demanding thousands of dollars and even threats. Her father, Anthony Donatelli, expressed dismay at the extreme reactions, clarifying that Reese's picks are based on whimsical reasons. Despite a recent correct prediction, the incident highlights the disturbing extent of online negativity, though the family remains committed to their bonding tradition.

30/100

Venezuela has received $300 million from the first U.S. sale of Venezuelan crude oil, following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro earlier this month. Interim leader Delcy Rodriguez announced the funds would be used to stabilize the country's battered currency, the bolivar, and protect workers' purchasing power. The U.S. had completed a $500 million sale, reportedly offering Venezuelan crude at a discount. Meanwhile, Venezuela's lawmakers are set to debate reforms to oil contract laws, aiming to loosen state oil company PDVSA's control over new investments. This comes as U.S. forces continue to seize Venezuela-linked oil tankers in the Caribbean, enforcing sanctions. (not investment advice)

40/100

The U.S. has launched the Fifa Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System (Fifa Pass) for 2026 World Cup ticket holders, aiming to expedite visa appointments for fans from qualifying nations. Introduced by President Trump, the system addresses concerns that citizens from certain countries might not secure visas in time, especially those affected by a recent pause in immigrant visa processing. While the Fifa Pass aims to cut wait times, the State Department stresses that it doesn't guarantee visa approval, as all applicants must undergo thorough security screening. The system applies to non-immigrant visas, ensuring that football fans from affected nations like Brazil can still apply.

70/100

Survivors of a devastating fire at Gul Plaza, a densely packed shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan, recounted harrowing experiences of locked exits, panic, and desperate calls for help. The fire, which killed 27 and left over 70 missing, spread rapidly, exacerbated by a lack of working fire exits and the building's crowded conditions. Eyewitnesses described doors being locked and a slow emergency response, leading to growing anger among families searching for loved ones. The article highlights calls for investigations into the fire's cause, the response time, and sweeping reforms in building safety and urban governance to prevent future tragedies.

5/100

Nearly 400 millionaires and billionaires from 24 countries have issued an open letter, coinciding with the World Economic Forum in Davos, urging global leaders to increase taxes on the super-rich. They argue that extreme wealth is corrupting politics, driving social exclusion, and exacerbating the climate crisis. A poll commissioned by the Patriotic Millionaires group found that 77% of millionaires believe the wealthy buy political influence, and over 60% are concerned about extreme wealth threatening democracy. Oxfam's report on record billionaire wealth further underscores the call for governments to implement higher taxes and prioritize reducing inequality. (not investment advice)

60/100

Filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, a two-time Oscar nominee, created the docudrama "The Voice of Hind Rajab" to bear witness to the tragic death of a six-year-old Palestinian girl in Gaza in 2024. Haunted by Hind's emergency phone call for help, Ben Hania shifted her focus to tell the story of the girl, her family, and two paramedics, all killed by suspected Israeli fire. The film, which mixes Hind's real audio with dramatized visuals of call center volunteers, aims to provoke empathy and ensure her voice resonates globally. Critics have praised its emotional impact, and the film's Oscar-shortlisted status hopes to keep Hind's story in public consciousness.

20/100

President Trump has endorsed the introduction of tiny Kei cars, popular in Japan, to the U.S. market, envisioning them as inexpensive, safe, and fuel-efficient options. This marks a potential shift from long-standing rules barring small American-made vehicles. However, importers and drivers express skepticism about their viability, citing obstacles like meeting U.S. safety regulations, maintaining low prices, and overcoming Americans' preference for larger vehicles. While some enthusiasts enjoy imported Kei cars, concerns about highway safety and the significant investment needed for manufacturers to adapt them to U.S. standards suggest they may remain a niche market.

60/100

Aviation safety campaigners in the U.S. claim to possess evidence that a Boeing 787 Dreamliner involved in an Air India crash last year, which killed 260 people, had a history of technical failures, including a fire. The Foundation for Aviation Safety submitted a report to the U.S. Senate, detailing a 2022 fire in a power distribution panel that required replacement. This revelation challenges the preliminary official report, which suggested pilot error, diverting attention from potential technical issues with the aircraft. The article highlights ongoing concerns about Boeing's safety culture and the 787's reliance on electrical systems, which have caused problems in the past.

10/100

Cases of cheating in practical and theory driving tests in England, Scotland, and Wales surged by nearly 50% last year, with over 1,100 incidents involving Bluetooth headsets and more than 1,000 cases of impersonation. Industry leaders attribute this rise to a nationwide shortage of test slots and candidates' desperation to pass, while the DVSA points to improved detection methods. Experts warn of the severe dangers posed by unqualified drivers on the road, including increased accidents and insurance issues. Prosecutions have led to driving bans and prison sentences, prompting calls for greater public awareness and systemic changes to address the backlog and prevent fraud.

30/100

Morgan Stanley analysts warn that China could escalate its dispute with Japan by initiating anti-dumping investigations into Japanese imports, imposing additional export bans, and discouraging consumption of the country’s goods. Beijing might also broaden a temporary ban on rare earth metals, which are crucial components for high-tech hardware and automobiles, to specifically target civilian manufacturing if geopolitical tensions intensify. While the investment bank considers further significant escalation to be an unlikely "baseline scenario," it underscores China's considerable unused leverage. Such actions, rooted in Japan's stance on Taiwan, could pose substantial downside risks to Japan's economic growth, particularly impacting sectors like autos, electronics, chemicals, and consumer discretionary goods, despite deeply intertwined supply chains. (not investment advice)

25/100

Gabriel Jesus scored two goals, helping Arsenal secure a 3-1 victory over Inter Milan and guaranteeing their spot in the Champions League last 16. The 28-year-old forward, making only his third start since an 11-month injury layoff, expressed emotional joy at his performance, which ended a long scoring drought in the competition. Manager Mikel Arteta praised Jesus's return and the team's improved depth in the forward position, noting the positive impact of other players like Viktor Gyokeres. The win marks Arsenal's club-record seventh successive victory in the Champions League, boosting team confidence ahead of upcoming Premier League matches.

85/100

Santa Anita Park has filed a writ of mandate against the California Department of Justice (DOJ), seeking legal relief following the seizure of 26 Racing on Demand betting machines from its facility. The lawsuit challenges the legality of the 3X3 wager when applied to concluded races, arguing it should be considered legal just as it is for live races, and demands the return of the confiscated machines and money. The track asserts that both the DOJ and the California Horse Racing Board were aware of the machines and had ample opportunity to dispute their legality but failed to do so, despite receiving a written legal analysis. The complaint further alleges that the seizure was carried out without a warrant or any prior warning to the track.

50/100

Second Lady Usha Vance, wife of Vice-President JD Vance, has publicly announced she is pregnant with their fourth child, a boy expected in late July. A statement confirmed that both Usha and the baby are in good health. Usha Vance, a distinguished former corporate litigator, is making history as the first Second Lady to have a baby while her husband is serving in office. She met JD Vance during their time at Yale Law School in 2010. This personal announcement aligns with JD Vance's publicly stated political stance, as he has been a prominent advocate for increasing birth rates in the U.S., emphasizing his desire for "more babies in the United States of America." The article frames this news within the context of the Vance family's public profile and their broader political perspectives.

80/100

Tetsuya Yamagami, who admitted to assassinating former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022, is set to be sentenced, with prosecutors demanding life in prison. Public opinion is divided, with some sympathizing with Yamagami's troubled upbringing and claims of "religious abuse" by the Unification Church, which allegedly bankrupted his family. Abe's assassination exposed the church's controversial practices and its ties to Japan's ruling party, leading to ministerial resignations. Yamagami expressed resentment towards Abe for his association with the church, though he initially targeted church executives. Abe's widow, Akie, expressed profound sorrow, highlighting the deep impact of the "grave act" in a country with minimal gun crime.

15/100