Category Archives: Science

2026.01.30

ICE

‘Streets of Minneapolis’: 32 protest songs inspired by the Twin Cities’ ICE resistance
MinnPost contributor Jim Walsh compiles a playlist by songwriters who are tapping into their talent, anger, artistry and empathy to support Minnesota.
by Jim Walsh
https://www.minnpost.com/arts-culture/2026/01/streets-of-minneapolis-32-protest-songs-inspired-by-the-twin-cities-ice-resistance/

“ICE officers in Minnesota were directed on Wednesday to avoid engaging with ‘agitators’ as they carry out President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown,” Reuters reports. “The new guidance, offering the most detailed look so far at how operations would change after two fatal shootings of U.S. citizens protesting in Minneapolis, also orders U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers only to target immigrants who have criminal charges or convictions.”
https://www.reuters.com/world/ice-officers-minnesota-directed-not-interact-with-agitators-new-orders-2026-01-29/

Ex-CNN anchor Don Lemon arrested on charges connected to Minnesota church protest
Lemon’s lawyer said he was taken into custody after attending protest in which demonstrators disrupted a church service earlier in January
Sam Levine, Jeremy Barr and Anna Betts in New York
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/30/don-lemon-minnesota-protest-charges

Antifa used to unmask neo-Nazis, now it’s exposing ICE: ‘Predators don’t get anonymity’
Following in a long American tradition of identifying fascists, a network of leftists has set out to name and shame Trump’s immigration agents
Christopher Mathias
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/30/antifa-unmasking-ice

Minneapolis is in a state of chaos. Racist immigration policies are to blame
Jamil Smith
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/30/minneapolis-ice-chaos-racist-governance

More News

“Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026,” WCCO reports. Minnesota’s first reported case stems from exposure from within the United States. “The best way to prevent measles, health experts say, is through immunization.” Via MinnPost
https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/minnesota-wisconsin-report-first-measles-cases-of-2026/

Small risk of severe acute pancreatitis with weight-loss jabs, UK regulator warns
Agency updates guidance after increase in reports of condition to its yellow card scheme
Anna Bawden Health and social affairs correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/29/small-risk-severe-acute-pancreatitis-weight-loss-jabs-mhra

The secret to long life? It could be in the genes after all, say scientists
New study into ‘heritability’ shows that 50% of the variation in human lifespan could be down to genetics
Nicola Davis Science correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/29/long-life-age-health-genetics-science-research

AI use in breast cancer screening cuts rate of later diagnosis by 12%, study finds
Swedish study of 100,000 women found higher rate of early detection, suggesting potential to support radiologists
Tobi Thomas Health and inequalities correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/29/ai-use-in-breast-cancer-screening-cuts-rate-of-later-diagnosis-by-12-study-finds

Why a T-shirt in a hit movie is trending with Brazilian progressives: ‘Almost every day they sell out’
Even Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has received one, after Wagner Moura wore it in The Secret Agent
Tiago Rogero in Rio de Janeiro
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/30/brazil-secret-agent-tshirt-politics

Judge rules Luigi Mangione will not face death penalty in healthcare CEO case
Capital punishment taken off table but Mangione will still face federal charges over killing of Brian Thompson
Anna Betts in New York and agencies
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/30/luigi-mangione-death-penalty-dismissed

Catherine O’Hara, actor known for Home Alone and Schitt’s Creek, dies aged 71
Actor, also known for Beetlejuice and her work with Christopher Guest, died after a brief illness
Benjamin Lee
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/30/catherine-o-hara-dead-actor-home-alone

2026.01.22

ICE

US court allows ICE to arrest and pepper-spray peaceful protesters in Minnesota
In victory for Trump administration, appeals court has temporarily lifted injunction as JD Vance set to visit state
Maya Yang
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/21/ice-arrest-pepper-spray-protesters-minnesota

Minneapolis leaders call the ICE surge a ‘siege’. My reporting from there concurs
Maanvi Singh in Minneapolis
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/21/minneapolis-ice-surge-siege

Immigration officers assert sweeping power to enter homes without a judge’s warrant, memo says
Immigrant advocates say the memo is in direct conflict with Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable search and seizure.
By Rebecca Santana, Associated Press
https://www.minnpost.com/public-safety/2026/01/immigration-officers-assert-sweeping-power-to-enter-homes-without-a-judges-warrant-memo-says/

“Friday is ‘ICE Out of Minnesota: Day of Truth & Freedom,’ a general strike supported by Minnesota’s unions, progressive faith leaders, Democratic lawmakers and community activists,” the Minnesota Reformer reports. “The ‘ICE Out’ day proponents are encouraging all Minnesotans to stay home from work, school and refrain from shopping — suspensions of normal orders of business to protest the presence of federal immigration agents in Minnesota.”
https://minnesotareformer.com/briefs/fridays-ice-out-of-minnesota-day-is-a-general-strike-heres-what-that-means/

Two arrested over anti-ICE protest at Minnesota church, Bondi says
Demonstrators alleged that one of church’s pastors was acting field director of St Paul ICE office
Sam Levine in New York
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/22/two-arrests-minnesota-church-protest

Lawfare: Can Minnesota prosecute ICE agent Jonathan Ross
https://youtu.be/YzmBR71KPW8

Other News

Frigid air is expected to blanket Minnesota on Friday, and it’s forecast to get cold enough to cancel some Amtrak trips on its Empire Builder and Borealis lines, the Pioneer Press reports. By Thursday evening, wind chills could dip to -45.
https://www.twincities.com/2026/01/21/amtrak-cancellation-winter-weather/?share=2ttleterowriioticaep

Eight wars settled and Chinese windfarms: factchecking Trump’s Davos claims
The president’s address in Switzerland featured a range of dubious assertions, from exaggerated to false
Joseph Gedeon in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/21/trump-davos-speech-factcheck

‘Endangered lawyer’ day highlights US justice system’s plummeting standing
International coalition of legal groups focuses on political intimidation of lawyers and judges in US – once a role model
Ed Pilkington in New York
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/22/lawyers-judges-intimidation-trump

The 12 best nonalcoholic beers in the US
From booze-free IPAs to lagers to stouts, here are our beer expert’s picks for the best-tasting nonalcoholic beers
Beth Demmon
https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter-us/2026/jan/21/best-non-alcoholic-beer

The 13 best nonalcoholic wines in the US
https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter-us/2026/jan/17/best-nonalcoholic-wines

Vienna closes museums and cuts opening hours as part of austerity drive
Director of Wien Museum says ‘we all have to economise’ as city temporarily reduces access to cultural sites
Philip Oltermann European culture editor
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/21/vienna-temporarily-closes-museums-cuts-opening-hours-austerity-wien-museum

Why Trump is worried datacenters might cost his party an election
Blake Montgomery
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/jan/22/trump-datacenters-republicans

‘They saw them on their dishes when eating’: The mushroom making people hallucinate dozens of tiny humans (Paywalled?)
Rachel Nuwer
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20260121-the-mysterious-mushroom-that-makes-you-see-tiny-people

Release the beast! How Iron Maiden and a naked Ralph Fiennes created the ultimate big-screen needle drop
The Number of the Beast lights up an unforgettable scene in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple thanks to director Nia DaCosta expertly blending ‘craziness and romance’
Michael Hann
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/jan/20/28-years-later-bone-temple-iron-maiden-and-naked-ralph-fiennes

Sundance 2026: the 10 films not to miss at this year’s festival
The first Sundance without founder Robert Redford and the last to take place in Park City, Utah, will see new films starring Natalie Portman, Ethan Hawke and Courtney Love
Benjamin Lee
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/22/sundance-film-festival-top-10-films

Sinners becomes first film in history to earn 16 Oscar nominations
Full list of nominees
Catherine Shoard
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/22/sinners-becomes-first-film-in-history-to-earn-16-oscar-nominations

‘Who was this golden creature?’: the stars of London’s black queer nightlife – in pictures
From newbie drag queens to wild voguing performances, a new archival exhibition boasts images from four decades of riotous nightlife
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2026/jan/22/london-black-queer-nightlife-in-pictures

2026.01.19

ICE

A Minnesota-based ICE agent is also a pastor at a church in St. Paul, where protesters interrupted service on Sunday, the Pioneer Press reports. The U.S. Department of Justice says it’s investigating. Via MinnPost
https://www.twincities.com/2026/01/18/protesters-interrupt-st-paul-church-service-citing-pastors-ice-ties/

Retired police officer: The Renee Good shooting was a failure of tactics and law
It’s likely that ICE’s behavior in Minnesota is due to a mix of incompetence and impunity granted to the agency by the current administration.
by Matt Koncar
https://www.minnpost.com/community-voices/2026/01/retired-police-officer-the-renee-good-shooting-was-a-failure-of-tactics-and-law/

Who is on the frontline of Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown?
These are the federal agencies detaining people across the US – mostly, but not all, under the umbrella of the Department of Homeland Security
Roque Planas and Andrew Witherspoon
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/19/donald-trump-immigration-crackdown

Other News

Donald Trump links threats to seize Greenland to Nobel prize snub in letter
US president says he no longer feels the need to think ‘purely of peace’ in letter to Norwegian prime minister
Jon Henley Europe correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/19/donald-trump-greenland-threats-nobel-prize-snub-letter

Nearly all Epstein files still unreleased a month after Congress deadline
Over 2 million documents are under DoJ review despite ‘legal obligation’ from Epstein Files Transparency Act
Victoria Bekiempis
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/19/jeffrey-epstein-files-unreleased-trump-doj

Back-scratching bovine leads scientists to reassess intelligence of cows
Brown Swiss in Austria has been discovered using tools in multiple ways – something only ever seen in humans and chimpanzees
Ian Sample Science editor
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/19/back-scratching-cow-veronika-bovine-intelligence

Scientists warn of ‘regime shift’ as seaweed blooms expand worldwide
Study links rapid growth of ocean macroalgae to global heating and nutrient pollution
Damien Gayle Environment correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jan/19/scientists-seaweed-blooms-expand-worldwide-ocean-pollution

‘I was afraid for my life’: the transgender refugees fleeing Trump’s America
Fear, abuse and eroding rights for trans people have created a hostile environment in the US – can they claim asylum in the Netherlands?
Helen Pidd and Eli Block
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/19/i-was-afraid-for-my-life-the-transgender-refugees-fleeing-trumps-america

At nine, I disappeared into home schooling. No one came looking
a photo collage featuring an adult and a child in a field
Mom insisted I needed a ‘free-form education’ outside public school. After four years of loneliness, I gave up hope that someone would get me out
Stefan Merrill Block
https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2026/jan/19/homeschooled-memoir-excerpt

Baking Steel v Ooni v Gozney: I tested the three best pizza makers for home in the US
I spent weeks testing popular at-home pizza tools. Here’s what I found was worth the money, no matter your budget
Sal Vaglica
https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter-us/2026/jan/19/best-at-home-pizza-makers

World’s oldest monastic brewery to be sold as German beer sales slide
Brewing tradition of nearly 1,000 years at Weltenburg Abbey in Bavaria to be bought up by Munich company Schneider Weisse
Deborah Cole in Berlin
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/19/weltenburg-abbey-oldest-monastic-brewery-sold-german-beer-sales-decline

Review
Tim Travers and the Time Traveler’s Paradox review – space-hopping comedy asks the big question
Stimson Snead’s preposterous time-leaping indie starring multiple Samuel Dunnings is just about rescued by cameos from Keith David and Danny Trejo
Peter Bradshaw
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/19/tim-travers-and-the-time-travelers-paradox-review

Mary Nolan’s ‘extraordinary’ photos: evocative, nostalgic and overlooked – in pictures
Once the home of Australian artist Arthur Boyd and his wife Yvonne, Bundanon – set across 1,000 hectares on the NSW south coast – is now home to an art museum, where the latest exhibition celebrates the Boyd women whose artistic careers have been overlooked.
Among them is Arthur’s sister Lady Mary Nolan (nee Boyd), who had four children with her first husband, the artist John Perceval, before moving to London and marrying Sidney Nolan in 1978. A painter and a potter, Mary is less known for her photographs, 48 of which are now on show after being unearthed at the National Library of Australia
The Hidden Line: Art of the Boyd Women is open at Bundanon gallery until 15 February
Steph Harmon
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2026/jan/20/mary-nolans-extraordinary-photos-evocative-nostalgic-and-overlooked-in-pictures

2026.01.18

Revolutionary imaging of black hole aims to prove they are not ‘evil vacuum cleaners’
Newly appointed Cambridge professor says feat would accelerate scientific knowledge by an order of magnitude
Hannah Devlin Science correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/18/astronomers-revolutionary-moving-image-black-hole-cambridge-science

Dublin Bay’s oyster graveyard rises from dead in effort to restore rich ecosystem
Pioneering scheme hopes species that thrived for thousands of years in Irish waters can do so again
Rory Carroll in Dublin
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/18/dublin-bay-oyster-reefs-restoration

AI companies will fail. We can salvage something from the wreckage
Cory Doctorow
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/jan/18/tech-ai-bubble-burst-reverse-centaur

Man accused of aiming laser at Trump helicopter acquitted in 35 minutes
Swift verdict of not guilty in case of Jacob Winkler another high-profile defeat for Jeanine Pirro, US attorney for DC
Marina Dunbar
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/17/laser-beam-trump-jeanine-pirro

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: this glorious grossout comedy is Game of Thrones at its best
My jaw was left agape by this rich, moving spinoff. Its two lead characters have the making of a classic comic double act
Rhik Samadder
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/jan/17/a-knight-of-the-seven-kingdoms-hbo-game-of-thrones-spin-off-got

Growing sense of embarrassment at Fifa over Donald Trump peace prize
Mid-level and senior officials uncomfortable with award
Fifa says it still ‘strongly’ supports the peace prize
Exclusive by Osasu Obayiuwana in Rabat
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jan/18/embarrassment-fifa-donald-trump-peace-prize

JD Vance: ‘despicable toady for Trump’ – and 2028 candidate in all but name
Vice-president has emerged as key defender of Maga flame – and is backed by big tech billions. Is this the heir apparent?
David Smith in Concord, North Carolina and Nick Robins-Early in New York
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/18/jd-vance-profile-trump-presidency

Eight people killed in avalanches in Austrian Alps as rescuers urge skiers to heed warnings
Three Czech skiers swept away in Murtal district while five killed in Pongau area near Salzburg
Agence France-Presse
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/18/eight-people-killed-in-avalanches-in-austrian-alps-as-rescuers-urge-skiers-to-heed-warnings

2026.01.15

All ICE: <cut>

Free speech advocates see a pattern as ICE protesters, observers face violence in Minnesota
Minnesota is the latest state where lawsuits allege federal officials are intentionally using force to suppress free speech.
by Cleo Krejci
https://www.minnpost.com/metro/2026/01/free-speech-advocates-see-a-pattern-as-ice-protesters-observers-face-violence-in-minnesota/

Immigration agents are shooting people. Is it legal?
A law professor explains whether the agent who fatally shot Renee Good could face prosecution.
by Chip Brownlee for The Trace
https://www.minnpost.com/national/2026/01/ice-shooting-legal-prosecution-federal-agent/

The ICE occupation, unlike the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder, is an intentional disruption
The most effective and meaningful pushback against the federal government’s terror campaign comes in the form of neighbors helping neighbors.
by Bill Lindeke
https://www.minnpost.com/cityscape/2026/01/the-ice-occupation-unlike-the-aftermath-of-george-floyds-murder-is-an-intentional-disruption/

A federal judge on Wednesday “did not take immediate action on [Minnesota’s] request for a restraining order to stop the surge of ICE operations in the state, instead setting timelines for the state and federal government to respond,” KARE11 reports. “U.S. District Judge Katherine Menendez called the case a ‘frontier’ in constitutional law.” Via MinnPost
https://www.minnpost.com/glean/2026/01/judge-sets-deadlines-in-minnesotas-lawsuit-against-ice-no-immediate-restraining-order/

Minnesota’s largest corporate players have been mostly mum about the ongoing Operation Metro Surge, MPR reports. “‘And the lack of voice right now, I think, is deafening,’” said R.T. Rybak, head of the Minneapolis Foundation and the former mayor of Minneapolis. Via MinnPost
https://www.minnpost.com/glean/2026/01/judge-sets-deadlines-in-minnesotas-lawsuit-against-ice-no-immediate-restraining-order/

School officials in Crystal say “a parent was arrested by ICE agents while waiting at a school bus stop with their child,” KARE11 reports. A letter sent to parents at Northport Elementary School said “other students at the bus stop and students on the bus might have seen the encounter.” 
https://www.kare11.com/article/news/local/ice-in-minnesota/parent-arrested-ice-agents-school-bus-crystal/89-6cd97be7-50b8-481a-b19d-ff94ccc9f818

Trump threatens to invoke insurrection act as protests continue in Minneapolis
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2026/jan/15/us-politics-latest-news-updates-donald-trump-venezuela-maria-corina-machado?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6968ec858f08230f67a73ef2#block-6968ec858f08230f67a73ef2

‘If you people don’t stop protesting ICE torture, I’m going send the military to torture you and control the midterms,’ sayz Our Orange Fearful Leader

Trumps threatens to send federal troops to Minnesota to quell protests
The threat comes after several nights of unrest in the city following the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent.
by Ana Radelat
https://www.minnpost.com/national/washington/2026/01/trumps-threatens-to-send-federal-troops-to-minnesota-to-quell-protests/</cut>

The full list of 75 countries where Trump is suspending visa processing
The Trump administration indefinitely suspended immigrant visa processing from 75 countries – see which nations have been affected
Joseph Gedeon in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/14/full-list-75-countries-visa-processing-suspended

Trump is making China – not America – great again, global survey suggests
Exclusive: US is less feared by its traditional adversaries, while its allies feel ever more distant, results show
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/14/global-survey-suggests-trump-is-making-china-not-america-great-again

Suspended Michigan autoworker who heckled Trump gets outpouring of donations
Tens of thousands of dollars raised for TJ Sabula after he reportedly calls Trump ‘pedophile protector’ during Ford plant tour
Michael Sainato
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/14/trump-suspended-michigan-autoworker

Union leaders accuse Trump labor department of echoing Nazi rhetoric
Labor department rhetoric, such as ‘One Homeland. One People. One Heritage’, prompt comparisons to Nazi slogan
Michael Sainato
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/14/union-leaders-trump-administration-white-supremacy

Wolf’s dinner preserved in Siberia for 14,400 years sheds light on woolly rhino
Decoded genome of meat in pup’s stomach helps scientists build picture of what caused extinction of species
Ian Sample Science editor
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/14/wolf-cub-preserved-permafrost-woolly-rhino

Seattle UItrasonics C-200 knife review: a powered knife even a pro chef can love
The C-200 vibrates 30,000 times per second, and as our pro chef tester found, it’s not as gimmicky as it sounds
Jonathan Deutsch
https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter-us/2026/jan/14/ultrasonic-knives-tested

Erotic gay smash Heated Rivalry is a well-timed defense of intimacy coordinators
Adrian Horton
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/jan/14/heated-rivarly-intimacy-coordinators

‘Bigger and lower’: bull in Dutch painting once had much larger testicles
Experts at the Mauritshuis in The Hague believe Paulus Potter toned down The Bull to respect 17th-century sensibilities
Senay Boztas in The Hague
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/15/paulus-potter-the-bull-mauritshuis-dutch-painting-testicles

Review
Star Trek: Starfleet Academy review – Holly Hunter is a transgressive thrill in this horny high-school spinoff
This hormone-fuelled tale of the training college for space voyagers is like Grange Hill, with phasers – and it has a female lead unlike any captain before
Graeme Virtue
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2026/jan/15/star-trek-starfleet-academy-review-holly-hunter-is-a-transgressive-thrill-in-this-horny-high-school-spinoff

Serial houseplant killer? Here’s how to keep them alive (Paywalled?)
Emily Holt
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1lr8vy2v69o

Yodellers, bathing monkeys and a ballroom clean: photos of the day – WednesdayThe Guardian’s picture editors select photographs from around the world
Selected by Natasha Rees-Bloor
https://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2026/jan/14/yodellers-bathing-monkeys-ballroom-clean-photos-of-the-day-wednesday

2026.01.13

ICE enforcement: Via MinnPost
–The federal government has made more than 2,000 arrests in Minnesota in the immigration enforcement surge that began this month, MPR reports. Federal officials did not say how many people face deportation or provide other details.  
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/01/12/latest-monday-on-ice-shooting-in-minneapolis

-Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara criticized ICE tactics in an interview with the New York Times, the Star Tribune reports. On the Times’ “The Daily” podcast, O’Hara said the shooting death last week of Renee Good by an ICE agent was “predictable and entirely preventable.”
https://www.startribune.com/in-new-york-times-interview-minneapolis-police-chief-brian-ohara-rails-against-ice-tactics/601562616

-A video captured ICE agents ramming a door and pushing their way inside a home to arrest a man in the Twin Cities. The AP report says a document agents that handed to a woman in the house is different than a warrant signed by a judge and does not authorize forced entry into a private residence.
https://www.twincities.com/2026/01/11/video-captures-minneapolis-immigration-arrest-in-a-city-on-edge-after-shooting-of-renee-good/

Minneapolis-based Sun Country Airlines is merging with the airline Allegiant, the Pioneer Press reports. Sun Country says the Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport will remain a base city for the new combined Allegiant airline. Via MinnPost
https://www.minnpost.com/glean/2026/01/more-than-2000-arrested-in-twin-cities-ice-operation/

Here’s what’s really happening with child care fraud in Minnesota
Evidence is nowhere near the epidemic levels a viral YouTube video would suggest — but it hasn’t stopped a crackdown on child care funding. Here’s a fact check. Via MinnPost
by Chabeli Carrazana
https://www.minnpost.com/other-nonprofit-media/2026/01/heres-whats-really-happening-with-child-care-fraud-in-minnesota-explained/

Trump administration ends temporary protected status for Somalis in US
Noem claims conditions have improved in east African country so Somalis no longer qualify for legal protections
Joseph Gedeon in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/13/trump-administration-ends-tps-somalia

DoJ attorneys resign over decision not to investigate agent in Minneapolis ICE shooting
At least four leaders across civil rights division step down as FBI presses on with investigation into Renee Nicole Good
Richard Luscombe
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/13/doj-attorneys-resign-minneapolis-ice-shooting

Trump may have to disclose details about assets as part of BBC lawsuit
US president is suing for defamation over documentary that joined two parts of speech he made on 6 January 2021
Michael Savage and Jamie Grierson
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/13/trump-may-have-to-disclose-details-about-his-assets-as-part-of-bbc-lawsuit

‘A bombshell’: doubt cast on discovery of microplastics throughout human body
Exclusive: Some scientists say many detections are most likely error, with one high-profile study called a ‘joke’
Damian Carrington Environment editor
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jan/13/microplastics-human-body-doubt

David Letterman calls CBS News a ‘wreck’ under newly installed leadership
Former late-night host makes comments amid merger of CBS’s parent company Paramount with Skydance Media
Anna Betts
https://www.theguardian.com/media/2026/jan/12/david-letterman-cbs-news-bari-weiss

US judge lets Danish firm resume Rhode Island offshore wind project halted by Trump
Ørsted and other wind developers have faced repeated disruptions to multibillion dollar projects under Trump
Reuters
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jan/12/orsted-rhode-island-wind-project-trump

‘Her time has come’: did Mondrian owe his success to a cross-dressing lesbian artist who lived in a Cornish cove?
Piet Mondrian found fame, fortune and glory with his grid-like paintings lit with basic colours. But did many of his ideas come from Marlow Moss? Our writer celebrates an extraordinary British talent who died in obscurity
Joanna Moorhead
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2026/jan/12/piet-mondrian-crossdressing-lesbian-artist-marlow-moss-cornish-cove

Women are feral for Heated Rivalry. What does that say about men?
The explosive popularity of the gay hockey TV drama reveals women’s desire for sex and romance without violence or hierarchy
Julia Carrie Wong
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jan/13/why-do-women-like-heated-rivalry

2026.01.08

MinnPost’s Glean is all ICE related this morning
https://www.minnpost.com/glean/2026/01/more-on-the-ice-shooting-in-minneapolis-federal-agents-renee-good/

Thousands gather at vigil for woman slain by ICE agent in Minneapolis
Mourners filled an entire city block on Wednesday night following the early morning shooting of a woman who was trying to drive away from ICE agents.
by Katelyn Vue
https://sahanjournal.com/immigration/minneapolis-vigil-woman-slain-ice-agent/

Yes, state and local prosecutors can charge federal law enforcement agents with crimes. But it isn’t easy
Minnesota officials are demanding a role in the investigation of Wednesday’s fatal shooting by an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
by Shadi Bushra
https://www.minnpost.com/public-safety/2026/01/minnesota-ice-shooting-yes-state-and-local-prosecutors-can-charge-federal-agents-law-enforcement-with-crimes-but-it-isnt-easy/

Viewed From Across the Pond:

FBI takes over case of ICE agent killing US woman and cuts Minnesota’s access to evidence
Minneapolis remains on edge, with several protests planned after shooting of Renee Nicole Macklin Good
Richard Luscombe, Joseph Gedeon and Lucy Campbell
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/08/minneapolis-school-class-canceled-ice-killed-woman

‘She behaved horribly’: Trump doubles down on claim ICE agent acted in self-defense in interview
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2026/jan/08/minneapolis-shooting-ice-minnesota-protests-vigils-donald-trump-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-695fbff28f085fa3d4b405df#block-695fbff28f085fa3d4b405df

‘Poet, writer, wife, mom’: who was Renee Nicole Macklin Good, the woman killed by an ICE agent?
Macklin Good, 37, had moved to Minneapolis last year from Missouri, loved to sing and won an award for her poetry
Richard Luscombe and agencies
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/08/minnesota-ice-shooting-nicole-macklin-good

Minneapolis schools cancel classes after ICE officer’s fatal shooting of woman
City remains on edge, with several protests planned in the day, after the killing of Renee Nicole Macklin Good
Richard Luscombe and Joseph Gedeon
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/08/minneapolis-school-class-canceled-ice-killed-woman

Minneapolis shooting is a brutal start to Trump’s ‘largest operation’ targeting immigrants
Maanvi Singh
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/08/minneapolis-ice-renee-nicole-good

Cable news networks scramble to cover fatal Minnesota ICE shooting – with both caution and commentary
Networks brought on former federal and police officials, with varying reactions and responses to Minneapolis killing
Jeremy Barr in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/07/minnesota-ice-shooting-coverage

ICE agents have killed – again. The Trump administration blames the victim
Moira Donegan
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/08/ice-minneapolis-shooting-trump

US immigration agents linked to spike in shootings under Trump administration crackdown
Data compiled by news non-profit the Trace shows 14 firearm incidents and more uses of force cases
Marina Dunbar
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/07/trump-immigration-ice-shootings

‘Out with the Yanks!’: Thousands protest in Colombia as anger builds over Trump’s intervention in Venezuela
President Gustavo Petro called for demonstrations after Trump said he was interested in military action in Colombia
Tom Phillips in Cúcuta
https://www.theguardian.com/world/video/2026/jan/08/thousands-protest-colombia-trump-petro-agree-to-meet-video

Nasa considering early return of crew from ISS due to medical reasons
Astronaut aboard the International Space Station is in stable condition, Nasa said, and a spacewalk was canceled
Reuters
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/08/nasa-crew-return-international-space-station-health

Germany’s dying forests are losing their ability to absorb CO2. Can a new way of planting save them?
Vast swathes of the country’s trees have been killed off by droughts and infestations, in a trend sweeping across Europe. A shift towards more biodiverse cultivation could offer answers
Patrick Greenfield
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jan/08/germany-forests-bark-beetle-spruce-co2-carbon-sink-monoculture-aoe

Fly-arousing orchid and zombie fungus among 2025 botanical and fungal finds
Scientists also name an overlooked snowdrop growing in the UK and a fruit that tastes like banana and guava
Damian Carrington Enviroment editor
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jan/08/fly-arousing-orchid-zombie-fungus-among-new-plant-fungus-species-finds-2025

We study glaciers. ‘Artificial glaciers’ and other tech may halt their total collapse
Brent Minchew and Colin Meyer
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/07/we-study-glaciers-artificial-glaciers-and-other-tech-may-halt-their-total-collapse

Studies link some food preservatives to higher diabetes and cancer risk
Of 17 preservatives studied, higher consumption of 12 of them linked with increased risk of type 2 diabetes
Andrew Gregory Health editor
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/08/studies-link-some-food-preservatives-to-higher-diabetes-and-cancer-risk

What is Stranger Things’s Conformity Gate craze – and why did it crash Netflix?
An online conspiracy theory has left hysterical fans believing that the Netflix show’s finale was a fake. Could Vecna still come back with a secret episode?
Benjie Goodhart
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/jan/08/what-is-stranger-things-conformity-gate-netflix

Review
His & Hers review – this glossy thriller is ideal new year TV
This six-part adaptation of the bestselling 2020 novel about a murder investigation is twisty, absurd and bingeable. It’s great January viewing
Lucy Mangan
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/jan/08/his-hers-review-netflix-jon-bernthal-tessa-thompson-thriller

Stranded whales and an anti-drone gun: photos of the day – Thursday
Arnel Hecimovic
https://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2026/jan/08/stranded-whales-and-an-anti-drone-gun-photos-of-the-day-thursday

2026.01.07

BREAKING: Feds confirm ICE officer fatally shot woman in south Minneapolis One witness told Sahan Journal she saw first responders performing CPR on someone at E. 34th Street and Portland Avenue. The person had blood on their face and in their hair. by Becky Z. Dernbach, Andrew Hazzard, Katelyn Vue, Shubhanjana Das and Mohamed Ibrahim
https://sahanjournal.com/immigration/federal-shooting-ice-immigration-south-minneapolis-34th-portland/

Much of the talk surrounding the Minnesota governor’s race has focused on Gov. Tim Walz dropping out. And while many Republicans wanted Walz gone, “an early exit from his re-election campaign presents its own challenges,” according to the Minnesota Star Tribune, including how to pivot from a fraud-focused strategy to other issues. Via MinnPost
https://www.startribune.com/after-focus-on-walz-and-fraud-what-comes-next-for-gop-in-governors-race/601558163?utm_source=gift

Axios is reporting that the Trump administration “is freezing $10 billion in funds for child care and poor families in five blue states.” California, Colorado, Illinois, New York and Minnesota have seen these funds suspended, and these five states “will also be asked to provide additional information, including attendance records, inspection reports and complaints from parents.” Via MinnPost
https://www.axios.com/2026/01/05/trump-child-care-minnesota

‘Astounding’ vaccine change puts US behind peer countries, experts warn
Scientists predict increased disease outbreaks after Trump officials no longer recommend third of childhood vaccines
Melody Schreiber
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/07/us-vaccine-schedule-guidelines-change

‘How is it possible?’: Berliners demand answers after sabotage causes blackout
Arson attack that left parts of German capital in darkness for days stirs outrage over infrastructure insecurity
Kate Connolly in Berlin
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/07/how-is-it-possible-berliners-demand-answers-after-sabotage-causes-blackout

Interview
‘It was overwhelming’: Katie Leung on Harry Potter, sudden fame, insecurity – and starring in Bridgerton
Emine Saner
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/jan/07/katie-leung-harry-potter-sudden-fame-insecurity-bridgerton

The place that stayed with me: I fled the Greek Islands to chase a letter home
As his 30th birthday loomed in Greece, Steve MinOn sent a letter to his parents in Australia. Then he waited.
Steve MinOn
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/jan/07/place-stayed-with-me-greek-islands

‘We were sitting with our calculator saying “we can afford that!”’ Joy for families as cystic fibrosis drug prices fall within reach
The cost of medication was too high for thousands of CF sufferers around the world. Now a Bangladeshi company is making a generic version that will change lives
Kat Lay Global health correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jan/07/families-cystic-fibrosis-drug-prices-affordable-generic-triko-vertex-pharmaceuticals-beximco-trikafta-kaftrio

2026.01.04

US sees spike in flu cases in December, after most severe season since 2018
Not clear whether more people will get the flu this season, but more than 3,100 people have died in last year in US
Eric Berger
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/03/us-spike-influenza-december

‘Naked imperialism’: how Trump intervention in Venezuela is a return to form for the US
Most of the Americas have suffered from interference from their powerful northern neighbour – and are usually the worse off for it
Tiago Rogero South America correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/04/naked-imperialism-how-trump-intervention-in-venezuela-is-a-return-to-form-for-the-us

Trump’s attack on Venezuela without alerting Congress tests limits of executive power
Robert Tait in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/04/trump-congress-venezuela-attack

Canadian officials say US health institutions no longer dependable for accurate information
Misinformation from the Trump administration is cited as fuelling Canadians’ concerns over childhood vaccinations
Olivia Bowden in Toronto
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/04/canada-us-health-institutions-information

2025 was ICE’s deadliest year in decades. Here are the 31 people who died in custody
The deaths came as the Trump administration ramped up immigration enforcement, detaining a record number of people

Some of those who died in detention had arrived in the US recently, seeking asylum. Others had arrived years ago, some as young children.
ICE (US Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
Maanvi Singh, Coral Murphy Marcos and Charlotte Simmonds
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/jan/04/ice-2025-deaths-timeline

Aliens: the spread of invasive plants and animals across Europe – in pictures
Erik Irmer has been documenting the spread of invasive plant and animal species that disrupt native ecology across Europe. He focuses on humans’ interactions with these plants and animals. Aliens is published by Fotohof
Sarah Gilbert
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2026/jan/04/aliens-the-spread-of-invasive-plants-and-animals-across-europe-in-pictures

The best winter gloves are two pairs, actually (and one is hiding at Home Depot)
This inexpensive duo of winter gloves warms your hands as well as one bulky pair does, but they’re much easier to move your hands in
Nick Mokey
https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter-us/2026/jan/03/best-winter-gloves

Wolf supermoon across the world – in pictures
According to Nasa, a supermoon occurs when the moon, due to its proximity to Earth, appears up to 15% larger and 30% brighter than a regular full moon
Pejman Faratin
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2026/jan/03/wolf-moon-supermoon-across-the-world-in-pictures

2026.01.03

For Ghod and Standard Oil!
Why has US attacked Caracas and captured Venezuela’s president?
Trump’s unprecedented capture of Nicolás Maduro follows months of military campaign and years of strained relationship
William Christou
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/03/why-trump-us-attacked-caracas-captured-venezuela-president-nicolas-maduro

Epstein disclosures raise key question: why wasn’t he stopped earlier?
New documents reveal numerous missed opportunities as experts and victims condemn US authorities’ failures
Victoria Bekiempis
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/03/epstein-files-police-failures

Trump cuts have fueled ‘rage-giving’ to US rural public radio. Will it be enough?
Across the US, federal public media cuts have galvanized many communities to donate to their local radio stations
Stephen Starr in Yellow Springs, Ohio
https://www.theguardian.com/media/2026/jan/03/trump-public-radio-cuts-donations

Fresh bone analysis makes case for earliest ‘ancestor of humankind’, but doubts remain
Scientists argue ape-like Sahelanthropus tchadensis that lived in Africa 7m years ago is best contender but more fossils are needed
Ian Sample Science editor
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/02/fresh-bone-analysis-earliest-ancestor-of-humankind-but-doubts-remain

I’m a personal trainer. Here’s the exact equipment I use at home
You don’t need a gym membership to get a respectable workout. The right compact and budget-friendly equipment can help you create a routine
Marissa Miller
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/jan/02/best-home-gym-equipment

Amidst all the talk about fraud, Minnesota’s flu season is kicking into high gear, MPR News reports: “Recent data released by the Minnesota Department of Health indicate that influenza cases nearly tripled between Dec. 7 and Dec. 21.” Hospital admissions are also on the rise; nearly 2,000 Minnesotans are currently hospitalized due to the flu. COVID-19 cases remain lower than flu cases, however. Via MinnPost
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/01/01/flu-positivity-rates-hospitalizaitons-increase-in-minnesota

US woman charged with fetal homicide after allegedly inducing own abortion
Kentucky woman reportedly ordered medication to end her pregnancy and buried remains in her yard
Carter Sherman
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/02/kentucky-woman-arrest-abortion

Dreaming of writing your novel this year? Rip up all the rules!
After 35 years of teaching fiction writing, the prize-winning author shares her wisdom. First tip? Don’t write what you know…
Elizabeth McCracken
https://www.theguardian.com/books/ng-interactive/2026/jan/03/dreaming-of-writing-your-novel-this-year-rip-up-all-the-rules

The hill I will die on: Fan fiction is real literature, whatever the snobs say
Urooj Ashfaq
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/03/hill-die-on-fan-fiction-real-literature

‘They don’t have a nice socket structure’: how to really look after your knees
From squats and lunges to the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, physiotherapists share advice on how to maintain strong knees and avoid pain
Bianca Nogrady
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/jan/04/they-dont-have-a-nice-socket-structure-how-to-really-look-after-your-knees

‘Suspension of entry into the US’, paparazzi – and wine: three other reasons George Clooney moved to France
Catherine Shoard
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/02/suspension-of-entry-into-the-us-paparazzi-and-wine-three-other-reasons-george-clooney-moved-to-france

What phase follows a full moon? The Saturday quiz
From Phoebe Buffay and Lisa Simpson to Mount Ulysses and the Sangre de Cristo mountains, test your knowledge with the Saturday quiz (Not automagical)
Thomas Eaton
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/jan/03/what-phase-follows-a-full-moon-the-saturday-quiz

Meera Sodha’s recipe for radicchio and chianti risotto
Bittersweet maroon leaves pair perfectly with juicy red wine in this elegant winter risotto served with a walnut pesto
Meera Sodha
https://www.theguardian.com/food/2026/jan/03/radicchio-and-chianti-risotto-recipe-meera-sodha