January 25, 2024 - Thursday

[WORLD] Russian military accuses Ukraine of shooting down plane carrying Ukrainian prisoners of war near the border, killing all 74 people on board.

A Russian military transport plane carrying Ukrainian prisoners of war crashes near the border with Ukraine. Russia accuses Ukraine of shooting down the plane, resulting in the deaths of all 74 people on board. Ukraine has not confirmed or denied the allegation. The Russian Defense Ministry claims that two missiles were launched from Ukraine's Kharkiv region. The plane crash adds to the conflicting accusations between Russia and Ukraine throughout the ongoing war. The exact details of the incident and the identities of those aboard remain unconfirmed.

No sources available.

[NATION] The US Supreme Court declined to halt the execution of Alabama inmate Kenneth Smith, who is set to be put to death using nitrogen gas.

The US Supreme Court has denied a stay for Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith, who is scheduled to be executed by nitrogen gas. Smith and his attorneys argued that the new method could result in excessive pain and violate the Eighth and 14th amendments. Despite these concerns, the Supreme Court declined his requests. The execution is set to take place during a 30-hour window starting Thursday. Alabama is the only state that has outlined a protocol for nitrogen hypoxia, which involves delivering nitrogen gas through a mask.

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[BUSINESS] Tesla stock drops on Q4 earnings miss, warns production growth rate will be 'notably lower' than 2023.

Tesla's Q4 earnings missed estimates with lower-than-expected revenue and adjusted net income. The company also issued a downbeat outlook on full-year production, stating that the growth rate may be significantly lower than in 2023. Tesla shares dropped 6% as a result. CEO Elon Musk confirmed the upcoming launch of the company's next-gen vehicle in the second half of 2025. The weak auto revenue and slower growth projection for 2024 contributed to the stock decline.

No sources available.

[TECHNOLOGY] Apple plans to charge fees and review sideloaded apps in the European Union to comply with new tech regulations.

As new regulations require Apple to allow sideloading of apps in the EU, the company plans to collect fees and conduct app reviews for these sideloaded apps. This move follows a recent change in Apple's US App Store policies and aims to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act. Although the plan is not finalized, it suggests that Apple will continue to control and monetize app distribution even with sideloading.

No sources available.

[SPORTS] Jim Harbaugh will be leaving his position as head coach of the Michigan football team, leaving the program with big shoes to fill.

The Michigan football coaching job is considered a national championship program with the ability to compete at the top of the sport. While there are strong pieces in place, the next few years may be a rebuilding phase for the team. Offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore is the likely candidate to replace Harbaugh. However, the success of the program was largely due to Harbaugh himself, making it a challenge for Michigan to maintain their position without him.

No sources available.

[SCIENCE] Japan's Moon lander, "Moon Sniper," could still be saved after a successful landing, although its solar panels are not generating power.

Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) successfully landed on the Moon, but its solar cells were not functioning properly, limiting its operation time. The mission is significant for Japan as it marks their first lunar landing and solidifies their position as a leader in space technology. The event also reflects a growing global interest in lunar activity and the advancement of research and technology.

No sources available.

[HEALTH] Measles cases soar in Europe, prompting urgent vaccination efforts and national emergencies in several countries.

Health officials are alarmed by the resurgence of measles in Europe, with over 42,200 cases reported in 2023, a huge increase from 941 cases the previous year. Countries like Kazakhstan, Russia, the UK, France, and Austria are experiencing major outbreaks. Urgent vaccination campaigns are being called for to control the spread of the virus, especially as falling vaccination rates and increased travel following the Covid-19 pandemic contribute to its resurgence. Health organizations are emphasizing that vaccination is the only way to protect children from this dangerous disease.

No sources available.

[ENTERTAINMENT] 'The Daily Show' veterans react to Jon Stewart's surprise return, comparing it to Michael Jordan's return to the Chicago Bulls.

Jon Stewart is set to return to 'The Daily Show' as host and executive producer on Mondays starting February 12. Former correspondents like John Oliver are excited about his return, with Oliver comparing it to Michael Jordan's return to the basketball court. Stewart's return comes as the 2024 presidential election season heats up, adding anticipation to his hosting and producing role.

No sources available.