A judge in Brazil has fined officials and construction companies $48.3m over a 2007 building site collapse in São Paulo. The sinkhole, which claimed seven lives during metro system expansion work, resulted from "negligent" and "dangerous" actions, the judge stated. Ignoring expert warnings for "urgent" support structures, the construction project continued, causing a 2,200-sq-m sinkhole that buried a minibus, destroyed homes, and displaced 200 residents. Former São Paulo Metrô president, an engineer, and a construction inspector, among others, are held responsible. Prosecutors note the "extraordinarily intense" trauma inflicted on São Paulo's populace.

Russia asserts complete control over Avdiivka following the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces, marking its largest gain since seizing Bakhmut in May 2023. The intense urban battle has left Avdiivka in ruins, with some Ukrainian troops reportedly sheltered in a Soviet-era coke plant. Moscow declares an 8.6km (5.3 miles) advancement on the 1,000km (621-mile) front line. President Putin hails the victory, emphasizing its significance. Ukraine attributes its withdrawal to preventing encirclement after months of fierce combat. Avdiivka's fall poses challenges for Ukraine in repelling Russian forces amid ammunition shortages and limited manpower.

Former President Donald Trump introduced his sneaker brand, 'Trump Sneakers,' at a Sneaker Con event in Philadelphia, revealing the "first official Trump footwear" with American flag detailing. This follows a court order for Trump and his company to pay $355 million in a New York civil fraud case. The shoes, named Never Surrender High-Tops, are priced at $399 on the new website, alongside Trump-branded Victory47 cologne. The announcement received mixed reactions at the Philadelphia Convention Centre. Despite legal challenges, Trump, nearing the Republican nomination, pushes forward with his business ventures.

Following Israel Defence Force (IDF) raids, Gaza's second-largest hospital, Nasser Hospital, is no longer operational, reports the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus states the hospital's non-functionality after a week-long siege and ongoing raids. WHO's attempts to assess conditions were denied. The Palestinian death toll rises to 28,985, and Algeria proposes a UN resolution for a Gaza ceasefire. However, the US, represented by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, signals likely rejection, citing counterproductive impact on their efforts to end the conflict. In response, Hamas conditions hostage release on Israel ending the war, complicating negotiations.

US President Joe Biden reassures Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that the $60bn military aid for Ukraine is in progress. While awaiting a final congressional vote, Biden expresses confidence in its approval. The aid is crucial amid Ukraine's withdrawal from Avdiivka, citing ammunition rationing due to Congress's delay. The Senate approved a $95bn foreign aid package, including $60bn for Ukraine, but House Republicans' division poses challenges. Biden pledges support, emphasizing the absurdity of abandoning Ukraine's defense. Zelensky urges US lawmakers to approve the package, emphasizing the need for ammunition to counter Russia's aggression.

UK PM Rishi Sunak faces party turmoil as Treasury explores spending cuts for pre-election tax reductions. Tories express concern over alienating voters with public service cuts, urging moderation. Former party chairman Lord Deben stresses public priorities like nurses and healthcare, cautioning against a shift to the right. Ex-minister Justine Greening warns of an "extinction event" if party embraces Ukip rhetoric. Internal strife heightens after byelection losses, with divisions on tax and immigration policies. Sunak's budget, a crucial opportunity, may decide the party's fate, but challenges persist amid poll leads for Labour. Critics fear a 1997 Labour landslide outcome.

The UK government announces an 18-month visa extension for 200,200 Ukrainians who arrived after the Russian invasion, offering certainty and stability. Three visa schemes, including Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Family Scheme, and Ukraine Extension Scheme, benefit from the extension, allowing stay until at least September 2026. Applicants can continue accessing work, benefits, healthcare, and education. Migration minister Tom Pursglove praises the generosity of UK families and reaffirms providing a safe haven for those fleeing conflict. The move signifies UK support for Ukraine's eventual safety and citizens' potential return. Extension applications open in early 2025.

Pakistan's Election Commission launches a swift investigation after Rawalpindi commissioner, Liaquat Ali Chattha, resigns, admitting to manipulating poll results and citing pressure from senior officials. The committee, formed by the Election Commission, will gather statements from district polling officials within three days. Chattha's explosive accusations of election interference come amid protests by Imran Khan's PTI party, alleging rigging in the February 8 elections. The ECP denies the claims, while Chattha urges punishment for those involved. The controversy raises concerns about trust in the electoral system, further exacerbated by a nationwide disruption in the social media platform X's service.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared on the "Morning Brew Daily" podcast that his controversial leadership trait involves minimal delegation, emphasizing a founder's hands-on approach. Despite acknowledging potential hiccups, the 39-year-old believes in deep involvement across various aspects, relying on a team for critical tasks. Zuckerberg expressed confidence in this management style, citing the importance of learning from challenges. Meanwhile, Meta's financial report highlighted concerns about Zuckerberg's high-risk hobbies, such as combat sports, with potential implications for both personal and company well-being. A recent knee injury during MMA training underscored these risks.

Recent discussions for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar, have been described as "not very promising." Despite the challenges, Qatar's Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, maintains optimism but acknowledges time constraints. The talks, involving senior officials from the US, Israel, Egypt, and Qatar in Cairo, aim to broker a pause in the conflict. While concerns about humanitarian aspects persist, Al Thani emphasizes the importance of not linking a truce to the release of hostages. Meanwhile, Israel's Prime Minister expresses determination to proceed with plans for a Rafah ground invasion.