Storm Eowyn wreaked havoc across the UK and Ireland on Friday, causing record-breaking wind speeds, power outages, and extensive travel disruptions. Flights, rail services, and hospitals were impacted, with Scotland advising people to avoid travel due to dangerous conditions. In Northern Ireland, 1,800 trees fell, and roads remain impassable. Celtic FC's stadium was damaged, and power cuts affected over 725,000 homes. Forecasters warn of additional disruptions this weekend, including the possibility of tornadoes. Authorities have warned that it could take days to assess the full damage and restore power.

Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed the Ukraine crisis could have been avoided had Donald Trump been US president in 2022. Putin praised Trump as "smart" and "pragmatic," echoing his claim of a "stolen" 2020 election. Trump threatened severe sanctions on Russia, calling the conflict "ridiculous." Kyiv criticized attempts to sideline Ukraine in talks, with officials urging Putin to "come back to reality." Meanwhile, Russian strikes killed 3 in Kyiv, and Ukraine launched drone attacks on 12 Russian regions, including Moscow. Both nations remain locked in escalating hostilities, with no signs of resolution.

Former US President Barack Obama was spotted dining alone at a Washington, DC restaurant, intensifying rumors about his possible separation from Michelle Obama and alleged romance with actress Jennifer Aniston. Social media buzzed after reports claimed Aniston revealed their relationship to her inner circle. Obama’s solo outing happened before attending Donald Trump’s second inauguration, an event Michelle Obama did not attend. Despite speculation, Obama recently shared a heartfelt birthday post for his wife, calling her "the love of my life." Fans at the restaurant cheered his presence, applauding the 63-year-old leader during his visit.

As Delhi elections approach, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) intensified its campaign with a controversial poster featuring Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alongside PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah under the tagline, "Kejriwal's honesty will outweigh all the dishonest people." This marked the first time Rahul Gandhi was included in AAP's political posters. The move followed Gandhi’s criticism of AAP’s governance model, comparing it unfavorably to Sheila Dikshit’s tenure. AAP and Congress, allies in the INDIA opposition bloc, are contesting separately, fueling a triangular battle with the BJP in Delhi's February 5 elections.

In a major development, the U.S. Supreme Court denied Tahawwur Rana's final petition against extradition to India. The 26/11 Mumbai terror attack convict now faces imminent transfer. Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam hailed the decision as a "big win for India." Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, was convicted for aiding David Coleman Headley, the attacks' main conspirator. The U.S. government argued India's charges, including forgery, were distinct from U.S. prosecution. Rana is currently detained in Los Angeles. The Mumbai attacks in 2008 killed 166 people, including 6 Americans, leaving an indelible mark on global counterterrorism.

Pete Hegseth has been confirmed as U.S. defense secretary after Vice-President JD Vance cast a tie-breaking Senate vote. The confirmation faced intense scrutiny due to allegations of sexual assault, infidelity, and excessive drinking, all denied by Hegseth. Three Republican senators, including Mitch McConnell, voted against him, citing concerns over his qualifications and past behavior. Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News host, will manage a $849 billion budget and oversee 3 million personnel. Critics, including Democratic senators, questioned his experience, while supporters praised his commitment to military readiness and standards.

The Donald Trump administration has frozen all U.S. foreign aid, excluding military and emergency food funding for Israel and Egypt. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that no new awards or extensions would proceed without review, aligning with Trump’s “America First” policy. This order impacts development and military assistance, including billions previously sent to Ukraine for its defense against Russia. Aid for PEPFAR, a life-saving anti-HIV/AIDS initiative, is also paused. The United States remains the largest global donor, contributing $64 billion in 2023. An internal review of foreign aid will conclude within 85 days, per Rubio's memo.

A fire engulfed two vehicles parked near the Mahakumbh Mela venue in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, early Saturday morning. The blaze, reported around 6:30 AM, caused panic among locals. Firefighters promptly controlled the fire using six tenders. Officials confirmed no casualties or injuries. An Ertiga car was completely burnt, while a Venue car was partially damaged. Fire Officer Vishal Yadav attributed the incident to extreme heat and assured devotees' safety. This comes a week after a cylinder explosion at the Mahakumbh venue destroyed 70+ huts and tents. Authorities have been urged to prevent future mishaps.

Storm Eowyn has caused widespread disruption across Ireland and the UK, with the Met Office identifying a rare "sting jet" weather phenomenon in Ireland. Winds reached 114 mph at Mace Head, County Galway, leading to power outages for over 1.1 million homes and businesses. A man tragically died in County Donegal after a tree fell on his car. Severe weather warnings, including amber alerts for wind and snow, remain in effect across Northern Ireland, Scotland, and northern England. Authorities have mobilized repair teams and provided warm hubs to affected residents, as some areas face prolonged outages.

Five new wildfires erupted in southern California on Thursday, spanning Los Angeles, San Diego, Ventura, and Riverside counties. The Hughes Fire, now 10,000 acres wide, has been contained by 36%, while other fires, including Border 2 and Laguna, continue to spread. President Trump plans to visit Los Angeles on Friday to assess the damage, amid controversy over his threat to withhold federal aid. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a $2.5B aid package. Firefighters face elevated risks as winds persist, though expected rain this weekend may aid efforts. Concerns about potential mudslides loom over the burned areas.