World News
Putin agrees to temporary halt on energy facility strikes in Ukraine
Russia said Vladimir Putin agreed to pause attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure for 30 days after a call with President Trump. Reuters reports that Moscow did not accept a full ceasefire, while Kyiv said it would back the limited energy-strike pause.
US Politics
Lawmakers split over public scrutiny of the Iran war
NBC News reports Democrats are pressing for public hearings on strategy, costs, and legal authority for U.S. operations tied to Iran. Republican leaders have resisted, arguing that open hearings could compromise operations and saying classified briefings are sufficient for now.
Tech & AI
Meta weighs deep workforce cuts as AI spending rises
Reuters reports Meta is planning layoffs that could affect 20% or more of staff as it tries to fund aggressive AI infrastructure expansion and productivity efforts. The company has called the reporting speculative, but executives have reportedly discussed broad headcount reductions internally.
Business
Federal Reserve holds rates steady and flags inflation risks
The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged and described inflation as still somewhat elevated, according to Reuters. Policymakers signaled caution as energy-market volatility and Middle East conflict continue to cloud the economic outlook.
Weather
Severe U.S. storm system disrupts flights and travel
Reuters reports that more than 12,500 U.S. flights were delayed or canceled as major storms and high winds affected East Coast hubs and parts of the Midwest. FAA delays and ground stops were issued at multiple major airports as dangerous weather moved across regions.
Culture
“One Battle After Another” leads Oscars night
At the Oscars, “One Battle After Another” won Best Picture, and Michael B. Jordan took Best Actor for “Sinners,” according to Reuters and NPR coverage. The ceremony also highlighted notable firsts, including the Academy’s new casting award category.