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Decembers jobs report reveals a disappointing 50,000 job growth, far below expectations, indicating a stagnant labor market. The economy expanded in Q3, but jobless recovery persists due to Trumps policies. Unemployment rate remains at 4.5%. The Fed plans to pause rate cuts. Structural hurdles may prolong hiring challenges.

Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson, faces a crucial hearing this Friday in federal court. The hearing will determine if he could face the death penalty if convicted on federal charges. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to murder, stalking, and weapons violations and is being held without bail. His lawyers aim to dismiss the murder charge, while the judge reviews a push to toss the indictment due to alleged constitutional violations. Mangione also faces state murder charges, with no trial dates set yet.

President Trumps executive order ties defense contractors payouts to weapons delivery schedules, pushing for faster production. Top contractors like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman face potential penalties if they fall short, with the threat of contract terminations looming. The order, coupled with a significant budget boost, aims to expedite military equipment delivery, leaving contractors scrambling for legal advice to ensure compliance.

Switzerland mourns 40 victims of New Years fire, as investigators probe bars safety measures and authorities open criminal probe against managers.

Former President Trump suspends Venezuela attacks following political prisoner releases and energy infrastructure cooperation. U.S. ships remain nearby for safety, as Trump praises acting President Rodriguez and highlights potential oil investments. Analysts warn full rebuilding may take years due to Venezuelas instability.

U.S. forces seize fifth oil tanker in Caribbean, escalating pressure on Venezuelas oil trade.

Israeli airstrikes in Gaza result in at least thirteen deaths, including children, as a fragile ceasefire holds. Meanwhile, President Trump prepares to announce his Board of Peace, aiming to push his Middle East plan forward. Despite the truce, both Israel and Hamas accuse each other of violations, with Israeli actions killing over four hundred Palestinians since the truce began. Families mourn their losses, while survivors search through rubble for lost belongings. Trumps board aims to oversee a new Palestinian government, Hamas disarmament, and reconstruction, but progress remains slow. Egyptian and European Union leaders urge deployment of a stabilization force, but Hamas refuses to disarm. The path to lasting peace remains uncertain.

Tax season begins, IRS faces staff cuts and challenges; filing early advised for smoother process

Russia launches massive attack on Ukraine, using new Oreshnik missile, killing at least four and wounding dozens. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy seeks international response, as peace talks stall and tensions rise. Despite damage to Qatari Embassy, Qatars role in prisoner swaps remains unclear. Ukraine denies targeting Putins residence, as conflict continues with no end in sight.