The UFC recently cut nine fighters from its roster as the organization prepares for the upcoming UFC 331 event. A new $50,000 ‘Proper Chaos’ bonus has also been introduced for UFC 331. Additionally, the UFC Contender Series featured a quick knockout, with Abdullaev defeating his opponent in just 19 seconds.
The Trump Administration is planning to install a dozen temporary signs at Smithsonian sites, warning visitors about perceived ideological biases in the National Museum of American History (NMAH), with an estimated cost of $7,000 each, totaling around $84,000. The administration's grievances include claims that the museum presents "ideological viewpoints inconsistent with biology" and promotes "illegal immigration and open borders," alongside criticisms of Smithsonian leadership for allegedly advancing personal radical ideologies. Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, who announced his retirement effective at the end of the year, has stated that the institution's work is focused on scholarship and accurately telling America's story, denying the accusations made by the administration.
Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 has been released for Pixel devices, ahead of a stable launch scheduled for December and almost three weeks after the last update. The update includes a battery-efficient widget for the Google Home app and a feature in Android Canary 2609 that requires users to unlock their device before accessing Quick Settings. Additionally, users can now customize their driving avatar in Google Maps via Android Auto, enhancing the overall user experience.
The $3.1 billion data center project in Midtown St. Louis is seen as a potential economic boost, but raises environmental concerns, prompting calls for increased transparency from officials like Elyse Schaeffer of the Missouri Coalition for the Environment. In a tragic incident, a young mother in north St. Louis County was killed in a crash just weeks before she was set to move into her first home. Additionally, the article reports a bomb threat to the Archdiocese of St. Louis, with 32-year-old Jeremiah Robison charged in connection to the incident.
The Trump administration, for the first time in over 20 years, is considering removing Colombia and Bolivia from the list of countries failing to combat illegal drug trafficking, influenced by recent political changes in South America. Trump highlighted the arrest of Nicolas Maduro and the cooperation with interim Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez as part of efforts against drug cartels, while maintaining the current designations for Bolivia and Colombia due to their ongoing challenges. The administration is also redirecting $52 million in foreign military funding towards Latin America to strengthen partnerships in combating narcotics trafficking.
In MLB games on September 17, the Chicago White Sox lost to the Cleveland Guardians 6-3, with the Guardians favored at -163. The Detroit Tigers were defeated by the Toronto Blue Jays 5-1, where the Blue Jays were favored at -134, while other games saw the Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs scoreless after one inning, with a matchup between the Boston Red Sox and Texas Rangers at nearly even odds (-111 for the Red Sox and -110 for the Rangers). Notably, Aaron Judge left a game against the Minnesota Twins early due to right lower leg tightness.
Australia has achieved its highest ranking ever in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, placing eighth out of 148 countries, a significant rise from 43rd since the Albanese government took office. This improvement is attributed to enhanced political representation, including a majority-female cabinet, expanded paid parental leave, and wage increases in female-dominated sectors. Despite this progress, officials acknowledge ongoing challenges and areas for further improvement, particularly in addressing gender-based violence and enhancing women's health and economic empowerment.
Key House Democrat Gregory Meeks has halted a $2.8 billion arms sale to Israel involving 40,000 one-ton bombs, citing concerns over civilian safety and the Israeli government's compliance with U.S. law. The deal includes 20,000 MK-84 bombs, 20,000 BLU-117 bombs, and 20,000 I-2000 penetrator warheads, and while Meeks cannot outright veto the sale, his hold stems from concerns about oversight and previous Israeli military conduct, particularly regarding potential violations of human rights laws. Since Trump took office, U.S. arms transfers to Israel have exceeded $12 billion, amidst accusations of unlawful use of American weapons by Israeli forces.
Syria's parliament has voted to abolish the al-Assad-era Counter-Terrorism Court, which had been used to prosecute thousands for terrorism-related offenses since its establishment in 2012, nullifying its legal rulings and officially marking it as defunct. This legislative move comes during the initial sessions of the new parliament formed after the al-Assad family's 53-year rule ended on December 8, 2024. Meanwhile, protests have erupted in northeastern Syria's Kurdish region over rising fuel prices, which have surged by approximately 30% for petrol and 40% for diesel, following the central government's removal of subsidies.
The European Union has proposed a groundbreaking relationship that would designate Canada as its first "associate member," a concept not currently existing within EU structures, as announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on September 16, 2026. The proposal aims to strengthen ties between Canada and the EU amid challenging relations with the U.S., with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighting the need for closer cooperation among "middle powers." While Canada and the EU already have a free-trade agreement and enhanced security collaboration, the specifics of what associate membership would entail remain unclear, as Carney has stated Canada does not seek complete integration into the EU's single market.
Efforts are underway to arrange a significant meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the upcoming 81st UN General Assembly, which is expected to include numerous bilateral negotiations and engagements. Amid these diplomatic activities, a recent Russian drone strike in Nikopol killed at least five people and injured seven, contributing to a sharp rise in civilian casualties in Ukraine, with 1,396 killed and 7,978 wounded in the first half of 2026, marking a 37% increase from the previous year. Trump has expressed concerns about the impact of Ukraine's strikes on Russian diesel infrastructure on global fuel prices, urging Zelenskyy to halt such attacks unless the U.S. can secure commitments from Moscow to avoid targeting Ukrainian infrastructure.
Charlie's Kirk's family is blaming Utah Valley University (UVU) officials for his fatal shooting, alleging a series of "reckless decisions" left him vulnerable to a sniper who shot him from over 400 feet away on September 10, 2025, during an event attended by about 3,000 people. The family's wrongful death notice cites lapses in safety measures, including inadequate campus police staffing of only six officers, no roof monitoring, and no bag checks or metal detectors, which they argue could have prevented Kirk's death. Suspect Tyler Robinson has been charged with aggravated murder and faces the death penalty if convicted, with evidence against him including surveillance footage and DNA linking him to the crime scene.
Tucker Carlson alleges that Donald Trump ordered a cover-up regarding Epstein files, while a recent CDC study finds that a majority of Americans are consistently tired, especially among Gen Z women. The Federal Reserve raised the key interest rate for the first time in three years, amid concerns about munitions shortages due to the ongoing conflict related to Iran. Additionally, three individuals were arrested in Los Angeles for a significant $6 million homelessness aid fraud scheme.
The US House of Representatives has voted to hold billionaire Leon Black in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with a subpoena related to the investigation of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The measure passed unanimously and will be referred to the Justice Department to determine potential criminal prosecution. Black has claimed that he hired Epstein as a wealth management adviser and denied any wrongdoing, stating he was unaware of Epstein's criminal activities until 2019.
Republican Senator Bill Cassidy has attributed an increase in measles deaths in the U.S. to the Trump administration’s vaccination policies, as the country faces its worst measles outbreak in over 35 years. Currently, three measles-related deaths have been confirmed in Pennsylvania, with a fourth death under review, amidst growing skepticism towards vaccinations. Cassidy criticized the need for science-based decision-making in public health roles and pressed the Trump administration's nominee for surgeon general, Dr. Nicole Saphier, to clarify her position on vaccines and autism, leading to her affirmation that the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is crucial for combating measles.
The New York Times highlighted President Donald Trump's extensive campaign against the American press, including FBI visits to journalists, record subpoenas, and lawsuits that threaten First Amendment rights, with reporters noting it as a rapid escalation of attacks on protected speech. Investigative reporter Alain Stephens reflects on the historical context of press freedom, recounting Ida B. Wells' struggles against violence and censorship in the 1890s, emphasizing that true free speech often comes at a personal cost. The overall sentiment in the journalism community is one of growing dread regarding the state of democracy and press freedoms, intensified by ongoing global conflicts such as the situation in Gaza.
Lebanon has returned 37 artefacts, dating back to ancient Egypt, that were smuggled out six years ago, during a ceremony at the National Museum of Beirut. The items, which include masks, wooden dolls, and two decorated wooden coffins, were seized from the Port of Beirut in 2020 after an investigation confirmed their Egyptian ownership. This return follows the recent recovery of 48 artefacts by the FBI Art Crime Team in the U.S. and reflects Lebanon's commitment to the 1970 international convention on preventing illicit trafficking of cultural property.
The UK's plans for a reset with the EU may be hindered by the proposed "Made in Europe" legislation, which aims to limit China's industrial influence but could potentially exclude British businesses from EU markets. The UK government is concerned that this legislation, if enacted without considering British suppliers, could jeopardize billions in trade and is pushing for its inclusion in upcoming discussions, with a potential meeting date now uncertain and possibly moved to late November. While there is support for the UK's inclusion from countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, and Italy, France remains skeptical, complicating negotiations as the UK seeks leverage on other important issues like youth mobility and education costs for EU students.
The AFL-CIO is demanding the reinstatement of eight nurses suspended by Central Maine Medical Center for allegedly organizing and advocating for patients, describing the suspensions as illegal retaliation. A study highlighted that professional sports teams in Portland contribute $110 million annually to the local economy and support 917 jobs statewide. Additionally, Maine Medical Center plans to close its heliport for two weeks as part of a renovation project.
Colin Kaepernick has accused NFL owners of colluding against rapper Macklemore after he was removed from Ed Sheeran's tour for pro-Palestine comments, with Kaepernick drawing parallels between their experiences of being marginalized for expressing their views. Following Macklemore's remarks at MetLife stadium in New Jersey, where he expressed solidarity with Gaza and the West Bank, Robert Kraft and other NFL owners banned him from their venues, leading to the withdrawal of all four supporting acts for Sheeran's tour. Kaepernick, who settled a collusion case with the NFL in 2019, emphasized that NFL owners protect their interests and power, warning that others may face similar repercussions for speaking out.
Noura Erakat, a Palestinian American activist, was arrested and charged with trespassing during a Palm Beach County budget hearing about the county's over $1 billion investments in Israeli bonds. Erakat and other attendees were forcibly removed when they attempted to speak against the investment, which has faced controversy and legal challenges, leading to a lawsuit that was dismissed in August but is currently under appeal. Erakat described her treatment by law enforcement as harsh, stating she was held in a police car for two hours before being transferred to a local jail, where she was released on bail.
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles announced she is cancer-free six months after her diagnosis, with pathology tests from the Mayo Clinic confirming she is clear. At 69 years old, Wiles, the first woman to hold the chief of staff position, emphasized her determination to continue her work on President Trump's "America First Agenda" and highlighted that one in eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite undergoing treatment, she continued to work virtually during this time and previously made controversial statements about figures in the Trump administration, leading to a defense from the president regarding her remarks.
Senator Bill Cassidy blamed policies from the Trump administration for recent measles deaths in Pennsylvania, noting that three people died and a fourth death is under review due to misinformation and misguided policies. He emphasized the importance of health leaders making decisions based on science rather than politics, criticizing the current public health approach as inadequate amid the worst measles outbreak in over three decades. Cassidy also pressed surgeon general nominee Nicole Saphier to clarify the safety of the MMR vaccine, asserting that the administration's messaging has contributed to vaccine skepticism.
Ursula von der Leyen announced a proposal for Canada to become the EU’s first “associate member” during her State of the Union address, highlighting the need for closer ties among allies in light of global tensions, particularly with China. This potential partnership could serve as a model for other countries, including the UK, which is currently at a disadvantage following Brexit and facing challenges in its relationship with the EU. As the EU grapples with its critical raw materials needs, this offer symbolizes both opportunities for Canada and a reminder of the UK's isolation outside the EU framework.
Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the need for increased military spending from the UK and Europe, citing the "most dangerous and complex security environment in a generation," including threats from Russia, terrorism, and geopolitical shifts. He urged the UK to meet the alliance’s target of spending 3.5% of GDP by 2035, with current plans only reaching 2.7% by the end of the decade, while noting that Germany's military budgets are projected to be twice that of the UK by 2029. Furthermore, he highlighted the UK’s critical role in supporting Ukraine, with an annual aid of £3 billion in weapons.
Leaked documents reveal that the Ministry of Justice plans to increase capacity in ten category C prisons in England and Wales by adding second beds to single-person temporary prefabricated cells, potentially raising the total prison capacity by 476 inmates. Governors and prison officers have expressed concerns that this doubling-up could breach health and safety laws, jeopardizing safety for prisoners, staff, and the public. Specific prisons targeted for this plan include Wayland (43 beds), Littlehey (60), Erlestoke (66), and Rochester (60), amid an ongoing overcrowding crisis and new restrictions on early prisoner releases.
Images of extensive damage to US military bases in the Middle East from Iranian strikes were released by CBS, highlighting destroyed equipment, including a severed Boeing E-3 Sentry and crumpled trailers, with reports indicating that 12 US personnel were wounded in an attack. A Pentagon watchdog report confirmed that Iranian strikes have damaged or destroyed hundreds of buildings at US bases across several countries, resulting in losses totaling $3.7 billion, while the overall cost of the war for the US reached $33.4 billion by June 29. Additionally, it was noted that dozens of US aircraft have been damaged or destroyed, with specific losses including five refueling aircraft in Saudi Arabia and a need to replace the E-3 aircraft, which alone costs $500 million.
The US Federal Reserve raised interest rates by a quarter-percentage point to a range of 3.75% to 4%, marking the first increase since July 2023 as it aims to combat inflation, which remains elevated. Projections indicate that four officials foresee the benchmark interest rate reaching between 4.25% and 4.5% by the end of the year, while inflation is expected to take until 2029 to hit the 2% target. Rising costs have notably affected gas prices, which are on average $1 per gallon more than last year, and diesel fuel recently peaked at an all-time high of $6.31, contributing to a grim economic outlook as voters approach the polls.
The US Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 25 basis points, bringing the target rate to a range of 3.75% to 4.00% in an effort to combat high inflation. Fed Chair Kevin Warsh emphasized the decision was based on the need for price stability, stating that inflation has been "too high, and has been for too long." The interest rate hike will impact borrowers making large purchases and will likely increase monthly payments, but it may benefit savers with higher interest rates on savings accounts.
The U.S. Federal Reserve has announced a 25 basis point increase in interest rates, raising them to a range of 3.75 percent to 4 percent, marking the first hike in over three years amid rising inflation primarily due to soaring fuel prices linked to the US-Iran war. Consumer prices rose by 0.4 percent in August, with annual inflation at 3.4 percent, while diesel prices reached an all-time average of $6.31, doubling from the previous year, impacting the cost of transportation for essential goods. Additionally, the benchmark 10-year Treasury yield surpassed 5 percent, reaching 5.02 percent, highlighting increasing borrowing costs and ongoing inflationary pressures.