Veteran federal prosecutors in Minnesota resign after pressure from Justice Department leaders to investigate the widow of Renee Macklin Good, the woman killed by an ICE agent, raising new questions about political interference. President Trump takes his economic message on the road, pitching affordability as voters remain frustrated by high prices. And while gas prices have dipped, rising heating costs, grocery prices, and stubborn inflation show why relief still feels out of reach for many families.
Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.
Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gigi Douban, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.
And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.
(0:00) Introduction (02:19) Minnesota Prosecutors Quit (06:10) Trump in Detroit (09:52) Inflation Report
A mother and a son with mask were riding on a motorcycle in a street of Bangkok. The capital of Thailand experienced high level of PM2.5 particle pollution. Credit: Pexels/Maksim Romashkin
BANGKOK, Thailand, Jan 14 2026 (IPS) – Take a deep breath.
Did you know that in many countries in Asia and the Pacific, the air we breathe falls short of the safety standards for air quality set by the World Health Organization? While the start of a new year signals new beginnings, it also marks the continuation of the recurring air quality crisis across many countries in the region.
Oftentimes, when we think of air pollution, we associate it with car exhaust and factory chimneys belching black smoke. But air pollution is not just the cost of urban development – it is a multi-hazard crisis caused by wildfires, sand and dust storms, and volcanic eruptions that respect no borders. Access to clean air is a human right and countries who contribute the least to air pollution are often the most vulnerable.
Rising temperatures create a vicious cycle: rising heat leads to intensifying wildfires, releasing toxic smoke composed of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and PM2.5 into the air we breathe. Furthermore, heat accelerates the breakdown of waste, generating even more pollutants.
Volcanic eruptions add sulfur dioxide and volcanic ash to the mix, and these pollutants can linger in the atmosphere for months. The result? Climate change exacerbates air pollution, which in turn aggravates the climate crisis — a feedback loop that puts both human health and ecosystems at risk and transforms local hazards into regional challenges.
Can a heavily polluted environment be restored? In principle, yes, but doing so requires transformative change and collective action in our economy and society. Improving urban mobility requires prioritizing efficient public transport, including low-emission vehicles, cleaner, greener alternatives such as walking, cycling, and ride-sharing.
Nature-based solutions, including green cooling corridors, can further improve air quality by lowering surface temperatures and providing buffers against desertification, land degradation, drought, and sand and dust storms.
However, not all sources of air pollution can be addressed through emission reductions alone. There are inherent limits to prevention at the source, particularly for air pollution caused by natural hazards. This requires a shift in focus from mitigation toward adaptation and preparedness.
Earth observation plays a critical role in monitoring, early warning, and informed decision-making. Advanced sensors aboard platforms such as Sentinel-5 Precursor and Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer (GEMS) detect key atmospheric pollutants including nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), tropospheric ozone, and carbon monoxide at unprecedented spatial and temporal scales.
The collaboration of ESCAP with regional partners for the Pan-Asia Partnership for Geospatial Air Pollution Information exemplifies how satellite data can be integrated with surface observations to create robust monitoring systems. These datasets enable tracking transboundary pollution events, from agricultural fire smoke to volcanic sulfur emissions to urban photochemical smog.
Satellites bridge the existing gaps from ground-based observations, providing authorities with the spatial coverage needed to understand and monitor air pollution and formulate effective policies.
The Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN project recognizes that addressing the transboundary air pollution crisis requires strengthened monitoring and decision-making capacities enabled by technology-driven solutions. The application, Check Phoon (Thai: Phoon, meaning dust), or the PM2.5 Monitoring System, developed by the Geo-informatics Information and Space Technology Development Agency of Thailand, is an innovative platform that leverages space technology to support air quality monitoring and public health protection by providing real-time, high-resolution PM2.5 concentration data across Thailand.
The application is available in both web-based and mobile applications, and the system integrates satellite data, such as from Himawari, meteorological information, PM2.5 sources including hotspots (active fire detections), and ground-based validation from PM2.5 monitoring stations.
Building on the framework of SatGPT for flood hotspot mapping, an iteration of SatGPT for volcanic hazards has been proposed with potential to support the understanding and management of air pollution linked to volcanic activity. has been proposed with potential to support the understanding and management of air pollution linked to volcanic activity.
The Regional Action Programme on Air Pollution advances air quality management through science-based cooperation, sharing of best practices, and strengthened technical and financial support across ESCAP member States.
Complementing this effort, the Regional Space Applications Programme facilitates the sharing of Earth observation data and expertise that are critical for monitoring air pollution and assessing the impacts.
These initiatives contribute to accessible and actionable geospatial information that strengthens early warning systems, enabling authorities to forecast and quantify air quality with greater precision.
The transboundary nature of air pollution demands a stronger and more urgent call to action. While the Asia-Pacific region has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of cascading disasters, regional cooperation must accelerate to match the scale and pace of this evolving crisis.
Keran Wang is Chief of Space Applications Section, ESCAP; Sheryl Rose Reyes is Consultant, Space Applications Section, ESCAP; Taisei Ukita is former Intern, Space Applications Section, ESCAP.
The authors would like to thank Sangmin Nam, Director of the Environment and Development Division of ESCAP, for his contributions to this article.
Lori Harvey is here to save your Tuesday — ’cause we’ve got her hottest shots lined up, guaranteed to wake you right up and have your brain buzzing … all the way down to that tricky jigsaw at the bottom! Scroll through our gallery because if…
To further strengthen effective Corporate Governance, Accountability and Transparency, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Hon Barbara Rwodzi, has announced the appointment of new Board Members for the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) and the Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company (Pvt) Limited, in line with the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act and the Tourism Act. The appointments come at a time when Zimbabwe’s Tourism sector is experiencing sustained growth, increased global recognition and rising investor confidence, positioning Tourism as a key driver of National Development.
The newly appointed Boards bring extensive experience and expertise that will provide strategic guidance and effective oversight to advance the Ministry’s Tourism mandate. The Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company Board will focus on accelerating Tourism Infrastructure development and facilitating Investment in Victoria Falls, while the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Board will strengthen destination promotion, enhance service delivery and uphold regulatory frameworks that add value to Tourists and support industry growth. These efforts will enhance Tourism’s contribution to GDP, strengthen Zimbabwe’s global image and support the implementation of NDS 2, in line with the Vision 2030 agenda of the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, His Excellency Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, of attaining an Upper Middle-Income Economy by 2030.
As many as 10 million visitors will head to 11 U.S. cities this summer, helping to turn the FIFA World Cup 2026™ into the largest sporting event in history.
While U.S. host cities like Los Angeles, Miami, New York and San Francisco are world-famous, lesser-known U.S. cities are primed to host soccer fans. In Kansas City, Missouri, for instance, Café Corazón owner Dulcinea Herrera says that people underestimate the Midwestern city of 500,000 (in a larger metro area of 2 million). Herrera and other local business owners are preparing for 650,000 visitors for FIFA World Cup 2026™.
In addition to coffee, an American staple, Café Corazón serves yerba mate, a tea popular with South American soccer stars, including Lionel Messi, who will lead Argentina in an early round match scheduled for Kansas City. One of Herrera’s three locations is in the downtown area where officials plan a massive viewing party near the stadium.
White House World Cup Task Force Executive Director Andrew Giuliani calls it “a tremendous privilege” to host the FIFA World Cup 2026™ during the year the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, and says the federal government is working with host cities to ensure a safe and welcoming tournament.
“Hosting the world during this historic year … gives us a chance to show the very best of America — our hospitality and our innovation — while also showcasing the America spirit of which we’re so proud of,” Giuliani said.
Here is an introduction to the 11 U.S. cities that will host international soccer fans:
Atlanta
Famous for peaches, pecans and Southern hospitality, the Georgia state capital is a cultural and economic hub of the South. It boasts the country’s busiest airport and was home to famed Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
Atlanta is home to numerous industries, including aerospace and financial technologies, as well as soft drink giant Coca-Cola. The city has several professional sports teams and has hosted three Super Bowls, as well as the 1996 summer Olympics.
Boston
The birthplace of the American Revolution, the city of Boston will be fully in celebration mode for the 250th anniversary when the fans arrive. International visitors who are in the city during the July 4th Independence Day celebrations can experience the Boston Pops , a fireworks show over the Charles River set to live music from the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
FIFA and the U.S. Soccer Foundation are building soccer fields around Boston to turn the excitement of the city’s seven matches into lasting participation in the sport. Boston previously hosted three FIFA championships: the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA™, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in 1999 and 2003.
Dallas
Dallas, Texas – September 17, 2024: Bronze sculpture of a trail boss on his horse and longhorn cows in Pioneer Plaza in Dallas, TX
With its frequent rodeos, Dallas offers an up-close look at America’s cowboy culture. Pioneer Plaza in downtown honors this Western tradition. Even the name of the city’s pro football team, the Dallas Cowboys, references this distinct Western culture.
Dallas will host a tournament-leading nine World Cup matches. The country’s fifth-largest media market, Dallas hosted the International Broadcast Center during the 1994 matches, and its massive convention center will again serve as the tournament’s media hub
Houston
Home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Houston has commanded America’s space exploration through landmark achievements, including the first moon landing on July 20, 1969.
With major oil and natural gas resources, Houston is a center of the U.S. energy industry. Local companies are teaming up to support soccer’s growth in the city. This “bayou city” offers visitors cuisine ranging from barbecue and seafood to Mexican-influenced “Tex-Mex.” Houston is also bidding to be a host city for the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in 2031.
Kansas City
J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain, by Henri-Leon Greber in Kansas City Missouri
The Midwestern city called Kansas City straddles parts of two U.S. states — Kansas and Missouri — and is known as the “City of Fountains,” as it has more in use than any other U.S. city. Its famed Power & Light District boasts eight blocks of restaurants where visitors can sample the region’s famous barbecue.
Kansas City’s strong sports culture includes the National Football League’s Chiefs — winners of two of the last three Super Bowls. And the Kansas City Current is the world’s only women’s professional soccer team that plays in a stadium designed especially for women’s soccer. The team draws sellout crowds.
While Hollywood gives Los Angeles its reputation as movie capital of the world, a mild climate and famous beaches offer visitors a lot more. Tourists can sample music and cuisine influenced by LA’s large Latin American and Asian American populations. The arresting desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park is a two-hour drive away.
LA has proven a draw for global soccer stars, as David Beckham of the United Kingdom and Son Heung-min of the Republic of Korea have played for the LA Galaxy and Los Angeles FC, respectively.
Los Angeles is gearing up to host the Summer Olympics in 2028, after previously hosting the Olympics in 1932 and 1984.
Miami
Travel destination and tourism infrastructure in southern USA. South Beach sandy surface with tourists relaxing on hot Florida sun. Miami Beach city with high luxury hotels and condos.
Miami’s Bayfront Park Fan Festival will offer musical performances and stunning ocean views in addition to soccer matches. With its thriving Latin American communities, Miami has long boasted a devoted soccer fan base. The city’s enthusiasm grew even greater when Argentina’s Lionel Messi began playing for the city’s professional club, Inter Miami, in 2023.
Fans looking for adventure can drive an hour to Everglades National Park, a vast wetland wilderness that is home to alligators and flamingos.
New York/New Jersey
Manhattan, New York City/New York-07/22/2019 photo from Central Park in New York
New York — famous for skyscrapers, Broadway theater and the lights of Times Square — will host the FIFA World Cup 2026™ finals at a stadium in neighboring New Jersey. In addition to bustling sidewalks along rows of restaurants serving every imaginable type of international cuisine, New York offers museums, libraries, walks in Central Park and the iconic Statue of Liberty, a testament to America’s friendship with France.
Having served as an early U.S. capital, Philadelphia is where America’s founding documents were written and is home to the Liberty Bell, which draws 2 million visitors annually. It is the city with the closest ties to the nation’s founding and, appropriately, will host a FIFA World Cup 2026™ match on July 4, the day the United States was founded 250 years earlier.
Known as the “city of brotherly love,” Philadelphia has a passionate fan base that has turned out 26,000 interested volunteers who want to help support the city’s six planned matches.
Known for the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is a city of steep hills, scaled by streetcars and packed with colorful row houses. It’s the northern hub of California’s Silicon Valley, a center of technological innovation. Between matches, fans can visit nearby Napa Valley wineries or check out the stunning vistas of Yosemite National Park.
After hosting American football’s 2026 Super Bowl in February, San Francisco will be ready will to host six FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches.
Seattle
Seattle, Washington, USA downtown skyline at twilight with Mt. Rainier.
Known for a drizzly climate, a pedestrian-friendly downtown and a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, Seattle will offer international visitors the chance to sample seafood at Pike’s Place Market and take in a view of the entire city from the Space Needle. Seattle’s pioneering companies include airplane manufacturer Boeing, software developer Microsoft, and Starbucks, which operates in 85 countries.
The city, where the U.S. National Team will make an early-round appearance, plans nine “fan zones” for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, each offering big screens, food and live entertainment.
President Arthur Peter Mutharika has demonstrated commendable leadership, tackling Malawi’s pressing challenges with a mix of empathy, strategic thinking, and proactive engagement.
His tenure has been marked by efforts to stabilize the economy, address food insecurity, promote national unity, and support vulnerable groups.
Economic Recovery and Development President Mutharika’s administration is prioritizing economic recovery, focusing on declining inflation, easing fuel shortages, and reducing power outages.
He’s introducing measures like open tenders for fuel imports, scaling up the Mpatamanga Hydropower Project, and reforming the mining sector.
The President’s engagement with international partners, like the IMF and World Bank, shows proactive leadership in tackling economic challenges.
Initiatives like the reformed Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and reduced fertilizer prices aim to support citizens and promote growth.
Food Security and Humanitarian Support President Mutharika acknowledges hunger as a major challenge and has initiated food distribution in affected areas.
He’s committed to ensuring adequate food supply at ADMARC and addressing farm input resources.
The President’s administration has allocated K5 billion to each constituency for grassroots development, showing commitment to inclusive growth.
National Unity and Governance President Mutharika emphasizes unity and collective action for peace, stability, and development in Malawi and the SADC region.
He’s urged his cabinet to deliver results, not rewards, emphasizing integrity and service.
The President’s merit-based cabinet appointments have been commended, reflecting his focus on effective governance.
Support for Veterans and Citizens President Mutharika honors war veterans, pledging support for their welfare and improving accommodation.
He’s shown compassion and support for bereaved families, like covering funeral expenses for young artists.
The President’s messages of hope, unity, and resilience during the festive season demonstrate his connection with citizens.
International Leadership and Cooperation President Mutharika’s leadership in SADC emphasizes regional cooperation, peace, and stability. He’s engaged with international partners to address Malawi’s challenges, like fuel scarcity and forex unavailability.
Overall Appraisal The President’s efforts to address national challenges, promote economic recovery, and support citizens demonstrate a strong commitment to Malawi’s development, unity, and prosperity, earning him an overall rating of 8.7/10.
Areas for Improvement While President Mutharika’s initiatives are commendable, sustained efforts are needed to deliver tangible results on economic recovery and food security, enhance transparency and accountability in governance, and address pressing issues like fuel shortages and forex challenges.
Conclusion President Arthur Peter Mutharika’s leadership shows a proactive and visionary approach to tackling Malawi’s challenges. With continued focus on economic recovery, national unity, and citizen welfare, he is poised to drive Malawi’s development and growth.
