Ukrainian military forces and separatist fighters clashed at Donetsk Airport, further straining the fragile ceasefire between the Kiev government and breakaway factions in eastern Ukraine. A video released by pro-Russia news organization Novorossiya TV shows the exchange of fire, with an explosion occurring near the cameraman. Despite recent escalations, rebel leaders deny launching a new offensive or receiving more weapons from Russia. NATO confirmed the entry of Russian soldiers and military equipment into eastern Ukraine, raising concerns of increased conflict.

The US Navy is advancing its use of robotic technology by developing 'drone gunboats' to enhance naval warfare capabilities. These unmanned vessels, developed with NASA technology, aim to protect larger ships and perform coordinated attacks, reducing risks to human lives. The CARACAS software, adapted from NASA's Mars Curiosity Rover, enables these boats to operate autonomously, making tactical decisions in real-time. Successful tests have demonstrated their potential, and experts highlight the strategic advantages of such technology. The initiative also aims to cut costs and personnel requirements, with potential applications in commercial sectors.

Mount Ontake in Japan erupted suddenly, causing a suspected death toll of at least 36. The eruption trapped around 250 people, but most managed to escape. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 12 confirmed dead and 24 bodies still on the slopes. The eruption, classified as 'phreatic,' released ash and steam rather than lava. Japan, a seismically active nation with over 100 active volcanoes, has not seen volcanic-related deaths since 1991.

California's severe drought conditions are exacerbated by the increasing water demands of the cannabis industry, particularly in the Emerald Triangle. Scott Bauer from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife highlights significant water diversion by marijuana growers, impacting local ecosystems. Hezekiah Allen of the Emerald Growers Association argues for better water management and regulation. The state has introduced fines and enforcement teams to combat water theft, but the growing number of cultivators and high market demand pose ongoing challenges.

A study by academics from Yale, Brandeis, and Notre Dame reveals that the Ku Klux Klan's activities in the 1960s had a lasting impact on shifting voter allegiance in the US South from Democratic to Republican. The research highlights how radical social movements can influence mainstream political behavior and how historical voting patterns can become entrenched. The study also discusses the broader implications of extremist rhetoric on political and social dynamics, with insights from the Southern Poverty Law Center. The article contextualizes these findings within contemporary issues, such as the protests in Ferguson and Staten Island, and the ongoing racial and political tensions in the United States.

Seven US states, including Maryland and South Carolina, have constitutional provisions that prohibit atheists from holding public office. Despite a 1961 Supreme Court ruling against religious tests for public office, these outdated laws persist. Activists and organizations like Americans United for Separation of Church and State and Openly Secular are working to remove these bans, though the process is complex and politically challenging. Polls indicate significant public disapproval of atheists, further complicating efforts. The article highlights the need for greater political organization and influence among atheists to address these discriminatory practices.

Emil Michael, Uber's senior vice president, suggested hiring a team to counter bad press and attack critical journalists, specifically targeting Sarah Lacy of PandoDaily. His comments, made at a private dinner, sparked outrage and led to apologies from Michael and Uber CEO Travis Kalanick. Privacy watchdog Jeffrey Chester criticized Uber's data practices, calling the company 'out of control' and urging investigations. Despite the backlash, Uber remains defiant, unveiling a new privacy policy and continuing its data mining practices.

An audiotape allegedly recorded by Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was released, suggesting he is alive despite reports of his death. In the recording, he urges fighters to continue jihad and refers to recent events, including US airstrikes and President Obama's decision to deploy more troops to Iraq. The recording, which has been deemed 'authentic and recent' by the Associated Press and BBC, also calls for attacks on Saudi Arabia and praises jihadist groups in Libya, Egypt, and Yemen for pledging allegiance to the Islamic State.

A video surfaced showing Jabhat al Nusra's armed convoy entering Khan al-Sabeel, signaling a potential threat to the Kurdish enclave of Afrin. Kurdish leaders Cemil Bayik and Hevi Mustefa expressed concerns over the safety of Afrin's residents and the possibility of an attack similar to the siege of Kobane. The Syrian government has withdrawn from Afrin, leaving the YPG in control. Despite calls for support, Turkey's response has been limited, raising questions about their stance towards the Islamic State and Kurdish autonomy. Allegations of Turkey's collaboration with the Islamic State have also surfaced. Al Nusra, known as al Qaeda's Syrian wing, has been focusing on opposition groups, including the Kurds, and there are concerns over increased collaboration between militant groups due to airstrikes on the Islamic State.

Legal marijuana businesses in the United States are facing financial difficulties due to a federal tax law, section 280E, originally designed to target drug traffickers in the 1980s. This law prevents businesses selling Schedule I or II drugs from deducting regular business expenses, leading to effective tax rates of 70 to 85 percent. The National Cannabis Industry Association and business owners like Mitch Woolhiser and KC Stark express that this law is unfairly penalizing legal cannabis companies, and there is a call for Congress to reform the tax code, especially as more states legalize marijuana.