Trump halted a budget agreement. He said it favored Democrats. Elon Musk also opposed the bill. This raises the risk of a government shutdown. The White House and Democrats criticized the move. Republicans are divided on the issue. The shutdown could affect many Americans.
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Elon Musk denies reports of a $400 million contract for Tesla to supply armoured electric vehicles to the US government. The procurement document initially mentioned Tesla but was later changed to 'Armored Electric Vehicles'. Musk claims he is unaware of any such deal. The contract estimates a cost between $100m and $500m over five years.
The UK Supreme Court is set to rule on a legal challenge concerning the definition of 'woman' under equality laws, a dispute between For Women Scotland and the Scottish government. The core of the case revolves around whether a transgender person with a gender recognition certificate should be legally regarded as a woman.
President Biden regrets dropping out of the presidential race, believing he would've defeated Trump. He blames Democratic elites, particularly Nancy Pelosi, for pressuring his withdrawal. Although he defended Harris publicly, he admits campaign mistakes and some gaffes. Biden also expressed dissatisfaction with Attorney General Garland's handling of prosecutions related to Trump and his son, Hunter.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday that "several" wounded North Korean soldiers died after being captured by Ukrainian forces, as he accused Russia of throwing them into battle with "minimal protection". Zelensky did not specify how many North Koreans had died after being captured by Ukrainian troops.
President Donald Trump has announced new executive orders to establish a US version of Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system and reinstate service members discharged over Covid-19 vaccine refusals. The orders also call for an assessment of transgender policies and the elimination of DEI programs in the military.
John Ullyot, former Pentagon chief spokesperson, is departing this week, amidst conflicting reports of resignation versus being asked to leave. Ullyot cited disagreement over a 'number two' role after Sean Parnell's appointment and his temporary commitment. His tenure included a controversial directive to remove DEI-promoting images, coinciding with a probe into leaks and the suspension of three senior officials.
An estimated one million people are expected at Times Square to celebrate New Year's Eve. The NYPD, citing the heightened global threat environment and recent Israel-Hamas tensions, is implementing extensive security measures including drones and a large officer presence to ensure safety, despite no specific threats.
Iran has responded cautiously to US President Trump's call for renewed nuclear negotiations, maintaining a stance against direct talks amid US 'maximum pressure' and military threats. Tehran emphasizes potential for indirect negotiations, as in previous instances, to resolve disputes.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic reaffirmed his attendance at Moscow's Victory Day parade, defying EU pressure. This decision risks jeopardizing Serbia's EU membership aspirations, especially with his pro-Russian stance and refusal to sanction Moscow. Adding to tensions, a new Serbian government with anti-EU ministers was approved, and Vucic cited a Russian FSB report dismissing claims of sonic weapon use against protesters.
A fire broke out overnight in the 12th district of Paris, damaging the roof and bell tower of a town hall. Around 150 firefighters spent three hours controlling the blaze, but concerns remain over the stability of the bell tower's spire. The cause is unclear, though authorities don't suspect foul play. Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo expressed sadness, recalling the 2019 Notre Dame fire. No injuries were reported.