Former President Joe Biden delivered a farewell speech at Andrews Air Force Base, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and continued efforts even after leaving office. He expressed gratitude to his team, highlighted their significant contributions, and called on them to remain engaged in public service. Biden also issued a series of presidential pardons before concluding his presidency.
Related news
Over 7,000 Indian students and exchange visitors overstayed their visas in the US in 2023. Experts have proposed immigration reforms, including limiting H-1B visa validity to two years, extendable to four years, without automatic Green Card-based extensions.
Greece’s defense minister Nikos Dendias urged the EU to ease strict defense spending limits, calling them "schizophrenic" amid growing security concerns. He emphasized that military self-sufficiency requires greater financial flexibility, aligning with Nato commitments. Greece and Cyprus, along with 19 other EU states, support expanded access to European Investment Bank funds for defense. Key decisions on EU military strengthening will be ratified at an upcoming summit.
Joe Biden spent his final day in office visiting South Carolina, paying tribute to the state that revived his 2020 presidential campaign. Accompanied by his wife, he attended a church service and visited the International African American Museum. The trip marked an emotional thank-you to the state pivotal in his journey to the presidency.
Iowa has removed gender identity protections from its civil rights code, making it the first state to do so. The law, signed by Governor Kim Reynolds, takes effect on July 1 and has ignited opposition from LGBTQ+ advocates concerned about potential discrimination and legal challenges.
A US biotech company successfully edited genes in mouse embryos to produce thick, woolly hair, marking a step towards creating a mammoth-like elephant. Colossal Biosciences aims to use similar modifications on endangered Asian elephants, sparking debates about the true impact of such de-extinction efforts.
The death toll from Myanmar's earthquake has risen to 2,719, with thousands injured and missing. Rescue efforts are hindered by ongoing civil war. The hardest-hit areas struggle with shortages of essentials. Rebel groups accuse the military of obstructing aid operations. In Thailand, search teams continue to look for survivors at a collapsed skyscraper in Bangkok, with hopes fading as the days pass.
On his first day in office, President Donald Trump responded to concerns about unidentified drones spotted in New Jersey, expressing a desire to investigate and provide answers. Since late last year, over 1,000 drone sightings have been reported, sparking questions and worries among residents and officials, though federal authorities claim there is no security threat.
Two former Politico reporters, Marc Caputo and Tara Palmeri, reveal how their attempts to report on Hunter Biden's issues were delayed or blocked. Both experienced significant editorial interference, with Caputo's laptop story dismissed and Palmeri facing prolonged publication for her reports on Biden's gun purchase.
North Korea conducted a cruise missile test and vowed a strong response to US-South Korea military drills, calling them provocative. Kim Jong Un observed the test and emphasized strengthening war deterrence. Despite Trump's intentions to rekindle diplomacy with Kim, North Korea's stance and US-South Korea's military activities complicate prospects for renewed talks.
King Charles and the Royal Family celebrate Christmas at Sandringham estate, continuing traditions dating back to Queen Victoria. Events include a 20-foot Norfolk spruce tree, small humorous gifts, an 11 a.m. church service, and traditional meals. Despite some tensions in history, such as Princess Diana's struggles, the estate remains a cherished venue for festive gatherings.