Joshua Riibe, previously a person of interest in the missing case of University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki, has returned to the U.S. after being detained in the Dominican Republic. Despite suspicions, authorities found no evidence to formally charge him, and after resolving legal hurdles, he and his father flew back home.
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Dr. Shawn Frehner, a Nevada veterinarian, was found dead in Lake Mead after disappearing amid outrage over a video showing him kicking a horse. Facing felony animal abuse charges for the incident involving the horse named Big Red, Frehner's truck and belongings were discovered near the reservoir.
Belarus's authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko moved the 2025 presidential election to January to avoid protests, ensuring a likely seventh term. Lukashenko relies heavily on Russian support, hosting tactical nuclear weapons, and has harshly suppressed dissent, with many opponents jailed or exiled. The vote takes place amid fierce repression and fear.
US President-elect Donald Trump has raised concerns about China's expanding influence in the Panama Canal region, criticizing high fees and suggesting a return to US control. Panama's President José Raúl Mulino emphasized Panama's sovereignty. China's investments in Panama’s ports and infrastructure further highlight the strategic US-China rivalry over this critical global trade artery.
With former president Jair Bolsonaro heading for trial on coup charges and facing up to 40 years in prison, Brazil contemplates a future without him. Bolsonaro's popular appeal may still impact the 2026 elections, while President Lula also faces challenges with a low approval rating.
A gas station explosion in the Zaher district of Bayda province, Yemen, caused a massive fire, resulting in at least 15 deaths and injuring 67 people, 40 critically. The area is controlled by Houthi rebels, who have been in conflict with Yemen’s government since 2014, leading to severe humanitarian crises.
After skipping Jimmy Carter's funeral, Michelle Obama will also miss Donald Trump's inauguration. This prolonged absence of Michelle Obama triggered speculation over her rocky relationship with Barack Obama. However, the decision to skip both these events could have been taken just to avoid a face-to-face meeting with Donald Trump. A body language expert said they displayed no signs of togetherness at their December outing.
Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, garnered significant attention during his incarceration. He received numerous emails, letters, and financial deposits, sparking an unusual fan following. Some admirers expressed support for his alleged actions, while others offered advice and companionship. The fascination extended to tattoos and social media tributes, including dances outside the prison.
George Glezmann, a 66-year-old American detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan since 2022, has been released and is on his way back to the US. His release was facilitated by negotiations led by Qatar and US mediators.​"George Glezmann is free. George was wrongfully detained in Afghanistan for two and a half years, but now he’s on his way to be reunited with his wife Aleksandra. Welcome home, George!" Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.
Local authorities in Lalmonirhat, Bangladesh, demolished a mural depicting significant events from the Liberation War on the country's Independence Day. The mural was covered following demands from the student group Students Against Discrimination. Transparency International Bangladesh announced plans to protest this action.
Russian forces attacked Kherson with glide bombs and artillery, resulting in casualties. Oleksandr Prokudin reported the deliberate tactic to hinder rescue efforts. The attack damaged infrastructure. Earlier, Sumy was hit by Russian missiles, causing numerous deaths and injuries. Russia claimed the Sumy strike targeted military officers. Ceasefire talks are stalled, with both sides accusing each other of violations.