US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized US district judge Ana Reyes for blocking President Trump's ban on transgender troops, sarcastically suggesting she should take on military planning roles. The judge's ruling highlighted potential constitutional violations and the contributions of transgender service members. The Trump administration plans to appeal, with Reyes delaying enforcement of her order to allow time for legal proceedings.
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Donald Trump granted clemency to over 1,500 individuals related to the January 6 Capitol riots, including violent offenders. On that day, rioters stormed the Capitol to halt the certification of Biden’s victory, resulting in injuries and deaths. Trump’s speeches incited the mob, leading to chaos and multiple instances of violence and destruction.
The US Department of Homeland Security announced the self-deportation of Ranjani Srinivasan, an Indian doctoral student, after her visa was revoked for supporting Hamas and advocating violence. This is part of a broader crackdown on foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian activism. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said that living and studying in the US is a privilege and should not be extended to those who support terrorism.
DEI stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. These programmes aim to promote fairness and representation in workplaces by addressing systemic barriers that have historically excluded certain groups.
Kash Patel, recently confirmed as FBI Director, praised his publicist Erica Knight for her critical role in his success. Knight, President of Knox Strategies, is renowned in conservative communications and crisis strategy. Patel acknowledged her unwavering support and expertise, emphasizing her influence in his career. Knight also voiced strong support for Patel during his nomination challenges.
The U.S. plans to create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, backed by 200,000 bitcoins seized in civil and criminal cases. This move, part of President Trump's effort to make the country a global cryptocurrency leader, aims to stabilize the currency without financial burden on taxpayers.
A Royal Thai Police aircraft crashed into the sea near Hua Hin, Thailand, during a test flight for parachute training preparations. Five police officers on board perished in the accident. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash and are currently collecting evidence, including the plane's black box data, to determine what led to the fatal incident.
Britain's economic growth grew by 0.1 percent in November, less than expected. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and finance minister Rachel Reeves face challenges despite a slight drop in UK inflation in December. Reeves aims to drive economic growth amid criticism. Predictions indicate economic slowdown may continue amid higher taxes and potential trade conflicts.
US Border Czar Tom Homan responded strongly to Pope Francis' criticism of Trump's deportation policies by accusing him of hypocrisy. Homan defended the US's strict immigration measures while pointing out the Vatican's own security practices, urging the Pope to address internal Church issues.
“The idea that Vance is not going to be the Republican nominee in 2028 is absurd," Republican strategist Dennis Lennox told the New York Post adding that holding primaries will only waste time and money. “The RNC might as well cancel the 2028 primaries and caucuses at this point.†Vance could possibly face Mike Pompeo, Nikki Haley in primaries and Democrats like California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro in the general election.
The United States is pressuring Ukraine to sign a mineral deal by threatening to cut off access to Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet system, essential for Ukraine's military operations. After rejecting an initial proposal, Ukraine risks losing vital connectivity unless an agreement on critical mineral resources is reached.