The US-mediated talks between Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia concluded without a ceasefire agreement. Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, demanded a new Black Sea trade deal benefiting Russian exports. US officials had brief discussions with Ukrainian delegates, but no progress was made.
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YouTube star MrBeast revealed on a podcast his ambitious project of renting all three Egyptian Pyramids for 100 hours. He plans to explore hidden chambers and tombs, accompanied by a tour guide and ghost-detecting gadgets. This exclusive access, granted by the Egyptian government, allows him to explore areas typically closed to the public.
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.
A US federal judge ordered the Trump administration to temporarily lift a funding freeze that halted USAID aid programs. The ruling responded to a lawsuit by health organizations affected by the freeze. The judge highlighted the lack of explanation for the blanket suspension, which disrupted aid networks and contracts. This decision temporarily allows funds to resume flowing to pre-existing contracts.
President-elect Donald Trump criticized the 2023 budget deal that extended the debt ceiling, calling it a major political error. He argued that Democrats should address the issue during the Biden administration rather than deferring to June 2025. Trump emphasized the need for a vote now, suggesting Democrats should be held accountable for any potential consequences.
On Friday, a fire broke out at an eight-story shopping complex in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, sparking the evacuation of dozens. The incident prompted a 'second-stage' alert, involving a large deployment of fire trucks and personnel. No casualties have been reported so far, and the cause of the fire is under investigation by the authorities.
Mangione's attorney Thomas Dickey claimed that while cops were interrogating him, they gave him food which was a ploy to get his DNA samples. Dickey said the DNA samples were "poisonous fruits" as they were obtained illegally. They said the cops who approached Mangione on the morning of December 9, five days after Thompson was murdered, had no proper legal reason to do so, it was just a hunch.
A British couple, Craig and Lindsay Foreman, has been detained in Iran after ignoring travel warnings and entering the country on December 30. Their family expressed deep concern and is working with the British government to secure their safe return.
The Canadian government is revising its Family open work permits. From January 21, spouses of foreign workers must meet new eligibility criteria related to specific high-demand jobs. Also, spouses of international students must be enrolled in select programs. These measures aim to align with Canada's economic priorities.
Ukrainians remain skeptical of a recent phone call where Trump urged Putin for a temporary ceasefire, only resulting in a Russian promise to pause attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Soldiers and civilians alike distrust Putin, fearing any ceasefire will benefit Moscow and enable further aggression.
A midair collision between an American Army helicopter and a jetliner near Ronald Reagan National Airport resulted in 67 fatalities. Investigators are examining the military pilot's actions. Victims include teenage figure skaters, their coaches, Chinese nationals, and an Ohio college student. Retrieval operations and identification of bodies are ongoing.