Ian Kersting, a US lawyer specialising in sexual assault cases, was found dead in his Louisiana office in an apparent suicide. The Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office expressed their condolences and emphasized the need for privacy and support during this period. Kersting, aged 34, was an Assistant District Attorney dedicated to the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative.
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Taiwan detected 16 Chinese warships and 34 aircraft near its waters on Thursday, following large-scale Chinese maritime drills. These drills, involving simulated attacks and blockades, are reportedly China's largest in years and come after Taiwan's President's recent US visit. China claims Taiwan as its territory and opposes its international engagement, particularly with the US.
The Lebanese army said it received on Thursday a soldier taken by Israel last weekend, after Israel handed over four other detainees earlier this week. "The army through the International Committee of the Red Cross received (on Thursday) the soldier who was kidnapped by the Israeli enemy" on Sunday, the army said on X, adding that he had been transported to a hospital for treatment.
Pope Francis has extended the Catholic Church's reform process by three years, despite ongoing health issues. The reforms aim to elevate women's roles, potentially by ordaining female deacons, and increase laypeople's involvement. While still in the hospital, the 88-year-old pontiff has remained active in governance, indicating his commitment to these changes.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismisses Putin's verbal assurances on limiting attacks on energy infrastructure, insisting on tangible actions for peace. Zelenskyy emphasizes that only a genuine cessation of Russian strikes on civilian infrastructure can bring peace. He also calls for increased sanctions on Russia and further military assistance for Ukraine.
President-elect Trump has appointed Sylvester Stallone, Mel Gibson, and Jon Voight as special envoys to Hollywood. The aim is to restore Hollywood's business, with Trump emphasizing their talent and support. Voight, Gibson, and Stallone have strong pro-Trump inclinations, setting them apart in the predominantly Democrat-supporting industry. The move has stirred mixed reactions in Hollywood.
Following the collapse of the Assad regime, Israeli forces have secured Syrian territory, establishing a defensive perimeter. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated the occupation is temporary, citing the need to prevent jihadist groups from threatening Israeli communities. The move has drawn international concern, with France urging Israel to respect Syria's sovereignty and withdraw.
Special Agent Alethea Duncan, one of the FBI’s public faces during the probe, initially stated that the attack did not meet the criteria for terrorism. This apparent flip-flop drew sharp criticism from conservative commentators and social media users, who accused the FBI of attempting to minimize the attack’s severity. The criticism intensified when reports emerged that the agency’s recruitment practices—influenced by DEI policies—may be compromising its effectiveness.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Archewell Foundation directed substantial funds towards figures aligned with the Democratic Party, raising questions about their political involvement. The couple defended their actions, emphasizing their nonpartisan intent to support impactful initiatives and denying endorsements of any political candidates.
Vice President Kamala Harris is reportedly saddened by President Joe Biden's claim that he could have won the 2024 election, revealing a strain in their relationship. Despite endorsing Harris, Biden's comments have led to speculation about underlying tensions. Kamala Harris told her friends that Biden's statement in one of his last interviews shows "one-sided loyalty".
The US is planning potential sanctions relief for Russia to rebuild diplomatic ties and resolve the Ukraine conflict. The White House has directed state and treasury departments to outline specific sanctions reductions targeting entities and individuals. This indicates a readiness for negotiation possibilities with Russia.