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A raccoon broke into a Virginia liquor store, got drunk, and is now suspected of breaking into a nearby karate studio and raiding the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for snacks. The raccoon, nicknamed the 'trashed panda,' was released back into the wild after sobering up. Hanover animal control officer Samantha Martin suspects the raccoon may strike again, as it's 'not a dummy.' The story has gone viral, with the county selling 'trashed panda' shirts and raising $207,000 to renovate the shelter. The raccoon's actions have been described as 'relatable' and 'cute,' with some people joking that it's 'America's next pet.'

Eritrea has withdrawn from the East African regional bloc Igad, citing the organization's failure to contribute to regional stability and its perceived bias against Eritrea. The move comes amid escalating tensions between Eritrea and neighboring Ethiopia, with fears of renewed armed conflict. Eritrea's foreign ministry accused Igad of straying from its founding principles and becoming a tool against countries like itself. Igad responded by stating that Eritrea had not participated in its meetings or activities since rejoining the bloc in 2023. The tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia have been rising since Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed demanded access to the Red Sea through Eritrea, which Eritrea has rejected. The two countries have a history of conflict, including a decades-long battle for independence and a two-decade long border dispute that sparked a war in which over 100,000 people died.

French farmers are protesting the government's policy of slaughtering entire cattle herds affected by Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), a highly contagious bovine disease. The farmers, represented by two of the three main farmers' unions, argue that the policy is brutal and unnecessary, and that a combination of selective culling and vaccination would suffice. The government, backed by most veterinarians, claims that the policy is necessary because it is currently impossible to distinguish between healthy and symptomless infected animals. The protests have turned violent, with clashes between riot police and demonstrators, and the ransacking of environmentalist group offices. The issue is part of a broader crisis in the French farming sector, with farmers feeling threatened by EU norms, competition from abroad, and impending free-trade agreements.

The Game Awards 2025 ceremony saw Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a French-developed role-playing game, sweep the awards with nine wins, including Game of the Year. The game, developed by Sandfall Interactive, was praised for its emotional narrative and old-school turn-based battles. Other notable winners included Hollow Knight: Silksong for best action-adventure game and Donkey Kong Bananza for best family game. The ceremony also featured announcements of upcoming games, including new Tomb Raider and Star Wars titles. The event was criticized for abandoning its Future Class scheme, which was meant to highlight rising stars in the gaming industry.

Germany has accused Russia of a cyber-attack on air traffic control and attempted electoral interference, summoning the Russian ambassador. The German foreign ministry spokesman stated that Russian military intelligence was behind the cyber-attack in August 2024 and a disinformation campaign called Storm 1516 aimed at influencing the country's federal election in February. Russia has categorically rejected the claims, calling them 'absurd.' Germany, in coordination with European partners, plans to respond with counter-measures. The accusations come amid heightened concern in Europe over suspected Russian cyber-attacks since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The cyber-attack is attributed to the Fancy Bear Russian hacker group, and the disinformation campaign targeted lead candidates Robert Habeck and Friedrich Merz. Germany's air navigation service provider confirmed that its office communication was hacked, but flights were not affected.

Ghanaian social media influencer Abu Trica, whose real name is Frederick Kumi, has been arrested and charged with orchestrating a romance scam that defrauded elderly Americans of over $8m. Kumi allegedly used AI tools to create fake online identities and targeted victims through social media and dating sites. He faces charges in the US of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy, and faces up to 20 years in prison if found guilty. The arrest was made following a joint operation between Ghana and the US, and the US will now seek to extradite Kumi.

The article discusses a unique cathedral built 180 meters underground in Colombia, highlighting its distinctive features and significance. The cathedral is a remarkable architectural achievement and a notable tourist attraction. The article provides an in-depth look at this subterranean cathedral, exploring its construction and the experience of visiting it.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi has been arrested in Iran, according to her foundation and supporters. Mohammadi, 53, was detained in the eastern city of Mashhad while attending a memorial ceremony for a lawyer who was found dead in his office. The Nobel Committee has expressed deep concern over her arrest and called for her immediate release. Mohammadi has been a vocal activist against female oppression in Iran and has been arrested 13 times, sentenced to over 36 years imprisonment, and 154 lashes. Her latest arrest is seen as a continuation of the Iranian authorities' intensified crackdown on dissent.

Taylor Swift's new documentary, 'The End of an Era', reveals her emotional breakdown after meeting survivors and families of the Southport stabbing attack victims. The documentary, which debuts on Disney+, showcases the star's Eras tour, which was marked by a terrorist threat in Vienna and a subsequent emotional toll on Swift. The documentary highlights the hard work and dedication that went into creating the tour, as well as the emotional connections between Swift and her fans. Swift discusses her experiences, including the emotional burden of performing after the Southport attack and the Vienna terrorist threat, and shares her relief after completing the tour.

A Turkish car ferry was damaged in an air strike at the Ukrainian port city of Odesa, with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky blaming Russia for the attack. The strike occurred shortly after the ship docked at the Chornomorsk port, carrying 'essential food supplies.' Russia has not commented on the incident. The attack came hours after Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan suggested a limited ceasefire for energy facilities and ports to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russia has resisted calls for a ceasefire and has threatened to cut 'Ukraine off from the sea' in response to Kyiv's maritime drone attacks on Russia's 'shadow fleet' tankers.

A series of Russian strikes on medical warehouses in Ukraine has destroyed millions of dollars' worth of medicines and medical supplies, complicating the treatment of sick and wounded Ukrainians. Two major pharmaceutical distributors, BADM and Optima Pharm, have had their warehouses hit, with losses estimated at over $200m. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) also lost $195,000 worth of medication and supplies. Ukrainian authorities accuse Russia of deliberately targeting medical facilities, a claim Moscow denies. The World Health Organization has recorded 2,763 attacks on Ukraine's healthcare system since Russia's full-scale invasion began.

The US Supreme Court is expected to rule on the legality of Donald Trump's tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977. The tariffs were declared based on national emergencies related to America's trade deficit and the influx of fentanyl. Three lower courts have already ruled the tariffs illegal, and the Supreme Court's decision is eagerly awaited. The article argues that the Supreme Court should strike down the tariffs, as the president's claim to have discretion to set tariffs as he pleases is questionable. The credibility of the Supreme Court is at stake in this decision.

The article discusses the rise of populist right-wing movements in Europe and the challenges faced by mainstream politicians in countering this trend. The leaders of Western Europe's three biggest countries are struggling with stagnant living standards and declining global influence, making them vulnerable to challenges from the populist right. The article suggests that apocalyptic warnings from mainstream politicians are unlikely to be effective in stopping the populist right and that a more nuanced approach is needed.

The article discusses China's efforts to win over Grenada by building a state-of-the-art cricket pitch on the island. Cricket is a highly popular sport in Grenada, and the new pitch is seen as a way for China to improve its relations with the tiny Caribbean nation. The article highlights the enthusiasm of the locals for the new pitch and quotes Junior Murray, a former West Indies cricketer from Grenada, as saying that international cricket matches bring the community together.

The article discusses how the 'Donroe Doctrine' is changing Puerto Rico, particularly in the town of Ceiba, where the presence of F-35 fighter jets has become a new element in the island's soundscape. The United States is using Puerto Rico as a central location to project power throughout its hemisphere. The article touches on the island's cultural identity and the impact of US military presence on the local environment.

The article discusses the ongoing debate within the Republican Party regarding the future of American foreign policy, particularly between Donald Trump's 'America First' supporters and the party's remaining internationalists. The divide is highlighted by the contrast between Trump's approach and the traditional Republican foreign policy of 'peace through strength' embodied by Ronald Reagan. The article suggests that Trump's influence is shaping the party's foreign policy stance, with implications for America's global role and relationships.

The article discusses José Antonio Kast, Chile's probable next president, and how he may govern the country. Kast, a hyper-conservative, has campaigned on deporting irregular migrants, mostly Venezuelans, and implementing security crackdowns and spending cuts. Despite his hardline stance on immigration, some Venezuelans in Chile are voting for him due to their fear of the alternative, Jeannette Jara of the Communist Party. The article explores the potential implications of Kast's presidency on Chile's politics and society.

The article discusses Fernando Cerimedo, a political consultant who has run right-wing campaigns across Latin America and has close ties with Donald Trump and the MAGA movement. The article highlights Cerimedo's involvement in the recent Honduran presidential election, where his candidate, Nasry Asfura, received a surprise endorsement from Trump, potentially influencing the outcome. The article also touches on Trump's interest in Latin American politics and the potential implications of his interventions.

The article profiles Omar García Harfuch, Mexico's security minister, who has been instrumental in reducing the country's murder rate. Despite facing challenges from drug cartels, Donald Trump, and assassination attempts, García Harfuch has emerged as a key figure in Mexican politics with big political ambitions. The article discusses his role in improving security, his survival of an assassination attempt in 2020, and his potential future in politics.

The article discusses Syria's transition under its new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, praising his diplomatic efforts but urging him to do more to reassure Syrians. It reflects on the country's past, criticizing the Assad regime's violent response to the 2011 revolution and challenging the narrative that the Assad dynasty was necessary for stability. The article highlights the need for the new president to address the concerns of Syrians and move beyond the legacy of the Assad era.

The article discusses why Donald Trump is interested in Honduras's election, highlighting his recent interventions in Latin America, including his attempts to influence Brazil's trial of Jair Bolsonaro, supporting Argentina's currency, and threatening Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro with military force. Trump's actions in the region are seen as complicated and multifaceted, with potential implications for Honduras's election.

An Atlanta chef, Rakim Bradford, has been charged with aggravated assault and possession of a firearm after shooting two teenagers, aged 15 and 16, who were attempting to steal packages from his front porch. The incident occurred on December 11, 2025, at Bradford's townhouse in the Mays neighborhood, southwest of Downtown Atlanta. The teenagers were shot and injured, with one suffering a gunshot wound to the foot and the other to the arm. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum stated that the police take gun violence seriously and that the homeowner discharged his weapon to stop the theft of packages, a common crime during this time of year.

The New York City Council is considering passing The Community Opportunity to Purchase Act (COPA), which would grant non-profit organizations and tenant associations the right-of-first-refusal to buy multi-family rental buildings when they're put up for sale. The article argues that this law would favor a new class of slumlords, reduce city revenues, and be vulnerable to favoritism, fraud, and abuse. Some city non-profit 'affordable housing' providers have poor track records, with high numbers of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD) violations and tenant complaints. The article criticizes the City Council's rush to pass COPA, suggesting that Mayor Eric Adams should veto it if it passes.

The article discusses the alleged financial misconduct within the Black Lives Matter (BLM) organization, citing several high-profile cases of fraud and embezzlement involving local chapter leaders and a co-founder. The author argues that the lack of oversight and governance within BLM and other racial activist groups has led to widespread abuse of funds donated by major corporations. The article suggests that the practice of 'racial blackmail' where companies pay large sums to avoid being labeled racist has enabled this misconduct. The author concludes that those who claim to be crusaders for a moral cause are often primarily looking out for themselves.

Edwin Diaz, the former Mets closer, has joined the Los Angeles Dodgers on a three-year, $69 million contract. Diaz cited the Dodgers' winning culture and track record as the primary reasons for his decision, despite the Mets offering a similar deal with only $3 million less. The 31-year-old closer expressed his excitement to join the Dodgers and bring his high-energy entrance, featuring Timmy Trumpet's song 'Narco', to the team. The Dodgers' front office, including President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman and General Manager Brandon Gomes, welcomed Diaz to the team, highlighting his selflessness and competitiveness as key assets.

A 46-year-old Georgia woman, Ashley Wasielewski, suffered severe burns after being doused with a toxic chemical in a random attack while walking in Forsyth Park in Savannah on December 10, 2025. The attacker, who is still at large, approached her from behind and poured the corrosive liquid over her head. Wasielewski was rushed to the Augusta Burn Center, where she is being treated for second- and third-degree burns over half her body. Authorities are working with the FBI to identify the chemical used and hunt down the assailant, with surveillance footage showing a person of interest wearing blue jeans and a dark hooded sweatshirt with a white cartoon rabbit. The motive behind the attack is unclear, and no arrests have been made.

Former Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh has commented on the recent scandal surrounding Sherrone Moore, his successor as Michigan coach, who was fired due to an 'inappropriate relationship' with a staffer and is now facing charges for allegedly breaking into the staffer's apartment. Harbaugh stated that he is 'still processing' the situation. Moore worked under Harbaugh at Michigan and was praised by him when Harbaugh left Michigan for the Los Angeles Chargers. Moore served as Michigan's head coach for nearly two years before being fired, achieving a 17-8 record. The incident involving Moore's alleged break-in and threats against his executive assistant, Paige Shiver, has led to charges of felony home invasion, stalking, and breaking and entering.

A 47-year-old Long Island 'sports dad' and youth hockey coach, Sean Llewellyn, was brutally attacked by a street vendor and others outside Manhattan's Beacon Theatre on November 30, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and broken eye socket. The attack occurred after Llewellyn attempted to purchase an item from the vendor and was allegedly owed change, but the vendor ran off with the $20 bill. Llewellyn's family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with his medical expenses and lost income, describing him as a dedicated family man and community volunteer.

Former Michigan wide receiver Amani Toomer commented on the firing of Michigan coach Sherrone Moore, stating that the decision was a business one due to the negative impact on the university's brand. Moore was fired after allegations of an 'inappropriate relationship' with a staffer and subsequently arrested on charges including felony home invasion. Toomer emphasized the importance of maintaining the team's image and avoiding actions that could embarrass the program.

Actor Peter Greene, known for his roles in 'The Mask' and 'Pulp Fiction,' was found dead at 60 in his NYC apartment. Greene's manager confirmed his death and praised him as a 'terrific guy' and 'one of the great actors of our generation.' Greene had struggled with addiction and had turned his life around after seeking treatment in 1996. He was set to begin production on a new film with Mickey Rourke in January.

A new study by UC Davis Health researchers found that individuals with certain anxiety disorders have lower levels of choline in their brains. Choline is a nutrient found in foods like eggs, beef, and fish, and plays a key role in memory, mood, and cell health. The study analyzed data from 25 previous studies and found an average of 8% lower choline levels in people with anxiety disorders. While the findings don't prove that low choline causes anxiety, they suggest that nutritional approaches, such as choline supplementation, may help restore brain chemistry and improve outcomes for patients. Experts caution that anxiety is a complex condition and that choline is just one piece of the puzzle.

Divers have discovered a 7,000-year-old undersea wall off the coast of western France, along with a dozen smaller manmade structures from the same period. The wall, nearly 400 feet long, is believed to have been built as a fish trap or to protect against rising seas. The discovery, published in the International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, sheds new light on the technical skills and social organization of coastal societies during that time. The structures date back to between 5,800 and 5,300 BC and lie nine meters underwater. Researchers speculate that the site may be linked to local legends of sunken cities.

King Charles III has announced that his cancer treatment will be reduced in the new year due to early diagnosis and effective intervention. The king made the announcement in a recorded message broadcast on British television as part of a campaign to encourage people to take advantage of cancer screenings. Charles, 77, revealed that he had been troubled to learn that at least 9 million people in the U.K. weren't up to date with cancer screenings, and highlighted the importance of early diagnosis in treating cancer. The king's decision to disclose his diagnosis was a departure from the traditional secrecy surrounding the royal family's health issues.

Lindsey Vonn, at 41, won a World Cup downhill skiing event in St. Moritz, Switzerland, marking her first victory in nearly eight years. This win was significant as it came after a five-year retirement and with titanium implants in her right knee. Several top competitors were absent due to injuries. Vonn's victory was a dominant one, with a lead of 1.16 seconds over the second-place finisher. She expressed her emotional state, stating it was an 'amazing day' and that she was 'pretty emotional.' Vonn is now targeting a gold medal at the Milan Cortina Winter Games in February. The victory also marked a successful debut with her new coach, Aksel Lund Svindal, a men's downhill great. Vonn has now won 44 World Cup downhill events, a record, and is 24 years into her skiing career.

The British navy tracked a Russian submarine navigating through the English Channel for three days, amid heightened tensions between Moscow and the West. The Royal Navy deployed a naval supply ship with a helicopter to monitor the Kilo-class submarine Krasnodar and the tug Altay. The operation comes as the UK and NATO step up efforts to counter Russian naval activity, with Defense Secretary John Healey announcing a multi-million dollar program to improve the Royal Navy's capabilities. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned that Europe must prepare for a confrontation with Russia on a scale not seen since World War II.

Toronto police have identified Kenneth Smith, a Canadian man who died in 2019, as the perpetrator of three cold case homicides in Toronto between 1982 and 1997. The victims were Christine Prince, Claire Samson, and Gracelyn Greenidge. Recent forensic testing and genetic genealogy were used to conclusively identify Smith as the killer. Investigators believe there may be additional victims. Smith had a history of sexual assault and lived and worked in Toronto during the time of the murders. The case was solved using advanced DNA technology, which has been increasingly used to track down unidentified criminal suspects and solve cold cases.

The United States has removed Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes from its sanctions list after initially adding him in July over his role in leading the trial against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The move comes after a phone conversation between US President Donald Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The Trump administration had accused de Moraes of using his position to authorize arbitrary pretrial detentions and suppress freedom of expression in Brazil. The sanctions were lifted after Brazil's lower house passed an important amnesty bill, seen as a signal that lawfare conditions in Brazil are improving. The move represents a thawing in the frosty relationship between the two governments.

Archaeologists in Turkey have discovered a rare Roman-style fresco of Jesus as the 'Good Shepherd' in an underground tomb near the town of Iznik. The fresco, dated to the 3rd century, is considered one of the most important finds from Anatolia's early Christian era. The discovery was made in August and is believed to be the 'only example of its kind in Anatolia.' The fresco shows Jesus dressed in a toga and carrying a goat on his shoulders. The find is significant as it represents one of the rare instances in Anatolia where Jesus is portrayed with Roman attributes. The discovery was highlighted during Pope Leo XIV's recent visit to Turkey, where he marked the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea.

Israel has unveiled its new Iron Beam laser system, a weapon capable of knocking out incoming missiles, mortar rounds, and drones up to 6 miles away at a significantly lower cost than traditional interceptor missiles. The system has been successfully used in war and is drawing interest from countries worldwide. Israel's defense industry has achieved record-breaking $15 billion in sales in 2024, with the Iron Beam being a key factor in this success. The technology was developed in partnership with Lockheed Martin and with funding from the Pentagon.

A 32-year-old Malaysian man died after falling three stories from a pickleball court at a sports center in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The incident occurred when the victim climbed over a safety railing to retrieve a ball and fell onto mesh netting that tore under his weight. The authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, and the sports center has expressed condolences to the victim's family. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures at sports facilities.

A skydiver in Australia survived a harrowing incident when his reserve parachute accidentally deployed and got stuck on the tail of an airplane. The parachute wrapped around the plane's stabilizer, leaving the skydiver dangling beneath the tailplane. He used a hook knife to cut the parachute lines, broke free, and deployed his main parachute to land safely with minor injuries. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) reported on the incident, detailing the sequence of events and the skydiver's actions to save himself.

Syria's minister of social affairs and labor has approved the registration of the Jewish Heritage in Syria Foundation (JHS), marking the first time a Jewish organization has been registered in the country's history. The move allows JHS to operate officially, protect Jewish sites, and coordinate the return of Jewish properties. The registration is seen as a step towards a more inclusive and tolerant society. The Syrian Jewish community, which once numbered tens of thousands, has dwindled to a handful due to decades of restrictions and regional tensions. The JHS president, Rabbi Henry Hamra, expressed joy at being able to regularly travel to Damascus and Aleppo, and plans to work on restoring synagogues and promoting Jewish heritage in Syria.

Syrian soldiers chanted anti-Israel slogans during a military parade in Damascus, prompting Israel's minister of Diaspora Affairs, Amichai Chikli, to warn that 'war is inevitable.' The chant included phrases such as 'Gaza, Gaza, our rallying cry' and 'From your blood, rivers will flow.' The incident occurred as the US is pushing for a security deal between Syria and Israel to stabilize the Middle East. US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, stated that Damascus is not interested in aggression towards Israel and that the US has offered to serve as a peacekeeping force. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with Trump in the White House last month and expressed willingness to negotiate with Israel, but wants Israel to withdraw its forces from Syria and recommit to a 1974 truce agreement.

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi was arrested in Iran while attending a memorial ceremony for a human rights lawyer. Her supporters claim she was 'violently' detained by Iranian authorities in the city of Mashhad. The Norwegian Nobel Committee has expressed concern over her safety and health, calling for her immediate release. Mohammadi has been imprisoned multiple times for her activism and has been serving a nearly 14-year sentence for charges including collusion against state security and propaganda. Her detention comes amid Iran's crackdown on intellectuals and activists, and may intensify Western pressure on the Iranian government.

Tensions are running high in Australia as far-right groups, including neo-Nazis, have become increasingly emboldened during anti-immigration rallies. The protests, which have drawn thousands, have been met with counter-protests from far-left groups, resulting in violent clashes. While some protesters claim they are motivated by concerns over immigration and infrastructure, others have been accused of promoting racist and white supremacist ideologies. The Australian government is responding by strengthening laws against public displays of neo-Nazi ideology.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has sued Donald Trump over plans to build a new $300m ballroom at the White House, which would be nearly double the size of the current White House. The lawsuit argues that Trump has not followed the necessary procedures, including obtaining congressional approval and consulting with relevant commissions. The project has drawn criticism from preservationists, architects, and Trump's political opponents. The White House has defended the plans, stating that Trump has the authority to modernize and renovate the White House.

Severe flooding in western Washington state has forced the evacuation of the city of Burlington, with tens of thousands fleeing rising floodwaters as the Skagit River reaches record highs. National Guard troops and sheriff's deputies assisted with evacuations, using inflatable river rafts to rescue stranded residents. The flooding has caused widespread damage, with dozens of roads closed and communities cut off. The National Weather Service has issued a flash-flood warning for the Skagit River basin, warning of the potential for levee failure and extensive flooding.

The Shandong province in eastern China is planning to transform itself into a major copper-smelting hub by 2027, with the goal of creating a US$28 billion industry and dominating the global market. The province is already home to major copper players such as Yanggu Xiangguang Copper and CNMC Albetter Copper. The plan aims to enhance the resilience and security of industrial supply chains for copper, a strategic metal whose prices are nearing record highs due to geopolitical tensions and technological competition.

The global green energy transition is driven more by economic reality than geopolitics, according to Arif Aga, director of SgurrEnergy. China's leading role in clean power supply is due to its vast manufacturing scale and rapid technological enhancements, making it a crucial partner for nations seeking to adopt clean energy. Aga believes that geopolitics is temporary and that countries will prioritize lowering costs and partnering with established players to ensure durable projects.

Former Hong Kong commerce minister Gregory So Kam-leung has died at 67. So served as the secretary for commerce and economic development from 2011 to 2017 and oversaw several key issues including broadcast regulation and intellectual property protection. He was also involved in a controversial bid for a free-to-air broadcast licence by businessman Ricky Wong Wai-kay. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu paid tribute to So's significant contributions to Hong Kong's development in various industries.

Meta Platforms, the US tech giant, has reportedly adopted Alibaba Cloud's Qwen AI model to help train its new model, Avocado. This marks a reversal in fortunes between the two leading US and Chinese open-source AI flagbearers. Initially, Chinese firms used Meta's Llama model to build their own AI models, including Qwen. Now, Meta is allegedly taking cues from Alibaba's Qwen. The development highlights the growing influence of Chinese AI technology and the shifting dynamics in the global AI landscape.

Elon Musk's SpaceX is valued at $800 billion as it prepares for a potential initial public offering (IPO) next year. The company plans to buy $2.56 billion of shares from stockholders at $421 a share, nearly double its previous internal share price. If SpaceX goes public, it would be one of the largest ever public listings and a significant wealth creation event for shareholders. SpaceX has been working closely with the Pentagon, NASA, and other agencies, and has ambitions to send humans to Mars and establish a base on the moon.

A federal judge has ordered the Justice Department to get rid of evidence used to charge former FBI Director James B. Comey, complicating the department's plans to seek a new indictment. The judge ruled that prosecutors obtained the evidence, a cache of emails and text messages between Comey and Daniel C. Richman, unlawfully. The decision highlights procedural missteps by the Justice Department and may impact the department's ability to pursue charges against Comey.

The United States conducted a rare operation at sea, boarding a ship in the Indian Ocean and seizing cargo headed to Iran from China. The cargo consisted of dual-use components that could be used to manufacture conventional weapons. The operation was part of a broader effort by the US to block Tehran from rebuilding its military arsenal, amid a strategic stalemate between Iran and the US over its nuclear weapons program. The seizure occurred after a short war between Iran, Israel, and the US this summer, which resulted in significant damage to Iran's nuclear facilities. The US has been tracking the shipment and has increasingly sought to control the delivery of dual-use goods to Iran.

Dame Hannah Rothschild, a member of the prominent Rothschild family, discusses her role in shaping the family's philanthropic dynasty and guiding its next chapter. With a deep sense of duty and responsibility, she chairs the Rothschild Foundation and Yad Hanadiv, focusing on arts, culture, education, and environmental initiatives. Hannah reflects on the family's history, values, and enduring success, attributing it to 'togetherness' and a code of discretion among family members. She also shares her views on investment strategies and the challenges of managing a family organization, emphasizing the importance of educating the next generation and making them feel part of the family's legacy.

YouTube CEO Neal Mohan has revealed that he limits his children's social media use, joining a growing list of tech executives who are restricting their kids' online activities. Mohan, who was named Time's 2025 CEO of the Year, stated that he and his wife control and restrict their children's time on YouTube and other platforms, with stricter rules on weekdays. Experts, including NYU professor Jonathan Haidt, have warned about the harms of excessive smartphone and social media use among children and teenagers, advocating for delayed access to these technologies. Other tech bosses, such as Bill Gates and Mark Cuban, have also taken similar approaches to limiting their children's screen time. Australia has become the first country to ban users under 16 from accessing major social media platforms.

King Charles III has shared an update on his cancer treatment through a video message broadcast on UK television. The article discusses the King's personal journey with cancer, as well as other unrelated news stories and videos featured on the CNN website.

US President Donald Trump hinted at a possible land action in Venezuela as his administration shifts focus from maritime drug trafficking, which he claims has decreased by 92%. Trump made the statement in response to questions about Venezuela. The news comes amidst other developments, including record floods in Washington, new photos released from Jeffrey Epstein's estate showing Trump and other powerful figures, and various other news stories.

The article discusses China's growing influence in Laos through its Belt and Road Initiative, specifically the Laos-China Railway (LCR). The LCR has brought Chinese trains, tourists, and money to Laos, transforming towns like Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. While the railway has boosted tourism and trade, Laotians are questioning whether the benefits outweigh the costs. Chinese investors have taken over local businesses, and the influx of Chinese tourists has created a self-contained ecosystem that excludes local operators. The article highlights the uneven distribution of benefits and the potential risks of Laos' growing dependence on China.

The article discusses how Trump's trade war and tariffs imposed on Chinese imports have affected America's toy industry, particularly small businesses. Jennifer Bergman, owner of West Side Kids toy store in Manhattan, struggled to keep her store open due to increased costs from tariffs. Despite assurances from suppliers that prices would remain low, they increased significantly, forcing Bergman to close her store. The tariffs have created a split in the Christmas economy, with big-box retailers like Walmart and Target able to absorb the costs, while small businesses suffer. The article highlights the impact of the trade war on small toy retailers and the wider toy industry, which employs nearly 700,000 people.

A severe winter storm hit the Gaza Strip, killing 14 people, including an eight-month-old infant who died of hypothermia. The storm caused widespread flooding, inundating the low-lying coast and damaging thousands of tents and buildings already weakened by two years of Israeli bombardment. The Gaza Interior Ministry reported the death toll, and the storm highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza due to Israeli restrictions hampering the response efforts.

The article discusses how the Taliban are utilizing the Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan after the US withdrawal in 2021. Former US President Donald Trump recently demanded the Taliban hand Bagram back, describing it as a significant air base. Satellite images analyzed by the Washington Post reveal that while the Taliban have taken steps to secure the base, there is limited military activity and no significant economic use. The Taliban initially planned to turn former US bases into economic zones but have since abandoned these plans due to the high costs involved. Experts suggest that the Taliban's struggles to utilize these bases reflect broader challenges in making Afghanistan's economy self-sufficient.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has acknowledged that his country's troops were deployed to Russia's Kursk region to clear landmines, a task that resulted in the deaths of nine soldiers. Kim praised the troops for their bravery and 'mass heroism' in turning a 'danger zone into a safe one' during a welcome ceremony in Pyongyang. The deployment is seen as part of a broader exchange between North Korea and Russia, with Russia providing financial aid, military technology, food, and energy supplies to North Korea in return for its support.