President Zelenskyy reported that North Korean soldiers are fighting alongside Russian forces, and preliminary data indicates Russia is attempting to hide the extent of resulting North Korean casualties. Ukrainian forces have documented the deaths of North Korean soldiers in Kursk Oblast, including an incident of friendly fire against Chechen troops. Intelligence suggests significant losses for North Korean units in mid-December, with estimates reaching at least 30 soldiers killed or wounded. The President emphasized the senselessness of North Korean deaths in this conflict.
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A 17-year-old female student opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, resulting in the deaths of a teacher and another student, and injuries to six others. The shooter, who died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, used a 9mm pistol. Police are investigating the motive and have not yet released further details about the shooter. The school, which implemented lockdown procedures effectively, is working to support students and families.
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AOC’s loss in the House Oversight Committee leadership race to Gerry Connolly highlights a deep-seated tension within the Democratic Party. The selection of Connolly, a 74-year-old representative facing health challenges, over the younger, arguably more charismatic and effective communicator AOC, has sparked significant outrage among progressives. Many feel this decision demonstrates a profound disconnect between the party establishment and its increasingly vocal progressive wing.
This vote, while non-binding at this stage, is viewed by many as symbolic of a larger problem within the party. The argument that Connolly’s seniority and experience were the deciding factors rings hollow for some, particularly given the concerns raised about his age and health in relation to the demanding responsibilities of leading the Oversight Committee.… Continue reading
The Republican party’s recent embrace of economic populism masks its intention to weaken consumer protections. A key target is the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), which under Rohit Chopra’s leadership has achieved significant wins for consumers, including savings from reduced credit card and overdraft fees. A second Trump administration would likely dismantle or severely weaken the CFPB, reversing these advancements and prioritizing corporate interests over those of average Americans. This would represent a significant setback for consumer protection and reflect a return to the deregulation that contributed to the 2008 financial crisis. The CFPB’s accomplishments highlight the importance of strong regulatory agencies in protecting consumers from predatory financial practices.
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Following CNN’s report alleging Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson used the alias “minisoldr” to post racist and lewd comments online, Robinson’s use of this username resurfaced during a virtual inauguration planning meeting. Robinson, who denies the allegations and is suing CNN for defamation, explained through his spokesperson that he’s used the username for over two decades. The username’s appearance at the meeting prompted questions from other attendees, though the issue wasn’t directly addressed. Robinson’s defamation suit against CNN is ongoing and has been moved to federal court.
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Unidentified drone activity prompted a nearly four-hour closure of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s airspace. Base officials monitored the “small unmanned aerial systems,” assuring that no impact on base personnel or assets occurred. This incident follows a recent surge in unexplained drone sightings near military installations and critical infrastructure across the US and abroad, though officials maintain there’s no evidence of a security threat. Investigations into these incidents are ongoing.
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SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son pledged a $100 billion investment in the U.S. over four years, aiming to generate at least 100,000 new jobs primarily in AI and related fields. This commitment, announced alongside President-elect Trump, represents a significant increase from a previous $50 billion pledge. The funding will be drawn from SoftBank’s various holdings, potentially including existing investments. This substantial investment underscores Son’s optimism regarding the U.S. economy under Trump’s leadership.
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Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) issued a public apology for a significant theft of over 1 billion yen ($6.6 million) from customer safe deposit boxes at two Tokyo branches. A female employee, since fired, confessed to the crime, exploiting her access to steal cash and valuables between April 2020 and October 2023. The bank is investigating approximately 60 client accounts, with confirmed losses currently totaling nearly $2 million and compensation being determined. This incident follows a similar recent crime at another major Japanese financial institution, highlighting concerns about security and trust within the banking sector.
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Following the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, Russia is bolstering its military presence in Libya. At least three Russian military cargo planes have flown from Belarus to Libya since December 8th, carrying defense materials. This move is likely a response to the increasingly precarious situation in Syria, forcing Russia to fortify its Libyan bases which serve as a crucial staging point for its African influence. Experts suggest this shift reflects Russia’s need to protect its expanded Libyan presence, now that its Syrian foothold is jeopardized. The evacuation of Russian personnel and equipment from Syria is underway.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood