On December 5, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) launched a drone strike on a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal within Russia’s Temryuk Seaport, resulting in a three-day fire. The SBU’s Alpha special operations unit conducted the attack, targeting the Maktren-Nafta production facilities. The strike destroyed roughly 70% of the facility’s fuel tanks, along with railway tankers and related infrastructure. This operation aligns with the SBU’s ongoing efforts to cripple Russia’s oil and gas infrastructure, which supports the war against Ukraine.
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Australia has implemented a first-of-its-kind ban on social media for those under 16, prompting major platforms like Facebook and Instagram to remove underage accounts and prevent new registrations. While most platforms have confirmed compliance, enforcement faces initial challenges as some teens bypass age verification. The government acknowledges the ban’s imperfections and will gather data to evaluate its impact, including unintended consequences like children moving to less regulated areas online or using VPNs. Regulators will assess platform compliance and could seek fines, while an independent evaluation will examine the ban’s short and long-term effects.
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In a recent interview, Donald Trump hinted at withdrawing support for Ukraine while criticizing Europe, describing it as “weak” and “decaying” due to immigration. Trump also called for Ukraine to cede territory to Russia. These comments echoed far-right tropes. European leaders have expressed dismay over Trump’s disparaging remarks, with some rejecting the idea that European democracy needs saving and condemning any interference in European politics.
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Right-wing podcaster Tim Dillon has accused the Trump administration of bombing alleged Venezuelan drug boats to distract from the impending release of the Epstein files, a claim made on his podcast. The administration, facing pressure to release the files by December 19th, has been criticized for delaying the release, with Dillon suggesting the bombings are a cover-up for a human trafficking ring. The controversial strikes, authorized by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, have drawn criticism due to a lack of evidence and the “double-tap” bombing of a boat, which many consider a war crime. Meanwhile, Trump has reversed his position and is no longer disputing criticism of Hegseth, adding to the mounting pressure on the administration.
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As Germany appeals to China for peace, Zelenskyy says Beijing has no interest in ending Russia’s war against Ukraine, it feels like a rather stark juxtaposition, doesn’t it? Germany, a key player in Europe, is making diplomatic overtures to China, hoping to leverage its influence to bring the war to an end. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy, the leader of Ukraine, is bluntly stating his belief that China has no real desire to see the conflict resolved. It’s like two entirely different readings of the same situation.
The core of the issue, and the reason Zelenskyy’s perspective resonates, seems to be China’s vested interest.… Continue reading
The Supreme Court is currently considering a case that could overturn the 90-year-old precedent set by Humphrey’s Executor v. United States, which established that Congress could limit a president’s power to remove executive branch officials. The justices are debating whether President Trump’s firing of a Federal Trade Commissioner was constitutional and if upholding it would violate the separation of powers. If the court sides with the Trump administration, it could weaken the power of independent agencies, sparking concerns about the balance of power between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Arguments have focused on whether the president should have the authority to oversee these agencies, and whether such agencies, by their very nature, are designed to operate independent of presidential oversight. The outcome could reshape the structure of the government and the role of independent agencies.
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On Monday, the South Carolina Department of Corrections reported the interception of a drone at Lee Correctional Institution. The drone was carrying contraband, including crab legs, seasoning, marijuana, and cigarettes. The post included an image of the seized items. While the authorities did not confirm any arrests, marijuana possession is illegal in South Carolina.
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Republican women suddenly realize they’re surrounded by misogynists? Well, that’s the thing, isn’t it? Many feel like this isn’t a sudden realization at all, but a delayed acknowledgment. They knew. Some seem to have understood, consciously or unconsciously, that being *in* on the system offered a degree of protection *from* the worst of it. “I voted for the racism, not the misogyny!” is a sentiment that’s been heard. The truth is, some of these women may have been misogynists themselves, actively participating and supporting policies and attitudes that belittle or demean other women, or perhaps, all women.
Maybe “suddenly” isn’t the right word.… Continue reading
When asked about Netflix potentially acquiring Warner Bros., Trump acknowledged Netflix’s substantial market share, implying it would be a critical factor in the decision-making process. Trump indicated he would be involved in the final decision regarding the potential merger. Separately, Paramount CEO David Ellison discussed Paramount’s bid, remaining cautious about Trump’s views on Ellison’s potential ownership of CNN, a network Trump has criticized. According to reports, conversations between Ellison and Trump have included discussion about personnel changes at CNN.
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The United Kingdom is facing the potential loss of its Atlantic dominance to Russia for the first time since World War II, according to Royal Navy Commander, First Sea Lord Ben Key Jenkins. Increased Russian naval activity, including the presence of intelligence-gathering vessels and suspected underwater actions, is putting significant pressure on UK maritime capabilities. Rapid transformation and strong support from NATO allies are needed to counter this threat. The UK is responding with programs like Atlantic Bastion to bolster undersea defenses, although challenges remain regarding ship and submarine availability, and maintaining readiness.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood