Ukrainian forces successfully targeted a Russian oil depot in Engels, Saratov Oblast, disrupting fuel supplies to the nearby Engels-2 airbase. The joint operation, involving military intelligence and Unmanned Systems Forces, aimed to hinder Russian strategic aviation capabilities. This attack, approximately 600 kilometers from the front lines, reportedly caused damage to the Kristal Plant with no reported injuries. The General Staff asserted that the depot’s destruction significantly impairs Russia’s ability to launch attacks on Ukrainian civilians.
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Czech President Petr Pavel criticized recent meetings between Russian President Vladimir Putin and European politicians, emphasizing the importance of EU unity against Russia. Martin Dvorak, Czech Minister for European Affairs, specifically condemned Viktor Orbán and Robert Fico for their visits to Moscow, highlighting their actions as undermining EU solidarity. Meanwhile, Hungary granted political asylum to a Polish official facing corruption charges, prompting Poland to recall its ambassador and threaten further action against Hungary within the EU framework. Despite these tensions, Viktor Orbán stated his focus on bilateral diplomacy while advocating for a stronger Europe.
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Sean Higgins, charged with the deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, pleaded not guilty to the indictment, rejecting a 35-year plea deal. Prosecutors allege Higgins, impaired by alcohol and exhibiting road rage, struck the cyclists while driving aggressively. The defense maintains the incident resulted from unfortunate circumstances, not malicious intent. Higgins faces multiple charges, including aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide, and awaits trial.
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In response to Trump’s suggestion to rename the Gulf of Mexico, President Sheinbaum retorted by proposing to rename North America “Mexican America,” highlighting the historical precedent and the Gulf’s longstanding name. This witty response, shared widely on social media, showcased a potential approach to navigating the complex U.S.-Mexico relationship. While experts suggest humor can be a strategic tool, Sheinbaum has also demonstrated a willingness to engage seriously on critical issues like trade and immigration, adopting a firm stance against tariffs while maintaining a more flexible approach to deportation. Her actions suggest a blend of assertive diplomacy and pragmatic compromise in dealing with the incoming U.S. administration.
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From January 8th to 31st, Belarusian territorial defense forces, reservists, and military reserves will participate in military exercises in the Gomel district. These exercises, led by the Gomel district executive committee, will focus on personnel management and logistical support utilizing local mobilization resources. The training will involve collaboration with Belarusian Armed Forces engineering units, preparing conscripts for potential operational tasks. Notably, Gomel’s proximity to Ukraine’s Chernihiv Oblast highlights the strategic significance of these drills. This follows previous Belarusian military exercises near Poland and Lithuania, and participation in Russian nuclear weapons drills.
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In response to President-elect Trump’s proposed renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum countered by suggesting a return to the historical name “America Mexicana,” referencing its use on a 1607 map and in Mexico’s Constitution of Apatzingán. Sheinbaum’s proposal encompasses a large swathe of territory including parts of present-day U.S., Mexico, and Canada. This counter-proposal followed Trump’s earlier suggestion and also served to refute his claims about Mexico’s governance being controlled by drug cartels. Sheinbaum asserted that the Mexican people, not drug cartels, hold the power.
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Ukrainian forces launched a precision strike on the headquarters of Russia’s 810th Naval Infantry Brigade in Belaya, marking the second such attack in two weeks. This follows a previous strike on Christmas Day and repeated unsuccessful Russian assaults near Pogrebki. The 810th Brigade, significantly weakened after months of fighting, has suffered heavy losses and is being targeted with a variety of long-range weapons systems. These attacks highlight Ukraine’s growing deep-strike capabilities and the continued pressure on Russian forces in the Kursk region.
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During a recent speech, Donald Trump criticized the push for electric vehicles and electric heaters, asserting that the United States lacks sufficient electricity to support widespread adoption. He argued that gas heaters are superior, claiming they provide better, cheaper heat without the supposed “itchiness” associated with electric models. Trump’s preference for gas aligns with his broader policy of increasing fossil fuel production, despite the environmental implications. While condensing gas heaters offer long-term cost and emissions benefits, these advantages were dismissed by Trump.
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The body of Youssef al-Ziyadne, a 53-year-old hostage abducted by Hamas in October 2023, was discovered in a Rafah tunnel alongside two terrorists. Israeli security forces confirmed the finding, stating Youssef’s death appeared not to be recent and that evidence suggests the death of his son, Hamza, was also discovered at the site. Bilal and Aisha, two of Youssef’s children who were also abducted, were previously released. Israeli officials expressed condolences and reiterated their commitment to securing the return of all remaining hostages, both living and deceased.
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John Q. Hosedrinker