A highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak at Washington’s Wild Felid Advocacy Center resulted in the deaths of twenty big cats, including a tiger and cougars, between late November and mid-December. The virus, also affecting cats elsewhere in the US, spread rapidly, causing pneumonia-like symptoms and death within 24 hours in many cases. The sanctuary is under quarantine, undergoing disinfection and food removal, while officials investigate the source, which may be linked to contaminated pet food. The incident highlights the virus’s ability to spread among different animal species, though limited human cases have been reported.
Read More
Following the recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) forces, 14 Syrian interior ministry troops were killed in an ambush near Tartous, allegedly by Assad loyalists. This clash followed the attempted arrest of a former Saydnaya prison officer, highlighting ongoing tensions and resistance to the new authorities. Simultaneously, unrest erupted in Homs and other cities, sparked by a disputed video and fears of retribution against Alawites, Assad’s minority sect. The situation is further complicated by calls for justice regarding past atrocities committed during Assad’s rule, creating a complex and volatile atmosphere in post-Assad Syria.
Read More
Pakistani airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan killed at least 46 people, predominantly women and children, according to a Taliban official, sparking strong condemnation from the Afghan government. These strikes, targeting a purported insurgent training facility, followed a recent increase in attacks by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) within Pakistan. Afghanistan summoned the Pakistani envoy, protesting the violation of its sovereignty and threatening consequences. While Pakistan hasn’t officially commented on the strikes, its military reported a separate operation killing insurgents within its own territory.
Read More
Following a phone call between Prime Minister Ishiba and President Zelenskyy, Japan reaffirmed its commitment to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, reiterating strong support through sanctions against Russia and close coordination with Ukraine. The leaders discussed the escalating conflict, including the concerning involvement of North Korean troops. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Japan’s assistance, while Ishiba noted concerns about the broader implications for East Asian stability. This follows a November agreement between the two nations to enhance security information sharing.
Read More
In a stark reversal, numerous corporations that publicly condemned the January 6th Capitol riot are now contributing substantially to Donald Trump’s record-breaking inauguration fund. This influx of corporate donations suggests a strategic effort by big business to cultivate favor with the incoming president. These contributions follow earlier pledges by some of these same companies to suspend political donations after the 2021 events. The inauguration fund finances the presidential transition and related ceremonies.
Read More
The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned Russia’s Christmas Eve missile attacks on Ukraine, sharing footage of the devastation. The ministry emphasized Russia’s continued aggression and reaffirmed unwavering Estonian support for Ukraine. This support aims to achieve a just and lasting peace through the withdrawal of Russian forces to their pre-invasion borders. The attack involved over 70 missiles and 100 drones, with Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepting a significant portion. A Russian missile also reportedly violated Moldovan airspace.
Read More
In a Christmas message, President-elect Trump reiterated his desire for U.S. territorial expansion, targeting the Panama Canal and Greenland, and suggesting Canada become the 51st state with significant tax cuts and military protection. He also falsely claimed a high death toll during the Panama Canal’s construction and mocked Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau. While Greenland’s prime minister rejected any sale of the territory, Denmark expressed willingness to cooperate with the new U.S. administration, even while increasing its defense spending for Greenland. Trump further urged Wayne Gretzky to run for Canadian prime minister.
Read More
Following a conversation between President Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Ishiba, Japan will provide an additional US$3 billion to Ukraine, sourced from frozen Russian assets. This funding will support crucial energy infrastructure repairs and shelter construction, vital given Russia’s recent attacks. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Japan’s ongoing commitment to Ukraine’s defense and pursuit of peace. This contribution builds upon previous aid, including a US$1 billion transfer from frozen Russian assets.
Read More
Senator Tommy Tuberville’s Christmas Eve claim that President Trump “brought Christmas back to America” sparked widespread mockery on social media. Many users pointed out the absurdity of the statement, highlighting the continuous celebration of Christmas regardless of presidential administrations. While some fellow Trump supporters agreed with Tuberville, the majority of responses ridiculed the senator’s assertion. This incident follows Tuberville’s recent defense of Trump’s cabinet picks, further illustrating his unwavering loyalty to the former president.
Read More
Ukrainian forces struck a Russian 810th Guards Naval Infantry Brigade command post in Lgov, Kursk Oblast, on December 25th, targeting it within an abandoned civilian building. This attack, part of a broader campaign to disrupt Russian military operations, resulted in reported civilian casualties according to Russian sources, though these claims remain unverified. While Kursk Oblast has seen previous intense fighting, recent Ukrainian territorial gains there have reportedly been significantly reduced. Furthermore, Russia’s deployment of North Korean troops has allegedly resulted in substantial casualties.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker