Two U.S. Navy pilots were rescued after their F/A-18 Super Hornet was mistakenly shot down by the USS Gettysburg, a guided-missile cruiser, during a U.S. airstrike against Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. The incident, resulting in minor injuries to one pilot, highlights the escalating dangers in the region, where the Houthis have intensified attacks on shipping, prompting increased U.S. military presence and actions. The shootdown occurred amidst heightened tensions following recent Houthi attacks and increased U.S. airstrikes targeting Houthi infrastructure in Yemen. This incident marks a significant escalation of the conflict.
Read More
Researchers have discovered thousands of previously unknown RNA structures, termed “obelisks,” residing within human-associated bacteria. These obelisks, smaller than typical viruses and lacking protein coats, are circular RNA molecules resembling viroids but found in diverse human body locations. Their function and impact on human health remain unclear, but their discovery challenges existing classifications of life and highlights the vast unexplored diversity of the human microbiome. Further research is needed to understand their evolutionary origins and potential influence on human biology.
Read More
Lara Trump announced she is withdrawing her name from consideration for the Florida Senate seat, a position she’d been speculated to fill should Marco Rubio become Secretary of State. This decision follows her recent resignation as Republican National Committee co-chair. Trump expressed continued dedication to public service, hinting at a significant announcement in January. She offered Governor DeSantis well wishes in the upcoming appointment process.
Read More
NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey resigned following allegations of repeated sexual abuse of a subordinate officer, Lt. Quathisha Epps, in exchange for overtime pay. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office launched an investigation into these claims, which include demands for various sexual acts at NYPD headquarters. Epps’ attorney has filed a discrimination charge with the EEOC, preceding a potential federal lawsuit alleging retaliation for refusing Maddrey’s advances. Maddrey’s resignation comes amidst a departmental shakeup under new Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, and follows previous accusations of sexual misconduct.
Read More
A Senate investigation reveals widespread ethical violations and conflicts of interest among Supreme Court justices, both current and deceased. The report details numerous undisclosed luxury trips accepted by Justices Scalia, Thomas, and Alito, often from individuals with cases before the Court, with Justice Thomas’s gifts unparalleled in modern history. This behavior, facilitated by figures like Leonard Leo, highlights a right-wing ecosystem of influence peddling surrounding the Court. The report underscores the Court’s failure to self-regulate and calls for Congressional action to restore public trust, though such action is currently unlikely given the current political climate. The report cites specific instances of undisclosed travel, gifts, and political activity by justices and their spouses that created clear conflicts of interest.
Read More
Despite pressure from figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, Democrats voted to avert a government shutdown. Representative Jasmine Crockett affirmed the party’s intention to hold the Republican-led government accountable, promising continued oversight. Crockett underscored her commitment to exposing what she views as Republican failings and advocating for Democratic policies. She emphasized her belief that Democratic governance would ultimately benefit the American people.
Read More
A Ukrainian National Guard brigade recently conducted a combined-arms operation using a large number of robotic and unmanned systems, including flying and ground robots, to assault Russian positions in Kharkiv Oblast. This technologically advanced operation, involving surveillance, minelaying, and explosive robots, highlights Ukraine’s innovative approach to warfare but also underscores the significant manpower disparity with Russia. The operation’s success, however, is tempered by the inherent limitations of robots in holding ground and their vulnerability to electronic jamming. Ultimately, the deployment of robots reflects Ukraine’s need to compensate for its smaller force size through technological innovation.
Read More
Under pressure from the U.S., UAE banks are significantly restricting transactions involving Russian companies, creating major disruptions to Russian trade. This tightening of financial restrictions impacts over fifty UAE banks, including Gazprombank, causing delays and outright refusals of payments. The increased scrutiny and processing times, escalating since November, severely hamper Russian businesses’ ability to conduct international trade, particularly for goods like electronics and industrial equipment. This trend mirrors similar difficulties reported in other countries, threatening to severely limit Russia’s access to crucial financial channels.
Read More
Baseball legend Rickey Henderson, a Hall of Famer and Oakland Athletics icon, passed away at age 65. His death was confirmed by his family and MLB, who noted his profound impact on the sport and the A’s franchise. Henderson held numerous MLB records, including career stolen bases (1406), and was a 10-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion. His passing follows the recent deaths of other Bay Area baseball greats Willie Mays and Orlando Cepeda.
Read More
Charles Smith, 27, was arrested and charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors after spraying pesticide on groceries at a Mesa Walmart. Smith filmed the act, which involved stealing a can of insecticide and spraying it on produce and prepared foods, then posted the video online. His actions resulted in charges of introducing poison (a Class 6 felony), criminal damage, endangerment, and theft. Smith confessed to the crime and turned himself in to authorities.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker