During his annual press conference, Vladimir Putin boasted about Russia’s new nuclear-capable missile and suggested using it to strike Kyiv, calling it a “technological experiment.” Volodymyr Zelensky responded online, criticizing Putin’s callous disregard for the loss of human life. Putin also made light of the war in Ukraine, suggesting it added excitement to life, while expressing willingness to speak with the incoming US President. The conference served as a platform for Putin to showcase his authority and highlight Russia’s alleged gains in the ongoing conflict.
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A temporary drone ban affecting 22 New Jersey cities is in effect until January 17th, authorizing the use of deadly force against unmanned aircraft posing an imminent threat. This action follows weeks of unexplained drone sightings near critical infrastructure, prompting public concern and conspiracy theories. While the White House and Congress have downplayed the threat, the ban restricts drone operation below 400 feet, with exceptions for certain governmental and commercial operations. Investigations are ongoing, despite assertions that many sightings involved ordinary aircraft.
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With a government shutdown looming, Congress hastily passed a stripped-down spending bill after Elon Musk rejected a previous deal. The new legislation, endorsed by President-elect Trump, eliminates funding for crucial programs including child cancer research and other critical health initiatives. This drastic reduction in spending was celebrated by Musk and Trump, while Democrats strongly denounced the bill’s cuts. A House vote is expected imminently.
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Addressing Russia’s economic challenges during his annual “Direct Line” Q&A, President Putin acknowledged high inflation, currently around 9.3%, driven by factors including rising food prices, a weaker ruble, and increased military spending. While blaming international sanctions for contributing to price increases, he also implied criticism of the central bank’s approach, suggesting alternative methods to curb inflation. Despite these concerns, Putin expressed confidence in the economy’s overall performance, projecting growth of 3.9-4% this year and 2-2.5% in 2024, contrasting with the IMF’s more conservative forecast. The government and central bank are tasked with managing a “soft landing” for the economy.
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Ukraine will cease all transit of Russian gas through its territory by the end of 2024, President Zelenskyy announced. This decision aims to prevent Russia from profiting from the war by disguising its gas as originating from other countries, such as Azerbaijan. While acknowledging potential financial losses for Ukraine and hardship for countries like Slovakia, which heavily relies on Russian gas, Zelenskyy emphasized the imperative of denying Russia further revenue for its war effort. He suggested a conditional exception: allowing transit only if European buyers refuse to pay Russia until the war ends, a scenario unlikely due to contractual obligations. This decision is likely to further strain relations between Ukraine and Slovakia, given the latter’s dependence on Russian gas and skepticism toward further supporting Ukraine.
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In response to intensified Russian attacks, Denmark has committed an additional $292 million to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses. This funding supports the operation of Ukraine’s F-16s and is part of over $7.5 billion in military aid provided since the start of the invasion. The contribution follows Denmark’s delivery of a second batch of F-16s and reflects a broader coalition commitment to supporting Ukraine against ongoing Russian aggression. This aid prioritizes counteracting Russian air strikes, a critical need for Ukraine’s defense.
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Body camera footage shows Louisville Lt. Caleb Stewart citing a pregnant woman experiencing homelessness for violating Kentucky’s street camping ban, even after she stated she was in labor and her water broke. Stewart expressed skepticism about her claim and issued the citation regardless of the apparent medical emergency. This incident highlights the conflict between enforcing the new law and providing compassionate care to vulnerable individuals, particularly pregnant women experiencing homelessness. The woman later gave birth to a healthy child, but the event underscores the potentially harmful consequences of criminalizing homelessness.
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Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) criticized President-elect Trump for seemingly taking orders from Elon Musk, referring to Musk as an “unelected president.” This assertion followed Musk’s public opposition to a spending bill, a post subsequently echoed by Trump on Truth Social. Several other Democratic legislators, including Sens. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Pramila Jayapal, have voiced similar concerns about Musk’s influence over the incoming administration. The situation highlights anxieties regarding Musk’s apparent power and the potential for oligarchic control over US policy.
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During a Brussels press conference, President Zelensky sharply criticized Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a missile duel over Kyiv, questioning Putin’s sanity. Zelensky dismissed Putin’s claims of a near-agreement in Istanbul, labeling them an ultimatum demanding Ukrainian territorial concessions. He further refuted Putin’s accusations of Zelensky being an illegitimate leader, mocking the Russian president’s assertions. Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s need for security guarantees and additional air defense systems before any ceasefire negotiations could begin. He emphasized that a frozen conflict is unacceptable for Ukraine.
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Big Lots’ anticipated sale to Nexus Capital Management has failed, leading the retailer to initiate going-out-of-business sales across all its stores. Despite this action, the company remains optimistic about securing an alternative sale by early January. Efforts to complete a transaction with Nexus or another buyer are ongoing. Until then, Big Lots will continue normal operations in stores and online.
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John Q. Hosedrinker