A magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck off Japan’s northeastern coast, prompting tsunami warnings and evacuation orders for coastal areas. A tsunami reaching almost 10 feet was expected in some regions, with smaller waves already observed. The earthquake occurred approximately 44 miles offshore at a depth of 33 miles, causing tremors felt in Tokyo. Japanese officials urged evacuations and are currently assessing potential damage, while assuring nuclear facilities are being checked for any abnormalities.
Read More
In a recent review, the Shopping Trends team, independent of CTV News journalists, examined various products to analyze current consumer preferences. The team’s research aims to highlight notable items and provide insights into purchasing habits. While the team operates independently, they may earn a commission from purchases made through provided links. Detailed information on the team and their processes can be found in their “Read about us” section.
Read More
China has achieved a record-breaking trade surplus, reaching US$1.076 trillion in the first eleven months of the year, exceeding the previous record. This growth was fueled by efforts to diversify export markets despite ongoing trade uncertainties. November saw a rebound in exports, increasing by 5.9% year-on-year to US$330.35 billion, contributing to an overall trade surplus for the month. While exports showed strength, sluggish import growth reflected weaker domestic demand, a key challenge for China’s economy.
Read More
The Ukrainian General Staff reported that on December 5th, a drone strike on Russia’s Temryuk Seaport in Krasnodar Krai resulted in the destruction of 20 fuel tanks, representing 70% of the facility’s capacity, and ignited a significant fire. The Krasnodar Krai Operational Headquarters confirmed the damage to the port, particularly at the liquefied gas loading rack. In addition to the port attack, overnight on December 8th, Ukrainian forces targeted multiple sites within Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories, including ammunition and drone depots, as well as fuel depots and air defense systems, with damage assessments ongoing. These strikes are part of Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to disrupt Russian military logistics and supply lines.
Read More
Mexico’s anti-money laundering office has frozen the bank accounts of Raúl Rocha Cantú, a Mexican co-owner of the Miss Universe organization, as part of an investigation into alleged involvement in drug and arms trafficking, as well as fuel theft. This action follows mounting controversies surrounding the organization, including an arrest warrant for the Thai co-owner, Jakkaphong “Anne” Jakrajutatip, in connection with a fraud case. Rocha Cantú, whose company owns 50% of Miss Universe shares, has been under investigation since November 2024, with the judge issuing 13 arrest warrants last month. The current Miss Universe competition also faced allegations of rigging.
Read More
Recent polling data reveals a surge in public approval for the Affordable Care Act, with 57% of US adults now approving of the law, marking a record high since 2012. This increase in approval is primarily driven by Independents, who largely support the ACA. The poll, conducted during the government shutdown, also found strong support for federal funding to assist hospitals with medical costs for uninsured individuals, although support diminishes significantly when including those residing in the country illegally.
Read More
Colin Allred has ended his campaign for the U.S. Senate in Texas, citing concerns that a contentious primary would hinder the Democratic Party’s ability to unite against Republicans. He will instead run for the newly drawn Congressional District 33. This decision reshuffles the Democratic primary field, potentially favoring candidates like Jasmine Crockett, while the general election remains an uphill battle in the Republican-leaning state. Primary elections are scheduled for March 2026.
Read More
According to newly revealed details, a former Chinese spy, known as “Eric,” has shared information about his missions for China’s secret police, exposing their covert operations. From 2008 to 2023, Eric worked for the 1st Bureau at China’s Ministry of Public Security, targeting dissidents, including artist Hua Yong. Eric’s mission involved befriending Hua Yong to lure him to a country where he could be captured, though Hua ultimately ended up in Canada. Hua Yong died in B.C. in 2022 under mysterious circumstances.
Read More
In 2016, then-Fox News contributor Pete Hegseth strongly asserted that U.S. military personnel had a duty to refuse unlawful orders, specifically those that could potentially come from then-candidate Donald Trump. He emphasized that the military would not follow illegal directives, a stance rooted in the understanding that service members could face criminal consequences for executing such commands. However, as Trump’s Secretary of Defense, Hegseth has recently shifted his position, criticizing Democrats for raising similar concerns about unlawful orders. These earlier comments have resurfaced amidst his current criticism of Democrats for encouraging troops to reject illegal orders, a message he now claims undermines the chain of command.
Read More
A recent incident at a Russian bomber aviation regiment led to the tragic deaths of a pilot and navigator. The ejection system of an aircraft, likely a Su-34 or Su-24, activated while parked inside a shelter, resulting in fatal injuries. The cause is likely linked to maintenance failures or accidental triggering, which can be seen as a rare but possible cause. This event follows the recent downing of a Ka-52 attack helicopter by friendly fire, further highlighting ongoing issues.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker