US
US Admiral Reveals New Details on Controversial Double-Tap Strike
A US admiral has provided new information to lawmakers about a controversial double-tap strike that killed alleged drug traffickers on September 2, 2025. According to Adm. Frank Bradley, the struck boat was planning to rendezvous with a larger vessel headed to Suriname, a small South American country, to transfer drugs. The admiral argued that the strike was necessary to prevent the potential shipment of drugs to the US, despite the boat not being directly headed to US shores. However, US drug enforcement officials say that trafficking routes via Suriname are primarily destined for European markets. The new details add to the controversy surrounding the strike, which involved multiple attacks on the boat and the killing of survivors. The US military ultimately struck the boat four times, with the first strike splitting the boat in half and leaving two survivors clinging to a capsized portion. The second, third, and fourth strikes killed them and sank the vessel. The incident has drawn bipartisan scrutiny, with the Senate Armed Services Committee vowing to conduct oversight. The Pentagon's actions have raised questions about potential war crimes, as it is considered a war crime to kill shipwrecked people who are in need of assistance and care.
Vanity Fair Ends Association with Olivia Nuzzi Amid Controversy Over RFK Jr Relationship
Vanity Fair has parted ways with Olivia Nuzzi, the magazine's west coast editor, due to controversy surrounding her relationship with US presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr. The decision to end their association was described as "mutual" by publisher Condé Nast. Nuzzi's contract was set to expire at the end of 2025, but the magazine chose to distance itself from the controversy earlier. The move comes after allegations of journalistic transgressions made by Nuzzi's former fiancé, journalist Ryan Lizza, who claimed she had a more extensive connection to Kennedy's campaign than she had admitted and had another relationship with a person she was reporting on. Nuzzi had joined Vanity Fair under a short-term deal to focus on events, industries, and culture of the Pacific region. However, her position became uncertain after Lizza published a series of personal exposés about her, accusing her of multiple professional breaches, including an affair with former South Carolina governor Mark Sanford. Vanity Fair initially did not respond to Lizza's claims but later stated they were looking into the facts. Nuzzi has since expressed regret over her actions, stating that she had "fucked up" and violated ethics rules. Her memoir, American Canto, was released recently, but the critical response has been largely negative. Nuzzi has indicated that she does not intend to return to campaign reporting.
US Supreme Court to Hear Case on Birthright Citizenship
The US Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case challenging the constitutional right of guaranteed citizenship for those born in the US. The case revolves around the 14th Amendment, which has established the principle that anyone born in the country is a US citizen, with exceptions for children born to diplomats and foreign military forces. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to end birthright citizenship on his first day in office, but the move was blocked by lower courts after it was challenged over its constitutionality. The Supreme Court's ruling will determine whether the children of migrants who are in the US illegally or on temporary visas will remain eligible for citizenship. The Trump administration has argued that the 14th Amendment clause "subject to the jurisdiction thereof" excludes children of people who are not in the country permanently or lawfully. However, Cecillia Wang, national legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union, stated that no president can change the 14th Amendment's fundamental promise of citizenship. The US is one of about 30 countries that grant automatic citizenship to anyone born within their borders. A study suggests that repealing birthright citizenship could increase the size of the unauthorized population in the US by an additional 2.7 million by 2045 and by 5.4 million by 2075. The Supreme Court's decision will have significant implications for the nation's immigration system and the lives of thousands of individuals born in the US to immigrant parents.
Somalis Push Back Against Trump's Derogatory Comments
In response to President Trump's recent remarks disparaging Somalia and its people, residents of Mogadishu are highlighting the positive aspects of their country. Trump had referred to Somalis as "garbage" and advised Somali Americans to return to their homeland to "fix it," describing it as "hell." However, many Somalis, including Somali-born Rep. Ilhan Omar, have rejected these comments, pointing out the significant contributions Somali Americans make to the US. Despite the country's struggles with clan-based conflict and the Islamist insurgent group al-Shabab, many Somalis are working to improve their nation. Dr. Abdulkadir Abdirahman Adan, a dentist, has established the country's only free ambulance service, which operates in the capital city of Mogadishu. Other initiatives, such as the Elman Peace and Human Rights Centre, which runs Somalia's first rape crisis center, and the country's first amputee soccer team, demonstrate the resilience and determination of the Somali people. These efforts are a testament to the fact that Somalis are actively working to rebuild and improve their country, despite the challenges they face. The US government has been engaged in Somalia for decades, providing support to the Somali federal government in its efforts to stabilize the country and combat al-Shabab. While Trump's comments have been widely criticized, the partnership between the US and Somalia remains strong, with many Somalis emphasizing that their nation has much to offer and that its people will not be deterred by negative rhetoric.
Donald Trump Wins Inaugural FIFA Peace Prize
Donald Trump has been awarded the inaugural "FIFA Peace Prize" by the soccer organization during its World Cup draw in Washington. Trump accepted the award, saying it was "truly one of the great honors of my life." The award was given to Trump by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who praised Trump's actions towards peace. Infantino has appeared with Trump on several occasions, including a peace agreement signing between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Trump had been angling to win the Nobel Peace Prize, but was passed over by the Norwegian Nobel Committee in October. The FIFA Peace Prize was announced a month ago, with Trump being the assumed victor. Infantino has been a vocal supporter of Trump, calling him a "close friend" and praising his energy and commitment to the World Cup. The award comes as the 2026 World Cup is set to be held in the US, Canada, and Mexico, with games taking place in 16 cities across North America. Trump has hosted Infantino in the Oval Office on several occasions, including to announce the Kennedy Center as the host of the World Cup draw. Other world leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, attended the Washington, D.C. draw. The FIFA Peace Prize is a new award, and its creation was announced weeks after Trump was passed over for the Nobel Peace Prize. Trump has said that he deserves the award for ending various conflicts, and has been recognized by other world leaders, including Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently had dinner with Trump at the White House.
Vice President JD Vance Addresses Speculation About His Marriage
Vice President JD Vance has spoken out about the online speculation surrounding his marriage to Usha Vance, saying they find the attention "amusing." The speculation began after Usha Vance was photographed without her wedding ring during a visit to a military base with First Lady Melania Trump. JD Vance told NBC News that he and his wife "kind of get a kick out of" the attention and that their marriage is "as strong as it's ever been." This is not the first time the couple has garnered interest online, as JD Vance recently clarified comments about his wife's faith after saying he hoped she would one day be moved by the Christian gospel. Usha Vance, the first person of color to be second lady, has remained private since JD Vance took office but has joined her husband on key trips and become a public figure in her own right. The vice president dismissed the idea that the coverage of their marriage has been difficult, saying "it's funny" and that they found a recent viral social media cycle about Usha Vance's missing wedding ring to be "kind of funny." JD Vance and his wife have three small children and met while attending Yale University. Despite the scrutiny, the vice president says he will continue to love and support his wife, regardless of their differences. The couple's marriage has been under intense scrutiny, with JD Vance being seen as the "most likely" heir apparent to the "Make America Great Again" movement.
Supreme Court Allows Texas to Use Gerrymandered Map Amid Ongoing Litigation
The Supreme Court has lifted a lower court's block on Texas's newly gerrymandered map, allowing it to be used while litigation continues. Texas Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the decision, stating that the state is now "officially — and legally — more red." However, the map does not actually make the state redder, but rather tips the playing field further in the GOP's favor. In Florida, lawmakers are also attempting to gerrymander the state's map, despite criticism. Florida state Rep. Mike Redondo claimed that the committee's work is not driven by partisan gamesmanship, which was met with laughter. The state is already heavily gerrymandered, with Republicans controlling 20 of 28 House districts, despite only receiving 42% of the vote. Governor Ron DeSantis defended the planned gerrymandering, citing demographic changes in the state since the 2020 census. However, the boundaries will still be based on the 2020 numbers. The attempt to gerrymander is explicitly banned by the state's constitution, but Republicans may be trying to exploit a loophole. The risk of litigation is high, and there is a possibility that the efforts could backfire if a strong Democratic wave materializes next year. Overall, 10 states have joined the fray, with gerrymandering attempts aimed at padding party numbers in Congress. These efforts are undemocratic power grabs that make government less representative, regardless of which party is responsible. The situation highlights the need for fair and representative district boundaries to ensure the integrity of the democratic process.
US Federal Judge Orders Release of Epstein Grand Jury Materials
A federal judge in Florida has ordered the release of grand jury transcripts from the Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell sex-trafficking cases. The ruling, made by US district judge Rodney Smith, cites the recently enacted Epstein Files Transparency Act, which overrides traditional secrecy protections. The act, signed into law by Donald Trump, requires the justice department to release all unclassified records and investigative materials related to Epstein within 30 days of enactment. The justice department had sought the unsealing of materials from three separate Epstein-related investigations, with the Florida request now approved. The decision marks the first successful unsealing of Epstein-related grand jury records under the new law. Two additional requests remain pending in New York courts for grand jury transcripts from Epstein's 2019 sex trafficking case and Maxwell's 2021 sex trafficking prosecution. The Epstein Files Transparency Act compels disclosure of justice department files on Epstein and Maxwell, including documents on other individuals, immunity deals, and internal communications about charging decisions. However, it also permits the justice department to withhold materials that could jeopardize active federal investigations or contain victims' personally identifiable information. The law explicitly bars withholding records solely to prevent embarrassment or reputational harm to public figures, government officials, or foreign dignitaries. Epstein, a financier with connections to wealthy and powerful figures, was accused of sexually exploiting minors, some as young as 14, and killed himself in his New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial. Maxwell, Epstein's longtime associate, is serving a 20-year prison sentence for facilitating his abuse of underage girls.
Donald Trump Receives Inaugural Fifa Peace Prize
United States President Donald Trump has received the inaugural Fifa Peace Prize, a new award introduced by Fifa president Gianni Infantino. The prize is designated for a person who has "taken exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace" and "united people across the world". Trump was presented with a large golden trophy, a medal, and a certificate by Infantino at a ceremony in Washington DC. In his speech, Trump stated that he had saved "tens of millions of lives" through diplomatic interventions and claimed that the 2026 World Cup has set a new record for ticket sales. The ceremony took place before the draw for the 2026 Fifa World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Trump, along with Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney, performed the ceremonial opening to the draw. The leaders drew the balls of their respective nations, which had already been assigned their groups. The 2026 World Cup will take place between June 11 and July 19. The introduction of the Fifa Peace Prize has been met with criticism, with some arguing that it threatens Fifa's commitment to political neutrality. Critics believe that Infantino and Trump are too close, and that the award is a propaganda tool for the US president's administration. However, a senior Fifa official defended the award, stating that football has huge global support and deserves to recognize extraordinary efforts to bring about peace. The draw ceremony also featured a performance by the Village People, who played their song "YMCA", a favorite of Trump's. The ceremony was held at the Kennedy Center, a famous Washington arts venue now chaired by Trump. The 2026 World Cup debutants and group assignments were also announced, with Mexico in Group A, Canada in Group B, and the USA in Group D.
Luigi Mangione's Statements to Police May Be Excluded from Trial
Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, told police he didn't want to talk after being approached at a Pennsylvania McDonald's. However, police continued to ask questions, and Mangione answered before being informed of his right to remain silent. This exchange is now being scrutinized at a New York court hearing, where Mangione's lawyers are trying to exclude key evidence from his murder trial, including his statements to police and items found in his backpack. Mangione's lawyers argue that his statements should not be allowed in trial because police asked questions before reading his rights. They also claim that the contents of his backpack, including a gun and diary, should be excluded because police did not obtain a warrant before searching it. The hearing, which started on Monday, has given the public a preview of some testimony, video, and other records related to the case. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to state and federal murder charges. The hearing applies only to the state case, and its outcome may impact the evidence presented at trial. The case is significant, as Thompson was shot and killed while walking to an investor conference, and Mangione's alleged actions have been linked to a disdain for health insurers. The evidence in question is key to prosecutors' case, and its exclusion could potentially reshape the trial.
FIFA Awards President Donald Trump its Inaugural Peace Prize
President Donald Trump was awarded the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize on Friday, December 5, 2025, during the 2026 World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center in Washington. The prize, presented by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, recognizes Trump's efforts to "promote peace and unity around the world." Trump, who has openly campaigned for the Nobel Peace Prize, thanked his family and praised the leaders of the other two host nations, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, for their coordination. The certificate handed to Trump by Infantino acknowledges his actions to promote peace globally. Infantino also presented Trump with a gold trophy with his name on it, depicting hands holding up the world. Trump described the award as "truly one of the great honors of my life" and stated that "the world is a safer place now." The FIFA Peace Prize marks a departure from the federation's traditional focus on sport. The organization has not disclosed the process for choosing a winner, and some senior officials were caught off guard by the announcement. The award comes amidst Trump's administration engaging in shuttle diplomacy to end the war in Ukraine and facing scrutiny for lethal strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean. The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded this year to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who dedicated her prize in part to Trump for his support of her cause. FIFA's award to Trump has sparked attention, given the organization's shift from its traditional sporting focus to recognizing political efforts towards peace.
Supreme Court Ruling Shifts Redistricting Momentum in Favor of Republicans
The US Supreme Court's decision to uphold a GOP-friendly map in Texas has given Republicans momentum in the nation's redistricting battle. The ruling, which restored Texas's map for use in next year's elections, has emboldened Republicans to redraw lines in other states. In Indiana, lawmakers passed a new map that could give Republicans two more House seats, although its fate in the state Senate is uncertain. This development marks a change in fortune for President Donald Trump's push to redraw maps, which had faced recent setbacks. Democrats, however, are seeking to counteract GOP gains by drawing new maps in states like California, where voters adopted a map that could give Democrats up to five more seats. The redistricting battle is expected to continue, with several states planning to change their maps. Florida Republicans want to redraw their map, while opponents in Missouri are seeking to reverse a map that gives Republicans an additional seat. The Supreme Court's decision in the Texas case highlights the difficulties faced by those challenging maps in court, as it found that Republicans appeared motivated by political considerations, not racial ones. As the battle unfolds, Democrats have made it clear that they will do everything they can to mitigate GOP gains, setting the stage for a prolonged and intense fight over redistricting.
US Releases New National Security Strategy, Criticizing European Allies and Prioritizing "America First"
The White House has released a new National Security Strategy, outlining the administration's foreign policy priorities. The 33-page document, which summarizes as "America First," rejects European allies and accuses them of suppressing free speech and democracy. It also concedes that the US must share power with China and seeks new allies in the Western Hemisphere. The strategy criticizes European nations for being overly regulated and claims that a majority of Europeans are denied democratic expression of their desire for peace with Russia. The document borrows from extremist ideologies, stating that Europe faces "civilizational erasure" due to demographic changes, and suggests that the US should cultivate resistance to Europe's current trajectory. Russia, on the other hand, is deemed a relationship worthy of "strategic stability," and the US is cast as a mediator between Russia and European states. The strategy prioritizes an "expeditious cessation of hostilities in Ukraine" and the reestablishment of "strategic stability" with Russia. The document has been criticized for its lack of seriousness and its departure from decades-old values and alliances. The strategy's release comes as European leaders prepare to meet with US President Donald Trump to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Overall, the new National Security Strategy marks a significant shift in US foreign policy, prioritizing "America First" and criticizing long-standing alliances with European nations.
Federal Judge Orders Unsealing of Grand Jury Transcripts in Epstein Probe
A federal judge in Florida has ordered the unsealing of grand jury transcripts and records in the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. The decision was made by Judge Rodney Smith, who granted the Justice Department's request to unseal the documents following the passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The Act, signed into law last month, allows for the release of unclassified records related to Epstein and his former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell. The judge's order overrides grand jury secrecy laws, known as Rule 6(e), due to the specific language of the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The Justice Department has also made similar requests to two judges in New York, which are still pending. A lawyer representing hundreds of Epstein's survivors has urged the court to protect the identities of survivors if any records are unsealed. This comes after numerous survivors' names were exposed when House committees released over 20,000 documents last month. The lawyer, Bradley Edwards, has written to Judge Paul Engelmayer, overseeing the Maxwell case, to ensure that survivors are protected and their identities are not made public. The unsealing of grand jury transcripts and records is expected to provide further insight into the investigation into Epstein and Maxwell. The Justice Department's requests to unseal documents in New York are still awaiting a decision, and it is unclear when the unsealed records in Florida will be made public.
Supreme Court Decision Makes Gerrymandering Nearly Untouchable
The Supreme Court has reinstated a Texas gerrymander that is expected to give Republicans five additional seats in the US House. The decision in Abbott v. League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) imposes heavy burdens on gerrymandering plaintiffs, making it difficult for them to succeed in future cases. The Court's order faults the lower court for not applying a strong presumption against plaintiffs challenging a racial gerrymander. This decision is a victory for the Republican Party and is likely to have brutal implications for future federal lawsuits challenging gerrymandered maps. The Court's decision distinguishes between partisan and racial gerrymanders, but the line between the two is often thin. The Court has previously held that federal courts may not hear challenges to partisan gerrymanders, and it is expected to eliminate the Voting Rights Act's safeguards against racial gerrymanders later in its current term. The LULAC decision imposes a rigid rule that anyone challenging an alleged racial gerrymander must produce a map that is just as partisan as the one drawn by the state, but that does not divide voters based on race. The decision is seen as an incremental step towards full lawsuit immunity for states that draw gerrymandered maps. The Court's Republican majority appears to be washing its hands of responsibility for gerrymandering altogether, signaling to states that they can do whatever they want. This decision is likely to prove overwhelming for nearly all litigants who oppose racial or partisan gerrymanders.
Supreme Court to Decide on Constitutionality of Trump's Birthright Citizenship Executive Order
The US Supreme Court has agreed to decide whether President Donald Trump's attempt to end birthright citizenship through an executive order is constitutional. This decision revisits a law that has been widely considered settled since the 19th century. By granting the appeal, the court will directly address the controversy, which it previously avoided on technical grounds. The Trump administration's legal theories have been deemed fringe even by many conservatives, but the case will draw significant public attention to the Supreme Court's term. A ruling in favor of Trump would overturn a longstanding tenet of constitutional and American immigration law, potentially creating new hurdles for US citizens documenting newborns. The court will hear arguments next year and is expected to hand down a decision by the end of June. This case marks another test of the court's willingness to embrace boundary-pushing legal arguments from the White House. The outcome could have significant practical implications for US citizens and immigration law. The Supreme Court's decision will be closely watched, given the potential impact on American immigration policies and the constitutionality of executive orders.
Court of Appeals Rules Trump's Firings of Independent Agency Heads Lawful
The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled 2 to 1 that President Trump's firings of two Democratic members of independent agencies were lawful. The case involved Cathy Harris, a member of the Merit Systems Protection Board, and Gwynne Wilcox, a member of the National Labor Relations Board, who were fired by Trump early this year without citing any permissible reason. The ruling comes despite federal laws stating that members of these agencies can only be fired for cause. The appeals court found that the agencies wield significant executive power, allowing the president to fire their members. This decision is in line with an emergency order issued by the Supreme Court in May, which allowed the firings to stand pending a merits hearing. The majority opinion, written by U.S. Circuit Court Judge Gregory Katsas, cited the agencies' substantive rulemaking powers and broad authority to order reinstatement and back pay. In contrast, U.S. Circuit Court Judge Florence Pan dissented, arguing that the agencies do not wield substantial executive power and warning of the potential consequences of granting the president control over such bodies. The ruling has implications for the balance of power between the president and independent agencies, and the Supreme Court is set to hear arguments in a similar case on Monday. The Merit Systems Protection Board and the National Labor Relations Board have important roles in hearing appeals and overseeing labor practices, and the decision may impact their independence and ability to make decisions based on merit rather than politics.
Indiana House Republicans Reject Democratic Amendments to Redistricting Bill
Indiana House Republicans have overwhelmingly rejected a series of Democratic amendments to a contentious redistricting bill. The bill, known as House Bill 1032, aims to redraw the state's congressional districts to create a 9-0 Republican map ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Democrats labeled the legislation an "extraordinary unfunded mandate" and offered amendments to reimburse county clerks for costs associated with implementing the changes. However, Republicans defeated these amendments on procedural grounds. The proposed maps would break up the Lake Michigan shoreline area into two districts and splinter Indianapolis across four wide-reaching districts. Democrats argued that the changes would maximize the GOP's political advantage and proposed alternative amendments, including requiring public hearings in each congressional district and mandating that the people or groups involved in drawing the maps be identified. These amendments were also rejected. The bill is expected to be approved by the House on Friday and will then move to the Senate, where its fate is uncertain. Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray has stated that his caucus does not have enough supportive votes to pass the bill. The redistricting process has been the subject of intense debate, with Democrats arguing that it is an attempt to gerrymander the state's electoral map in favor of Republicans. The Indiana House Republicans' actions have been influenced by pressure from President Donald Trump and Governor Mike Braun, who have attacked GOP holdouts and threatened to help primary them. The bill's author, Representative Ben Smaltz, has argued that the changes are necessary to ensure fair representation in the state. However, Democrats have countered that the bill is an attempt to disenfranchise certain voters and undermine the democratic process.
Minnesota Officials Detected Signs of Massive Fraud Before COVID-19 Pandemic
Minnesota state officials identified early signs of fraud in July 2019, which would eventually lead to over $1 billion in lost taxpayer money. The fraudulent activities were linked to the charitable group Feeding Our Future, which claimed to serve meals to those in need. However, investigators found that the group falsely claimed to have served 91 million meals, receiving nearly $250 million in federal funds that were used to fund lavish lifestyles instead. The scheme, which has resulted in 61 convictions, was initially detected by state officials who noticed inconsistencies in the group's claims, but they faced pressure from Feeding Our Future to stop asking questions. The scandal has sparked renewed attention and criticism, with some alleging that the state's liberal establishment was intimidated into inaction by accusations of racism. Governor Tim Walz has denied these claims, stating that his administration caught the fraud early and reported it to the relevant authorities. The incident has also drawn attention from President Trump, who has made anti-Somali statements and launched an investigation into the governor's handling of the fraud cases. The total amount of stolen money has reached over $1 billion, with ongoing investigations into other alleged COVID-related fraud cases in Minnesota.
US Warns of "Civilisational Erasure" in Europe, Releases New National Security Strategy
The Trump administration has released a new National Security Strategy document, warning that Europe faces "civilisational erasure" due to current trends. The 33-page document outlines President Donald Trump's vision for the world and how he plans to wield US military and economic power. It calls for the restoration of "Western identity", combating foreign influence, ending mass migration, and focusing on US priorities such as stopping drug cartels. The document asserts that if current trends continue, Europe will be "unrecognisable in 20 years or less" and its economic issues are "eclipsed by the real and more stark prospect of civilizational erasure". The strategy also questions whether certain European countries will have economies and militaries strong enough to remain reliable allies. It accuses the European Union and other transnational bodies of undermining political liberty and sovereignty, and criticizes migration policies for creating strife. The document hails the growing influence of "patriotic European parties" and encourages allies in Europe to promote a revival of spirit. The Trump administration has proposed a plan to end the war in Ukraine, which involves significant US involvement. The document also references the Western Hemisphere, calling for a readjustment of the US global military presence to address urgent threats. It prioritizes protecting the US from outside threats and plans to move assets away from less important theatres. The strategy also focuses on the South China Sea, calling for a strengthened US military presence in the Western Pacific and increased defense spending from Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Taiwan.