US & World News Archives

Epstein files offer scant new insight into his crimes or how he avoided serious prosecution

4 hours ago

By MICHAEL R. SISAK and DAVID B. CARUSO - Associated Press

The Justice Department’s much-anticipated release of records tied to Jeffrey Epstein have done little to quell the long-simmering intrigue. That’s largely because some of the most consequential records were nowhere to be found in what came out Friday. The initial disclosures span tens of thousands of pages, but offer scant new insight into Epstein’s crimes or the decisions that allowed him to avoid serious federal prosecution for years. Missing are FBI interviews with survivors and internal Justice Department memos examining charging decisions. The Justice Department says it plans to release more records on a rolling basis, but hasn’t given any notice when more will come out

Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham signs 5-year extension averaging $7.5M a year

7 hours ago

By JOHN MARSHALL - AP Sports Writer

Kenny Dillingham insisted he had no interest in leaving Arizona State. All he wanted was for his program and assistant coaches to get the resources they needed to be successful. Dillingham got his wish, signing a five-year contract extension that will raise his salary to an average of $7.5 million per year and increase the salary pool for his assistants to $11 million, one of the highest in the Big 12. Dillingham had been reportedly in the mix for numerous high-profile jobs. The 35-year-old coach’s name popped up when Michigan fired Sherrone Moore last week.

US forces stop a second merchant vessel off the coast of Venezuela, American officials say

5 hours ago

By KONSTANTIN TOROPIN - Associated Press

U.S. forces have stopped a second merchant vessel off the coast of Venezuela in international waters. That action Saturday has been confirmed by two American officials. The move comes days after President Donald Trump announced a “blockade” of all sanctioned oil tankers coming in and out of the South American country. And it follows the Dec. 10 seizure by American forces of an oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast. The officials weren’t authorized to discuss publicly the ongoing military operation and spoke on condition of anonymity.

US tech enabled China’s surveillance empire. Now Tibetan refugees in Nepal are paying the price

19 hours ago

By ANIRUDDHA GHOSAL and DAKE KANG - Associated Press

Nepal is just one of at least 150 countries to which Chinese companies are supplying surveillance technology, from cameras in Vietnam to censorship firewalls in Pakistan to citywide monitoring systems in Kenya. This technology is now a key part of China’s push for global influence, as it provides cash-strapped governments cost-effective, if invasive, forms of policing — turning algorithms and data into a force multiplier for control. The irony at the heart of this digital authoritarianism is that the surveillance tools China exports are based on technology developed in its greatest rival, the United States, despite warnings that Chinese firms would buy, copy or outright steal American designs, an investigation by The Associated Press has found.

Bowen Yang to depart SNL mid-season, last episode with buddy Ariana Grande

8 hours ago

AP

Bowen Yang will leave “Saturday Night Live” mid-season after Saturday’s episode with Ariana Grande. He joined as a writer in 2018, became a featured player the next season, and was promoted to the main cast two seasons later. Yang has been a fan favorite with five Emmy nominations. A representative for “SNL” declined to comment on his departure. Yang has been silent on social media. He had previously discussed leaving with the show’s creator, Lorne Michaels, who encouraged him to stay. Yang also co-hosts the podcast “Las Culturistas” and appeared as Pfannee in the “Wicked” movies.

Australian state plans tougher laws against displaying extremist flags after Bondi shooting

8 hours ago

AP

The Australian state of New South Wales is proposing a ban on public displays of Islamic State group flags and extremist symbols. This follows a mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach that killed 15 people. The draft laws, to be debated Monday, include penalties of up to two years in prison and fines. Premier Chris Minns says chants like “globalize the intifada” will also be banned. Police will have more power to demand protesters remove face coverings. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged to curb radicalization and hate, including broadening hate speech definitions and toughening punishments. Albanese said “Australia will not allow these evil antisemitic terrorists to divide us.”

PHOTO ESSAY: Invisible infrared surveillance technology and those caught in its digital cage

December 20, 2025

By DAVID GOLDMAN, NG HAN GUAN, FELIPE DANA and DAKE KANG - Associated Press

When you unlock a phone, step into view of a security camera or drive past a license plate reader at night, beams of infrared light – invisible to the naked eye — shine onto the unique contours of your face, your body, your license plate lettering. Those infrared beams allow cameras to pick out and recognize individual human beings. Over…

Combat training is a rite of passage for police recruits. It’s left a trail of deaths and injuries

9 hours ago

By RYAN J. FOLEY - Associated Press

Combat training drills are a rite of passage for police recruits nationwide, and an Associated Press investigation finds they’ve left a trail of deaths and injuries. The drills are frequently referred to as RedMan training for the brand and color of protective gear participants wear. They’re among the most challenging tests at police academies, intended to teach recruits to defend themselves against combative suspects. Critics say they can put recruits at risk of physical and mental abuse. AP found that since 2005, the drills have been linked to at least a dozen deaths and hundreds of injuries. Academies have wide latitude to design the drills, given a lack of national standards governing police training. One drill last year for Texas game warden recruits left at least 13 injured.

Paraplegic engineer becomes the first wheelchair user to blast off for space

9 hours ago

By MARCIA DUNN - AP Aerospace Writer

A paraplegic engineer looking to become the first wheelchair user in space has blasted off on a rocket ride with Blue Origin. Severely injured in a mountain bike accident seven years ago, Michaela Benthaus rocketed away from West Texas on Saturday with Jeff Bezos’ company. The German woman shared the planned 10-minute flight with five others, including a retired SpaceX executive who helped organize and finance her trip for an undisclosed amount. Benthaus says she wanted to savor floating in space while beholding Earth from on high and pushing the boundaries for the disabled.

Jordan says its air force joined US strikes on Islamic State in Syria

10 hours ago

AP

Jordan confirms its air force joined U.S. strikes on Islamic State targets in Syria. The U.S. launched these strikes on Friday to retaliate for the killing of three U.S. citizens by a Syrian gunman earlier this month. Jordan’s military says its air force targeted several ISIS positions in southern Syria. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports at least five people were killed, including an IS cell leader. The operation aims to prevent extremist groups from threatening regional security. U.S. Central Command says the strikes hit over 70 targets across central Syria, with Jordanian support.

You finally got a doctor’s appointment. Here’s how to get the most out of it

11 hours ago

By LAURAN NEERGAARD - AP Medical Writer

It’s not that unusual for a 20-something to text Mom from the doctor’s office for help answering a health question. Or for patients of any age to struggle at recalling all their medicines. Getting the most out of a doctor’s visit requires some advance preparation, whether it’s a routine checkup or following up on health problems. Ask relatives about diseases that run in the family. Write down the names of prescribed and over-the-counter drugs and supplements you use. And bring a list of symptoms and questions to show at the beginning of the visit so nothing gets forgotten.

Trump’s ‘A+++++’ economy collides with the reality in a Pennsylvania city critical to the midterms

11 hours ago

By STEVEN SLOAN - Associated Press

Idalia Bisbal moved from New York City to Allentown, Pennsylvania, hoping for a cheaper life. Three years later, she feels disappointed by high prices for essentials like food and gas. Vice President JD Vance recently visited the area and blamed the Biden administration for the affordability crisis. This economic anxiety affects both political parties, especially in competitive districts such as Allentown. Many residents, including business leaders, agree prices are too high. The area remains a political battleground, with Republicans and Democrats vying for control. The economy remains a key focus for voters heading into 2026 and midterm elections that will determine control of Congress.

Everything you need to know about Christmas, and how it has evolved into a global holiday

11 hours ago

By LUIS ANDRES HENAO - Associated Press

Originally a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus, Christmas has evolved into a global cultural event. Early Christians didn’t commemorate Jesus’ birth annually, focusing instead on his resurrection. The tradition of celebrating on Dec. 25 began in the fourth century, possibly aligning with pagan festivals. In the Middle Ages, Christmas was known for rowdy celebrations, but it became more family-oriented in the 19th century. Santa Claus was inspired by St. Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop known for his generosity. He has since become a secular symbol. In Japan, a unique tradition involves eating Kentucky Fried Chicken on Christmas.

Russian missile strike on Odesa kills 8 as US hosts a Kremlin envoy for talks on peace plan

12 hours ago

AP

A Russian missile strike on port infrastructure in Odesa has killed eight people and wounded 27, according to Ukraine’s emergency service. The attack occurred late Friday, with some victims on a bus at the center of the strike. On Saturday, a Kremlin envoy is set to travel to Florida for talks on a U.S.-proposed plan to end the nearly four-year war. The discussions are part of the Trump administration’s push for peace. European Union leaders on Friday agreed to provide a massive interest-free loan to Ukraine to meet its military and economic needs for the next two years.

Anthony Joshua knocks out Jake Paul in 6th round to win heavyweight fight

12 hours ago

AP

Anthony Joshua knocked out Jake Paul in the sixth round of their heavyweight fight. The two-time heavyweight champion displayed why he is one of the sport’s elite punchers when he dropped the fading Paul twice in the fifth round. The YouTuber went down again in the sixth. Although Paul (12-2) reached his feet, Joshua (29-4, 26 KOs) finally crushed Paul’s upset dream when he dropped him a fourth time with a right to the head. Paul was counted out at 1:31 of the round in front of a capacity crowd of 19,600 at the Kaseya Center. Paul later reported that his jaw was broken in two spots.

Anthony Edwards returns with a late flourish for the Timberwolves in a clutch win over the Thunder

16 hours ago

By DAVE CAMPBELL - AP Sports Writer

Anthony Edwards returned from a three-game injury absence with 26 points and 12 rebounds for the Minnesota Timberwolves in a 112-107 victory over the NBA-leading Oklahoma City Thunder. Edwards had been managing foot soreness. He said there was no doubt in his mind he would play against the defending champion Thunder. Edwards hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 38.5 seconds left and had a block, a rebound and a steal on defense down the stretch to help fend off reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Thunder took a rare loss and fell to 25-3 this season.

Timberwolves hand the Thunder their 3rd loss, 112-107, after Edwards takes over down the stretch

18 hours ago

By DAVE CAMPBELL - AP Sports Writer

Anthony Edwards returned from a three-game injury absence with 26 points and 12 rebounds, hitting the go-ahead 3-pointer with 38.5 seconds left to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves past the Oklahoma City Thunder 112-107. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 35 points and seven assists for the Thunder, who have lost two of three after starting 24-1 on the heels of their NBA championship last season. Edwards has been managing soreness in his foot. He grabbed a defensive rebound to set up two free throws by Julius Randle and stole the ball from Gilgeous-Alexander on the ensuing possession to seal the victory.

PHOTO ESSAY: Under watch by Chinese tech, the Tibetan community in Nepal is slowly suffocating

19 hours ago

By NIRANJAN SHRESTHA, DAKE KANG and ANIRUDDHA GHOSAL - Associated Press

KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — In Nepal, the unseen eye has changed Tibetan life. The cameras are not just machines perched on the thick bundles of wires that twist through narrow lanes of Kathmandu in Nepal. They are a presence, an unseen watcher that Tibetans have learned to fear. In the city’s refugee settlements, once a haven for the community, every…

US military launches strikes in Syria targeting Islamic State fighters after American deaths

23 hours ago

By KONSTANTIN TOROPIN, BEN FINLEY and AAMER MADHANI - Associated Press

The Trump administration has launched military strikes in Syria to “eliminate” Islamic State group fighters and weapons sites in retaliation for an ambush attack that killed two U.S. troops and an American interpreter almost a week ago. A U.S. official described it as “a large-scale” strike that hit 70 targets in areas across central Syria that had IS infrastructure and weapons. Another U.S. official said more strikes should be expected. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive operations. President Donald Trump had pledged “very serious retaliation” after the shooting in the Syrian desert. In a social media post on Friday, he said the strikes were targeting IS “strongholds.”

Tesla CEO Elon Musk recovers $55 billion pay package in Delaware court ruling

December 19, 2025

By MICHAEL LIEDTKE - AP Business Writer

Elon Musk, already the world’s richest man, scored another huge windfall Friday when the Delaware Supreme Court reversed a decision that deprived him of a $55 billion pay package that Tesla doled out in 2018 as an incentive for its CEO to steer the automaker to new heights. Besides padding Musk’s current fortune of $679 billion, the restoration of the 2018 pay package vindicates his long-held belief that the Delaware legal system had overstepped its bounds in January 2024 when Chancellor Kathaleen St. Jude McCormick rescinded the compensation in a case brought by a disgruntled Tesla shareholder.

Life ring, lifeboat piece from Edmund Fitzgerald shipwreck sell at auction for $150,000

December 19, 2025

By ED WHITE - Associated Press

A life ring and a lifeboat remnant from a famous Great Lakes shipwreck have sold at auction for $150,000. The sale came a month after the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald in Lake Superior. There were no survivors among the 29 men back in 1975. The life ring and lifeboat piece were found on shore by Larry Orr, shortly after the ship went down. Orr says he is “dumbfounded” that the auction reached $150,000. The buyer wishes to be anonymous.

NASCAR’s Brad Keselowski breaks leg in skiing accident, expected to recover for Daytona 500

December 19, 2025

By JENNA FRYER - AP Auto Racing Writer

NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski has broken his leg in a skiing accident. The team announced Friday that Keselowski underwent surgery and doctors expect a quick recovery. He should be back for the season-opening Daytona 500 in February. Keselowski, who turns 42 just before the race, is entering his 17th full season at the top Cup Series level. He became co-owner of RFK Racing in 2022. The organization is reeling from Thursday’s fatal plane crash that killed longtime Roush driver Greg Biffle and six others. Keselowski won the 2012 Cup Series championship and has 36 career victories.

Trump announces lower drug price deals with 9 pharmaceutical companies

December 19, 2025

By SALLY HO - Associated Press

U.S. President Donald Trump announced Friday that nine drugmakers have agreed to lower the cost of their prescription drugs in the U.S. Amgen, Bristol Myers Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, GSK, Merck, Novartis and Sanofi will now charge Medicaid what they charge in other developed countries. New drugs made by those companies will also be charged at the so-called “most-favored-nation” pricing across the country, including commercial and cash pay markets as well as Medicare and Medicaid. Merck, GSK and Bristol Myers Squibb also agreed to donate significant supplies of active pharmaceutical ingredients to a national reserve.

Photos of Trump’s name being added to the Kennedy Center

December 19, 2025

By MARK SHIEFELBEIN, JACQUELYN MARTIN and RAHMAT GUL - Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kennedy Center has added President Donald Trump’s name to the building after its board, handpicked by Trump, voted to rename it The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts. This is a photo gallery curated by Associated Press photo editors. Categories: US & World News

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s daughter calls TSA ‘unconstitutional’ after pat-down

December 19, 2025

AP

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s daughter says she had an “absurdly invasive” pat-down at an airport security checkpoint on Thursday. She said in a series of posts on X that she opted out of the body scanner because she’s pregnant and concerned about radiation exposure. Evita Duffy-Alfonso claims TSA agents were rude and tried to pressure her to use the scanner, and she suggested her father would limit or eliminate the agency if he could. The TSA says it’s aware of her complaint and takes such issues seriously. Duffy’s Transportation Department is responsible for overseeing federal transportation projects and setting safety regulations for travel, including air travel. But TSA is under the control of Homeland Security.

Pope names pro-immigrant pastor bishop of Florida diocese where Trump’s Mar-a-Lago is located

December 19, 2025

By LUIS ANDRES HENAO - Associated Press

Pope Leo XIV has named the Rev. Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez as bishop of Palm Beach, Florida. Rodríguez, currently a pastor in Queens, New York, is known for advocating for migrants. He leads a predominantly Hispanic church and has expressed concerns about immigration policies. Rodríguez says he is ready to help the diocese, which includes President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. He emphasizes the church’s role in defending migrants’ rights while acknowledging nations’ rights to control borders. Rodríguez plans to continue supporting migrant communities and hopes to work with the government to improve immigration policies.

Supreme Court sides with immigration judges in speech case for now, rebuffing Trump administration

December 19, 2025

By LINDSAY WHITEHURST - Associated Press

The Supreme Court is siding with immigration judges and rebuffing the Trump administration for now in a case that could have wider implications for federal workers as the justices weigh expanding presidential firing power. Friday’s decision is a technical ruling in a long-running case. But the decision touches on questions raised by President Donald Trump’s high-profile firings and his push to downsize the federal workforce. The justices let stand a ruling that raised doubts about the Republican administration’s handling of federal workforce issues, though they also signaled that lower courts should move cautiously.

Turning Point USA’s Erika Kirk backs Vice President JD Vance’s potential 2028 presidential bid

December 19, 2025

By MATT BROWN and JONATHAN J. COOPER - Associated Press

Erika Kirk, the widow of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk and current CEO of the conservative youth group, endorsed the potential presidential bid of Vice President JD Vance in the 2028 election. Erika Kirk promised to support President Donald Trump’s efforts to maintain GOP-control of Congress and vowed to “get my husband’s friend JD Vance elected” in the 2028 presidential election. The late Kirk and Vance were close friends.

Visiting the Trevi Fountain now will cost more than just a coin toss with a 2-euro tourist fee

December 19, 2025

By NICOLE WINFIELD - Associated Press

Tourists visiting the Trevi Fountain are now going to pay more than just the legendary coin toss over their shoulder. The city of Rome is imposing a 2-euro or $2.35 fee starting on Feb. 1 for tourists to get close to the fountain made famous by Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita.” The view for those admiring the late Baroque masterpiece from the piazza above remains free. The tourist fee announced Friday is part of the Eternal City’s efforts to manage tourist flows in a particularly congested part of town, improve the experience and offset the maintenance costs of preserving all of Rome’s cultural heritage. Officials estimate it could net the city 6.5 million euros or $7.6 million extra a year.

Suspect in Brown University shooting and MIT professor’s killing was once a physics student

December 19, 2025

By KIMBERLEE KRUESI and HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH - Associated Press

Authorities have identified Claudio Neves Valente as the suspect in a mass shooting at Brown University and the killing of an MIT professor. Neves Valente is originally from Portugal. He and MIT professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro were in the same academic program in Portugal before Neves Valente attended Brown. On Thursday, Neves Valente was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in New Hampshire. Authorities have not provided a motive, and Neves Valente’s life remains largely a mystery. As a high school student, he competed in a national physics competition in 1994, coming in third place, according to a Portuguese physics magazine.

Pope names new archbishop of Westminster as part of generational shift in English-speaking hierarchy

December 19, 2025

By NICOLE WINFIELD - Associated Press

Pope Leo XIV has made another high-profile appointment that signals a generational shift in the English-speaking Catholic hierarchy. Leo on Friday tapped Bishop Richard Moth to replace the retiring Cardinal Vincent Nichols as archbishop of Westminster in London. On Thursday, Leo had named 58-year-old Bishop Ronald Hicks to succeed the retiring Cardinal Timothy Dolan as archbishop of New York, one of the biggest and most important archdioceses in the U.S. Also, Leo on Friday accepted the resignation of Bishop Gerald Barbarito of Palm Beach, Florida, and named as his replacement the Rev. Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez, currently pastor of the Our Lady of Sorrows church in the Queens borough of New York City.

Military lawyer swiftly fired from immigration bench after defying Trump deportation push

December 19, 2025

By JOSHUA GOODMAN - Associated Press

A U.S. Army Reserve lawyer detailed as a federal immigration judge has been fired barely a month into the job after granting asylum at a high rate out of step with the Trump administration’s mass deportation goals. Christopher Day began hearing cases in late October as a temporary judge at the immigration court in Annandale, Virginia. He was fired around Dec. 2, according to the National Association of Immigration Judges. It wasn’t made public why Day was fired. But federal data from November shows he ruled on asylum cases in ways at odds with the Trump administration’s stated goals.

Head of workplace rights agency urges white men to report discrimination

December 19, 2025

By CLAIRE SAVAGE - Associated Press

The head of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has urged white men to report workplace discrimination based on race or sex. Andrea Lucas, a critic of DEI initiatives, posted on social media Wednesday, encouraging affected individuals to contact the agency. Her post followed Vice President JD Vance’s criticism of DEI. Critics argue Lucas misunderstands DEI, which aims to create fairness for all, including white men. Former EEOC Chair Jenny Yang calls Lucas’ focus on white men “problematic.” Lucas has prioritized addressing DEI-related discrimination since becoming acting chair in January.

Young conservative women find a home in Turning Point with Charlie Kirk’s widow at the helm

December 19, 2025

By SEJAL GOVINDARAO - Associated Press

Young women who have grown emboldened in their conservative beliefs are attending the annual conference held by Turning Point USA. The organization was founded by Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated at Utah Valley University in September. The women don’t want to apologize for their traditional views on faith, marriage and family, and they draw inspiration from Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, who now leads the political juggernaut that helped return President Donald Trump to the White House. Turning Point’s efforts to appeal to young women are intended to bridge a gender divide that has challenged the Republican Party, which has been more popular with men.

Photos of Turning Point USA’s annual conservative youth conference

December 19, 2025

By JON CHERRY - Associated Press

PHOENIX (AP) — Turning Point USA is holding its annual youth conference in Phoenix, where conservative influencers have clashed and the women have drawn inspiration from Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, who now leads the political movement that helped return President Donald Trump to the White House. This is a photo gallery curated by Associated Press photo editors. Categories: US…

States faces a choice on whether to embrace Trump’s tax cuts on tips, overtime and more

December 19, 2025

By DAVID A. LIEB - Associated Press

Lawmakers across the U.S. will be debating whether to adopt new federal tax breaks for tips, overtime and business expenses. The Trump administration is urging states to follow its lead by applying the federal tax cuts to state income taxes. But that decision varies by state. In some places, the tax breaks automatically apply unless legislatures opt out. In others, they won’t occur unless legislatures opt in. States embracing all of President Donald Trump’s tax cuts could offer significant savings to taxpayers but may also face financial strain. So far, only a few states have voted on these tax breaks, with Michigan being the first to opt in for tips and overtime.

Pete Davidson and Elsie Hewitt welcome their ‘perfect angel girl’

December 19, 2025

By The Associated Press

Pete Davidson and Elsie Hewitt have announced the birth of their baby, a girl. Their newborn is named Scottie Rose Hewitt Davidson. They shared the news Thursday on Instagram. The baby is the first for both and was born Dec. 12. Model Hewitt called Scottie her “best work yet.” Davidson added: “wu tang forever.” The baby’s name appears to honor Davidson’s late father. The New York City firefighter died in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Hewitt confirmed the pregnancy in July on Instagram. The couple went public with their relationship in March. They shared several photos of their newborn but covered her face with a white heart emoji.

Trump administration will appeal judge’s order reversing federal funding cuts at Harvard

December 19, 2025

By COLLIN BINKLEY - AP Education Writer

The Trump administration is appealing a federal judge’s order reversing billions of dollars in funding cuts to Harvard University. The Justice Department filed a notice of appeal late on Thursday in a pair of consolidated lawsuits brought by Harvard and the American Association of University Professors. It prolongs a legal battle that has tested the government’s power to sway the nation’s oldest and wealthiest university. The Trump administration cut more than $2.6 billion from the Ivy League school over allegations that it had been slow to deal with anti-Jewish bias on campus. A judge rejected that argument and ordered the cuts reversed.

Sony buys a majority stake in the ‘Peanuts’ comic for $457 million from Canada’s WildBrain

December 19, 2025

AP

Sony is taking control of the beloved comic strip Peanuts. The company is buying a 41% stake from Canadian owner WildBrain for $457 million. This deal, announced Friday, increases Sony’s shareholding to 80%. The Schulz family will continue to own the remaining 20%. Sony Music Entertainment’s President says they are excited to elevate the Peanuts brand using Sony’s global network. Peanuts debuted in 1950 and has become a global phenomenon. Sony acquired its first stake in Peanuts Holdings in 2018. WildBrain also owns other kids’ entertainment franchises like Strawberry Shortcake and Teletubbies.

Nodding off is dangerous. Some animals have evolved extreme ways to sleep in precarious environments

December 19, 2025

By CHRISTINA LARSON - AP Science Writer

Animals that navigate extreme conditions and environments have evolved to sleep in extreme ways. For a long time, scientists could only make educated guesses about when wild animals were sleeping. But in recent years, tiny trackers and helmets that measure brain waves have allowed researchers to glimpse for the first time the varied and sometimes spectacular ways that wild animals snooze. Scientists have observed that chinstrap penguins in Antarctica sleep for seconds at a time to guard newborns. Frigatebirds that soar for weeks at a time get their winks on the wing. Elephant seals spend time sleeping while diving.

Spread of Gaza famine has been averted yet strip still faces starvation, experts say

December 19, 2025

By SAM MEDNICK - Associated Press

The world’s leading authority on food crises says the spread of famine’s been averted in Gaza yet the situation remains critical with the entire strip facing starvation. The new report was issued Friday by The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification. The report comes months after the IPC said famine was occurring in Gaza City and was likely to spread across the territory. The report says there were notable improvements in food security and nutrition following an October ceasefire and no famine has been detected. The report warns the situation remains fragile. The IPC says all of Gaza will be classified an emergency with nearly 2,000 people facing catastrophic levels of hunger through April.

Putin tells his annual news conference that the Kremlin’s military goals will be achieved in Ukraine

December 19, 2025

By HARRIET MORRIS - Associated Press

Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasized that Moscow’s troops are advancing across the battlefield in Ukraine and has voiced confidence that the Kremlin will achieve its goals militarily if Kyiv fails to agree to Russia’s conditions in peace talks. Speaking at his tightly orchestrated annual news conference Friday, Putin declared that Russian forces have “fully seized strategic initiative” and would make more gains by the year’s end. In the early days of the conflict in 2022, Ukraine’s forces managed to thwart an attempt by Russia’s larger, better-equipped army, to capture the capital of Kyiv. But the fighting soon settled into grinding battles, and Moscow’s troops have made slow but steady progress over the years.

A sunrise crowd gathers at Bondi Beach in solace and defiance after a massacre

December 19, 2025

By KEIRAN SMITH, CHARLOTTE GRAHAM-McLAY and STEVE MARKHAM - Associated Press

Thousands of people have returned to Australia’s Bondi Beach in the first full day of opening since a mass shooting killed 15 people. People gathered Friday on the sand and in the water to commemorate those killed five days earlier. Two shooters attacked a Hanukkah celebration at a nearby park Sunday in an attack believed to have been motivated by antisemitism. Authorities reopened parts of the famed beach Thursday, leading to the commemoration Friday morning. Armed police officers are standing guard Friday outside synagogues and mosques in Sydney. The country is dealing with questions about whether Australian Jews were sufficiently protected and fears of a backlash against Muslims.

Photos show a world aglow with holiday lights

December 19, 2025

By The Associated Press

As 2025 winds down, holiday lights are illuminating communities around the world, transforming familiar landmarks into scenes of shared wonder. From glowing waterfronts to streets and public spaces bathed in festive color, places shimmer with light and a shared sense of joy. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Categories: US & World News

PHOTO ESSAY: The Palestinian families trying to rebuild their lives in the ruins of Gaza

December 19, 2025

By JEHAD ALSHRAFI - Associated Press

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) — The Halawa family’s building still rises two stories above the rubble in Gaza City, a small miracle after two years of Israeli airstrikes wrought heavy damage on homes across the Palestinian territory. One section of the building has collapsed, and bent metal rods jut out from where a roof once stood. A narrow set…

How 1 anonymous tipster cracked the Brown University shooting case

December 19, 2025

By KIMBERLEE KRUESI - Associated Press

Law enforcement officials say an anonymous tipster known only as “John” helped crack the case of two Brown University students’ deaths and the wounding of nine others. The tipster’s information led police to identify Claudio Neves Valente as the suspect. Anxiety and frustration had plagued the Providence community until police announced late Thursday that they found the suspected gunman dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. John recognized Valente from police images and suggested looking into a grey Nissan. John provided additional critical details to investigators, helping solve the case.

British baker’s criticism of Mexican ‘ugly’ bread triggers social media outrage

December 18, 2025

By FERNANDA PESCE - Associated Press

A British baker’s critique of Mexican bread has sparked outrage on social media, leading to a public apology. Richard Hart, co-founder of Green Rhino bakery in Mexico City, said Mexicans lack a bread culture, calling their rolls “ugly” and “cheap.” His comments ignited a debate over food identity and foreign influence in Mexico. Social media users defended Mexican bread, highlighting staples like bolillos and conchas. Hart later apologized, acknowledging he underestimated the cultural importance of bread in Mexico. The incident has fueled discussions about cultural authority and the role of foreigners in critiquing Mexican traditions.

Bucks’ Antetokounmpo says his focus is on his health rather than rumors about his future

December 18, 2025

By STEVE MEGARGEE - AP Sports Writer

Giannis Antetokounmpo says he’s more focused on getting healthy and helping the Milwaukee Bucks turn their season around than dealing with rumors about his future plans. Antetokounmpo spoke to reporters Thursday for the first time since a Dec. 3 ESPN report indicated that he and his agent were talking with Bucks officials about whether he’s best suited to stay in Milwaukee or get traded. Antetokounmpo strained his right calf in a victory over the Detroit Pistons that night and hasn’t played since.

Jury finds a Wisconsin judge guilty of obstruction for helping an immigrant evade federal agents

December 18, 2025

By TODD RICHMOND - Associated Press

A jury has found a Wisconsin judge guilty of obstruction for helping a Mexican immigrant dodge federal authorities. Jurors handed down the verdict against Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan on Thursday after deliberating for six hours. She faces up to five years in prison when sentenced. According to court filings, Dugan led Eduardo Flores-Ruiz out of her courtroom through a private back door on April 18 after learning agents were in the courthouse looking to arrest him for being in the country illegally. Federal prosecutors charged her days later with a felony count of obstruction and a misdemeanor count of concealing an individual to prevent arrest.

US Justice Department sues 3 states, District of Columbia for voter data

December 18, 2025

By SCOTT BAUER - Associated Press

The U.S. Justice Department has sued three states and the District of Columbia for not turning over requested voter information to the Trump administration. The Justice Department has now filed 22 lawsuits seeking voter information as part of its effort to collect detailed voting data and other election information across the country. The latest lawsuits were filed against Wisconsin, Illinois, Georgia and the District of Columbia. The move comes one week after the bipartisan Wisconsin Elections Commission voted against the Justice Department’s request for the data. The Trump administration has characterized the lawsuits as part of an effort to ensure the security of elections.

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