US & World News Archives - Page 13 of 86

Steelers receiver DK Metcalf swipes at Lions fan leaning over railing in front row

December 21, 2025

AP

Steelers receiver DK Metcalf swiped at a fan leaning over the railing in the front row at Ford Field during the second quarter of Pittsburgh’s 29-24 win over the Detroit Lions. Metcalf and the fan, wearing a black-and-blue shirt and a blue wig, were speaking to each other before the two-time Pro Bowler threw a right hand toward the man’s face. Metcalf did not appear to make much, if any contact. Although there wasn’t a penalty flag thrown on the field, the league will review the incident and Metcalf could face discipline.

X-rays negative for Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy after injuring his right hand

December 21, 2025

By STEPHEN WHYNO - AP Sports Writer

X-rays were negative on J.J. McCarthy’s injured right hand, coach Kevin O’Connell said after the Minnesota Vikings quarterback left game at the New York Giants and did not return. O’Connell said McCarthy injured the hand at some point in the first half before running for a touchdown. It’s unclear if McCarthy will be able to play in either of the final two games of the season. While the Vikings are eliminated from playoff contention, they’d like McCarthy to get some more valuable experience in his first year playing in the NFL.

Doctor’s orders? ‘Belly laugh at least two to five days a week’

December 21, 2025

By ALBERT STUMM - Associated Press

They say laughter is the best medicine. Michael Miller, a cardiologist and medical professor at the University of Pennsylvania, says they’re right. Laughter is an obvious stress reliever. But Miller says it’s even good for your heart. Madan Kataria — a physician in Mumbai and the founder of laughter yoga — agrees. Laughter yoga involves breathing exercises, light stretches, and silly movements and sounds that force you to laugh. Kataria suggests bringing laughter into your daily life, even at things that might not seem funny. Recently, he demonstrated what he calls “credit-card-bill laughter.” He held out his hand as if looking at a statement, and burst into a roiling, infectious laughter.

‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ launches with $88M domestically, $345M worldwide

December 21, 2025

By JAKE COYLE - AP Film Writer

“Avatar: Fire and Ash” opened with $345 million in worldwide sales, according to studio estimates Sunday, notching the second-best global debut of the year and potentially putting James Cameron on course to set yet more blockbuster records. Sixteen years into the “Avatar” saga, Pandora is still abundant in box-office riches. “Fire and Ash,” the third film in Cameron’s science-fiction franchise, launched with $88 million domestically and $257 million internationally. The only film to open bigger in 2025 was “Zootopia 2.” But there was a tad less fanfare to this “Avatar” film. Sales were notably less than 2022’s “Avatar: The Way of Water.”

Top Trump administration official defends partial release of Epstein files as Democrats cry foul

December 21, 2025

By AAMER MADHANI - Associated Press

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche is defending the Justice Department’s decision to release just a fraction of the Jeffrey Epstein files by the congressionally mandated deadline. Blanche is pledging that the Trump administration will eventually meet its obligation required by law. But he tells NBC’s “Meet the Press” that his department was obligated to act with caution as it goes about releasing thousands of documents that can include sensitive information. Friday’s partial release of the Epstein files has led to a new crush of criticism from Democrats. They accuse the Trump administration of trying to hide information. Blanche calls the pushback disingenuous.

Muddy eruption at Yellowstone’s Black Diamond Pool captured on video

December 21, 2025

By SUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN - Associated Press

A muddy eruption at Black Diamond Pool in Yellowstone National Park has been captured on camera. The video was recorded by the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory webcam Saturday morning. U.S. Geological Survey volcano experts shared it on social media. They said the same pool was also the site of a hydrothermal explosion in July 2024 that damaged a boardwalk and sent rocks and mud flying. Since then eruptions reaching up to 40 feet have occurred sporadically. New monitoring equipment installed this summer helps detect these events. Recent eruptions have mostly been audible and not visible because they happened either at night or when the camera was obscured by ice.

Netflix and Paramount are fighting over Warner Bros. Discovery. Here’s the regulatory outlook

December 21, 2025

By WYATTE GRANTHAM-PHILIPS - AP Business Writer

Warner Bros. Discovery is caught in a battle between Netflix and Paramount and chances are, it will be a long, bumpy regulatory road ahead. Netflix wants to buy Warner’s studio and streaming business for $72 billion, while Paramount has made a hostile $77.9 billion bid for a full takeover. Either deal could vastly reshape the media landscape, affecting movies and streaming platforms. The U.S. Justice Department and potentially other regulators worldwide will likely review the merger. But politics could also play a role under President Donald Trump. Critics argue either merger might harm consumers by controlling prices or limiting content.

These influencers are teaching Christianity online — and young people are listening

December 21, 2025

By CHARLOTTE KRAMON - Associated Press/Report for America

Christian influencers are reaching hundreds of thousands of young people online. They share podcasts and videos with biblical advice on tough questions that aren’t always answered in Sunday sermons. Followers relate to millennial and Generation Z influencers more than the buttoned-up pastors of their parents’ generation. And these influencers open up about past and present mistakes. Some have theological training and some don’t. Some experts worry that they aren’t equipped to teach such large audiences and threaten to replace church with podcasts, but many faithful are hopeful that this new group of Christian influencers will galvanize young people who are looking for meaning.

Trump’s return brought stiff headwinds for clean energy. So why are advocates optimistic in 2026?

December 21, 2025

By JENNIFER McDERMOTT - Associated Press

Dozens of energy developers, experts and politicians say there were some highs amid a lot of lows in a roller coaster year for clean energy as President Donald Trump worked to boost polluting fuels while stymying wind and solar. Surveyed by The Associated Press, many described 2025 as a turbulent and challenging one for clean energy, though there was progress as projects connected to the electric grid. They said clean energy will have to further ramp up in 2026 and beyond to meet a skyrocketing demand for electricity to power data centers and to lower the cost of Americans’ utility bills. Solar builder and operator Jorge Vargas says it has been a very tough year for clean energy.

Turning Point showcases the discord that Republicans like Vance will need to navigate in the future

December 21, 2025

By JONATHAN J. COOPER and SEJAL GOVINDARAO - Associated Press

Turning Point USA has endorsed Vice President JD Vance as the Republican nominee for the next presidential election. Erika Kirk leads the conservative youth organization and she drew cheers when she announced the endorsement at the group’s convention in Phoenix. But the event also highlighted the challenges for Vance and other potential successors to President Donald Trump. The “Make America Great Again movement” is fracturing as Republicans consider a future without Trump, and there’s no clear path to holding his coalition together as different factions jockey for influence. Trump hasn’t officially chosen a successor.

Trump is leaning on son-in-law Jared Kushner for difficult diplomacy

December 21, 2025

By MATTHEW LEE and AAMER MADHANI - Associated Press

President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner has been drawn back into the foreign policy fold like he was during Trump’s first term. It reflects a sense among Trump’s inner circle that Kushner complements special envoy Steve Witkoff’s negotiating style and can bridge seemingly intractable differences to close a deal. That’s according to current and former administration officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. Kushner worked on negotiating the Abraham Accords that normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations in Trump’s first term.

Sofia Goggia gets overdue World Cup win in super-G and Lindsey Vonn is third

December 21, 2025

AP

Sofia Goggia finally got the win her skiing this season deserved in a World Cup super-G on Sunday and Lindsey Vonn was third for the second straight day at French resort Val d’Isere. The two former Olympic downhill champions were split on a high-class podium by runner-up Alice Robinson who is already a two-time winner this season on the World Cup circuit. Goggia finished 0.15 seconds ahead of Robinson. The 41-year-old Vonn then hit a high speed touching 115 kph (71 mph) but the ideal racing line was elusive and she finished 0.36 behind Goggia.

Israeli Cabinet approves 19 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank

December 21, 2025

AP

Israel’s Cabinet has approved a proposal for 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank. The far-right finance minister, Betzalel Smotrich, announced the decision on Sunday. The settlements include two that were previously evacuated during a 2005 disengagement plan. Smotrich, who supports settlement expansion, noted that this brings the total number of new settlements over the past two years to 69. According to Peace Now, an anti-settlement group, this approval increases the number of settlements by nearly 50% during the current government’s tenure. Settlements are widely considered illegal under international law.

Thousands gather at Bondi Beach to mourn victims of antisemitic attack

December 21, 2025

By ROD McGUIRK - Associated Press

Thousands of mourners have gathered at Sydney’s Bondi Beach to mark a week since two gunmen targeted a Jewish festival, killing 15 people. The attack has spurred Australian governments to act against antisemitism and tighten gun controls. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other dignitaries attended the commemoration, which drew over 10,000 people. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized Albanese, linking calls for a Palestinian state to rising antisemitism. A national Day of Reflection was declared, with images of victims projected and moments of silence observed. Security was tight, and new hate speech and gun laws are being debated.

Élysée Palace silver steward arrested for stealing thousands of euros’ worth of silverware

December 21, 2025

AP

Three men are set to stand trial next year after a silver steward at the French president’s residence was arrested for stealing silverware worth thousands of euros. The Élysée Palace’s head steward reported the theft, with losses estimated between 15,000 and 40,000 euros. The Sèvres Manufactory identified missing items on auction sites. Investigators suspected a silver steward, finding items in his possession. He was linked to a company manager specializing in online sales. The two were arrested, and a third suspect was identified. The trial is due to take place Feb. 26. The defendants are free subject to judicial supervision.

Iraq’s political future in limbo as factions vie for power

December 21, 2025

By QASSIM ABDUL-ZAHRA - Associated Press

Political factions in Iraq have been maneuvering since the parliamentary election more than a month ago to form alliances that will shape the next government. The November elections did not produce a bloc with a decisive majority, opening the door to a prolonged period of negotiations. The government that eventually emerges will be inheriting a security situation that has stabilized in recent years, but it will also face a politically fragmented parliament, growing political influence by armed factions, a fragile economy, and often conflicting international and regional pressures – especially when it comes to the future of Iran-backed armed groups in the country.

Photos of Turning Point USA’s annual conservative youth conference

December 21, 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…

Jordan Love exits Green Bay loss with a concussion in latest injury for Packers

December 21, 2025

By JAY COHEN - AP Sports Writer

Add quarterback Jordan Love to a long list of injured players for the depleted Green Bay Packers. Love exited with a concussion after he was hit hard in the second quarter, and Green Bay blew a late lead in a gut-wrenching 22-16 overtime loss to the Chicago Bears. John FitzPatrick also left with an Achilles injury, leaving the Packers thin at tight end. The head injury for Love comes after defensive end Micah Parsons tore the ACL in his left knee during last weekend’s 34-26 loss at Denver. While running back Josh Jacobs and receiver Christian Watson managed to play after they were listed as questionable, right tackle Zach Tom, safety Evan Williams and tight end Josh Whyle were sidelined by injuries.

Here’s what you missed at Turning Point’s chaotic convention

December 21, 2025

By JONATHAN J. COOPER and SEJAL GOVINDARAO - Associated Press

Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest convention has been marked by internal feuds among conservative figures. Erika Kirk, leading the organization since her husband Charlie’s assassination, likened the event to a family dinner with heated discussions. Key conservative media personalities, like Ben Shapiro, have criticized others, including Candace Owens and Tucker Carlson, for spreading conspiracy theories and antisemitic content. Carlson and others retaliated, mocking Shapiro’s stance. The conference also highlighted a divide over Israel, with some questioning the Republican Party’s support. Erika Kirk endorsed Vice President JD Vance for the next presidential nomination, while the Make America Healthy Again movement gained traction.

Bears stun Packers 22-16 with improbable rally as Williams finds Moore for winning score in OT

December 21, 2025

By ANDREW SELIGMAN - AP Sports Writer

Caleb Williams threw a 46-yard touchdown pass to DJ Moore in overtime, and the Chicago Bears overcame a 10-point deficit late in the fourth quarter for a 22-16 win over the Green Bay Packers. Green Bay lost quarterback Jordan Love to a concussion. The Bears extended their lead in the NFC North to 1 1/2 games over the Packers with two to play and got some payback for a loss at Lambeau Field two weeks earlier. It was Chicago’s sixth win this season after trailing in the final two minutes and its most incredible — Green Bay had a win probability of 99%.

Tearful Bowen Yang departs ‘SNL’ after emotional Christmas episode hosted by Ariana Grande

December 21, 2025

AP

Bowen Yang has left “Saturday Night Live” mid-season after Saturday’s episode with Ariana Grande. He bid farewell with an emotional sketch that left him in tears. 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. Yang and Grande appeared together often in the show’s first half hour, including a dance class sketch and a pre-recorded “Home Alone” sketch in which the McCallister family meet violent ends from Kevin’s leftover traps. Yang also co-hosts the podcast “Las Culturistas” and appeared as Pfannee in the “Wicked” movies.

Jalen Hurts and the Eagles win their second NFC East title in a row by beating the Commanders 29-18

December 20, 2025

By HOWARD FENDRICH - AP National Writer

The Philadelphia Eagles have won their second straight NFC East title. Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley led the Eagles to a 29-18 win over the Washington Commanders on Saturday night. The game included a late brawl after Barkley tacked on a 2-point conversion to increase the Eagles’ lead to 19 points. Hurts completed 22 of 30 throws for 185 yards, two touchdowns and no turnovers. Barkley had a 12-yard TD run as part of his 21-carry, 132-yard performance. It wasn’t a terrific performance by the Eagles, who had a fumble on the opening kickoff and a pair of penalties on the tush push.

Photos show mock funeral for the penny at Lincoln Memorial

December 20, 2025

By JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON - Associated Press

Wasington (AP) — A mock funeral for the penny, which was discontinued earlier this year, was held Saturday in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Categories: US & World News

WWII Navy veteran Ira ‘Ike’ Schab, one of last remaining Pearl Harbor survivors, dies at 105

December 20, 2025

By JENNIFER PELTZ and JAIMIE DING - Associated Press

Pearl Harbor survivor and U.S. Navy veteran Ira “Ike” Schab has died. He was 105. His daughter says he passed away at home early Sunday. There remain only about a dozen survivors of the 1941 surprise attack, which killed just over 2,400 troops and propelled the United States into World War II. Schab joined the Navy at age 18, following in his father’s footsteps. He was serving as a tuba player in the USS Dobbin’s band when the attack happened. In recent years Schab has traveled to an annual observance at the Hawaii military base to commemorate the fallen servicemen.

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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.

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 20, 2025

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

December 19, 2025

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

December 19, 2025

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

December 19, 2025

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.