US & World News

Melania Trump welcomes Christmas tree to the White House

First lady Melania Trump has welcomed this year’s Christmas tree to the White House. On Monday, the tree arrived from Korson’s Tree Farms in Michigan. It was delivered in a green horse-drawn carriage driven by three men in top hats. Melania Trump described it as a beautiful tree as she circled the carriage and posed for pictures. She shook hands with one of the drivers and a woman standing with the two Clydesdale horses.

Michigan veterinarian who refused to return ailing dog to homeless man to spend 10 days in jail

A Michigan veterinarian will serve 10 days in jail for refusing to return a dog to a homeless man after finding the ailing pit bull mix tied to a truck. Amanda Hergenreder’s lawyer asked for 120 hours of community service for a misdemeanor larceny conviction. But a Grand Rapids judge ordered jail time, plus $1,000 in restitution. A year ago, Hergenreder saw the dog tied to a truck. She took him home to her clinic, treated a severe infection and removed a bad tooth. The vet was charged after refusing to return the dog. Hergenreder now says she failed to see the bond between Vinnie and the owner.

AP and Trump administration argue access case before federal appeals court; no ruling yet

The Associated Press and the Trump administration renewed their argument over a president’s ability to limit media access to journalists he disagrees with. They resumed a courtroom dispute with potential First Amendment implications that began last winter when the president announced that he had renamed the Gulf of Mexico. Trump restricted the AP’s access to events in smaller spaces like the Oval Office and Air Force One, leading the news outlet to sue. A lower federal court ruled that President Donald Trump improperly retaliated against the outlet because it did not follow and refer to the body of water as the Gulf of America. Now it’s on appeal. No immediate ruling was issued.

Takeaways from the first G20 summit in Africa and a look ahead to the next one at Trump’s golf club

The first Group of 20 summit in Africa broke new ground this weekend by putting the priorities of poor countries at the top of the bloc’s agenda. Host South Africa negotiated a summit declaration in Johannesburg signed by some of the world’s richest and top emerging economies that agreed to give more global attention to issues that especially affect developing nations. From Monday, the U.S. takes over the rotating presidency of the G20. And with the Trump administration boycotting South Africa’s summit and rejecting its G20 agenda, it leaves the long-term impact of the Johannesburg declaration unclear.

Pentagon says it’s investigating Sen. Mark Kelly for video urging troops to defy ‘illegal orders’

FILE – Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., speaks during the Senate Armed Services Committee confirmation hearing for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be Defense secretary, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis, file) WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon says it is investigating Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona for possible breaches of military law…

Arizona jumps to No. 2 behind Purdue in AP Top 25, Alabama into top 10; Kansas falls out of rankings

Purdue remained at No. 1 in The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll. The Boilermakers earned 46 of 61 first-place votes in Monday’s poll to remain at the top. Arizona jumped to No. 2 after another impressive win against a ranked opponent. The Wildcats won at then-No. 3 UConn. They have already beaten ranked Florida and UCLA teams. Houston was third, followed by Duke and UConn. No. 24 Vanderbilt and No. 25 Indiana were new additions to the poll. They replaced Wisconsin and Kansas.

Trump says he will visit Beijing in April and host China’s Xi for a state visit later next year

President Donald Trump says he will visit Beijing in April and host China’s President Xi Jinping for a state visit later next year. Trump and Xi also spoke by phone on Monday to discuss trade, Taiwan and Ukraine, according to the White House and Chinese officials. Xi told Trump in the phone call that Taiwan’s return to mainland China is “an integral part of the post-war international order,” according to China’s foreign ministry. A White House official confirmed that the call happened on Monday morning but offered no details of the call.

‘Bel-Air’ cast reflects on series, building its own legacy and identity entering final season

With “Bel-Air” entering its fourth and final season on Monday, the cast reflects on how the ambitious Peacock drama expanded the possibilities for Black-led prestige television. The series, inspired by a viral reimagining of the ’90s sitcom, built its own identity through deeper emotional storytelling and high-end production values rarely afforded to a young Black ensemble. While reports cited its high production costs as a factor in its ending, the actors say the show is concluding exactly how the creative team intended. The new season pushes the Banks family into pivotal crossroads as the series reaches its planned finale.

UConn’s narrow victory keeps them No. 1 in women’s AP Top 25, South Carolina, UCLA and Texas next

UConn passed first test of season to remain No. 1 in AP Top 25 women’s basketball poll on Monday. The Huskies beat No. 6 Michigan by three points last Friday. South Carolina, UCLA and Texas stayed right behind the Huskies. LSU remained fifth with Michigan staying in the sixth spot after the close loss to the defending champions. Maryland, TCU, Oklahoma and Iowa State rounded out the top 10. The Cyclones are in the top 10 for the first time this season. Iowa made the biggest climb in the poll, moving up eight spots to No. 11. North Carolina State, Baylor, Southern California and Oklahoma State all dropped after losses..

Here’s what’s next in the fight to curb climate change, now that talks in Brazil have ended

Experts have mixed reactions to the recent U.N. climate talks in the Amazon. The talks, known as COP30, ended without a clear plan to phase out fossil fuels. U.N. Climate Executive Secretary Simon Stiell emphasizes the need for action, not just words. The meeting did highlight some positive steps, like a $1 trillion promise for renewable energy and infrastructure. However, the lack of consensus on fossil fuel reduction remains a concern. Experts warn that without strong agreements, climate impacts will worsen. Despite challenges, there’s hope as various sectors continue to push for climate action.

US labels Maduro-tied Cartel de los Soles as a terror organization. It’s not a cartel per se

President Donald Trump’s administration has increased pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by designating the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization. The move Monday is part of the Trump administration’s escalating campaign to combat drug trafficking into the United States. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has accused it of being responsible for terrorist violence in the Western Hemisphere. The term Cartel de los Soles originally referred to Venezuelan military officers involved in drug-running, but it is not a cartel per se. The designation comes as Trump evaluates whether to take military action against Venezuela. The U.S. Justice Department has indicted Maduro on narcoterrorism charges.

Jimmy Cliff, reggae giant and star of landmark film ‘The Harder They Come,’ dead at 81

Jimmy Cliff, the charismatic reggae pioneer and actor who preached defiance, joy and endurance in such classics as “Many Rivers to Cross,” “You Can Get it If You Really Want” and “Vietnam” and starred in the landmark movie “The Harder They Come,” has died at 81. Cliff was a native Jamaican with a spirited tenor and a gift for topical lyrics who joined Kingston’s emerging music scene in his teens and helped lead a movement in the 1960s that included such future stars as Bob Marley, Toots Hibbert and Peter Tosh.

Stores keep prices down in a tough year for turkeys. Other Thanksgiving foods may cost more

Bird flu and another disease have shrunk the U.S. turkey population to a 40-year low this year. Wholesale turkey prices are expected to be up more than 40% as a result. But shoppers preparing for Thanksgiving may not see higher prices themselves because many grocers are offering discounted or even free turkeys to get customers in the door. Market research company Datasembly expects the 10 holiday meal staples it tacks to cost 4% more overall. Canned cranberry sauce had the biggest price increase after drought impacted production and new tariffs on steel made cans more expensive. Pricing out a Thanksgiving dinner isn’t an exact science, though, and the firm’s tally differed from other estimates.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed a law legalizing sports betting. He now says he’s opposed to it

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine says he regrets his initial support for legalizing sports betting. In an Associated Press interview, the second-term Republican said he now wishes he hadn’t signed the 2021 law that brought the industry’s exorbitant advertising spending to his state. As two pitchers for the Cleveland Guardians became ensnared in a betting-related criminal probe, DeWine emerged as a key player in a deal announced this month between Major League Baseball and its authorized gaming operators to cap prop bets on individual pitches at $200. DeWine would prefer a ban, worrying micro bets threaten the integrity of the game.

Dharmendra, iconic Bollywood actor and Indian cinema’s ‘He-Man,’ dies at 89

Dharmendra, a beloved star of Indian cinema, has died at 89. Known for his versatile roles in the 1970s and 1980s, he became a defining presence in Bollywood. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, calling him an iconic film personality. Dharmendra’s performances in films like “Sholay” and “Chupke Chupke” made him a household name. His on-screen chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, whom he later married, was legendary. Despite a personal life marked by controversy, his career spanned over six decades with more than 300 films. Dharmendra received the Padma Bhushan award in 2012.

The shutdown is over. Flights have resumed. Thanksgiving travelers might wonder: What now?

Travelers this Thanksgiving may still feel on edge after the historic government shutdown that caused widespread flight cancellations and delays. But experts say staying informed about weather, traffic, and airport wait times can help ease anxiety. The FAA is preparing for its busiest Thanksgiving in 15 years, with over 360,000 flights scheduled. And the TSA expects to screen more than 17.8 million people. Winter weather could impact major airports, so travelers should check forecasts regularly. Packing smartly and arriving early can also reduce stress. For road trips, AAA advises checking your car and avoiding peak traffic times.

Thousands of arrests by Trump’s crime-fighting task force in Memphis strain crowded jail and courts

A task force ordered by President Donald Trump to combat crime in Memphis, Tennessee, has made thousands of arrests. It’s compounded strains on the busy local court system and an already overcrowded jail in ways that concerned officials say will last months or even years as cases play out. Since late September, hundreds of federal, state and local law enforcement personnel tied to the Memphis Safe Task Force have made traffic stops, served warrants and searched for fugitives in the city of about 610,000 people. More than 2,800 people have been arrested and more than 28,000 traffic citations have been issued. The task force is supported by Republican Gov. Bill Lee and others who hope the surge reduces violent crime.

Jahmyr Gibbs rescues Lions with long TD run in OT for 34-27 win over Giants

The Detroit Lions have avoided losing consecutive games for the first time in more than three years. Jahmyr Gibbs ran for a 69-yard touchdown on the first snap of overtime after Jake Bates kicked a career-long 59-yard field goal in the final minute of regulation, lifting the Lions to a 34-27 win over the New York Giants on Sunday. New York had a chance to extend the game, but turned it over on downs at the Detroit 31 when Aidan Hutchinson sacked Jameis Winston. The Lions entered the game out of the playoff picture and trailed by double digits multiple times. Gibbs had a career-high 264 yards from scrimmage and three scores.

Takeoff of China’s flying taxis hits turbulence

Chinese companies are rushing to deploy low-flying vehicles and drones for various uses as the country finds innovative ways to drive its economy. Flying taxis, once a sci-fi dream, are being tested in southern China, where pilotless, oval-shaped crafts hover like mini helicopters. In Shenzhen, which neighbors Hong Kong, food-delivery drones already are part of daily life and a novelty attraction for tourists. The industry is growing with support from the government, but strict airspace controls, battery limitations and other obstacles are hindering the rise of the low-altitude economy. Analysts say the industry is still in its early stages and more obvious successes in commercialization may take years.

Dallas Wings win the WNBA draft lottery for the second consecutive season

The Dallas Wings won the WNBA draft lottery for the second consecutive season on Sunday night. The Wings, who drafted Paige Bueckers No. 1 last year, had a 42% chance to secure the top pick again. Minnesota, which had the best record in the league last year, will pick second. The Lynx possessed the Chicago Sky’s first-round pick after a previous trade. Seattle, Washington and Chicago rounded out the lottery.

Former Mets star Darryl Strawberry thanks Trump for pardon during sermon at Tulsa church

Former New York Mets star Darryl Strawberry says God set him free when he was pardoned by President Donald Trump. Strawberry thanked Trump during a sermon Sunday at a Tulsa church. He was pardoned for past tax evasion and drug charges. The eight-time All-Star won cheers from more than 400 worshippers at Sheridan Church. Strawberry credits his Christian faith for his transformation and sobriety. He got to know Trump on “Celebrity Apprentice” in 2010. He was surprised when Trump called him on Nov. 6 to inform him of the pardon. Strawberry now travels extensively, sharing his story of faith and redemption.

Wisconsin woman in 2014 Slender Man stabbing is missing

Authorities say a Wisconsin woman who admitted to nearly stabbing a classmate to death in 2014 to please the horror character Slender Man is missing after she cut off an electronic monitoring device and left a group home. Madison police issued an alert Sunday for Morgan Geyser saying she was last seen around 8 p.m. the night before with an adult acquaintance. Police urged the public to call 911 if they see the 23-year-old woman. Geyser was placed in a group home after being granted conditional release from psychiatric hospital. She was sent there in 2018 after pleading guilty to attempted first-degree intentional homicide.

Oregon is back in the top five of the AP Top 25 poll, Miami leads pack of 5 ranked ACC teams

Oregon has returned to the top five in The Associated Press Top 25 college football poll. Ohio State, Indiana, and Texas A&M remain the top three teams for a sixth straight week with Georgia at No. 4. Oregon jumped to No. 5 after a 15-point victory over Southern California. Mississippi follows at No. 6. Miami moved up to No. 13 to lead five ACC teams in the rankings. Georgia Tech dropped to No. 23 after losing to Pittsburgh. Ohio State holds the No. 1 spot for a 13th straight week.

Donald Glover says he had a stroke

Donald Glover has revealed he suffered a stroke last year, which forced him to cancel his tour. Speaking at Tyler, the Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw festival in Los Angeles on Saturday, Glover shared that a doctor diagnosed him after he experienced severe head pain during a show in Louisiana. Despite the pain, he performed but later sought medical attention in Houston. Glover also disclosed he had two surgeries for a heart condition. He expressed gratitude for his life and career, saying, “You got one life, guys, and I gotta be honest, the life I’ve lived with you guys has been such a blessing.”

Mamdani stands by Trump criticism despite friendly White House meeting

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is standing by his past criticisms that President Donald Trump acted like a despot and a fascist. This comes after a surprisingly friendly White House meeting between the two on Friday. The democratic socialist and the Republican president have fiercely criticized each other in the past. Despite their differences, they emerged smiling after the meeting and spoke of shared goals. Mamdani said his views remained unchanged during a “Meet the Press” interview that aired Sunday. Trump had earlier brushed aside Mamdani’s criticisms and even jumped in on his defense several times Friday.

Developing nations push for climate action and debt relief at G20 summit in South Africa

Poorer nations at the Group of 20 summit in South Africa have urged world leaders to address climate action and debt issues affecting the developing world. They have also highlighted their potential as economic partners in sectors like mining and technology. South Africa has been praised for promoting an inclusive agenda focusing on global inequality. The United States boycotted the meeting over President Donald Trump’s claims about South Africa’s treatment of its Afrikaner minority. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the need for debt relief to translate into beneficial investments. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah called for fair financing terms for developing nations.

‘Wicked: For Good’ is even more popular than the first, soaring to a $226 million global debut

Universal Pictures’ “Wicked: For Good” has taken the box office by storm, earning an estimated $150 million in North America and $226 million globally in its opening weekend. It’s the biggest opening ever for a Broadway musical adaptation, surpassing the first film’s $112 million launch, and the second biggest of the year. Released earlier this week, the film played in 4,115 North American locations by Friday, with IMAX showings contributing $15.5 million. Women made up 71% of ticket buyers. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Ervio and Ariana Grande, the film’s success is crucial for the exhibition industry as the year ends.

Aftermath of Chicago’s intense immigration crackdown leaves lawsuits, investigations and anxiety

Chicago has entered what many consider a new uneasy phase of a Trump administration immigration crackdown that has already led to thousands of arrests. While a U.S. Border Patrol commander known for leading intense and controversial surges moved on to North Carolina, federal agents are still arresting immigrants across the nation’s third-largest city and suburbs. A growing number of lawsuits stemming from the crackdown are winding through the courts. Authorities are investigating agents’ actions, including a fatal shooting. Activists say they are not letting their guard down in case things ramp up, while many residents in the Democratic stronghold where few welcomed the crackdown remain anxious.

Many hoped UN climate talks in Brazil would be historic. They may be remembered as a flop

For years, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, along with many climate experts, had high hopes for the U.N. climate talks that just finished in Brazil. Instead of an ambitious outcome, however, many participants, from the European Union to Uruguay, expressed disappointment in the result. The final resolution included an increase in money to help developing nations adapt to climate change but overall was watered-down compared to many conferences in the last decade and fell far short of many delegates’ expectations. It didn’t mention the words “fossil fuels,” much less include a timeline to reduce their use. Instead of being remembered as historic, the conference will likely further erode confidence in a process that many nations say they have lost faith in.

US ski star Shiffrin wins 2nd straight World Cup slalom of Olympic season

Mikaela Shiffrin dominated another women’s World Cup slalom as the American ski star made it two convincing wins from two races in the discipline in the Olympic season. Shiffrin posted the fastest time in both runs to finish 1.23 seconds ahead of second-place Lara Colturi, the Italian prodigy competing for Albania. The pair also went 1-2 in the first slalom of the season a week ago in Finland. Slalom world champion Camille Rast of Switzerland trailed by 1.41 in third. Shiffrin said “I had to push so hard.”

A sheriff, a billionaire, a tinge of scandal. California governor’s race packs drama, uncertainty

The race for California governor features former presidential wannabes, a county sheriff, two women who could become the first female to hold the office, current and former House members and at least one billionaire. And it hasn’t officially started yet. The pending exit of term-limited Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom has created the most wide-open field for the state’s highest office in memory. The 2026 race has lured a long list of candidates that include former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Democratic U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and billionaire Tom Steyer, who sought the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination.

50 schoolchildren escape captivity in Nigeria, 253 students and 12 teachers still being held

Fifty of the 303 schoolchildren abducted from a Catholic school in Nigeria’s Niger state have escaped and are now with their families. The school authority said this on Sunday. The children, aged 10 to 18, escaped individually between Friday and Saturday. The Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Niger state, confirmed the news. A total of 253 schoolchildren and 12 teachers are still held by the kidnappers. Gunmen attacked the St. Mary’s School in the remote Papiri community on Friday. No group has claimed responsibility, and authorities are working to rescue the children.

Christmas tree retailers find lots to like at a Pennsylvania wholesale auction

Christmas went on the auction block this week in Pennsylvania farm country in the form of a giant Christmas tree sale. About 50,000 trees and a huge array of other seasonal items were bought and sold at the Buffalo Valley Produce Auction in Mifflinburg this week. Buyers from across the Northeast and mid-Atlantic were there to supply garden stores and other retail outlets. The Real Christmas Tree Board says the scent of real trees is a major draw for farm-grown trees. A trade group says more than 21 million farm-grown Christmas trees were sold in 2023, with median price of $75.

Big changes to the agency charged with securing elections lead to midterm worries

The federal agency that oversees the security of election systems was largely absent from planning before elections this month in several states. That’s leading many state election officials to be concerned about how engaged the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will be for next year’s midterms. Officials are citing the shifting priorities of the Trump administration, as well as staffing reductions and budget cut. Some officials say they’ve begun scrambling to fill the anticipated gaps. But representatives of the federal agency say it’s ready to provide election expertise if asked and that future organizational plans will be announced “at the appropriate time.”.

Verstappen has 5th F1 title in reach after Norris, Piastri disqualified in Las Vegas

Max Verstappen has a fifth consecutive Formula 1 championship in reach after winning the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The disqualifications of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri for failing inspection have shaken up the standings. Verstappen now trails Norris by just 24 points with two races left. The FIA disqualified the McLaren drivers for not meeting skid wear requirements. Verstappen’s victory marks his second win in Las Vegas and his 69th career win. Despite his dislike for the event’s focus on showmanship, Verstappen excelled on the track. The championship race continues in Qatar next week.

Guinea-Bissau votes as president seeks second term and main opposition party is barred

Guinea-Bissau has begun voting as President Umaro Sissoco Embalo seeks a second term. Embalo, a former army general, faces a tight race against Fernando Dias da Costa, analysts say. Dias da Costa is backed by former Prime Minister Domingos Simoes Pereira. The election requires a candidate to gain more than 50% of the votes to avoid a runoff. Nearly half of the country’s 2.2 million citizens are registered to vote. Political and ethnic tensions mark the election, with the opposition accusing Embalo of losing legitimacy. Guinea-Bissau has faced multiple coups, and tensions have heightened fears for the region.

AP mapping shows France’s poorest regions backing Le Pen’s party as support for Macron wanes

President Emmanuel Macron’s promise to win over far-right voters in France is faltering. Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party has gained significant ground since Macron’s election in 2017. It has become the largest in the French parliament. Le Pen’s appeal has grown during worsening poverty under Macron’s leadership. The poverty rate in France increased from 13.8% when Macron took office to 15.4% by 2023. Mapping by The Associated Press shows correlations between growing poverty and National Rally support. The AP’s maps show particularly evident progress by National Rally in some of France’s poorest regions. Experts see parallels with U.S. President Donald Trump’s electorate.

Bolsonaro’s conviction brings vindication for some Brazilians who lost loved ones to COVID-19

Brazilian former President Jair Bolsonaro is preparing to serve a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup. Many families who lost loved ones to COVID-19 say the conviction offers a measure of vindication even though it is unrelated to his handling of the pandemic. There have been more than 700,000 coronavirus-related deaths in Brazil. Researchers estimate most deaths could have been avoided if Bolsonaro had supported containment measures and accelerated vaccine purchases. Bolsonaro’s conviction provides some emotional relief for those mourning the victims. But there is a sense among some that justice hasn’t been done for the pandemic’s toll.

US signals broader efforts to protect Nigeria’s Christians following Trump’s military threat

President Donald Trump’s administration is promoting efforts to work with Nigeria’s government to counter violence against Christians. The plans signal a broader strategy since Trump ordered the Pentagon to prepare for possible military action. He had warned the U.S. would go after Islamic militants with “guns-a-blazing.” A State Department official said this past week that plans include potential sanctions as well as assistance programs and intelligence sharing. The efforts may support Trump’s pledge to avoid more involvement in foreign conflicts. And they come as the U.S. security footprint has diminished in Africa. Military partnerships there have either been scaled down or canceled.

Plan for $20 million firefighter training center near the site of Ohio derailment is revived

Norfolk Southern railroad worked with the state of Ohio and Youngstown State University to revive plans for a $20 million first responder training center near the site of the worst derailment in a decade in East Palestine, Ohio. A training center to help prepare firefighters to deal with a railroad disaster was quickly part of the plan after the derailment on Feb. 3, 2023, that forced the evacuation of roughly half the small town near the Ohio-Pennsylvania border and left residents with worries about the potential long-term health impacts. But then the training center was abandoned last January because of concerns about the ongoing operating costs. Now the university is going to help build and operate it.

AP Top 25 poll preview: USC’s playoff chances plummet, Utah narrowly escapes Kansas State

Eight of the top 10 teams in the AP poll either had the day off or faced easy opponents on Saturday. No. 6 Oregon and No. 8 Oklahoma were exceptions, playing ranked conference matchups. Oregon beat No. 16 USC 42-27, and Oklahoma improved to 9-2 with a 17-6 win against No. 23 Missouri. Oregon ties with Texas Tech at No. 6 in the AP poll and is No. 7 in the College Football Playoff rankings. Oklahoma ranks No. 8 in both. Other notable games included BYU’s trip to Cincinnati and Georgia Tech’s game against Pittsburgh. Louisville’s playoff hopes dimmed with a third straight loss.

UAB football player accused of stabbing 2 teammates before game

The University of Alabama at Birmingham says a football player stabbed two teammates Saturday morning hours before the game against the University of South Florida. UAB says both wounded players are in stable condition. A suspect is in custody. The university has not released the names of those involved. County jail records show offensive lineman Daniel Mincey was arrested and charged with assault and attempted murder. It was not clear if he had legal representation yet. Attempts to reach family members for comment were not successful. University officials would not confirm his involvement. Interim Coach Alex Mortensen said some players chose to sit out the game but most played to honor graduating seniors. The Blazers lost 48-18.

US senators say they spoke with Rubio about Trump’s Ukraine peace plan who denied it is a US plan

U.S. senators critical of President Donald Trump’s approach to ending the Russia-Ukraine war say they spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio who told them that the peace plan Trump is pushing Kyiv to accept is a “wish list” of the Russians and not the actual U.S. plan. The 28-point peace plan was crafted by the Trump administration and the Kremlin without Ukraine’s involvement. It acquiesces to many Russian demands that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has categorically rejected on dozens of occasions, including giving up large pieces of territory. Trump says he wants Ukraine to accept the plan by late next week.

Trump teaming up with Jack Nicklaus to revamp ‘president’s golf course’ at Joint Base Andrews

President Donald Trump says he’s teaming up with legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus to revamp the golf courses at Joint Base Andrews. On Saturday, Trump took an aerial tour of the courses and promised improvements. He suggested that the rest of the base needs some fixing up as well, but announced that Nicklaus would serve as architect for any facelift of the golf courses. Located near the White House, Andrews has long been a favorite golfing spot for past presidents. Trump has mostly preferred his own properties in Florida, New Jersey and Virginia for golfing. Questions remain about who will pay for the redesign and improvements, as Andrews is military property. The White House hasn’t commented.

Cargo ship fire in Los Angeles nearly contained after shelter-in-place order lifted

A fire that broke out aboard a container ship docked at the Port of Los Angeles was nearly contained by Saturday afternoon. The blaze briefly prompted a shelter-in-place order Friday night for surrounding communities over concerns about hazardous materials within the ship’s cargo. The order was lifted Saturday and port operations also resumed as normal. All 23 crew members of the ship were accounted for and there were no injuries from the electrical fire, officials said. Roughly 100 cargo containers were burned. Officials said they had identified hazardous materials, such as lithium-ion batteries, aboard the vessel. It was not immediately clear how the fire started.

Chris Paul hints at retirement from NBA with video before Clippers-Hornets game in his home state

Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul hinted at potential retirement after this season. He shared a video on social media before the team’s game against the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday, which could be his last in his home state of North Carolina. The video features highlights from his 21-year NBA career, including his childhood and college days at Wake Forest. Paul, 40, is a 12-time NBA All-Star. He was the New Orleans Hornets’ fifth overall pick in 2005.

JFK’s granddaughter reveals terminal cancer diagnosis, criticizes cousin RFK Jr.

John F. Kennedy’s granddaughter has disclosed that she has terminal cancer and may live for only about another year. Tatiana Schlossberg is the daughter of Kennedy’s daughter, Caroline Kennedy, and Edwin Schlossberg. She shared her diagnosis in an essay published Saturday in “The New Yorker.” Its publication comes on the 62nd anniversary of her grandfather’s assassination. Schlossberg says she was diagnosed in May 2024 after the birth of her second child when the doctor noticed her white blood cell count was high. It turned out to be acute myeloid leukemia with a rare mutation.

Israel launches new strikes in Gaza against Hamas in ceasefire’s latest test

Israel’s military says it launched airstrikes against Hamas militants in Gaza, testing the ceasefire that began on October 10. Health officials in Gaza report at least 14 people killed and 45 wounded, including children. Strikes have occurred during the ceasefire after reported attacks against Israeli forces. One strike targeted a vehicle, killing seven and wounding 18 in Gaza City. Another strike near Al-Awda Hospital killed three and wounded 11. Israel’s military says it launched attacks after an “armed terrorist” crossed into an Israeli-held area and shot at troops in southern Gaza. No soldiers were hurt.

Potential presidential candidates are less coy about 2028 plans: ‘Of course I’m thinking about it’

There was a time when presidential hopefuls were coy about their ambitions. They’d travel around the country under the guise of helping other candidates and they’d deflect when pushed about their seemingly obvious White House plans. But that’s not the case so for some Democrats who are considering running in 2028. Some could-be candidates are being far more transparent about their intentions. They’re trying to gain maximum visibility at a time when authenticity is in high demand. Political strategists say it’s an approach that makes sense given the wide-open 2028 field and sheer number of candidates competing for attention.

Babies who drank ByHeart formula got sick months before botulism outbreak, parents say

At least five families say their babies were treated for infant botulism after consuming ByHeart formula months before a current outbreak was detected. More than 30 babies have been treated for the rare and life-threatening disease in an outbreak that started in August. But parents have reported that babies who drank the formula may have been sickened as early as December 2024. Federal health officials are aware of earlier cases but have not included them or expanded the definition of the outbreak. ByHeart recalled all of its products nationwide on Nov. 11.