US & World News Archives - Page 4 of 89

Russia indicates it’s open to Ukraine joining EU as part of peace deal to end war, US officials say

December 15, 2025

By STEFANIE DAZIO and AAMER MADHANI - Associated Press

U.S. officials say Russia has indicated it’s open to Ukraine joining the European Union as part of a potential peace deal aimed at ending the war in Ukraine and there’s now consensus on about 90% of the U.S.-authored peace plan. The officials who briefed reporters after U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as well as British, French and German officials in Berlin over the last two days said Monday such an offer would be a major concession by Moscow. But Russia has previously said it does not object to Ukraine joining the EU. The latest round of talks between Zelenskyy and U.S. envoys ended Monday.

Son Nick arrested after Rob Reiner and his wife found dead in Los Angeles home, AP source says

December 15, 2025

By CHRISTOPHER WEBER and MIKE BALSAMO - Associated Press

A law enforcement official tells The Associated Press that a son of Rob Reiner, Nick Reiner, was taken into custody Monday after the deaths of the director-actor and his wife Michele at their home in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical aid request Sunday afternoon and discovered a 78-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman deceased inside. Detectives are investigating it as an apparent homicide. Reiner, known for directing films like “This is Spinal Tap” and “A Few Good Men,” was 78. He was married to Michele since 1989. They had three children together.

Rob Reiner’s son Nick has been taken into custody after deaths of director-writer and his wife Michele, AP source says

December 15, 2025

The Associated Press,

FILE – Rob Reiner and Michele Reiner arrive on the red carpet at the State Department for the Kennedy Center Honors gala dinner, Dec. 2, 2023, in Washington. LOS ANGELES (AP) — Rob Reiner’s younger son, Nick Reiner, was in police custody Monday for what investigators believe was the fatal stabbing of the director-actor and his wife at their Los…

35 countries will compete in next year’s Eurovision Song Contest after 5 countries announce boycott

December 15, 2025

By JAMEY KEATEN - Associated Press

Organizers of the Eurovision Song Contest have announced a final list of 35 countries that will take part in the glitzy pop-music gala next year. It comes after Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain this month says they will sit it out due to discord over Israel’s participation. The 2026 finale is set to be held in Vienna next May. Thirty-seven countries took part this year, when Austria’s JJ won. Bulgaria, Moldova and Romania will return after skipping the event for artistic or financial reasons in recent years.

Rob Reiner’s life in photos

December 15, 2025

By The Associated Press

Rob Reiner, one of the preeminent filmmakers of his generation who directed movies such as “The Princess Bride,” “When Harry Met Sally …” and “This Is Spinal Tap,” died Sunday at 78. Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer, were found dead at their home in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles and police are investigating. This is a photo gallery…

Court battle begins over California’s new congressional map designed to favor Democrats

December 15, 2025

By MICHAEL R. BLOOD and TRÂN NGUYỄN - Associated Press

The Justice Department and California are going to court over the state’s new congressional map that favor Democrats. The court battle begins Monday. A three-judge panel will consider whether to allow the state to the new boundaries for elections. California voters decisively approved the map last month. The Justice Department has accused California of racial gerrymandering by favoring Hispanic voters. Democrats said they’re confident the lawsuit will fail. The legal fight could help determine which party wins control of the U.S. House in 2026. California’s map is a direct counter to a similar Republican-led effort in Texas backed by President Donald Trump.

Older adults may struggle to learn a new language but classes are a worthwhile exercise

December 15, 2025

By STEPHEN WADE - Associated Press

It’s well established that children have an easier time learning second languages. In recent years, scientists have studied whether being bilingual may help ward off the memory lapses and reduced mental sharpness that come with an aging brain. Most research on the potential benefit involved people who spoke two or more languages for most of their lives. The good news is that neuroscientists say that attempting to acquire a new language still is worthwhile for older adults. One of the scientists who pioneered research on the advantages of bilingualism compared studying a new language to doing brain-training games that are promoted to slow the onset of dementia. Language classes also have social benefits.

How an AM radio station in California weathered the Trump administration’s assault on media

December 15, 2025

By BYRON TAU - Associated Press

Six days into President Donald Trump’s new administration, the San Francisco Bay-area radio station KCBS-AM and other outlets reported on local immigration raids. The brief story quickly drew the ire of conservative influencers who attacked KCBS’ report as endangering agents’ lives. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr accused KCBS of failing to operate in the public interest and said he was opening an investigation. Current and former staffers say KCBS began taking steps to mitigate the risk of drawing further attention from Carr. The staffers say reporters were dissuaded from pursuing political topics. KCBS says there’s been no change in policy or editorial direction.

Family member questioned after Rob Reiner and his wife found dead in Los Angeles, AP source says

December 15, 2025

By CHRISTOPHER WEBER and MIKE BALSAMO - Associated Press

A law enforcement official says investigators have been questioning a family member of director-actor Rob Reiner Rob Reiner and his wife Michele after they were found dead at their home in Los Angeles. Speaking anonymously to The Associated Press because they could not publicly discuss details of the investigation, the official also said investigators believe Reiners suffered stab wounds. Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton, the chief of detectives, says police had not identified a suspect. He says they’ll try to speak to every family member they can to determine the facts. Reiner starred in “All in the Family” and directed hits including “When Harry Met Sally.” He and Michelle Reiner had three children together.

Injuries to Patrick Mahomes and Micah Parsons ruin NFL’s Week 15

December 15, 2025

By ROB MAADDI - AP Pro Football Writer

First, Patrick Mahomes went down. Then, it was Micah Parsons. The NFL lost two of its all-time greatest players to serious knee injuries in a span of a few hours on Sunday, ruining a day filled with exciting comebacks and fascinating stories. Forty-four-year-old Philip Rivers played his first game in 1,800 days and nearly led the 14-point underdog Indianapolis Colts to a stunning upset against Seattle before Jason Myers kicked a 56-yard field goal with 29 seconds left to lift the Seahawks to an 18-16 victory. Reigning NFL MVP Josh Allen led the Buffalo Bills from a 21-0 deficit to a 35-31 victory at New England.

What to know about the attack on the Jewish festival in Australia that killed 15 people

December 15, 2025

AP

Officials suspect a father and son of killing 15 people on a popular Australian beach, shocking a country where gun violence is rare. The government on Monday proposed tougher gun laws amid criticism that officials didn’t take seriously enough a string of antisemitic attacks. The suspects attacked a Jewish gathering at Bondi Beach during Hanukkah. The dead included a 10-year-old. Police found suspicious items, including explosive devices. Antisemitic incidents have surged in Australia, with attacks on synagogues and Jewish communities. This is the deadliest shooting in Australia in three decades, prompting calls for stricter gun control.

Former Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai convicted in landmark national security trial

December 15, 2025

By KANIS LEUNG - Associated Press

Jimmy Lai, the former Hong Kong media mogul and outspoken critic of Beijing, has been convicted in a landmark national security trial in the city’s court. Three government-vetted judges on Monday found Lai, 78, guilty of conspiring with others to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security and conspiracy to publish seditious articles. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. Under Hong Kong’s sweeping national security law, Lai could face up to life imprisonment. A mitigation hearing was set for January.

Australian Prime Minister Albanese proposes tougher national gun laws after mass shooting in Sydney

December 15, 2025

By CHARLOTTE GRAHAM-McLAY, ROD MCGUIRK and KRISTEN GELINEAU - Associated Press

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has proposed tougher national gun laws after a mass shooting in Sydney. He said Monday he would propose new restrictions including limiting the number of guns a licensed owner can obtain. “The government is prepared to take whatever action is necessary. Included in that is the need for tougher gun laws,” Albanese told reporters. “People’s circumstances can change. People can be radicalized over a period of time. Licenses should not be in perpetuity,” he added.

Dak Prescott and Cowboys watch playoff hopes all but vanish in 34-26 loss to Vikings

December 14, 2025

By SCHUYLER DIXON - AP Pro Football Writer

J.J. McCarthy threw for two touchdowns and ran for a score, C.J. Ham had the go-ahead TD on his first carry of the season and the Minnesota Vikings severely damaged Dallas’ playoff hopes with a 34-26 victory over the Cowboys. The Vikings won a second consecutive game after they were eliminated from the postseason race before the kickoff. The Cowboys have to win their three remaining games and hope defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia goes 0-3 in order for Dallas to overtake the Eagles in the NFC East. Both of McCarthy’s TD tosses were to Jalen Nailor.

Paul Wiggin, College Football Hall of Famer and former coach, dies at 91

December 14, 2025

AP

Paul Wiggin, the former Stanford and Cleveland Browns star who was on the losing end of “The Play” coaching star quarterback John Elway and the Cardinal, died Friday. He was 91. Wiggin’s death was announced by the Browns, the Minnesota Vikings and the National Football Foundation. He was the fourth-oldest living NFF Hall of Famer. Wiggin was on the Stanford sideline in 1982 for “The Play” when California scored the winning touchdown in a 25-20 victory in the “Big Game” after Stanford’s band prematurely took the field. Wiggin played for Stanford from 1954-56. He was a two-time All-America selection as a defensive tackle and was selected the school’s Defensive Player of the Century. He spent his entire 11-year NFL career with the Browns,

Packers star pass rusher Micah Parsons feared to have torn ACL, AP source says

December 14, 2025

By ROB MAADDI and PAT GRAHAM - AP Sports Writers

Micah Parsons is believed to have suffered a torn ACL in his left knee. That’s according to a person with knowledge of the All-Pro pass rusher’s injury who spoke to The Associated Press on Sunday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the severity of the injury hasn’t been confirmed by test. Parsons tells the AP in a text that he’s “sickened.” Parsons’ injury is a devastating blow to the Green Bay Packers, who lost 34-26 to Denver on Sunday. The Packers fell to second place behind the Chicago Bears in the NFC North.

Matthew Stafford rallies Rams to 41-34 victory over Lions, clinching another playoff berth

December 14, 2025

By GREG BEACHAM - AP Sports Writer

Matthew Stafford passed for 368 yards and hit Colby Parkinson for two touchdowns, and the NFC-leading Los Angeles Rams clinched a playoff berth with a furious second-half rally for a 41-34 victory over the Detroit Lions. Kyren Williams rushed for two scores and Blake Corum added another TD for the Rams, who came back from a double-digit deficit shortly before halftime with 20 consecutive points before securing their eighth victory in nine games. Amon-Ra St. Brown scorched his hometown team for 163 yards and two touchdowns on 13 receptions for the Lions. Detroit has alternated wins and losses since Week 5.

Mahomes tears ACL as Chargers eliminate Chiefs from playoff contention with 16-13 victory

December 14, 2025

By DAVE SKRETTA - AP Sports Writer

The Los Angeles Chargers eliminate the Kansas City Chiefs from playoff contention with a 16-13 victory on Sunday, with Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes tearing the ACL in his left knee. Derwin James intercepts Gardner Minshew’s pass in the closing seconds to secure the 16-13 win. Justin Herbert, playing with a broken hand, throws for 210 yards and a touchdown. The Chargers complete a regular-season sweep of Kansas City. Patrick Mahomes was injured after being tackled by Da’Shawn Hand. Minshew steps in but throws a crucial interception in the fourth quarter. The Chargers, now 10-4, edge closer to a playoff berth, while the Chiefs’ playoff hopes ended with the loss.

‘Zootopia 2’ reclaims No. 1 spot at box office, grosses $1B worldwide

December 14, 2025

By JAKE COYLE - AP Film Writer

“Zootopia 2” has regained the No. 1 spot at the box office with $26.3 million in its third weekend of release. According to studio estimates Sunday, The Walt Disney Co. animated sequel became the year’s second film to gross $1 billion worldwide. With “Avatar: Fire and Ash” arriving Friday, it was a relatively quiet weekend in theaters. There were no major new releases, leaving holdovers “Zootopia 2” and “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” to duke it out for the top spot. The edge went to “Zootopia 2,” which has quickly amassed $1.14 billion in ticket sales thanks to its enormous success in China. “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” collected $15.4 million, a drop of 70% from its above-expectations debut.

Hassett says Federal Reserve can reject Trump’s views if he is chair

December 14, 2025

By CHRISTOPHER RUGABER - AP Economics Writer

A leading candidate to be President Donald Trump’s choice for Federal Reserve chair says he would present the president’s views to Fed officials for their consideration but they could reject them if they chose when making decisions on interest rates. Hassett’s comments Sunday come as Trump is reportedly in final interviews with potential replacements for the Fed’s current chair, Jerome Powell. Trump’s outspokenness about interest rates has raised concerns about the Fed’s independence from day-to-day politics under any chair he appoints.

JetBlue flight near Venezuela avoids ‘midair collision’ with US Air Force tanker

December 14, 2025

By CHRISTOPHER RUGABER - AP Economics Writer

A JetBlue flight from the small Caribbean nation of Curaçao halted its ascent to avoid colliding with a U.S. Air Force refueling tanker, and the pilot blamed the military plane for crossing his path. The incident Friday involved JetBlue Flight 1112 from Curaçao, which is just off the coast of Venezuela, en route to New York City’s JFK airport. It comes as the U.S. military has stepped up its drug interdiction activities in the Caribbean and is also seeking to increase pressure on Venezuela’s government.

Attacker who killed US troops in Syria was a recent recruit to security forces, official says

December 14, 2025

By ABBY SEWELL - Associated Press

A Syrian security guard who attacked and killed three U.S. citizens in Syria had joined the internal security forces two months earlier. A Syrian official told The Associated Press on Sunday that the attacker was suspected of having ties to the Islamic State group. The attack occurred Saturday near Palmyra, killing two U.S. service members and one civilian. Three others were wounded. The gunman was killed at the scene. The incident highlights concerns about infiltration within Syrian security forces. U.S. officials have vowed retaliation against IS for the attack. The U.S. military has been expanding cooperation with Syrian forces.

Mass shooting at Jewish event on Bondi Beach follows rising antisemitism in Australia

December 14, 2025

By MELANIE LIDMAN - Associated Press

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called an attack on a Hanukkah celebration at a Sydney beach that killed at least 11 people an act of antisemitism and terrorism. Antisemitism has been rising in Australia. According to a report from Tel Aviv University, Australia and Italy saw the highest increase in antisemitic attacks in 2024. Australia recorded 1,713 incidents, up from 1,200 in 2023. Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a key organizer of the event, was among the dead. The attack occurred during a ceremony marking the first night of Hanukkah.

Israel’s Netanyahu lashes out while world shows shock and sympathy over Australia shooting

December 14, 2025

The Associated Press

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized Australia’s leader, linking calls for a Palestinian state to rising antisemitism. On Sunday, Netanyahu said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s support for a Palestinian state fuels antisemitism. He was reacting to a mass shooting at a Jewish event in Sydney that killed at least 11 people. Australia recognized a Palestinian state in September during the United Nations gathering. Netanyahu’s government argues that international support for a Palestinian state rewards Hamas. Global leaders, including those from Iran, the United States, Britain, Germany, the United Nations and India have condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the Jewish community.

Egypt reveals restored colossal statues of pharaoh in Luxor

December 14, 2025

BY SAMY MAGDY AND AHMED HATEM - Associated Press

Egypt has unveiled two colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III in Luxor. The alabaster statues, known as the Colossi of Memnon, were reassembled after a two-decade renovation project. Amenhotep III ruled ancient Egypt about 3,400 years ago. The statues, which were toppled by an earthquake in 1200 BC, have been restored to revive the appearance of his funerary temple. The unveiling comes six weeks after the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, part of efforts to boost tourism. Egypt hopes to attract 18 million tourists this year, with a goal of 30 million annually by 2032.

Michigan search includes Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham, Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz, AP source says

December 14, 2025

By LARRY LAGE - AP Sports Writer

The firm hired by Michigan to search for a football coach to replace Sherrone Moore has contacted representatives for Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham and Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz. That’s according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Saturday because they were not authorized to share details of the search. Moore was fired on Wednesday, when the school said an investigation uncovered his inappropriate relationship with a staffer. Two days later, Moore was charged with three crimes.

Hamas confirms the death of a top commander in Gaza after Israeli strike

December 14, 2025

AP

Hamas has confirmed the death of a top commander in Gaza, a day after Israel said it had killed Raed Saad in a strike outside Gaza City. The Hamas statement on Sunday described Saad as the commander of its military manufacturing unit. Israel had described him as an architect of the Oct. 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war in Gaza. Israel asserted that he had been “engaged in rebuilding the terrorist organization” in a violation of the ceasefire that took effect two months ago. Israel said it killed Saad after an explosive device detonated and wounded two soldiers in southern Gaza.

From hoops to oysters: Inside the unexpected second acts of WNBA stars

December 14, 2025

By CLAIRE SAVAGE and BRITTANY PETERSON - Associated Press

Although the WNBA is bringing in more money than ever, many players still find themselves financially unsteady when the final whistle blows. Former WNBA star Sue Wicks found her next calling in oyster farming on New York’s East Moriches Bay. Wicks has worked as a commentator, college basketball coach and at a fitness start-up since retiring from the WNBA in 2002. She says she feels lucky to again find a career “that works for my soul.” But the reality is that even a successful run as one of the world’s best basketball players didn’t earn her enough to fully retire.

As gerrymandering battles sweep country, supporters say partisan dominance is ‘fair’

December 14, 2025

By DAVID A. LIEB - Associated Press

State officials engaged in unusual mid-decade redistricting are pushing a new definition of what it means to have “fair maps” for Congress. Fair districts have traditionally been seen as representing the voices of people from different groups, communities and regions of a state. But politicians redrawing districts to benefit one party contend it’s fair for most of a state’s U.S. House districts to be represented by the majority political party. They also insist it’s fair because other states are doing it. President Donald Trump first called on Republican-led states to redistrict before the 2026 elections. Some Democratic states have joined the fray.

Haruki Murakami honored with awards and a jazzy tribute in New York

December 14, 2025

By HILLEL ITALIE - AP National Writer

Haruki Murakami recently received two honors in New York for his contributions to literature and cultural exchange. On Tuesday, the Center for Fiction awarded him its Lifetime of Excellence in Fiction Award. Two days later, the Japan Society celebrated him with a jazzy tribute called “Murakami Mixtape” and gave him its annual prize for fostering U.S.-Japan relations. Murakami is known for novels like “Kafka on the Shore” and “The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle.” His interests in music and culture were highlighted during the events. Murakami reflected on his experiences in New York and the evolving global presence of Japanese culture.

Gunmen kill at least 11 people in attack on Jewish holiday event on Sydney’s Bondi Beach

December 14, 2025

By KRISTEN GELINEAU, CHARLOTTE GRAHAM-McLAY and ROD McGUIRK - Associated Press

Two gunmen have shot dead at least 11 people during a Jewish holiday celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. Australian authorities say one gunman was fatally shot by police and the second was arrested. The suspect is in critical condition. At least 29 people were wounded, including two police officers. The massacre followed a wave of antisemitic attacks in Australia, although authorities didn’t link them to this shooting. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it “an act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism.” The attack targeted a Jewish celebration called Chanukah by the Sea, marking the start of Hanukkah.

Another blue wave? Meet the Democrat trying to make it happen and the Republican trying to stop her

December 14, 2025

By BILL BARROW - Associated Press

Brian Jack is a first-term Republican congressman from Georgia, but he’s become a key figure in the Oval Office. Jack is the top recruiter for his party’s House campaign team and he regularly reviews potential candidates with President Donald Trump. On the Democratic side, Lauren Underwood of Illinois is working to recruit Democratic candidates to challenge the Republicans’ House majority. Both lawmakers were shaped by the 2018 midterms, when Democrats flipped many Republican seats during Trump’s first term. In the 2026 midterms, Underwood is aiming to repeat that success, while Jack is focusing on supporting Trump’s agenda.

US envoys arrive in Berlin for another round of Ukraine peace talks

December 14, 2025

By STEFANIE DAZIO and CLAUDIA CIOBANU - Associated Press

U.S. envoys are in Berlin for another round of talks intended to secure a deal to end the war. U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner are expected to hold a series of meetings on Sunday and Monday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukrainian, U.S. and European officials will hold a series of meetings in Berlin in the coming days. Washington has tried for months to navigate the demands of each side as Trump presses for a swift end to Russia’s war and grows increasingly exasperated by delays.

Thailand says Cambodian rocket fire has caused its first civilian death in new border fighting

December 14, 2025

By TIAN MACLEOD JI and JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI - Associated Press

Thailand’s government reports a rocket attack from Cambodia on Sunday killed a 63-year-old villager. This marks the first Thai civilian death from recent border combat between the two nations. Fighting began on Dec. 7, following a skirmish that wounded two Thai soldiers. Both sides are battling over disputed frontier land with historic temple ruins. More than two dozen people have been killed, and over half a million displaced. Thailand condemns Cambodia for targeting civilian areas. Cambodia fired medium-range rockets, while Thailand carried out airstrikes. A ceasefire plan touted by U.S. President Donald Trump has failed to take hold.

Fear grips Brown University after shooter kills 2 and wounds 9 as police search for shooter

December 14, 2025

By KIMBERLEE KRUESI and JENNIFER McDERMOTT - Associated Press

Hundreds of police officers are scouring the Brown University campus and nearby neighborhoods in the hunt for a shooter who killed two people and wounded nine others in a classroom. The search stretched late into a second day after the Saturday afternoon shooting on the Ivy League campus in Providence, Rhode Island, during final exams. Police have released surveillance video showing the suspect calmly walking away from the scene. The suspect’s face isn’t visible in the video and investigators say it isn’t clear whether the suspect is a student. University President Christina Paxson says she was told 10 people who were shot were students.

Women fleeing Mali’s conflict say they were sexually assaulted but silence hides many more

December 14, 2025

By MONIKA PRONCZUK and CAITLIN KELLY - Associated Press

Women and girls from Mali are alleging rape and sexual assault by Russian fighters with Africa Corps, a new military unit under Moscow’s control. People have been sexually assaulted by all sides as Mali’s military and Russian allies fight militants affiliated with al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. Aid workers fear numerous assaults have occurred but say many women are silenced by shame in the deeply conservative culture. One woman who fled said what happened to her “stays between God and me.” The silence hurts efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.

Wembanyama’s return lifts Spurs to NBA Cup final, handing Thunder just 2nd loss

December 13, 2025

By MARK ANDERSON - AP Sports Writer

Victor Wembanyama returned from a 12-game absence to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a 111-109 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The win on Saturday night puts the Spurs in the NBA Cup final against the New York Knicks on Tuesday. Oklahoma City entered on a 16-game winning streak and now stands at 24-2, the second-best start in NBA history. Wembanyama scored 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds, earning “M-V-P” chants from the crowd. Despite a minutes restriction, he makes a significant impact. The Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led his team with 29 points.

Takeaways from AP report on sexual violence in Mali

December 13, 2025

By MONIKA PRONCZUK - Associated Press

Multiple women have told The Associated Press they survived or witnessed alleged rapes and other sexual assaults committed by a new Russian military unit in Mali. The Russians are assisting Mali’s military in hunting down extremists. The U.N. and aid workers say men, women and children have been sexually assaulted by all sides during the conflict, with reports of gang rape and sexual slavery. But few cases are reported. Aid workers and others cite a veil of shame that makes it difficult for women from conservative, patriarchal societies to seek help. That silence also hurts efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.

PHOTO ESSAY: Refugees flee Mali as region is the world’s deadliest for extremism

December 13, 2025

By CAITLIN KELLY - Associated Press

DOUANKARA, Mauritania (AP) — A makeshift village in the Mauritanian desert shelters thousands of refugees who have fled Mali in recent weeks as fighting intensifies against militants linked to al-Qaida. Strips of fabric tied between sticks serve as homes. Tree branches double as storage. Many people fled without their livestock, the source of their livelihoods. There is little protection from…

Jalen Brunson’s season-high 40 points lead Knicks past Magic to NBA Cup final

December 13, 2025

By MARK ANDERSON - AP Sports Writer

Jalen Brunson scored a season-high 40 points to lead the Knicks past the Orlando Magic 132-120. The win put New York in the NBA Cup final. The Knicks have won five in a row and nine of their last 10 games. Brunson also had eight assists and made 16 of 27 shots. Karl-Anthony Towns added 29 points for the Knicks. Jalen Suggs scored 25 of his 26 points in the first half for the Magic before leaving in the fourth quarter with a sore left hip. The Knicks will play San Antonio on Tuesday night for the championship.

Photos show police investigation of a shooting at Brown University.

December 13, 2025

AP

Providence, R.I. (AP) — A shooter dressed in black killed multiple people and wounded several others at Brown University on Saturday during final exams on the Ivy League campus, authorities said, and police were searching for the suspect. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Categories: US & World News

Jimmy Lai, former pro-democracy newspaper founder, to hear verdict in national security case

December 13, 2025

By KANIS LEUNG - Associated Press

A Hong Kong court will deliver its verdict in the national security case of former pro-democracy newspaper founder Jimmy Lai on Monday. Lai faces up to life in prison if convicted. The ruling is closely watched by foreign governments and political observers as a test of judicial independence and media freedom in Hong Kong. Lai, 78, was arrested in 2020 under a national security law imposed by Beijing. He pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiring to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious articles. Lai’s trial has drawn international attention, with the U.S. and U.K. calling for his release.

High-end car sales sink in China as its economy slows, taking a toll on European automakers

December 13, 2025

By CHAN HO-HIM - AP Business Writer

Chinese demand for foreign luxury cars is waning as customers opt for more affordable Chinese brand models. Those are often sold at big discounts catering to their taste for fancy electronics and comfort. That is bad news for European carmakers like Porsche, Aston Martin, Mercedes-Benz and BMW that have long dominated the upper reaches of the world’s largest auto market. Car dealerships in China are offering bigger discounts on used premium cars and domestic automakers are dropping prices. Experts cite a slowing economy and growing reluctance to display wealth as reasons for the slowing demand. Chinese manufacturers are gaining ground with innovation and more competitive pricing, impacting European brands.

The Latest: Deadly shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island

December 13, 2025

AP

At least two people have been killed and eight critically wounded in a shooting at Brown University. Providence, Rhode Island, Mayor Mayor Brett Smiley said those are the only known injuries and casualties.. University officials initially told students and staff that a suspect was in custody, before later saying that was not the case and that police were still searching for a suspect or suspects, according to alerts issued through Brown’s emergency notification system.

Michigan expands investigation after firing Sherrone Moore, AP source says

December 13, 2025

By LARRY LAGE - AP Sports Writer

The law firm hired by the University of Michigan to investigate former football coach Sherrone Moore’s relationship with a staffer will continue its probe of the program and is prepared to expand its inquiry throughout the athletic department. That’s according to two people familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the details. Michigan fired Moore on Wednesday, when the school said an investigation uncovered his inappropriate relationship with a staffer. He is married with three daughters.

Guerin alters Wild’s recipe for success by trading for former Norris Trophy winner Quinn Hughes

December 13, 2025

By PATRICK DONNELLY - Associated Press

Bill Guerin was wrist deep in a bowl of meatballs when he completed one of the biggest trades in Minnesota Wild history. The Wild general manager found out Friday night that Vancouver Canucks president Jim Rutherford had agreed to trade former Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Quinn Hughes to Minnesota for three young players and a future first-round draft pick. Guerin told reporters Saturday that he was making meatballs for Christmas Eve dinner when Rutherford called. The move is the clearest indication that Guerin and Wild are going all in this season as they seek their first Stanley Cup in the team’s 25-year history.

Oscar Cluff scores 22, Braden Smith reaches new milestone as No. 6 Purdue beats Marquette 79-59

December 13, 2025

By MICHAEL MAROT - AP Sports Writer

Oscar Cluff made all nine of his shots and finished with a season-high 22 points, and Braden Smith achieved yet another milestone with 10 more assists to lead No. 6 Purdue past Marquette 79-59. It took Smith only 12 seconds to find Fletcher Loyer for a 3-pointer, making him the second Division I men’s basketball player with 1,500 points, 850 assists and 550 rebounds. The other is D.J. Cooper. The Boilermakers have won two straight since last weekend’s embarrassing 23-point home loss to then-No. 10 Iowa State. Royce Parham finished with 19 points to lead Marquette, which has lost by 20 points each of the last two Saturdays.

Packers running back Emanuel Wilson joins Josh Jacobs on injured report

December 13, 2025

AP

The Green Bay Packers are unsure about the availability of either of their top two running backs for Sunday’s game at Denver. Green Bay added Emanuel Wilson to its injury report Saturday because of an illness and labeled him questionable. Josh Jacobs already had been listed as questionable Friday with a knee issue. Jacobs didn’t practice Wednesday or Thursday. He did practice on a limited basis Friday. The NFC North-leading Packers will be seeking their fifth straight victory Sunday when they visit the AFC West-leading Broncos. Denver has won 10 straight games.

Ugochukwu scores career-high 23, leads No. 9 Michigan State over Penn State 76-72

December 13, 2025

By TRAVIS JOHNSON - Associated Press

Divine Ugochukwu scored a career-high 23 points and No. 9 Michigan State overcame a sloppy performance to beat Penn State 76-72 on Saturday. Jaxon Kohler posted his fifth double-double of the season with 10 points and 12 rebounds while Carson Cooper added 10 points for the Spartans (9-1, 2-0 Big Ten), who committed a season-high 17 turnovers and trailed for long stretches in both halves. They were able to bear down, however, and avoid a second-straight loss after falling to No. 4 Duke on Monday.

Amy Schumer says she and her husband have decided to end their marriage

December 13, 2025

AP

Comedian Amy Schumer says she and her husband, chef Chris Fischer, have decided to end their marriage. The 44-year-old actress made the announcement on social media on Friday. Schumer and Fischer were married in February 2018 in Malibu, California. Their son was born in May 2019. The two starred together in the Food Network show “Amy Schumer Learns to Cook” and the HBO mini-series “Expecting Amy” that documents her difficult pregnancy. In her social media post, Schumer says the two love each other very much and will continue to focus on raising their son.