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As of November 10, 2025, the US government shutdown, the longest in history at over 40 days, is close to ending after bipartisan talks yielded a short-term funding deal. The impasse, rooted in disputes over healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, has caused widespread disruptions including unpaid federal workers, flight cancellations, and halted food aid for millions.
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The US is intensifying efforts to reduce Russian energy exports, urging Japan to stop importing Russian LNG and India to cease Russian oil purchases. Discussions include potential tariffs on Chinese exports and diplomatic talks with Russia, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions over Ukraine and energy security.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will visit Washington from November 17-19, his first US trip since 2018. Discussions with President Trump will focus on political, economic, and security issues, including potential normalization with Israel and a US-Saudi security pact. The visit follows a fragile Gaza ceasefire brokered by Trump and his recent Gulf tour.
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The US has increased military presence in the Caribbean, deploying the USS Gerald Ford and other warships to Trinidad and Tobago for training exercises amid ongoing tensions with Venezuela. The move follows recent strikes on alleged drug traffickers and regional diplomatic protests.
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Congresswoman Nancy Mace is embroiled in a dispute following an airport incident where she was reportedly irate and confrontational with security staff. She claims the report is fabricated and politically motivated, while critics, including fellow lawmakers, condemn her behavior. The story highlights ongoing security and political tensions in South Carolina.
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Congresswoman Nancy Mace is embroiled in multiple lawsuits stemming from her February speech, which accused several men of serious crimes. She claims her ex-fiance Patrick Bryant fabricated allegations against her and is suing for defamation and emotional distress. Mace also disputes police reports of her airport conduct, alleging political conspiracy.
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The Palestinian national football team played their first match in Europe since 2023, at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, with 50,000 spectators. The game was a political statement supporting Palestinian rights, with many fans waving flags and paying tribute to slain players, amid ongoing Israeli military actions in Gaza.
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U.S. officials dispute the origin of a proposed peace plan for Ukraine, which calls for major concessions. Zelensky and allies oppose the plan, fearing it rewards Russia. The plan's authorship and intent remain contested amid diplomatic negotiations and internal disagreements.
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The ICC faces internal and external pressures as US sanctions target staff, including the acting prosecutor Karim Niang, amid ongoing investigations into US and Israeli officials. The court's independence is reaffirmed, but member withdrawals and delays in internal probes threaten its future. The 24th Assembly is ongoing today.
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The Pentagon refuses to release a full, unedited video of a controversial September strike in which 11 people were killed, citing national security. Congress and critics demand transparency amid ongoing debates over legality and morality of the attack, which targeted alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean and Pacific.
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As of December 21, 2025, US-led peace negotiations involving Ukraine, Russia, and European allies remain deadlocked over territorial concessions in the Donbas region. Ukraine rejects ceding land to Russia without security guarantees, while Russia demands recognition of its control over occupied territories. US President Trump urges acceptance of a peace plan and threatens increased sanctions if Russia rebuffs diplomacy.
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Ireland plans to restrict its proposed law on trade with Israeli settlements to only goods, excluding services, amid pressure from Israel and the US. The bill aims to prohibit imports from occupied territories but faces domestic and international debate over its scope and implications.
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Since the Gaza ceasefire began in October 2025, violations by Israel continue, threatening the fragile peace. Mediation efforts by the US, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey focus on advancing the second phase, including Israeli withdrawal and deployment of an international stabilization force. Humanitarian conditions worsen amid ongoing violence and storms.
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As of late December 2025, the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, brokered by President Trump, remains stalled amid disputes over Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawals, and the deployment of an international stabilization force. Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir is set to meet Trump to discuss troop contributions despite domestic opposition. Gaza endures ongoing ceasefire violations and humanitarian challenges.
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As of late December 2025, Iran's leadership declares a state of total war with the US, Israel, and Europe amid ongoing sanctions and military confrontations. Israel plans to press the US for further strikes targeting Iran's missile program during a high-level meeting. Iran insists its missile activities are defensive, while Israel warns of Iran rebuilding its ballistic missile and nuclear capabilities after the June 12-day war.
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Since the Gaza ceasefire began on October 10, violence continues with daily clashes. Israeli forces report violations, including an IED explosion injuring an IDF officer. Hamas and Israel accuse each other of breaches, complicating peace efforts and worsening Gaza's humanitarian crisis.
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On January 3, 2026, Donald Trump authorized US military strikes against Venezuela, capturing President Maduro and signaling potential ongoing involvement. The move has sparked bipartisan criticism over legality and risk of escalation, while some Republicans support the action as a crackdown on drug trafficking and regime illegitimacy.
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The US Congress is advancing a bipartisan bill that would impose tariffs up to 500% on nations, including India, China, and Brazil, that continue to buy Russian energy despite sanctions. The legislation aims to cut Moscow's funding for its Ukraine war, amid ongoing negotiations and global energy concerns.
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The US has seized the Russian-flagged tanker Marinera in the North Atlantic, accusing it of violating sanctions related to Venezuela, Russia, and Iran. Russia condemns the move as illegal and warns it will escalate tensions. The incident highlights ongoing US-Russia tensions over sanctions and maritime law.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to reduce dependence on US military aid within ten years, aiming for full independence. This shift follows Israel's development of its own military capabilities and a desire to reallocate US funds to domestic priorities. The move signals a significant change in US-Israel military relations.