Author: Loisa Lane

President Trump announced a reduction in joint military exercises with South Korea, citing their refusal to participate in efforts to denuclearise Iran. He labelled the exercises as costly and provocative towards North Korea, stressing that their reduction is “somewhat unrelated” to this refusal.

Pennsylvania State Representative Chris Rabb, the Democratic nominee for the state’s third congressional district, discussed his platform on “Face the Nation,” advocating for health care as a human right and increased wages. He asserted that voters seek a fighter for their interests, rather than a label.

The Trump administration has requested intervention from the Supreme Court to proceed with a $400 million project replacing the demolished White House East Wing. This follows a federal appeals court ruling stating the White House likely lacks authority for the construction without congressional approval.

Severe flooding has affected the Midwest as Tropical Storm Lala approaches Hawaii. Additionally, industry insights reveal developments within a prominent spy satellite company, while a year has passed since President Putin’s meeting with President Trump.

Democrats have approved a new presidential primary calendar for 2028, placing South Carolina first on January 22, followed by Nevada and others through February. This shift aims to better reflect the party’s diverse voter base, moving away from the traditional influence of Iowa and New Hampshire.

Federal authorities have apprehended Rigoberto Brown, a fugitive charged with conspiring to monopolise the Texas-Mexico transmigrante forwarding industry. His arrest near McAllen follows an investigation into a price-fixing scheme led by Carlos Martinez, now serving an 11-year prison sentence for similar charges. Brown faces significant penalties if convicted.

Major stock markets experienced mixed trading on Friday, with oil prices rising and the dollar weakening. Investors remain focused on U.S. interest rate forecasts and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The Kospi index, having rebounded over 20% from a significant drop, reflects this volatility.

Netanyahu rejects a US-led Gaza plan, distancing himself from Trump to solidify support ahead of elections.

Israeli attack on Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil was found to be deliberate, a probe by three rights groups reveals.

Israeli settlers are intensifying violence in Qusra, leaving Palestinian families trapped in their homes without water or electricity.