U.S. military captures Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in raid, sparking global tensions
U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a raid, leading to his arraignment on drug trafficking charges. The operation resulted in casualties among Venezuelan and Cuban security personnel and has heightened geopolitical tensions, with the Trump administration indicating plans to influence Venezuela's governance and oil industry.
Sources: AP News, NPR
Trump administration pushes for U.S. takeover of Greenland, drawing international backlash
The Trump administration reiterated its intention to take over Greenland for Arctic security, prompting Denmark and Greenland to seek talks with U.S. officials. European leaders have rejected the proposal, warning it could undermine NATO.
Sources: AP News
Massive Homeland Security operation deploys 2,000 agents to Minnesota for immigration crackdown
The Department of Homeland Security launched its largest-ever immigration enforcement operation, sending 2,000 agents to Minnesota. The crackdown is tied to fraud allegations involving Somali residents and has sparked criticism from local officials and immigrant rights groups.
Sources: AP News, NPR
Iranian protests escalate over economic crisis, with security forces clashing with demonstrators
Protests in Iran over economic hardship and currency devaluation have intensified, with clashes at Tehran's Grand Bazaar and a rising death toll. The unrest has drawn warnings from U.S. President Trump, while Iranian leaders blame sanctions and internal issues.
Sources: AP News, NPR
CIA turncoat Aldrich Ames dies in prison after spying for Soviet Union
Aldrich Ames, a former CIA officer who spied for the Soviet Union and Russia, died in prison at 84. His espionage, which led to the execution of Western agents, was one of the most damaging breaches in U.S. history.
Sources: AP News, NPR
Trump administration freezes federal funding to five states over fraud concerns
The Trump administration withheld $10 billion in social safety net funds from Minnesota, California, Colorado, Illinois, and New York due to fraud suspicions, influenced by viral allegations from pro-Trump influencers.
Sources: AP News, NPR
Venezuela oil deal announced as Trump seeks to leverage Maduro's capture
President Trump announced that Venezuela will provide 30-50 million barrels of oil to the U.S. at market prices, with proceeds intended to benefit both countries. This follows the capture of Maduro and ongoing U.S. pressure on Venezuela's government.
Sources: AP News, NPR
False narratives on social media impact California policy after LA wildfires
Misinformation spread on social media about post-fire recovery efforts in Los Angeles influenced state policy, leading to the pausing of a bill aimed at creating a central rebuilding authority. The false claims distracted from legitimate recovery needs.
Sources: NPR
Michael Reagan, eldest son of President Ronald Reagan, dies at 80
Sources: AP News
Entertainment and tech innovations highlighted at CES 2026
Sources: AP News