Madonna pens scathing post against Trump for 'unthinkable' decision to ignore World AIDS Day

The White House has distanced itself from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding allegations that he ordered military strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of all individuals on board. A spokesperson clarified that while Hegseth gave the order for strikes, he did not instruct to 'kill everybody.'

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has proposed a new travel ban on visitors from certain countries following the fatal shooting of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom in Washington, D.C., by an Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal. This incident has reignited discussions around national security and immigration policies, echoing the hardline stance of former President Donald Trump.

Tennessee's 7th District special election is set for December 2, featuring Democrat Aftyn Behn and Republican Matt Van Epps, making it a focal point for congressional control as both parties invest heavily in the race. The district has historically favored Republicans, having supported Donald Trump in the 2024 elections.

Costco has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government to secure refunds for tariffs if the Supreme Court rules against former President Trump's authority to impose such tariffs. This legal action comes as the retailer faces a December 15 deadline that could impact the recovery of duties paid on imported goods.

In Los Angeles, ICE has intensified its focus on car wash workers, employing tactics described as 'psychological warfare' by advocates like Andrea Gonzalez and Norma Fajardo from the Clean Carwash Worker Center. This surge in enforcement coincides with the Trump administration's broader immigration policies aimed at mass deportation, marking a significant shift in the treatment of immigrant workers in the region.

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow as part of efforts to negotiate peace in Ukraine. This meeting follows a series of productive discussions between U.S. negotiators and Ukrainian officials aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas expressed concerns that upcoming talks between U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin may exert undue pressure on Ukraine to concede in ongoing negotiations. Kallas emphasized that the focus should remain on Russia's role in initiating the conflict and targeting civilians.

A special election is taking place in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, previously held by Republican Mark Green, with Democrat Aftyn Behn and Republican Matt Van Epps vying for the seat. This election, scheduled for December 2, has become highly competitive despite the district's strong Republican lean, as President Trump won it by 22 points in 2024.