Morning news brief

The Justice Department has released a second batch of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, which includes a fake passport and copies of his will, as part of ongoing efforts to disclose information surrounding his criminal activities. This release follows previous batches that have been heavily redacted, raising questions about transparency.

President Trump has announced the creation of the 'Golden Fleet,' a new class of Navy battleships, with the USS Defiant being the first vessel in this initiative. This fleet aims to modernize the U.S. Navy and enhance its capabilities with advanced weaponry.

The Trump administration has approved the deployment of 350 National Guard troops to New Orleans as part of a federal initiative coinciding with an immigration enforcement operation by Border Patrol in the area. This deployment comes as the city prepares for the New Year, highlighting ongoing federal involvement in local law enforcement matters.

President Trump praised the latest GDP report, which indicated a 4.3 percent annual growth rate for the U.S. economy, while expressing disappointment over the market's negative reaction to this news. He highlighted the strength of his economic policies amidst ongoing challenges.

The Trump administration has ordered a suspension of five large-scale offshore wind projects along the East Coast for at least 90 days, as indicated in letters from the Interior Department. This decision comes amid concerns over national security risks associated with these renewable energy initiatives.

In 2025, President Trump urged Republican-led states to redraw congressional maps in preparation for the 2026 elections, a move aimed at gaining electoral advantages that could influence control of the House of Representatives.

U.S. District Judge Boasberg has ruled that former President Trump must ensure due process for migrants from the CECOT program, highlighting the legal obligations surrounding immigration policies. This decision comes as the Trump administration continues to navigate complex immigration issues amid ongoing scrutiny.

Denmark's government has expressed strong disapproval following President Trump's appointment of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as the U.S. special envoy to Greenland, labeling the announcement as 'completely unacceptable.' This appointment, made on December 22, 2025, has reignited tensions regarding U.S. interests in Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark.