Tens of thousands in Washington state could face evacuations as rain continues to pound the region

Bajun Mavalwalla, an Afghanistan war veteran, has been arrested on felony conspiracy charges following his participation in a protest against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Spokane, Washington. He maintains his innocence and is preparing for a jury trial, while others arrested during the same protest have opted for plea agreements to avoid lengthy prison sentences.

The U.S. suicide rate experienced a slight decline in 2024, following a period of elevated levels, according to preliminary data. This marks a notable shift in a concerning trend that has persisted in recent years.

The Federal Reserve has announced a cut in interest rates for the third time this year during a rate-setting meeting in Washington, which occurred amid a data blackout due to the prolonged federal government shutdown this fall. This decision reflects ongoing economic challenges and inflation concerns that have influenced the Fed's monetary policy.

The Trump administration has announced a postponement of steep tariffs on pasta, allowing consumers to continue enjoying their favorite dishes without immediate price increases. This decision is expected to delay the impact of tariffs until next April, providing temporary relief to pasta lovers across the United States.

A series of powerful storms has impacted the Pacific north-west of the United States, particularly affecting Washington and Oregon. These storms have resulted in heavy rainfall, swollen rivers, and necessitated high-water rescues across several areas. An atmospheric river is responsible for the intense weather, bringing significant precipitation and snowfall to the region.

President Trump, in a recent interview, did not dismiss the possibility of deploying U.S. troops to Venezuela, amid escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. He refrained from making definitive statements regarding military intervention, indicating a cautious approach to the situation.

Kyiv and Washington have established a framework aimed at catalyzing investment in Ukraine, focusing on critical minerals essential for future resilience. This initiative is part of broader efforts to support Ukraine amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic challenges.

A recent survey reveals that more local officials are expressing concerns about the negative impact of political polarization on the nation, particularly in larger communities, coinciding with increased political violence and legislative gridlock in Washington.