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Russia promises retaliation after saying Ukraine fired US-supplied missiles

Russia promises retaliation after saying Ukraine fired US-supplied missiles

Outgoing US President Joe Biden has authorised Kyiv to use the long-range weapons against Russia. Russia has pledged to retaliate after it claimed to have shot down eight US-supplied ATACMS missiles fired by Ukraine at its border region of Belgorod. “On January 3, an attempt was made from Ukrainian territory to launch a missile attack against the Belgorod region using US-made ATACMS operational-tactical missiles,” the Russian Ministry of Defence said on Saturday. “These actions by the Kyiv regime, which is supported by Western curators, will be met with retaliation,” it added, saying all the missiles were shot down. The ministry said earlier that air defences downed eight ATACMS missiles in total, without saying when or where. Officials in Ukraine have not yet responded to the accusation. The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) has a range of 300km (190 miles) and was first developed in the 1980s. Outgoing US President Joe Biden had authorised Kyiv to use long-range weapons against Russia last year, in a move the Kremlin denounced as a grave escalation of the nearly three-year conflict. Biden is expected to announce additional security assistance for Ukraine in the coming days, according to White House spokesperson John Kirby. Advertisement US President-elect Donald Trump said in an interview last month he was “very vehemently” opposed to Ukraine using the arms, which he said were “escalating” the conflict. Besides military support from the US, Kyiv will also reportedly receive its first French Mirage 2000-5F multirole fighters this month, according to French magazine Avions Legendaires. Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened last year to strike central Kyiv with a hypersonic ballistic missile if Ukraine continued hitting Russian territory with long-range Western weapons. Both Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of fatal attacks on civilians since the year began. A Russian attack on a village in Ukraine’s northeast Kharkiv region earlier on Saturday killed a 74-year-old man, regional Governor Oleg Synegubov said. At least three people, including two children, were wounded in a Russian attack on the Sumy region of northeastern Ukraine on Saturday, local authorities said. Sumy borders Russia’s Kursk region and has been regularly shelled by Russian forces for months. Russian forces also launched attacks near the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk in an effort to bypass it from the south and cut off supply routes to Ukraine’s troops, the Ukrainian military said on Saturday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Russia had launched 300 attack drones and 20 missiles at Ukrainian targets in the first three days of 2025, but said a large amount was shot down by Kyiv’s forces. “Such Russian terror, which continues with unrelenting intensity, requires both us and all our partners not to reduce efforts in strengthening our air defence shield and all its systemic components – from Patriot systems to mobile fire groups,” Zelenskyy said on his social media platforms. Advertisement US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will embark on his final trip in office this weekend, travelling to South Korea, Japan, and France. At meetings in Paris, he is expected to discuss European security and Russia’s war in Ukraine with French officials, showcasing the Biden administration’s final outreach towards Kyiv before the Trump government takes over. Adblock test (Why?)

Biden notifies US Congress of planned $8bn arms sales to Israel: Reports

Biden notifies US Congress of planned bn arms sales to Israel: Reports

The administration of outgoing United States President Joe Biden has notified Congress of a planned $8bn arms sale to Israel, according to US media reports, as the ally continues its devastating war on Gaza. The Department of State sent the foreign affairs committees of the House and the Senate the notification on Friday, US media reported on Saturday, citing unnamed officials. The weapons will include 500-pound (226kg) warheads, precision-guided munitions, artillery shells, missiles for jets and attack helicopters, and bomb fuses, along with air-to-air missiles to intercept projectiles, the reports said. Some production and delivery of the munitions can be fulfilled through existing US stock, but the majority is expected to be delivered to Israel over a longer period, according to the US outlets. In August, Washington approved a separate package worth $20bn, which included jets, military vehicles, bombs and missiles. In November, the Biden administration approved another $680m arms package to Israel, including small-diameter bombs and precision-guidance kits. Advertisement After the US president last year briefly paused the supply of a single shipment of 2,000-pound (907kg) bombs that have caused widespread destruction across Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly blasted him. Biden has consistently emphasised his commitment to the US ally and its “self-defence” despite mounting criticism over the killing of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Al Jazeera’s Alan Fisher, reporting from Washington, DC, said the sale was likely to be approved by Congress. “We’ve already heard from Mike Johnson, the new Speaker in the House, who said one of his priorities is to make sure Israel, their friend and ally, feels supported by the US. To block it, you’d need two-thirds votes in both houses, and that’s simply not going to happen,” he said. “The weapons are continuing to be sent to Israel even though a number of Democratic lawmakers have expressed their concerns that the US continues to provide weapons when the Israeli military does not do enough to combat the humanitarian crisis in Gaza,” he added. In addition to warning over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, rights groups have accused Israel of carrying out “acts of genocide” in its war, and Israel has been ordered by the International Court of Justice to take steps to prevent genocide from occurring in the Palestinian territory. A UN commission of inquiry has accused Israel of carrying out a policy to destroy the healthcare system in Gaza, where some 90 percent of the population has been displaced. Advertisement Israel escalates attacks Israel has intensified its attacks on Gaza in recent days, killing more than 100 people, according to Palestinian health authorities. The Israeli military on Friday ordered the forced evacuation of staff and patients from two hospitals in northern Gaza under threat of attack, days after its forces stormed the Kamal Adwan Hospital and detained its director. At least 11 people from the same family were killed in the Shujayea neighbourhood in northern Gaza on Saturday. “At about 2am [00:00 GMT] we were woken up by the sound of a huge explosion,” said Ahmed Ayyan, a neighbour of the al-Ghoula family, adding 14 or 15 people were staying in the house. “Most of them were women and children, they were all civilians. There is no one there who shot missiles or is from the resistance.” Since Israel launched its war on Gaza in October 2023, at least 45,717 people have been killed and 108,856 others have been wounded, according to Palestinian health authorities. The surge of Israeli attacks on Gaza in recent days comes as the Israeli government and Hamas authorised representatives to travel to Qatar for talks on a potential ceasefire and captive and prisoner exchange. Palestinians recite a prayer over the bodies of members of the al-Ghoula family at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital after an Israeli attack on their home in the Shujayea neighbourhood of Gaza City, January 4, 2025 [Omar Al-Qattaa/AFP] Adblock test (Why?)

Johnson reveals Trump’s wishes on delivering huge policy overhaul in closed-door meeting

Johnson reveals Trump’s wishes on delivering huge policy overhaul in closed-door meeting

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told Republican lawmakers on Saturday that President-elect Trump supports a conservative policy overhaul via a single large bill, three sources told Fox News Digital. Trump wants both the House and Senate to have such a bill on his desk by May, the sources said. The president-elect’s buy-in will likely end the growing intraparty friction on how to pass Republican goals next year via a process known as “reconciliation,” which lawmakers plan to use to pass conservative policy and budget changes. House Republicans met behind closed doors in Washington’s Fort McNair on Saturday to discuss the plan. JOHNSON BLASTS DEM ACCUSATIONS HE VOWED TO END OBAMACARE AS ‘DISHONEST’ Reconciliation allows the Senate to bypass its traditional 60-vote threshold in favor of a simple majority, provided the legislation is focused on budgetary and other fiscal matters. Both parties have traditionally used reconciliation to pass broad policy changes in a single bill. But the legislation also goes through a strict assessment where the Senate parliamentarian is tasked with deciding what is and is not relevant to U.S. fiscal matters.  Notably, Democrats previously tried to use reconciliation to pass mass amnesty measures, but they were blocked. Republicans might face similar issues with their push to add border security provisions to the bill. They’re also aiming to use it to extend Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017, as well as to pass measures on energy and defense. The apparent decision by Johnson on Saturday comes after Congressional Republicans were at odds over whether to pass one or two reconciliation bills. REPUBLICANS GIVE DETAILS FROM CLOSED-DOOR MEETINGS WITH DOGE’S MUSK, RAMASWAMY It is a process normally used once per year, but Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., floated a plan last month to split Republicans’ priorities into two bills – one dealing with the border and defense and a second aimed at preserving Trump’s tax policy.  The plan was also backed by top Trump adviser Stephen Miller. But that push angered Republicans on the House Ways and Means Committee, who warned that two reconciliation bills could be too big a lift, and putting taxes second could imperil remaining GOP tax provisions that are set to expire at the end of this year. House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith, R-Mo., pointed out on Fox Business Network’s’ “Mornings With Maria” that Congress has not passed two reconciliation bills into law in one year since 1997. “I am saying we need a reconciliation bill that has border, energy, permitting and tax. You put all four of those things together, we can deliver on that,” Smith said. The panel put out a memo last month warning that everyday Americans could see their taxes rise by 22% if Trump’s tax policies expire. But other lawmakers bristled at the idea that two bills were impossible. House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris, R-Md., told Fox News Digital last month, “I think we need to prove to the American people that we can actually defend our borders. The bottom line is, I think they need to be on almost parallel tracks. But I do believe that taxes are much more complicated.” Fox News Digital reached out to Thune and Smith’s offices for comment. Thune’s office responded and declined to comment, and Smith’s office did not immediately respond.

Jimmy Carter’s funeral services begin with trek to childhood home, Atlanta

Jimmy Carter’s funeral services begin with trek to childhood home, Atlanta

The week-long state funeral services honoring former President Jimmy Carter, who died at 100 last week, began Saturday morning. The ceremonies will honor Carter’s journey from his hometown of Plains, Georgia, to his esteemed role on the global humanitarian stage and as the 39th American president. On Saturday morning, individuals gathered in downtown Plains to place flowers at the base of Carter’s monument. The tribute also featured Habitat for Humanity hard hats adorned with handwritten messages, including one that read, “God bless you, Mr. President,” USA Today first reported. His specific cause of death on Dec. 29 was unclear. Carter’s death followed the passing of his wife Rosalynn on Nov. 19, 2023. She died at the age of 96 with her family by her side at the Carter home in Plains, just days after she had been admitted to hospice care.  JIMMY CARTER, 39TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, DEAD AT 100 Carter was the oldest living president.  Here is the order of funeral events: •10:15 a.m.: The Carter family will arrive at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia. Nine current and former Secret Service agents of Carter’s administration will serve as pallbearers, escorting his remains to the hearse. •10:50 a.m.: The motorcade will travel through Plains, pausing briefly at Carter’s boyhood home in Archery. During this pause, the National Park Service will ring the historic farm bell 39 times, symbolizing Carter’s tenure as the 39th President. •10:55 a.m.: The journey to Atlanta will begin. FORMER PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER TO SPEND ‘REMAINING TIME’ AT HOME RECEIVING HOSPICE CARE •3:00 p.m.: Upon arrival in Atlanta, the motorcade will stop at the Georgia State Capitol for a moment of silence led by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, and members of the Georgia General Assembly. Georgia State Patrol troopers, both current and retired, will assemble on the Capitol steps, with those who served on Carter’s security detail during his governorship taking a place of distinction. •3:45 p.m.: An arrival ceremony will take place at the Carter Presidential Center. •4:00 p.m.: A private service will be conducted in the lobby of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum. •7:00 p.m.: President Carter will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Center, allowing the public to pay their respects until 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7. •Jan. 7: President Carter’s remains will be transported to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol for national homage. •Jan. 9: A national funeral service will be held at the Washington National Cathedral, with President Joe Biden expected to deliver the eulogy. Biden declared Thursday a National Day of Mourning.  JIMMY CARTER EXPECTED TO LIE IN ROTUNDA AHEAD OF STATE FUNERAL SCHEDULED BY BIDEN •Following the Washington service, Carter’s remains will return to Georgia for a private funeral at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. Carter will then be laid to rest next to his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, at their residence. Fox News Digital’s Andrea Magolis contributed to this report. 

Outrage as Biden set to award Hillary Clinton, George Soros with Presidential Medal of Freedom

Outrage as Biden set to award Hillary Clinton, George Soros with Presidential Medal of Freedom

Social media erupted in anger Saturday morning with news that President Biden will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and left-wing billionaire George Soros. The award, the nation’s highest civilian honor, is given to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors, the White House said in a statement. Tesla founder Elon Musk led the furious outcry, labeling the decision to award Soros the honor as “a travesty.” Musk shared a video clip of himself on Joe Rogan’s podcast where he said he believed that Soros “fundamentally hates humanity.” “He’s doing things that erode the fabric of civilization. You know, getting DAs elected who refuse to prosecute crime,” he says in the clip.  PRESIDENT BIDEN AWARDS MEDAL OF HONOR TO SEVEN ARMY VETERANS Online commentator Blake Habyan wrote, “What a joke — these people have done the exact opposite of what the award is intended for,” while Natalie F Danelishen wrote that the news could be a Babylon Bee story given how unbelievable it is.  “Seriously, two of the worst people on earth,” she wrote. Clinton, the White House said, made “history many times over decades in public service” and the first female senator from New York and the first, First Lady to simultaneously hold elected office. After serving as Secretary of State, she became the first woman nominated for president by a major United States political party. As the Democrat nominee, she lost her bid to be the country’s first female president when she lost to President-elect Trump in the 2016 election. However, her tenure as Secretary of State came in for much criticism over her handling of the war in Libya and the attack on United States government facilities in Benghazi, Libya on Sept. 11, 2012. Four Americans died in the attack, including Ambassador Christopher Stevens. She also used a private email server for government business. Although FBI Director James Comey said publicly that Clinton mishandled classified information, he declined to recommend prosecution and the Justice Department refused to move forward with the case. Her husband, former President Bill Clinton, was bestowed the same honor by former President Barack Obama.  Soros, a mega-Democrat donor, runs a web of non-profits that bankroll various candidates around the world who align with his progressive agenda, including his Open Society Foundations. Soros has given over $32 billion to Open Society Foundations since 1984, according to its website.  The White House said that Soros’ philanthropy across the world has strengthened democracy, human rights, education and social justice. However, commentators on the right have slammed him for funding progressive district attorneys who have been light on crime, which they say has led to crime waves in Blue cities.  Saturday’s ceremony comes just days after Biden awarded former Republican Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney and Mississippi Democrat Rep. Bennie Thompson with the Presidential Citizens Medal after the pair oversaw the controversial Jan. 6 House Select Committee. The Presidential Citizens Medal is the second-highest civilian medal. Clinton and Soros are among 17 other prominent figures to be bestowed the award, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Those being presented with the honor represent prominent figures in politics, fashion, sport, entertainment and activism. Robert Francis Kennedy, the former Attorney General, will be posthumously awarded the gong, while other notable recipients include actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, U2 frontman Bono, former basketballer Earvin “Magic” Johnson and soccer star Lionel Messi. “President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else,” a White House statement reads. “These nineteen Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.” SOROS DAS SUFFER 12 BIG DEFEATS, BILLIONAIRE’S AGENDA FACES UNCERTAIN FUTURE Kennedy, the father of former Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is being recognized for combatting racial segregation and as a United States Senator, “sought to address poverty and inequality in the country.” His legacy continues to inspire those committed to justice, equality, and public service, the White House said.  José Andrés, celebrity chef and founder of the World Central Kitchen charity group. Bono, frontman for rock band U2 and an activist against AIDS and poverty.  Ashton Baldwin Carter (posthumous), 25th Secretary of Defense. Hillary Rodham Clinton, former First Lady and former Secretary of State.  Michael J. Fox, Grammy Award-winning actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease research and development. Tim Gill, entrepreneur, LGBTQ rights advocate.  Dr. Jane Goodall, world-renowned ethologist and conservationist. Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumous), civil rights advocate and founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party. Earvin “Magic” Johnson, legendary retired basketball player and philanthropist who supports underserved communities through his Magic Johnson Foundation. Robert Francis Kennedy (posthumous), former Attorney General and New York Senator. Ralph Lauren, world-renowned fashion designer and cancer research advocate  Lionel Messi, soccer’s most decorated player, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador who supports healthcare and education programs for children William Sanford Nye, often referred to as “Bill Nye the Science Guy,” a science educator who advocates for space exploration and environmental stewardship. George W. Romney (posthumous), businessman and former Governor of Michigan David M. Rubenstein, co-founder and co-chairman of The Carlyle Group, philanthropist who supports the restoration of historic landmarks and cultural institutions. George Soros, philanthropist and Open Society Foundations founder. George Stevens, Jr., author and playright.  Denzel Washington, actor, director, and producer who has won two Academy Awards. Served as National Spokesman for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for over 25 years. Anna Wintour, fashion icon and the editor-in-chief of Vogue.