The ACTUAL NEWS: Friday, December 20th 2024 Recap

Potential Government Shutdown, Biden Administration Cancels $4.28 Billion in Student Debt, Additional Aid for Ukraine, Trudeau Shuffles Cabinet, and More National and Global News

---

QUICK NEWS

• A Georgia appeals court ruled to disqualify Fani Willis from prosecuting the election interference case against Trump due to her romantic relationship with Nathan Wade, the lawyer she hired for the case.

• Trump transferred his shares in his social media company, Trump Media, to a trust managed by his son, Donald Trump Jr.

• U.S. authorities arrested a Chinese man accused of being involved in an attempt to influence local politics in California.

• Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo intends to file a defamation lawsuit against a woman who accused him of sexual harassment during his time in office.

• Trump is threatening Europe with tariffs unless it increases purchases of U.S. oil and gas, leaving European leaders uncertain on how to avoid a trade conflict.

• Federal prosecutors charged Luigi Mangione with murder in the death of UnitedHealthcare's CEO, with a potential death sentence if convicted.

• Starbucks baristas in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle have announced a strike for today.

• Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico is prepared to receive its citizens deported from the United States but will not accept deportees of other nationalities.

• An Egyptian national studying in Virginia was arrested by the FBI this week on charges of plotting a “mass casualty attack” against the Israeli Consulate in Midtown Manhattan.

• A car drove at full speed into a Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and more than 60 injuries. Authorities are investigating the incident as a potential terrorist attack.

• President Joe Biden will travel to Rome from January 9 to 12, where he will meet with Pope Francis and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The visit, taking place just before the end of his presidency, follows a recent phone call between Biden and the Pope to discuss global peace efforts.

Biden Administration Cancels $4.28 Billion in Student Debt for Public Service Workers

The Biden administration announced on Friday the cancellation of $4.28 billion in student debt for nearly 55,000 public service workers, bringing the total student loan forgiveness for public service employees to approximately $78 billion for nearly 1.1 million workers. This is part of President Joe Biden's broader effort to fulfill his 2020 campaign promise of providing debt relief to millions of Americans, with nearly 5 million individuals now approved for student debt relief under his administration.

Biden Administration Set to Announce Final Ukraine Security Assistance Package

The Biden administration will soon announce its final Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative package, utilizing the remaining funds allocated for new weapons for Ukraine. The package, valued at approximately $1.2 billion, is expected to include air defense interceptors and artillery munitions, though the exact details will be revealed in the upcoming announcement.

US Government Faces Partial Shutdown Amid Political Chaos and External Pressure

The US federal government is set to partially shut down at 12:01am ET on Saturday if a spending bill is not passed by Congress and signed by President Biden today. What was expected to be a smooth process has been complicated by President-elect Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has wielded significant influence over the Republican Party.

In Short

• House members, including 38 Republicans, rejected a spending plan endorsed by Donald Trump. The government will shut down at midnight if lawmakers cannot reach a deal.

• At Trump’s request, the plan included a two-year suspension of the debt ceiling, which some conservative members argued could lead to excessive government spending.

• Speaker Mike Johnson’s spending deal was undercut by Trump and Elon Musk, sparking renewed discussions about potentially ousting Johnson.

The situation began on Tuesday when GOP House Speaker Mike Johnson unveiled a bipartisan spending plan to fund the government through March 14, but it included provisions unrelated to government funding, which angered right-wing Republicans and Musk. On Wednesday, Musk used his social media platform to criticize the bill, amplifying opposition. Trump escalated the situation by announcing his opposition to the bill on Wednesday evening.

Trump then shifted his position on Thursday, demanding a bill that would either raise or eliminate the US debt ceiling, an unprecedented demand from a GOP leader. This led to the introduction of a revised bill championed by Trump and Musk, which aimed to avoid a shutdown, suspend the debt ceiling for two years, and include $110 billion in disaster aid. However, the bill failed to pass the House due to opposition from Republicans on the debt ceiling measure and near-universal Democratic rejection, accusing the GOP of bowing to Musk's influence.

If the shutdown occurs, federal employees would be furloughed, but essential workers like TSA and air traffic controllers would remain on duty without pay until the government is funded. In addition, U.S. troops, including those deployed to combat zones, would miss their next paycheck.

WH speaker Karine Jean-Pierre on the potential Gov shutdown: “This is the mess that Speaker Johnson has created and that’s what he needs to fix by holding himself accountable to the bipartisan deal. .. This is what republicans have to own after jamming their deal in the 11th hour.”

NHTSA Proposes Streamlined Review Process for Self-Driving Vehicles Amid Industry Frustrations

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Friday proposed a new framework to expedite reviews of exemptions for automakers seeking to deploy self-driving vehicles without traditional human controls such as steering wheels and brake pedals. Currently, NHTSA can authorize up to 2,500 such vehicles per manufacturer, but years-long delays in reviewing petitions have frustrated automakers.

Under existing laws, fully autonomous vehicles with required human controls can operate without explicit NHTSA approval. However, the lack of a clear regulatory framework has stymied broader deployment efforts, with industry leaders emphasizing the need for clarity to maintain U.S. competitiveness in the global market.

Industry Frustration and Safety Concerns

Automakers, including General Motors (GM), Ford, and Tesla, have faced hurdles in gaining approval for autonomous vehicle (AV) deployment. GM, for instance, withdrew petitions in both 2020 and 2023 after delays in the review process, and recently announced its exit from the Cruise robotaxi business. Similarly, Ford withdrew its 2021 petition following the closure of its self-driving venture, Argo AI, in 2022.

Meanwhile, safety concerns persist. In October 2023, a pedestrian was seriously injured by a GM Cruise vehicle, prompting scrutiny of self-driving technologies. NHTSA has launched multiple investigations into AVs from Cruise, Alphabet’s Waymo, Amazon’s Zoox, and Tesla. This includes an October inquiry into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system after reports of collisions, including a fatal crash.

Industry Push for Regulatory Reform

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, representing automakers such as GM, Toyota, Volkswagen, Hyundai, and others, welcomed NHTSA's proposal. The group called for urgent action to establish a regulatory framework, warning that delays could jeopardize U.S. leadership in autonomous technology.

President-elect Donald Trump has reportedly signaled support for easing deployment barriers. Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO and an advisor to Trump, announced plans to roll out driverless ride-hailing services by 2025, underscoring the urgency for regulatory reform.

A Global Race in Autonomous Technology

Automakers argue that regulatory clarity is crucial to ensuring the U.S. remains a leader in autonomous vehicle technology, especially as countries like China advance their AV initiatives. The proposed NHTSA framework aims to address these concerns by providing a streamlined pathway for approving petitions and enabling the broader deployment of self-driving vehicles on U.S. roads.

However, with safety concerns and high-profile incidents fueling skepticism, balancing innovation with public safety will remain a central challenge for regulators and the industry alike.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan to Step Down, Leaving Climate Actions at Risk

EPA Administrator Michael Regan announced he will step down on Dec. 31 after leading efforts under President Biden to combat climate change, reduce emissions, and promote clean energy. Regan's tenure included approving California’s clean car rules and finalizing EPA regulations to cut vehicle emissions by 49% by 2032. However, his departure comes as Donald Trump prepares to reverse Biden’s climate policies, including scrapping methane fees, rescinding vehicle pollution rules, and eliminating EV incentives. Trump also plans to reinstate California’s loss of authority to set its own emissions standards.

Britain Appoints Peter Mandelson as Ambassador to the U.S.

Britain has appointed Labour Party heavyweight Peter Mandelson as its new ambassador to the United States, marking a significant shift in its diplomatic strategy. Mandelson, a former European commissioner for trade and a pivotal figure in Labour's success under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, will take up the post in January, replacing career diplomat Karen Pierce, who is concluding her term.

This appointment, made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, comes at a crucial time as the UK navigates its relationship with the U.S. under the return of Donald Trump to power. Mandelson, known for his political acumen and behind-the-scenes maneuvering, is tasked with maintaining strong bilateral ties, particularly around key issues like Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression and avoiding potential trade tariffs from the Trump administration.

Mandelson’s role will require careful diplomacy, given his past controversies, including being fired from two ministerial positions over scandals. His stance on Brexit and his previously expressed support for closer ties with China may also put him at odds with Trump's political priorities. Nevertheless, his appointment underscores Starmer’s commitment to strengthening the UK’s global position while navigating the complexities of a changing political landscape in the U.S.

The decision to send a high-profile politician rather than a career diplomat reflects Starmer’s determination to engage more directly with the U.S. government, particularly as Trump resumes office. Mandelson will have to manage delicate relationships, especially with figures like Nigel Farage, a close Trump ally and vocal critic of Starmer’s government.

Trudeau Shuffles Cabinet Amid Political Uncertainty

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau introduced a significant cabinet reshuffle on Friday, adding eight Liberal MPs to ministerial roles and reassigning four others in a bid to stabilize his government following a challenging week. The changes come just one month before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office, with growing questions about Trudeau’s political future and the viability of his minority government.

The ceremony at Rideau Hall, presided over by Gov. Gen. Mary Simon, was overshadowed by a major blow: NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh announced his party's intention to introduce a motion of non-confidence in the new year, jeopardizing the Liberals’ hold on power.

Key Cabinet Changes

Among the newly appointed ministers are:

• Nathaniel Erskine-Smith (Ontario): Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities Minister.

• Rachel Bendayan (Quebec): Official Languages Minister and Associate Minister of Public Safety.

• Élisabeth Brière (Quebec): Minister of National Revenue.

• Terry Duguid (Manitoba): Minister of Sport and Prairies Economic Development.

• Darren Fisher (Nova Scotia): Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Defence Minister.

• Joanne Thompson (Newfoundland and Labrador): Minister of Seniors.

• Ruby Sahota (Ontario): Democratic Institutions Minister and head of the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

Current ministers also took on new roles:

• Anita Anand: Minister of Transport and Internal Trade.

• Gary Anandasangaree: Adds Northern Affairs to his Crown-Indigenous Relations portfolio.

• Steven MacKinnon: Expands his Labour portfolio to include Workforce Development and Official Languages.

• Ginette Petitpas Taylor: Treasury Board President.

The reshuffle maintains gender parity, with 19 men and 19 women in cabinet, excluding the prime minister, and aims to balance regional representation.

Political Challenges and Uncertainty

Trudeau’s reshuffle follows Chrystia Freeland’s unexpected resignation earlier this week, triggering speculation about the prime minister’s political future. Despite calls for unity from ministers like Anand and Petitpas Taylor, Trudeau’s leadership remains under scrutiny. "Politics is about choices," said Bendayan, acknowledging the difficult decisions ahead.

Trudeau did not take questions after the shuffle but emphasized in a statement that his government remains focused on affordability, job creation, and economic growth.

With opposition parties gearing up for a potential confidence vote and the Liberal Party facing internal challenges, Trudeau's ability to navigate the coming months will be critical to his government’s survival.

Zelenskyy Considers European Peacekeepers Amid Cease-Fire Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has initiated discussions with European leaders about deploying peacekeeping troops in Ukraine as part of a potential cease-fire agreement. While the concept is still in its early stages, it has garnered interest from some European leaders and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine’s long-term security depends on membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), stating it is the only guarantee against future Russian aggression. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin signaled openness to talks with Trump aimed at resolving the conflict.

These developments suggest new avenues for diplomatic engagement but underline the complexity of securing a lasting peace in Ukraine.

International Special Envoys Meet to Address Afghanistan's Ongoing Crisis

On December 16, 2024, Special Envoys and Representatives from countries including Canada, the EU, the US, and others convened in Geneva to discuss Afghanistan’s escalating crisis. They expressed grave concern over the Taliban’s December ban on women and girls attending medical training, stressing the severe consequences for healthcare and society. The group condemned ongoing terrorist attacks and the presence of terrorist groups within Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for comprehensive action against terrorism.

The envoys called for an inclusive national dialogue to establish a constitutional order and representative government. They urged the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions and acknowledged the UN’s efforts in Afghanistan. They reinforced the importance of international NGOs in humanitarian efforts, focusing on vulnerable groups, and committed to deepening regional cooperation, especially in countering terrorism and migration. The meeting was hosted by Switzerland, with plans for future discussions.

U.S. Diplomats Engage in Historic Talks in Syria Amid Political and Security Concerns

In a landmark development, U.S. diplomats are visiting Syria for the first time since the United States closed its embassy in Damascus in 2012. The delegation includes the top State Department official for the Middle East and a hostage envoy. They are holding discussions with representatives of the rebel group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, as well as activists, civil society members, and minority groups. The talks aim to address Syria’s political transition and the ongoing efforts to locate and recover missing Americans, including journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared under the Bashar al-Assad regime.

The visit underscores renewed U.S. engagement in Syria at a critical juncture. Among the key issues being addressed is the future of U.S. troops stationed in the region. The Defense Department recently updated the number of U.S. personnel in Syria to approximately 2,000, significantly higher than the previously cited figure of 900. These troops were originally deployed to enhance operations against the self-declared Islamic State before Assad’s ouster. Their continued presence and role remain uncertain as discussions about Syria’s political future progress.

Meanwhile, the United States has ramped up strikes against ISIS targets in Syria, reflecting concerns about the group’s potential resurgence amid the country’s ongoing instability. At a recent meeting in Jordan, the United States and several other governments emphasized the importance of preventing terrorism from regaining a foothold in Syria.

This diplomatic mission marks a significant step in U.S. efforts to reengage with the complexities of Syria’s political and security landscape. As discussions unfold, the fate of U.S. troops and the success of initiatives to recover missing Americans will be closely watched as indicators of broader regional stability.

CENTCOM Forces Kill ISIS Leader During Precision Strike in Syria

On Dec. 19, U.S. Central Command Forces conducted a precision airstrike targeting ISIS leader Abu Yusif aka Mahmud in the Dayr az Zawr Province, Syria resulting in two ISIS operatives killed, including Abu Yusif. This airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond. This strike was conducted in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians. “As stated before, the United States — working with allies and partners in the region — will not allow ISIS to take advantage of the current situation in Syria and reconstitute. ISIS has the intent to break out of detention the over 8,000 ISIS operatives currently being held in facilities in Syria. We will aggressively target these leaders and operatives, including those trying to conduct operations external to Syria," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander.

Erdogan Expects Foreign Withdrawal of Support for Kurdish Fighters in Syria

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that foreign countries will likely cease supporting Kurdish fighters in Syria following the toppling of Bashar al-Assad. Erdogan emphasized that the Kurdish YPG, which has been backed by the U.S., is an extension of the PKK, a group deemed a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU. Erdogan compared the YPG to the Islamic State and predicted that external powers will no longer collaborate with such "terrorist organizations." Despite the U.S. having 900 troops working with the YPG-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Turkey has carried out several cross-border offensives against the group, pushing for the U.S. to end its support. Tensions have risen since Assad's fall, and although SDF commander Mazloum Abdi acknowledged foreign fighters' involvement, he suggested they would depart if a truce is agreed with Turkey.

White House Seeks Rebel Group’s Assistance in Search for Austin Tice

The White House has reportedly provided the rebel group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) with a list of former officials who may have information about the whereabouts of American journalist Austin Tice, unnamed sources told The New York Times. Tice was abducted in Damascus in 2012 and has remained missing ever since.

According to the report, HTS indicated a willingness to assist in the search for Tice and to investigate potential locations where he might be held. The group's involvement signals an unconventional approach in the ongoing efforts to locate the journalist, whose case has long been a priority for successive U.S. administrations.

The development underscores the complexity of navigating negotiations in Syria, where shifting alliances and ongoing conflicts have posed significant obstacles to recovery efforts for Tice and other missing individuals.

This latest move reflects the White House’s continued commitment to securing Tice’s release, though the risks and potential outcomes of involving HTS remain uncertain.

Georgia to Honor Officials Sanctioned by the West for Crackdown on Pro-EU Protesters

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced on Friday that five interior ministry officials, sanctioned by the U.S. and UK for their involvement in a violent crackdown on pro-EU protesters, will be awarded one of the country's highest honors. The officials include Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri, who was also promoted to deputy prime minister. The crackdown came after the Georgian government halted talks on joining the European Union until 2028, triggering daily protests. The government's actions, including using water cannons and tear gas against protesters, have drawn accusations of authoritarianism and pro-Russian tendencies. Kobakhidze defended the officials' actions, calling them "honourable" and promised to compensate any affected by the sanctions.

Elon Musk Supports Germany's Far-Right AfD Party, Calling It the "Savior" of the Country

Elon Musk, the world's richest person and a key figure in President-elect Donald Trump's administration, publicly endorsed Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, calling it the "savior" of the country ahead of Germany's upcoming election. The AfD is gaining significant support in opinion polls and could disrupt the formation of a majority government. Musk's post, made on his social media platform X, praised the party's stance on anti-immigration policies, aligning with his previous support for similar movements in Europe. The German government acknowledged Musk's post but chose not to comment further. Musk has also voiced support for other anti-immigration figures and parties, including Italy's right-wing policies.

EU Open to Strengthening Economic Ties with Trump, Including Energy Sector Cooperation

The European Union is ready to engage in discussions to further strengthen its economic relationship with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, focusing on mutual interests in the energy sector. An EU spokesperson confirmed that the bloc is committed to reducing its reliance on energy imports from Russia and diversifying its supply sources. Trump's administration has warned that the EU could face tariffs unless it addresses its growing trade deficit with the United States, particularly by increasing oil and gas transactions with the U.S., the world's largest economy.

Australia Commits $118 Million to Police Training in the Solomon Islands

Australia has announced a $118 million deal to bolster police training in the Solomon Islands. The funds will support the recruitment of additional police officers and the construction of a new training center in the capital, Honiara.

The Solomon Islands already maintains a bilateral policing agreement with China, adding complexity to Australia’s engagement in the region. Unlike recent security deals Australia has signed with Nauru, Papua New Guinea, and Tuvalu, this agreement does not grant Australia veto power over the Solomon Islands’ security decisions.

This investment reflects Australia’s continued efforts to strengthen regional partnerships and enhance stability in the Pacific amid increasing geopolitical competition.

White House to Review UAE’s Denial of Arms Transfers to Sudan

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has assured the United States that it is not supplying weapons to Sudanese rebel forces, according to a letter from a White House official to lawmakers, as seen by Reuters. The statement comes amidst congressional efforts to halt U.S. arms sales to the UAE over concerns about its involvement in Sudan's ongoing civil war.

The White House has pledged to conduct its own assessment of the UAE’s guarantees and will report its findings by January 17. This review underscores the administration’s cautious approach to ensuring compliance with international norms while balancing strategic relationships in the region.

AM ACTUAL NEWS LIVESTREAM

That’s it from me for now. Thank you so much for reading. Have a peaceful weekend!

---

Join the ONEST Network as a paid subscriber and get access to ACTUAL NEWS delivered straight to your inbox every weekday evening, in a concise and straightforward format.

As a subscriber, you'll also secure a spot at our popular Watch Parties, where you can engage with fellow subscribers, participate in interactive quizzes and Q&A sessions, and join our Town Halls. Be the first to hear about exciting updates, exclusive interviews, and even share your ideas on what you'd like to see covered next. For just $5 a month (or choose the annual option), you'll not only support independent journalism but also help me bring you more on-the-ground coverage of key events. Your support truly makes a difference! Thank you for being part of the ONEST community.