Hunter Biden Offers Private Testimony if House Republicans Issue New Subpoena

In response to the ongoing efforts by House Republicans seeking to impeach President Joe Biden over unproven corruption allegations, Hunter Biden's attorney, Abbe Lowell, announced on Friday that Hunter Biden is willing to comply with any new subpoena and testify in private. Lowell conveyed this message to James Comer and Jim Jordan, the Republican chairs of the oversight and judiciary committees.

The attorney's letter stated, "If you issue a new proper subpoena, now that there is a duly authorized impeachment inquiry, Mr. Biden will comply for a hearing or deposition." Lowell emphasized that they would accept such a subpoena on Hunter Biden's behalf.

The Republicans are particularly interested in exploring Hunter Biden's business dealings and personal struggles with addiction. Beyond the congressional scrutiny, Hunter Biden is currently facing criminal charges related to a gun purchase and federal tax affairs, carrying potential prison sentences of 25 and 17 years, respectively. In Los Angeles, he recently pleaded not guilty to these charges.

Previously, Hunter Biden had refused to comply with a congressional subpoena for private testimony, insisting on a public session. However, in the latest development, Abbe Lowell expressed Hunter Biden's readiness to testify in private, addressing the concerns raised by House Republicans.

A recent hearing, led by James Comer, considered a resolution to hold Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress, a charge that can lead to fines and imprisonment. The hearing turned chaotic, with unexpected appearances by Hunter Biden and Abbe Lowell, resulting in the resolution being sent to the full House for a vote.

Abbe Lowell, who previously represented Jared Kushner during congressional scrutiny, questioned the legality of prior subpoenas for Hunter Biden. He suggested that transparency could be achieved through public hearings but stated that Hunter Biden was now prepared to testify privately.

In response to Lowell's letter, Comer and Jordan accused Hunter Biden of defying valid subpoenas and staging stunts. They declared the House's intention to move forward with holding Hunter Biden in contempt until he confirms a date for a private deposition, emphasizing that special treatment for the Biden family would not be tolerated.

The situation has become politically charged, with both Democrats and Republicans engaging in a war of words, as the House judiciary committee Democrats criticized the pursuit of "baseless impeachment stunts" while significant issues like a potential government shutdown loom.

The Crucial Role of Award Show Speeches in Shaping Actors' Oscar Prospects

As awards season unfolds with events like the Palm Springs gala, the Golden Globes, and the Critics Choice awards, the spotlight is not only on the dazzling red carpet appearances but also on the impactful speeches delivered by nominees. These moments are not spontaneous; they are meticulously planned and can significantly influence an actor's journey to the pinnacle of recognition—the Oscars.

Steven Gaydos, executive editor of Variety, emphasizes the strategic importance of speeches, stating, "Speeches position you. They establish the narrative. There's so much that goes into it. It's not casual and it's not accidental."

The success or failure of an Oscar campaign can hinge on a nominee's performance on stage during these speeches. Memorable moments, like Emma Thompson's humorous reading of a Jane Austen-style diary entry at the Golden Globes, can sway voters. Conversely, lengthy and repetitive speeches, as seen in Lady Gaga's case, might hinder an actor's chances.

The recent strategies employed by nominees like Robert Downey Jr., particularly for his supporting role in "Oppenheimer," involve being fresh, funny, and exuding confidence. This calculated approach aims to reassure Oscar voters and project a positive image.

In the fiercely contested races for Best Actor and Best Actress, winners at earlier ceremonies, such as Lily Gladstone and Paul Giamatti, have showcased speeches that align with the broader messaging of their films. Gladstone emphasized Hollywood's historical erasure of Indigenous people, while Giamatti skillfully blended personal anecdotes with the importance of teaching in "The Holdovers."

The Oscars, still mindful of the impact of #MeToo and #OscarsSoWhite, consider not just the performance but also the broader message conveyed in speeches. Virtue signaling, or the projection of Hollywood's caring image, remains a prime concern for the Academy.

While debates continue on the effectiveness of these strategies, one thing is certain: the art of delivering a compelling and relatable speech, coupled with a carefully crafted narrative, can significantly shape an actor's Oscar journey, ensuring their place in the annals of cinema history.

Italy's Influencer Backlash: The Unraveling of Chiara Ferragni's Empire in the Aftermath of a Charity Christmas Cake Scandal

Chiara Ferragni, a prominent Italian influencer, built a substantial fortune by sharing seemingly effortless moments of her life and offering guidance on cultivating an "effortlessly cool" lifestyle to her vast online audience. However, her influence is now under scrutiny, and her empire faces a precarious situation following a scandal involving a Christmas cake and allegations of fraud, serving as a cautionary tale for other social media stars.

The controversy traces back to late 2022 when the 36-year-old Ferragni collaborated with Balocco, a Piedmont-based company, to promote its pandoro Christmas cake. Branded with Ferragni's name, the cake was priced at €9 (£7.70), nearly triple the cost of the standard version. Both Ferragni and Balocco, leveraging her 29.4 million Instagram followers, asserted that the proceeds would be donated to a children's hospital in Turin.

However, investigations revealed that Balocco had contributed €50,000 to the hospital before the campaign's launch and made no additional donations. Ferragni, on the other hand, earned over €1 million from the initiative, according to Italy's anti-trust authority. In December, fines of €1 million and €420,000 were imposed on Ferragni and Balocco, respectively, for misleading consumers.

In a video apology, Ferragni acknowledged a "communication error" and pledged to donate €1 million to the hospital. Despite this, the fallout continued, with prosecutors in Milan announcing an investigation into Ferragni and Balocco for aggravated fraud. Ferragni has lost 200,000 followers, and major clients like Coca-Cola have severed ties with her.

The scandal triggered a response from Italy's communications authority, which approved stringent new rules for influencers with more than 1 million followers, similar to regulations for traditional media outlets. Advertisements must be clearly labeled to enhance transparency, with potential fines of up to €600,000 for non-compliance.

This crackdown mirrors actions in France, where a law governing paid content was introduced. Giacomo Lasorella, Agcom's president, emphasized the eventual extension of these rules to smaller influencers, stating that it's a crucial step in regulating the rapidly evolving digital sector within a European framework.

Despite the challenges, Ferragni remains confident in her good faith but has enlisted a team of spin doctors to salvage her image. Industry experts differ on the future impact, with some predicting the end of Ferragni's reign, while others argue that influencers face disproportionate criticism. The ongoing investigation's outcome and Ferragni's crisis management will ultimately determine the long-term repercussions.

Born in Milan, Ferragni rose to fame through a fashion blog and eventually established herself as an influencer with a diverse business portfolio. Despite the current storm, she has been recognized for positive contributions, such as encouraging museum visits and promoting pandemic safety measures. The outcome of this crisis, however, hinges on Ferragni's ability to navigate and learn from the controversy, potentially influencing the broader regulatory landscape for influencers in Italy and beyond.

Tesla Halts German Production Due to Red Sea Shipping Disruptions

Tesla, the electric car manufacturer, announces a temporary suspension of its German factory's production for two weeks starting January 29, attributing the pause to delays in parts deliveries caused by attacks on ships in the Red Sea.

Tesla's German factory near Berlin will experience a significant production pause from January 29 to February 11 due to shipping disruptions in the Red Sea.

Delays in parts delivery, a consequence of attacks by Iranian-backed Houthi militants, prompt the temporary shutdown.

Impact on Output:

Tesla estimates that approximately 5,000 to 7,000 cars may not be produced during the two-week pause.

The disruption in the Red Sea shipping route forces companies, including Tesla, to resort to the longer alternative route around the southern tip of Africa.

Global Trade Impact:

Disruptions in the Red Sea shipping route, responsible for 12% of global maritime traffic, begin to affect global trade, resulting in a 1.3% drop in December.

The tensions escalate with U.S. and UK air and missile strikes on Houthi-controlled areas, aiming to halt attacks on ships in the Red Sea.

Oil Prices and Broader Concerns:

Following the military strikes, oil prices surge by 2%, with Brent crude reaching almost $79 per barrel.

Concerns rise about potential broader conflicts in the Middle East impacting oil supplies from the region.

Shipping Industry Challenges:

A report from a German economic institute notes a 60% decline in daily container traffic through the Red Sea, from 500,000 in November to 200,000 in the last month.

Maersk, responsible for moving 20% of global trade annually, diverts ships around Africa due to the Red Sea disruptions, anticipating potential long-term impacts.

Business and Retail Implications:

Businesses, including retailers like Marks & Spencer, express concerns about inflation and availability issues if container ships continue diverting around Africa.

Marks & Spencer highlights potential impacts on clothing availability in February and March, with possible disruptions in alcohol deliveries.

As tensions persist in the Red Sea, various industries grapple with the repercussions, impacting production, trade, and the global economy.

U.S. Launches Additional Strikes on Houthi Rebels in Yemen Amid Rising Tensions

Summary:

Following the initial airstrikes that led to protests and regional concerns, the U.S. conducts further strikes on Houthi-held territory in Yemen. This report outlines the latest developments and the backdrop of the intensified conflict.

Key Points:

Additional Strikes:

U.S. officials confirm new strikes on Houthi rebels, targeting a radar facility, following the previous night's extensive attack on nearly 30 locations.

The strikes aim to curb Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea, posing threats to global trade.

Response and Threats:

Houthis claim 73 sites targeted in Sana’a, Hodeidah, and other regions during the Thursday offensive.

The rebels vow retaliation, declaring American and British interests as "legitimate targets," raising concerns of heightened tensions.

Casualties and Reactions:

Five killed and six injured in the initial offensive, triggering mass protests in Yemen against Western bombings.

The UK and U.S. defend the attacks, citing the need to protect shipping lanes and maintain global security.

International Involvement:

The UK Prime Minister and U.S. President emphasize the necessity of the strikes, believing they have degraded Houthi capabilities.

While some nations express support, others, including Turkey's President Erdogan, criticize the actions, warning of potential escalation.

Humanitarian Concerns:

Aid agencies call for de-escalation, expressing alarm at the prospect of increased conflict in Yemen, a country recovering from a prolonged civil war.

Global Diplomacy:

The UN Secretary-General urges all parties to avoid escalation, emphasizing the risk of severe consequences in the Red Sea region.

Western leaders call on Iran to cease supporting the Houthis, aiming to prevent further violence.

As the situation unfolds, concerns persist about the potential repercussions in an already fragile region.

Link to additional information on the Houthis and the background to the US-UK strikes.

US-UK Airstrikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen: Visual Overview

US-UK Airstrikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen: Visual Overview

Summary:

US and UK forces executed airstrikes on Houthi military facilities in Yemen overnight. This visual guide outlines the key details of the attack.

Details:

Strike Locations:

The US targeted over 60 locations, hitting command nodes, munitions depots, launching systems, production facilities, and air defense radar systems.

The UK focused on two locations: a site at Bani for launching drones and an airfield at Abs.

Strike locations are indicated on the provided map, excluding the unconfirmed Bani site.

Strike Footage:

Clips depict the aftermath of strikes in Hodeidah and a fire in the capital, Sana’a.

UK's Involvement:

The UK used four RAF Typhoon FGR4s, departing from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, supported by a Voyager air refueling tanker.

Strikes were conducted using Paveway IV guided bombs.

Reasons for Strikes:

Response to Houthi attacks on Red Sea commercial carriers threatening free passage of goods and potential destabilization of the global economy.

Houthis claim their Red Sea attacks support Hamas in its conflict with Israel in Gaza.

Houthi Background:

Yemeni militia group representing the Zaidi branch of Shia Islam.

Emerged in the 1980s in opposition to Saudi Arabia's religious influence in Yemen.

Officially known as Ansar Allah, controlling most of western Yemen and the Red Sea coastline.

Trump Accuses Judge and Letitia James of Bias in Surprise Court Address During Fraud Trial Closing Arguments - Recap

Donald Trump's civil fraud trial in New York took a dramatic turn on its final day, marked by a bomb threat, the former president's accusatory address, and closing arguments from both legal teams. MSNBC reported that Trump walked out of the courtroom after criticizing New York Attorney General Letitia James and Judge Arthur Engoron for the civil fraud allegations against him.

Key Events:

Bomb Threat Adds Tension: The morning of the trial's last day saw a bomb squad responding to a security incident at Judge Engoron's residence, intensifying the already tense atmosphere. Both Engoron and his staff had been targets of criticism and death threats.

Trump's Address: Trump, after sitting quietly during his lawyers' closing arguments, took the opportunity to express his feelings. He insisted on his innocence and claimed persecution by "someone running for office," referring to Letitia James, who brought the case against him. Trump left the courtroom after demanding that James should pay for the havoc caused to his company.

Judge Engoron's Decision: Judge Arthur Engoron stated his intention to release a final decision in the case by January 31, although not a guaranteed promise. The New York attorney general seeks a $370 million penalty and a lifetime ban from the real estate business for Trump, alleging fraudulent inflation of his assets.

Closing Arguments: Closing arguments from both legal teams concluded, with Trump's lawyer, Christopher Kise, calling the case "insane" and describing it as a "victimless" offense. Prosecutors reiterated their demand for a hefty penalty, asserting that Trump continued to break the law during investigations.

Other Developments: In a separate legal proceeding, Hunter Biden entered a plea of not guilty to federal tax charges in Los Angeles. The charges stem from a four-year scheme to evade paying $1.4 million to the IRS, funding an extravagant lifestyle.

As the trial comes to an end, the atmosphere remains charged, with the focus now shifting to Judge Engoron's upcoming decision, expected by the end of the month. The trial's outcome may have far-reaching implications for Trump, with potential penalties and future legal battles looming.

Trump Proclaims Innocence Amid Trial Turmoil as Bomb Threat Disrupts Final Day

The conclusion of Donald Trump's fraud trial in New York was marked by chaos on Thursday, with a bomb threat prompting a response from the bomb squad to the residence of Judge Arthur Engoron, who oversees the case. The trial's last day saw packed courtrooms, heightened security, and a final opportunity for Trump's legal team to appeal the potential $370 million fine for alleged financial statement falsifications.

Key Developments:

Security Incident at Judge's Residence: A bomb squad responded to a security incident at Judge Arthur Engoron's residence at 5.30 am, adding tension to an already contentious trial. Engoron and his staff have faced vitriolic criticism and death threats throughout the proceedings.

Trump's Closing Arguments Dispute: Trump's attempt to deliver his closing arguments at the trial sparked a clash with Judge Engoron. The judge denied Trump's request, citing concerns that it might turn into a campaign speech. Trump, however, asserted his innocence during his lawyers' closing arguments, stating, "I am an innocent man."

International Media Frenzy: The packed courthouse witnessed a significant media presence, reminiscent of key trial moments when Michael Cohen testified in October and Trump took the stand in November. Anti-Trump protesters briefly blocked traffic outside the courthouse, expressing their opposition to the former president.

Legal Teams' Closing Statements: Trump's lawyer, Christopher Kise, labeled the case as "insane" and argued that it was a "victimless" offense. Kise reiterated key defense points, emphasizing the company's accounting firm's responsibility for financial statements. Prosecutors maintained that fraud was integral to Trump Organization's operations, alleging mischaracterization of Trump's assets for financial gain.

Appeal and Verdict Outlook: Trump's legal team appealed to Judge Engoron, contesting the "corporate death penalty" imposed by revoking business licenses. The judge humorously acknowledged the lengthy closing arguments. A verdict is expected by the end of January.

Trump's Post-Trial Statements: After leaving court, Trump held a press conference, expressing his desire to attend all his trials. He accused the trials of being orchestrated by Biden and the Democrats, describing it as a new form of cheating.

As the trial concludes, the specter of potential financial penalties looms over Trump, with possible additional legal battles on the horizon. The verdict will likely impact the trajectory of Trump's legal challenges, including criminal trials in Washington, Georgia, and Florida, and another trial in New York related to alleged campaign fund misuse.

Video : US and UK Conduct Airstrikes Against Houthi Sites in Yemen, Prompting Global Response

In a significant development, the United States and the United Kingdom have initiated airstrikes against targets affiliated with the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. This marks the first direct military action against the Houthi group since their targeting of international shipping in the Red Sea late last year.

Reports from Reuters confirm that the US and British military forces have commenced bombing sites associated with the Houthi rebels, responding to their intensified attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea as a protest against Israel's actions in Gaza. This has led to a suspension of operations by various shipping lines, opting for longer routes around Africa.

The Houthi official has acknowledged airstrikes in Sana’a, and eyewitnesses in Yemen report hearing three explosions in the capital.

The US military stated that the Houthis, on Thursday, executed their 27th attack on shipping since November 19, firing an anti-ship ballistic missile into international shipping lanes in the Gulf of Aden.

Key Updates:

Response and Monitoring by Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia expresses "great concern" and urges restraint, calling for the avoidance of escalation in response to the airstrikes on Yemen's Houthi rebels.

International Coalition: The White House issues a joint statement, supported by Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, United Kingdom, and the United States. They emphasize their commitment to defending lives and ensuring the free flow of commerce in critical waterways.

Leaders' Statements: US President Joe Biden asserts that the strikes are a direct response to Houthi attacks on maritime vessels, warning of further measures if such attacks persist. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirms UK participation, describing the action as limited, necessary, and proportionate in self-defense.

Military Action Details: The UK's Ministry of Defence highlights the precision strikes on Houthi facilities, aiming to diminish their capabilities in threatening global trade. Early assessments suggest a blow to the Houthi's ability to endanger merchant shipping.

These developments underscore the global community's resolve to safeguard freedom of navigation and address threats to international maritime activities. The situation is evolving, with ongoing assessments and diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation while ensuring the protection of lives and commerce in critical waterways.

US and UK Issue Strong Warning Following Repelled Houthi Attack in the Red Sea

The United States and the United Kingdom have issued stern warnings of severe consequences after their warships successfully thwarted a barrage of 21 Houthi rockets, drones, and cruise missiles aimed at western vessels in the Red Sea. Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, indicated that if Yemeni rebels persist in attacking international shipping, a military response from the West may be imminent. Meanwhile, Grant Shapps, the UK's Defence Secretary, accused Iran of assisting the Houthi rebels with intelligence and surveillance, emphasizing the need to halt the series of attacks on warships and merchant shipping in the southern Red Sea.

Key Points:

Late on Tuesday, warships from the US and the UK repelled a significant attack by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, prompting warnings of potential consequences if such assaults continue.

Antony Blinken stated during his trip to Bahrain that further attacks on international shipping by Houthi rebels could lead to severe repercussions, hinting at the possibility of military intervention.

Grant Shapps accused Iran of providing support to the Houthi rebels, emphasizing the collective agreement among the UK, its western allies, and Saudi Arabia that the ongoing attacks are unacceptable.

The UN Security Council adopted a resolution condemning Houthi attacks and demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities, highlighting the adverse effects on global commerce and regional peace and security.

Speculation arises regarding potential strikes on Houthi missile sites and other military targets by the US and its allies to prevent further disruptions in maritime routes.

HMS Diamond, a British vessel, reportedly shot down seven Iranian-designed drones during the attack, with Shapps suggesting the ship might have been a target.

The Houthi attacks, escalating since mid-October, have been attributed to their support for Hamas in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

The Houthis, in a statement, vowed to continue their attacks until the siege of Gaza is lifted, alleging that the US vessel targeted was providing support to Israel.

The British Defence Secretary reinforced the belief that Iran plays a significant role in supporting the Houthi rebels, particularly in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities.

Ongoing discussions involve potential joint US-UK reprisals against the Houthis, with uncertainties about other countries, including France, joining such actions.

The peace process in Yemen faces suspension warnings, with diplomatic efforts directed at Oman and Iran to convey the unacceptability of Houthi activities jeopardizing the peace plan.

The disruptions in shipping could impact global inflation, with estimates suggesting a rise of 0.2-0.5%, notably affecting Egypt due to the potential loss of commercial shipping through the Suez Canal.

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, while sympathetic to military action against the Houthis, are cautious about being perceived as supporting US-led military intervention against a group with significant local support.

Diplomatic efforts focus on influencing the Houthis through Oman and Iran, highlighting the potential consequences for the Yemen peace plan and the group's standing on the world stage.

UN Security Council Passes Resolution Urging Ceasefire in Red Sea Attacks

In a recent session, the United Nations Security Council endorsed a resolution put forth by the United States and Japan, demanding an immediate halt to the assaults on commercial vessels in the Red Sea by Houthi rebels. Despite opposition from Russia, which sought to dilute the resolution with proposed amendments, the council overwhelmingly voted in favor, with 11 supporting, none opposing, and four abstentions from Russia, China, and Algeria.

Latest Updates:

23:38 GMT

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has released its latest update on the Israel-Gaza conflict. The report highlights the challenges faced in delivering aid to Gaza, citing delays at Israeli checkpoints and impassable routes, limiting the ability to respond effectively to urgent needs.

01:57 GMT

Reacting to the deaths of four Palestine Red Crescent's ambulance crew members allegedly targeted by Israel in Deir al-Balah, the UN's Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Martin Griffiths, emphasizes the importance of upholding the rules of war, urging parties to protect civilians and humanitarian workers.

01:10 GMT

Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, the head of Yemen’s Houthi supreme revolutionary committee, responds to the UN resolution on Red Sea navigation, defending Yemeni armed forces' actions as legitimate defense. He labels the resolution a "political game" and calls for the release of 2.3 million people from the Israeli-American siege in Gaza.

00:54 GMT

The Israeli military claims to have found evidence of hostages in an underground tunnel in Gaza, showcasing the site to journalists. The tunnel reportedly contained DNA evidence suggesting hostages were present, but details about their status or identity remain undisclosed.

00:27 GMT

Further analysis of the UN Security Council vote reveals the resolution's key provision supporting UN member states' right, in accordance with international law, to defend their vessels. This provision implicitly endorses Operation Prosperity Guardian, a US-led naval taskforce safeguarding ships from Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

00:06 GMT

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken presses Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas for government reforms during their meeting in Ramallah. Blinken expresses US support for tangible steps toward a Palestinian state and urges Abbas to engage in efforts to take responsibility for Gaza.

23:45 GMT

Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdul Salam dismisses the UN Security Council resolution as a "political game" and accuses the US of violating international law.

23:34 GMT

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarifies Israel's intentions in Gaza, emphasizing the absence of plans for permanent occupation or displacement of civilians. Netanyahu asserts that Israel is targeting Hamas terrorists in compliance with international law.

23:08 GMT

Summary of the day includes Secretary Blinken condemning Red Sea attacks, the UN Security Council approving the resolution against Houthi rebels, and Netanyahu's statements on Israel's intentions in Gaza. The day also witnessed ongoing diplomatic efforts and discussions on humanitarian aid, civilian harm, and the path towards a Palestinian state.

Arrests Made Following Underground Dispute at Brooklyn Synagogue

A group of individuals from a Hasidic Jewish community in New York found themselves in legal trouble on Monday as law enforcement intervened in a disagreement over an illicit tunnel discreetly constructed on the premises of a historic synagogue, subsequently leading to its closure.

The confrontation between the authorities and those responsible for the secret passageways escalated into a physical altercation. Rabbi Motti Seligson, a spokesperson for the Chabad, described the individuals involved as a "group of extremist students."

The Chabad-Lubavitch world headquarters, situated in the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, witnessed turmoil as Jewish leaders and law enforcement confronted these individuals. The incident unfolded at the site, which was once the residence of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the leader of the orthodox Jewish movement. The building attracts thousands of visitors annually, and Schneerson's leadership revitalized the devastated Hasidic religious community post-Holocaust.

According to Seligson, the dissident students surreptitiously breached the walls of a vacant building behind the headquarters, creating an underground passage beneath office buildings and lecture halls that ultimately connected to the synagogue.

Efforts to repair the damaged walls by a construction crew on Monday faced opposition from the students responsible for the tunnels. Seligson explained, "Those efforts were disrupted by the extremists who broke through the wall to the synagogue, vandalizing the sanctuary, in an effort to preserve their unauthorized access."

The motive behind the creation of the tunnels remains undisclosed.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) responded to a call reporting a disorderly group trespassing and damaging a wall on Monday afternoon. The individuals responsible for constructing the tunnels were subsequently arrested on charges of criminal mischief, criminal trespass, and obstructing governmental administration, according to an NYPD spokesperson.

City inspectors conducted an emergency structural inspection at the site, during which police officers secured the headquarters behind barricades, preventing a group of young men from entering.

An anonymous tip about the tunnel's location was sent to the New York City Fire Department last month. However, when a fire prevention team responded, all exits were found to be operable and up to code, as stated by Amanda Farinacci, a spokesperson for the agency.

The NYPD has declared the building closed pending a structural safety review by city inspectors.a

Trump Aims for Iowa Victory as Rule Changes Favor His 2024 Presidential Bid

The Trump campaign is optimistic about winning the Iowa state caucuses, with advisers internally considering the former president's lead secure unless another candidate narrows the gap within five or 10 points, sources close to the campaign revealed.

The expected margin of victory has been a key metric for Trump's confidence, and with rivals far from breaching that threshold, the campaign sees a win in Iowa as crucial for gaining momentum towards securing the Republican nomination for the 2024 election.

The campaign acknowledges the potential impact of low turnout, leading Trump to schedule a series of rallies before the January 15 caucuses to energize his supporters. Trump's return to Iowa for multiple campaign rallies signals a renewed focus on the state.

A victory in Iowa is seen as a strategic move to propel Trump through subsequent contests in New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Michigan, setting him up favorably for Super Tuesday on March 5. The campaign anticipates having enough bound delegates by mid-March to secure the nomination.

Backing Trump's projected path are rule changes in key early voting states that his campaign successfully pushed for, altering the delegate allocation process. Changes in Nevada, California, and Michigan are seen as benefiting Trump while disadvantaging competitors like Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis.

The rule changes have been criticized by Trump's rivals, who view them as manipulation of the nominating contests. Despite accusations of underhanded tactics, Trump appears to be in a stronger position than anticipated, with rivals slipping in the polls, particularly in Iowa.

Jo Koy Responds to Golden Globes Hosting Backlash

Jo Koy has addressed the criticism surrounding his hosting performance at this year's Golden Globes. The last-minute selection faced negative reactions online and within the venue, with one director labeling it "a disaster" and Vanity Fair's Richard Lawson describing the opening monologue as a "horrid, sophomoric mishmash of lazy jokes."

Speaking on ABC's GMA3: What You Need to Know, Koy acknowledged the challenges of hosting and expressed that he had fun despite the tough room. He admitted to feeling hurt by the backlash but emphasized his love for the experience. Koy described hosting as a different style and mentioned the tight schedule of 10 days to write the monologue.

During the awards, Koy's jokes covered topics like Barry Keoghan's on-screen nudity, Ozempic, Oppenheimer's length, Barbie, and Taylor Swift's connection to the NFL. The joke about Taylor Swift received a less-than-enthusiastic response from the star, and Koy acknowledged it as a moment he regretted, explaining that it was meant as a jab toward the NFL but didn't come out that way.

Despite characterizing it as "an off night" and admitting he fell short, Koy expressed pride in his effort and a desire to share more of himself. The 2024 Golden Globes, featuring notable wins for "Oppenheimer" and "Succession," saw increased viewership on CBS, with 9.4 million viewers, up 50% from the move from NBC, aided by a lead-in from Sunday Night Football, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Federal Appeals Court to Determine Legality of Prosecuting Trump for 2020 Election Interference

A federal appeals court in Washington is set to deliberate on Tuesday morning over whether former President Donald Trump can face criminal prosecution for federal charges related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Trump, who has announced his attendance at the hearing via his Truth Social platform, appealed last month after a trial judge dismissed his attempt to dismiss the charges, arguing he had absolute immunity.

The court's decision and the time it takes to issue a ruling will have significant implications for the scheduled March trial. Trump's legal team contends that all actions to reverse the election defeat fall within the "outer perimeter" of his presidential duties, providing protection. However, this argument was rejected by the trial judge, who emphasized that former presidents do not enjoy special conditions of federal criminal liability.

The appeal process is seen as Trump's strategy to delay the trial, which is scheduled for March 5, and potentially extend it beyond the 2024 election. The former president hopes that winning re-election would offer the opportunity for a pardon or the dismissal of charges. The special counsel, Jack Smith, attempted to expedite the process by involving the US Supreme Court, but the request was declined, leading to the case's return to the DC circuit for a decision.

Allegations of Epstein Possessing "Sex Tapes" Involving Prince Andrew and Bill Clinton Raised in Unsealed Documents video

Newly unsealed documents reveal that Jeffrey Epstein's defense team attempted to undermine the credibility of a witness by disclosing her claims that the billionaire had "sex tapes" involving prominent figures, including Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton, and Sir Richard Branson. The allegations were made by Sarah Ransome and were presented to question her credibility, emphasizing her retraction of the claims shortly after making them.

Ransome, who provided a victim impact statement during Ghislaine Maxwell's sex trafficking sentencing, accused Epstein in emails of filming the mentioned individuals engaging in sexual activities. The court received no evidence of the tapes' existence. Ransome also made serious accusations against former US President Donald Trump.

Prince Andrew, facing controversy over his association with Epstein, stepped down from public life and settled a civil sexual assault case with Virginia Giuffre. Giuffre accused him of sexual assault, which he denies. The unsealed documents were part of Giuffre's previously settled civil claim against Maxwell.

The documents also included images, including a resurfaced photo of former Labour minister Peter Mandelson with Epstein on Little St James, Epstein's private island. Other pictures featured Maxwell with Jean Luc-Brunel and girls posing for photos on the island in 2006.

Ransome's claims in the emails stated that sex tapes were filmed during separate occasions involving Clinton, Prince Andrew, and Branson. However, her claims were later withdrawn, and she apologized for her statements. A firm representing Epstein's lawyer, Alan Dershowitz, emphasized the lack of credibility in Ransome's testimony, categorically dismissing the allegations.

Virgin Group, representing Branson, called Ransome's claims baseless and unfounded, citing her admission in a 2019 New Yorker report that she had "invented" the tapes. Ransome's emails also targeted Hillary Clinton and Trump, expressing intentions to release the footage and photos to WikiLeaks.

Epstein, who faced sex-trafficking charges, died in jail in 2019, ruled as suicide. Maxwell has been imprisoned since July 2020 on sex trafficking charges.

Chinese Satellite Launch Sparks Emergency Alert in Taiwan Amid Election Tensions

A Chinese satellite launch prompted a nationwide emergency alert in Taiwan just days before the presidential election, leading to confusion as the English translation incorrectly referred to the satellite as a "missile."

The bilingual air raid alert, broadcasted over loudspeakers and sent to all mobile phones, occurred around 3 pm local time. The message, in Chinese, informed the public that China had launched a satellite at 3:04 pm, flying over the southern part of Taiwan. However, the English portion mistakenly conveyed an "[air raid alert] missile flyover Taiwan airspace."

Simultaneously, Chinese media reported the successful launch of a scientific satellite, known as the Einstein probe, from the Xichang launch centre in Sichuan province. Trajectories suggested it passed southeast of Taiwan's southernmost point at a high altitude. Notably, Chinese authorities had not provided prior notice of the launch.

Given the heightened tensions surrounding Taiwan's upcoming presidential election, where Beijing claims the region as a province, the launch and alert added to the existing anxiety. Beijing has previously employed military intimidation, cognitive warfare, and economic coercion during elections to influence voters. The recent satellite launch near the election date raised concerns, with Taiwan's defense ministry later clarifying that it was indeed a satellite, not a missile.

Taiwan's foreign minister, Joseph Wu, categorized the satellite launch over Taiwanese airspace close to the election as a "grey zone" activity, creating a sense of wariness. Opposition parties accused the government of fearmongering, with questions raised about the decision to issue an emergency alert for this specific launch.

The incident also led to confusion among the public, with some misinterpreting the Chinese text, and social media polls highlighting the ambiguity. Despite the initial confusion, Taiwan's defense ministry apologized for the oversight in the English language used in the alert, emphasizing that it was an unintentional error.

Severe Winter Weather Leaves Over 1,000 Ukrainian Towns and Villages Without Electricity

Ukraine is grappling with a significant power outage crisis as severe winter conditions have resulted in more than 1,000 towns and villages being left without electricity, according to the country's power grid operator, Ukrenergo. The harsh winter weather has weakened the energy system, compounded by the impact of Russian strikes.

Ukrenergo, the state-owned electricity transmission system operator, revealed that electricity consumption reached the highest levels this week, coinciding with temperatures dropping to around -15°C in many parts of the country. The consumption surge is attributed to the considerable temperature drop nationwide.

As a response to the power deficit, Ukraine had to import electricity from neighboring countries, including Romania and Slovakia, to meet the escalating demand. Electricity consumption on the day of the report was already 5.8% higher than the previous day.

Ukrenergo stated that due to adverse weather conditions, such as strong winds and ice, power supply was disrupted in 1,025 settlements. The power system is operating at maximum capacity, prompting an urgent call for residents to conserve electricity.

The power grid operator highlighted that Ukrainian thermal power plants are still recovering from Russia's strikes last winter. Additionally, solar power plants are hindered by dense clouds and adverse weather conditions, limiting their capacity.

This crisis comes nearly ten months into the full-scale invasion, during which Russia targeted power stations and energy-related facilities, causing rolling blackouts in various regions. The situation underscores the challenges Ukraine faces in maintaining a stable energy supply amidst geopolitical tensions and severe weather conditions.

Gabriel Attal Makes History as France's Youngest-Ever Prime Minister

French President Emmanuel Macron has named Gabriel Attal, the 34-year-old Minister of Education, as France's prime minister, according to reports from French media outlets. This appointment sets a new record, making Attal the youngest prime minister in modern French history. He succeeds Élisabeth Borne, who resigned the previous day.

The reshuffle is part of Macron's strategy to invigorate his second term, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming European Parliament elections later this year.

Gabriel Attal, born in 1989, assumes the role of France's prime minister at the age of 34, a distinction that places him among other young leaders in European countries in recent years.

Noteworthy young leaders in Europe include Austria's Sebastian Kurz, who became chancellor at 31 in 2017, and Finland's Sanna Marin, who took on the role of prime minister at 34 in 2019. Hungary's Viktor Orbán and Ireland's Leo Varadkar were also relatively young when they assumed high-profile positions.

Attal's popularity in France is evident, as indicated by an Ipsos poll from December, showcasing strong public support.

A profile of Gabriel Attal reveals his rapid rise in the political arena, progressing from a work experience recruit in the health ministry to becoming France's youngest prime minister. Attal, who hails from a privileged background, has demonstrated effective communication skills, earning him the moniker "the Word Sniper."

Born to Yves Attal, a lawyer and film producer of Tunisian Jewish descent, and Marie de Couriss, with roots in Orthodox Christians from Odesa, Attal is the first openly gay leader of the French government.

International leaders have begun congratulating Gabriel Attal, with French President Emmanuel Macron expressing confidence in Attal's energy and commitment.

As discussions unfold about Attal's potential premiership, critics question the choice, emphasizing his age and relatively short tenure as education minister. However, Attal's trajectory suggests a promising and dynamic leadership style.

The official announcement of France's new prime minister is anticipated later in the day, with Gabriel Attal emerging as the leading candidate.

2023 Breaks World Record for Hottest Year by a Substantial Margin

In 2023, the Earth shattered the record for the hottest year, surpassing it by a significant margin, providing compelling evidence of the increasingly warmer and perilous climate compared to the relatively cooler era in which human civilization evolved.

The global temperature in 2023 soared 1.48 degrees Celsius higher than the period preceding the widespread burning of fossil fuels that triggered the climate crisis. This figure is closely approaching the 1.5 degrees Celsius target set by nations in the 2015 Paris Agreement, although sustained temperatures above 1.5 degrees Celsius are necessary to officially breach the target.

Scientists from the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (CCCS) expressed concern that the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold is likely to be surpassed within the next 12 months.

The average temperature in 2023 exceeded that of 2016, the previous record-setting year, by 0.17 degrees Celsius, representing a substantial increase in climate terms. Continued record emissions of carbon dioxide, coupled with the return of the natural climate phenomenon El Niño, were identified as the primary contributors to this heightened global warming.

These elevated temperatures led to severe heatwaves, floods, and wildfires, causing widespread damage to lives and livelihoods globally. Analysis revealed that some extreme weather events, such as heatwaves in Europe and the United States, would have been nearly impossible without human-induced global heating.

Data from CCCS indicated that 2023 marked the first year in recorded history when every day was at least 1 degree Celsius warmer than the pre-industrial period of 1850-1900. Nearly half of the days experienced temperatures 1.5 degrees Celsius higher, and, for the first time, two days exceeded 2 degrees Celsius. The surge in temperatures intensified from June onwards, with September's heat surpassing previous averages to an extent described by one scientist as "gobsmackingly bananas."

Carlo Buontempo, a CCCS director, emphasized the profound consequences for the Paris Agreement and humanity's collective efforts. Urgent decarbonization of the economy, coupled with the use of climate data and knowledge to prepare for the future, was deemed essential to successfully manage climate risk.

Recent scientific assessments have suggested that Earth's life support systems are so compromised that the planet is now "well outside the safe operating space for humanity."

Samantha Burgess, CCCS deputy director, described 2023 as an exceptional year, with climate records breaking like dominoes, likely surpassing temperatures not seen in at least the last 100,000 years.

Professor Bill Collins at the University of Reading expressed shock at 2023 unquestionably breaking the global temperature record, anticipating that further global warming would lead to wetter winters in the UK and increased flooding.

CCCS highlighted several "remarkable" events in 2023, including extensive wildfires in Canada contributing to a 30% rise in global carbon emissions from wildfires and unprecedented ocean temperatures causing marine heatwaves worldwide. Antarctic sea ice also plummeted to record lows, previously showing little obvious impact from global heating.

Prof Brian Hoskins at Imperial College London urged a reconsideration of governmental actions worldwide, noting that 2023 offered a glimpse of climate extremes near the Paris targets.

As experts call for urgent action, Prof Daniela Schmidt at the University of Bristol emphasized the importance of even small changes to mitigate warming increments, questioning whether this record-breaking year would lead to substantial behavioral and policy changes.

In conclusion, Prof John Marsham at the University of Leeds stressed the critical need to rapidly reduce fossil fuel use and achieve net-zero emissions to preserve a livable climate for all. The consensus among hundreds of scientific studies is that the climate crisis is causing more frequent and intense extreme weather events, with 2023 standing out as a year that accelerated global heating in line with predictions but with alarming speed and intensity.