Potential Rise in Generic Drug Prices Due to Trump's Proposed Tariffs
President-elect Donald Trump's tariff proposals, which include 20% on all imports and at least 60% on Chinese products, may lead to higher costs for generic drugs. Experts warn this could affect patients and the industry since many generics and their components are made abroad, particularly in China. These tariffs threaten to increase prices and exacerbate existing drug shortages in the US.
ICC Warrants May Affect Arms Sales to Israel
Arrest warrants issued by the ICC against Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza could prompt Western nations to reconsider arms trade with Israel. With over 44,000 Palestinians killed since October, signatories to the ICC's Rome Statute are obligated to arrest the Israeli officials if they enter their territories. The US remains the largest weapon supplier to Israel, rejecting the ICC's decision, while other countries like Germany, the UK, and Canada have begun to scale back or suspend weapons exports.
Ukrainian Parliament Suspends amid Russian Missile Threats
Ukraine's parliament has suspended sessions due to threats of Russian missile attacks, with the recent use of a hypersonic missile in Dnipro escalating tensions. Foreign embassies have closed, and there's increased alert in Kyiv. President Zelenskyy calls the missile use a severe escalation, while Russia sends a warning to the West. An emergency NATO meeting is scheduled.
Sentencing Delayed in Trump's Hush Money Case
A New York judge has postponed the sentencing of president-elect Donald Trump, related to a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Originally set for November 26, no new date has been given. Trump's attorneys may now argue to dismiss the conviction before his January 20 inauguration.
Norwegian Security Guard Arrested on Espionage Suspicions
In Oslo, a Norwegian security guard in his 20s, employed at the U.S. embassy, was arrested for alleged espionage for Russia and Iran. Detained on Wednesday, authorities seized a significant amount of digital material. The accused is cooperating with the investigation to determine the extent of leaked information.
Mississippi Runoff to Decide State Judicial Races
Mississippi voters in the central, Delta, and Gulf Coast areas will participate in a runoff election Tuesday to determine two state judicial races, for seats on the Mississippi Supreme Court and Court of Appeals, after no candidate secured a majority in the Nov. 5 general election. The Supreme Court runoff features incumbent Justice Jim Kitchens against State Senator Jenifer Branning, with Kitchens in line to become chief justice. The Court of Appeals race is between Amy St. Pe’ and Jennifer Schloegel. The outcomes will affect the balance of the state's highest courts.
President-elect Trump Picks Dr. Oz to Head CMS
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Mehmet Oz, known for his TV persona and controversial health advice, to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Oz, endorsed by Trump during his failed Senate campaign, will need to divest from his financial interests in compliance with federal law. Critics question the suitability of his experience for managing the complex health programs serving over 100 million Americans.
Lawmakers Urge Briefing on Turkey's Alleged Support for Hamas
Bipartisan U.S. lawmakers have requested a classified briefing on reports of Turkey potentially hosting Hamas's new headquarters. They express deep concern about President Erdogan's support for Hamas, despite Turkey's NATO alliance. Their letter seeks clarity on any ties between Ankara and the terrorist group and the implications for U.S. security interests.
President-elect Trump Prioritizes Fracking in Energy Agenda
President-elect Donald Trump aims to make hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, central to his energy strategy, seeking energy independence and lower costs. He nominated Chris Wright, a fracking pioneer, to lead the Department of Energy and plans to increase drilling on federal lands to boost oil and natural gas production. Despite environmental concerns, Trump's team expects to drive U.S. energy dominance, with proposed regulatory reforms likely to pass under the Republican-controlled Senate.
Nicaragua Approves Reforms Boosting President Ortega's Power
Nicaraguan lawmakers have unanimously passed constitutional amendments granting President Daniel Ortega greater authority and extending presidential terms from five to six years. The reforms name Ortega’s wife, Rosario Murillo, as 'co-president' and enhance control over media and public bodies. Critics condemn the move as cementing Ortega's 'absolute power', amidst international censure for stifling opposition.