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  • US man charged after shooting practice in backyard allegedly kills woman blocks away

    US man charged after shooting practice in backyard allegedly kills woman blocks away

    A tragic Christmas Day shooting in Oklahoma has resulted in first-degree manslaughter charges against 33-year-old Cody Wayne Adams, who authorities allege fatally struck neighbor Sandra Phelps with a stray bullet fired from a newly purchased handgun.

    According to Stephens County Sheriff’s Office affidavits, the incident occurred on December 25th when Phelps was seated on her front porch holding a child approximately half a mile from Adams’ residence. Witnesses reported hearing Phelps comment on nearby gunshot noises before uttering “ouch” and collapsing.

    Investigators determined Adams had recently acquired a Glock .45-caliber handgun as a Christmas present and was allegedly shooting at a beverage can in his backyard. Stephens County Sheriff’s Capt. Timothy Vann stated in court documents that Adams was “shooting towards the ground in his backyard where there was nothing behind his property to stop any bullets from traveling beyond his property and hurting someone.”

    The projectile struck Phelps in the upper right arm before penetrating her chest cavity. Medical responders pronounced her deceased approximately 20 minutes after emergency calls were received. The child being held in her left arm was physically unharmed.

    Adams was arrested on December 26th and booked into custody before posting $100,000 bond. Court records indicate he became “visibly upset and began to cry” when informed investigators suspected his involvement in the fatal shooting.

    Oklahoma statutes define first-degree manslaughter as a homicide occurring without premeditated intent during the commission of a misdemeanor. Prosecutors have alleged the misdemeanor component involves engaging in firearm conduct demonstrating “conscious disregard for the safety of others.” The offense carries potential penalties of up to life imprisonment.

    Adams has been ordered to avoid contact with the victim’s family and is scheduled for initial court appearance on February 25th as investigations continue into this fatal incident of stray gunfire.

  • UAE arrests Ecuador national Roberto Carlos after Interpol’s Red Notice

    UAE arrests Ecuador national Roberto Carlos after Interpol’s Red Notice

    In a significant international law enforcement operation, United Arab Emirates authorities have successfully detained Roberto Carlos Alvarez Vera, an Ecuadorian national sought through an Interpol Red Notice. The arrest, executed on December 29, 2025, came in direct response to a formal judicial request from Ecuadorian officials, marking a pivotal development in cross-border crime prevention.

    The governments of both nations have jointly characterized this operation as a testament to their strengthened commitment to judicial cooperation and the rule of law. This collaborative effort specifically targets transnational criminal networks, with particular emphasis on combating international narcotics trafficking operations that span multiple jurisdictions.

    Beyond the immediate apprehension, officials from both countries have reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining robust communication channels between their central judicial authorities. This framework of cooperation signals a mutual determination to enhance bilateral relations through structured legal collaboration, establishing a precedent for future joint operations against international criminal elements.

    The successful execution of this Red Notice underscores the evolving effectiveness of global policing networks when supported by strong diplomatic relationships between member states. This operation demonstrates how international legal mechanisms can function optimally when complemented by direct nation-to-nation judicial cooperation.

  • The fight over Christian nationalism in a small Tennessee town

    The fight over Christian nationalism in a small Tennessee town

    In the rolling Appalachian hills of Tennessee, a controversial real estate development has ignited a cultural confrontation that reflects America’s deepening political divisions. Josh Abbotoy, founder of Ridgerunner development company, envisions creating an “affinity-based community” centered around faith, family, and freedom on purchased land near Gainesboro. While marketed as a rural retreat celebrating conservative values, the project has drawn national attention due to its association with self-described Christian nationalists.

    The controversy intensified when two of Abbotoy’s earliest customers—Andrew Isker, a Minnesota pastor, and C Jay Engel, a California businessman—publicized their move to the area on their podcast ‘Contra Mundum’ (Against the World). Both men advocate for radical conservative reforms including questioning women’s suffrage, calling for mass deportations of legal immigrants, and seeking to “repeal the 20th Century.” Their statements triggered alarm among Gainesboro’s 900 residents, despite the county having voted 80% for Donald Trump in the last election.

    Local opposition crystallized when businesswoman Diana Mandli posted a chalkboard message outside her establishment reading: “If you are a person or group who promotes the inferiority or oppression of others, please eat somewhere else.” An informal resistance group emerged, confronting the developers at local meetings and erecting protest billboards. Residents expressed particular concern over Engel’s advocacy for “family voting” where only husbands would cast ballots representing households.

    Abbotoy, a Harvard Law graduate and partner at conservative venture fund New Founding, distances himself from the Christian nationalist label while defending his clients as intellectuals discussing “big ideas.” His development continues to attract buyers, predominantly from Democratic states like California and New York, with half the lots already under contract and first residents expected in 2027.

    The local dispute has drawn involvement from national organizations, with Abbotoy claiming opposition is orchestrated by liberal groups while residents maintain their resistance is organic. The confrontation represents a microcosm of broader political battles occurring across rural America, where Democratic organizations are increasing investment to counter Republican dominance despite the challenge of addressing extreme viewpoints within conservative communities.

  • China’s BYD poised to overtake Tesla in 2025 EV sales

    China’s BYD poised to overtake Tesla in 2025 EV sales

    Chinese automotive giant BYD is positioned to surpass Tesla as the world’s premier electric vehicle manufacturer by annual sales volume as 2025 concludes. Final sales figures expected imminently will likely confirm this seismic shift in the global EV landscape, marking the first time Tesla has relinquished its leadership position since dominating the market.

    Based on cumulative data through November 2025, Shenzhen-based BYD has achieved remarkable sales of 2.07 million electric vehicles, including both pure EVs and hybrid models. In contrast, Tesla reported 1.22 million deliveries by the end of September. Industry analysts project Tesla’s fourth-quarter performance will decline significantly, with consensus estimates hovering around 449,000 vehicles according to FactSet analysis. This would bring Tesla’s total 2025 sales to approximately 1.65 million units, representing a 7.7% decrease year-over-year.

    Several factors have contributed to this market realignment. Tesla experienced a temporary sales surge in Q3 2025, reaching nearly half-a-million deliveries, largely driven by the impending expiration of a US tax credit for electric vehicle purchases. This incentive program was terminated under legislation supported by former President Donald Trump. Deutsche Bank forecasts an even more substantial downturn for Tesla, projecting only 405,000 vehicles sold in the fourth quarter with declines of approximately one-third in both North American and European markets, and a 10% reduction in China.

    Beyond fiscal policy changes, Tesla has faced market headwinds related to CEO Elon Musk’s political endorsements of Trump and far-right figures, alongside intensifying competition from Chinese manufacturers and European automakers. Industry analyst Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities noted that while fourth-quarter deliveries might show weakness, Wall Street remains focused on Tesla’s autonomous driving initiatives scheduled for 2026.

    BYD’s ascendancy hasn’t been without challenges. Facing compressed profitability in China’s price-sensitive domestic market, the company has aggressively pursued international expansion. Jing Yang, Director of Asia-Pacific Corporate Ratings at Fitch Ratings, highlighted BYD’s pioneering efforts in establishing overseas production capacity and supply chains, noting that ‘geographical diversification is likely to help it navigate an increasingly complicated global tariff environment.’

    This global expansion occurs amid rising trade barriers, including 100% tariffs on Chinese EV imports implemented during the Biden administration and additional European tariffs. In response, BYD is developing manufacturing capabilities in Hungary to circumvent these trade restrictions.

    While Tesla’s immediate prospects in pure EV sales appear challenged, the company maintains potential growth avenues through autonomous driving technology. Analyst Michaeli of TD Cowen suggests breakthroughs in Tesla’s ‘full self-driving’ capabilities could significantly boost demand. The anticipated April 2026 production start of the Cybercab robotaxi and recently introduced lower-priced Models 3 and Y variants provide additional pathways for Tesla’s market repositioning.

  • Dubai: Legends 90 League unveils season 4 with grand launch

    Dubai: Legends 90 League unveils season 4 with grand launch

    DUBAI – The Legends 90 League (L90) has officially launched its highly anticipated fourth season with a prestigious ceremony at Shangri-La Dubai, setting the stage for groundbreaking cricketing action in March 2026. This revolutionary tournament continues to redefine cricket entertainment by merging legendary icons with contemporary stars in its dynamic 90-ball format.

    The grand unveiling witnessed the presence of cricketing luminaries including World Cup champion Harbhajan Singh, South African all-rounder JP Duminy, and English batsman James Vince. The event showcased the official team jerseys and the magnificent Season 4 trophy, symbolizing the league’s escalating global prestige and commitment to sporting excellence.

    Harbhajan Singh emphasized the league’s unique position in world cricket, stating: ‘L90 has established an extraordinary niche by uniting iconic players through innovative gameplay. The league’s remarkable evolution promises an even more spectacular fourth season for enthusiasts worldwide.’

    Duminy highlighted the format’s competitive intensity: ‘The 90-ball concept delivers relentless action while enabling seasoned athletes to demonstrate their expertise at premium levels. This condensed format maintains aggressive, entertaining cricket without compromising quality.’

    Vince added perspective on the league’s dual appeal: ‘This tournament perfectly balances nostalgic elements with modern cricketing energy. Witnessing legendary figures compete alongside current stars generates unparalleled excitement among global audiences.’

    Since its inception, L90 has featured cricketing aristocracy including Yuvraj Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and Chris Gayle, delivering exceptional performances and unforgettable matches. Shivain Sharma, League Director, articulated the organizational vision: ‘Our focus remains building a credible, competitive, and fan-centric cricketing experience. Season 4 represents a significant milestone in enhancing the league’s on-field quality, international appeal, and long-term development.’

    The March 2026 tournament promises to deliver electrifying cricketing action, uniting generations of players in a fast-paced format that celebrates cricket’s rich heritage while embracing innovative sporting entertainment.

  • Washington pipe bomb suspect has confessed, prosecutors say

    Washington pipe bomb suspect has confessed, prosecutors say

    Federal prosecutors have disclosed that Brian Cole, a 30-year-old Virginia resident accused of planting pipe bombs in Washington D.C., has provided a full confession to FBI investigators following his arrest earlier this month. According to court documents unsealed on Sunday, Cole admitted to placing explosive devices outside both Democratic and Republican national committee headquarters on January 5, 2021—the eve of the U.S. Capitol insurrection.

    Cole detailed to investigators that ‘something just snapped’ regarding his frustration with the American political system, prompting him to take action against both major parties due to their perceived influence in national politics. ‘I really don’t like either party at this point,’ Cole stated during his interrogation, as cited in the prosecution’s filing.

    The suspect, who faces two explosives-related charges, initially denied involvement when questioned by authorities. He claimed his presence in Washington was solely to participate in protests supporting former President Donald Trump’s unsubstantiated allegations of voter fraud in the 2020 election. Cole expressed his belief that the election had been ‘tampered with,’ telling FBI agents that powerful figures needed to speak out about electoral integrity issues.

    Prosecutors revealed these new investigative details while arguing for Cole’s pretrial detention, with a hearing scheduled in Washington federal court. The case had remained unsolved for nearly five years until FBI leadership ordered a comprehensive review of evidence, which had previously fueled various right-wing conspiracy theories connected to the Capitol riot.

    The unexploded pipe bombs were discovered approximately at 1:00 PM on January 6, 2021, coinciding with the Capitol breach and diverting critical law enforcement resources during the emergency. Cole specifically denied any connection between his bomb placement and the subsequent electoral certification process in Congress.

  • Controlling blood sugar cut heart disease risk in half, says study

    Controlling blood sugar cut heart disease risk in half, says study

    A groundbreaking medical study has demonstrated that individuals who successfully reverse prediabetes by achieving normal blood glucose levels can reduce their risk of cardiovascular mortality and heart failure hospitalization by approximately 50% over two decades. The research, published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology on December 12, 2025, provides compelling evidence that early intervention for prediabetes yields substantial long-term cardiovascular benefits.

    The investigation represents a comprehensive follow-up analysis of two major diabetes prevention trials—the U.S. Diabetes Prevention Program (1996-2001) and a parallel study conducted in China. Researchers tracked participants for 20-30 years post-intervention, revealing that those who attained blood glucose remission within the first year of intervention experienced dramatically better cardiovascular outcomes regardless of whether they achieved normalization through intensive lifestyle modifications or pharmaceutical intervention with metformin.

    Approximately 11% of participants in the U.S. trial and 13% in the Chinese trial successfully reached normal glucose levels. Both cohorts demonstrated remarkably similar risk reduction patterns—approximately 50% lower incidence of fatal heart disease and heart failure hospitalization compared to those who maintained elevated glucose levels. This protective effect persisted even after accounting for subsequent diabetes development and other confounding factors.

    Medical experts highlight the physiological mechanisms behind this protective effect: normalizing glucose levels reduces abdominal fat deposition, decreases systemic inflammation, and enhances insulin sensitivity—all critical factors in cardiovascular health. The findings challenge current clinical guidelines that primarily focus on delaying diabetes progression rather than actively pursuing glucose normalization.

    Despite the promising results, researchers acknowledge the practical challenges. The relatively low remission rates in both trials underscore the difficulty of achieving sustained glucose normalization. Contemporary experts speculate that newer therapeutic options, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists that were unavailable during the original trials, might improve remission rates when combined with lifestyle interventions.

    The study reinforces that blood glucose management represents just one component of comprehensive cardiovascular risk reduction, emphasizing that maintaining healthy weight, proper nutrition, and regular physical activity remain essential complementary strategies.

  • US economy to ride tax cut tailwind but faces risks

    US economy to ride tax cut tailwind but faces risks

    The US economy is positioned for accelerated growth in 2026, propelled by multiple tailwinds including President Trump’s tax legislation, diminishing trade policy uncertainties, sustained artificial intelligence investments, and the Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate reductions. This follows a volatile 2025 characterized by initial contraction and subsequent recovery.

    Economists identify enhanced consumer spending as the primary growth catalyst, fueled by increased tax refunds and reduced paycheck withholdings resulting from the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ legislation. KPMG Chief Economist Diane Swonk projects these fiscal measures alone could contribute至少 half a percentage point to first-quarter GDP expansion.

    The corporate sector stands to benefit significantly from expanded tax credits and full expensing provisions for business investments. While AI infrastructure spending dominated 2025 capital expenditures, technology giants including Amazon and Alphabet have signaled continued substantial investments in this domain.

    Trade policy impacts reached their zenith during the first half of 2025, with average import levies surging from below 3% in 2024 to approximately 17% according to Yale Budget Lab data. As these pressures gradually recede, economists anticipate improved wage growth relative to inflation, further strengthening household financial positions.

    Nevertheless, substantial risks persist. Labor market softening remains evident through reduced monthly job gains and an elevated November unemployment rate of 4.6%—though data collection disruptions during the six-week federal government shutdown may have distorted this figure. Inflation, while moderating in the third quarter, continues to exceed target levels, creating policy dilemmas for the Federal Reserve.

    The central bank faces additional uncertainty with Chair Jerome Powell’s term concluding in May 2026. Market expectations universally anticipate the incoming chair, selected by President Trump, will advocate for additional rate reductions.

    Consumer sentiment reflects these mixed conditions, with Conference Board data indicating labor market perceptions have deteriorated to early-2021 levels. This cautious outlook might lead households to prioritize saving rather than spending their tax cut windfalls.

    Goldman Sachs economist David Mericle notes: ‘While we project unemployment stabilizing at 4.5% alongside strengthened final demand, further labor market softening represents our forecast’s primary downside risk. AI’s productivity benefits might paradoxically constrain hiring momentum despite economic expansion.’

  • Trump hopes to reach phase two of Gaza ceasefire ‘very quickly’

    Trump hopes to reach phase two of Gaza ceasefire ‘very quickly’

    In a decisive meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida, U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a stern warning to Hamas, emphasizing that the militant group would face severe repercussions if it fails to disarm promptly. The high-level discussions centered on the implementation of the Gaza peace plan, which entered its initial phase in October.

    President Trump affirmed that Israel has fully complied with the agreement’s provisions, despite ongoing military operations in Gaza that have resulted in significant casualties. The Hamas-run health ministry reports at least 414 Palestinian fatalities since the ceasefire began, while Israel maintains its actions constitute responses to ceasefire violations.

    The American leader outlined the critical sequencing of the peace plan’s second phase, which necessitates Hamas’s complete disarmament before establishing a technocratic government in Gaza and initiating reconstruction efforts. Trump expressed optimism about commencing reconstruction shortly but insisted disarmament must occur within a constrained timeframe.

    The bilateral talks expanded to address regional security concerns, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Trump cautioned that the United States would not hesitate to launch additional strikes if evidence emerges of Iran rebuilding its ballistic missile or nuclear weapons programs at alternative facilities. This warning follows June’s extensive U.S. air and missile strikes that targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure.

    Iranian officials dismissed these allegations as psychological warfare, asserting their preparedness to defend against renewed aggression and warning of escalated consequences for Israel. The discussions also covered regional dynamics involving Syria and Hezbollah, with Trump expressing hope for improved Israeli-Syrian relations under President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s leadership.

    Analysts note the complex challenges facing the peace process, including Netanyahu’s alleged stalling tactics and Hamas’s insistence that disarmament must coincide with progress toward Palestinian statehood. The meeting underscored the delicate balance between diplomatic negotiations and military readiness in the volatile Middle East region.

  • Russia claims Ukraine fired drones at Putin residence; Zelensky denies accusations

    Russia claims Ukraine fired drones at Putin residence; Zelensky denies accusations

    Russia has leveled serious allegations against Ukraine, claiming Kyiv launched a drone assault targeting President Vladimir Putin’s official residence. According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Ukrainian forces fired 91 drones toward Putin’s Novgorod region compound between Sunday night and Monday morning, with all projectiles reportedly intercepted and destroyed by Russian air defense systems.

    The incident has prompted Moscow to declare a significant shift in its diplomatic approach to the ongoing conflict. Lavrov announced that Russia would ‘revise’ its negotiating position regarding peace talks and has already identified specific targets within Ukraine for what he termed ‘retaliation strikes.’ This development represents a substantial escalation in rhetoric from the Russian government, which characterized the alleged attack as an act of terrorism.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky swiftly dismissed the accusations, labeling them as ‘another round of lies’ from Moscow. In statements delivered via WhatsApp to reporters, Zelensky suggested that Russia’s claims were strategically designed to undermine recent progress achieved in Ukraine-US peace negotiations. The Ukrainian leader further asserted that Moscow was fabricating pretexts to justify planned strikes against government buildings in Kyiv.

    Zelensky directly appealed to US President Donald Trump to respond appropriately to what he characterized as Russian threats, highlighting the international dimensions of the escalating situation. The exchange occurs amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, with these latest allegations threatening to further complicate peace discussions between the involved parties.