Nigerian villagers are rattled by US airstrikes that made their homes shake and the sky glow red
JABO, Nigeria (AP) — A U.S. airstrike that targeted an alleged camp of the Islamic State group in Nigeria has caused panic in the village of Jabo, close to where the strike hit. The residents witnessed the sky glowing red from the attack late on Thursday night. U.S. President Donald Trump announced the strike. The Nigerian government has since confirmed that it cooperated with the U.S government in its strike but didn't disclose details about the militants targeted. Jabo's residents say the village had never been attacked by armed gangs as part of the violence the U.S. says is widespread, though such attacks regularly occur in neighboring villages. Locals remain anxious, fearing further attacks and uncertainty.
What to know about the militants targeted by US airstrikes in northwest Nigeria
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — The United States airstrikes targeting militants affiliated with the Islamic State group in northwestern Nigeria are a major escalation of an offensive that Nigeria’s overstretched military has struggled with for years. U.S. President Donald Trump said the “powerful and deadly” strikes were carried out against IS militants on Thursday. Although officials did not say which group was targeted, security analysts said the target is most likely the Lakurawa group, an IS-affiliated jihadi group that became more active and lethal in Sokoto and other northwestern states in the last year. Here is what to know about the militants.
Winter storm snarls U.S. holiday travel across Northeast, Great Lakes
BOSTON (AP) — More than a thousand flights were canceled or delayed across the Northeast and Great Lakes as a winter storm disrupted one of the busiest travel weekends of the year between Christmas and New Year’s. As of Saturday morning, New York City had received around four inches of snow, under what some forecasts predicted, but at least 1,500 flights were canceled from Friday night into Saturday, according to FlightAware. Major New York–area airports warned of disruptions, while the National Weather Service cautioned about hazardous travel conditions, possible power outages and tree damage. States of emergency were declared for New Jersey and parts of New York.
Thailand and Cambodia sign a new ceasefire agreement to end border fighting
BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand and Cambodia have signed a ceasefire agreement to end weeks of fighting over border disputes. The agreement, effective Saturday at noon, halts military movements and airspace violations. Thailand had conducted airstrikes in Cambodia as recently as Saturday morning. The deal includes the repatriation of 18 Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand after 72 hours of ceasefire. Both countries have suffered civilian and military casualties. The ceasefire aims to allow displaced civilians to return home. The agreement also addresses land mine concerns and calls for joint demining operations. Malaysia's Prime Minister praised the agreement, emphasizing restraint for civilian safety.
Russia strikes Ukraine's capital and kills at least 1 person a day before Zelenskyy-Trump meeting
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russia struck Ukraine's capital with missiles and drones in an attack that killed at least one person. The barrage came a day before the leaders of Ukraine and the United States meet. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attack “really shows that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin doesn’t want peace.” Authorities said that Saturday's assault hit residential buildings and energy infrastructure in Kyiv. Moscow said the strike was in response to Ukraine’s attacks on “civilian objects” in Russia. Poland scrambled fighter jets and closed airports in Lublin and Rzeszow near the border with Ukraine for several hours during the Russian attacks but there was no violation of Polish airspace.
Hundreds mourn in Syria's Homs after deadly mosque bombing
HOMS, Syria (AP) — Hundreds of mourners have gathered outside a mosque in Homs, Syria, after a bombing killed eight people and wounded 18. The crowd assembled next to the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi al-Dhahab neighborhood, predominantly Alawite, before driving in convoys to bury the victims. Officials say preliminary investigations indicate explosive devices were planted inside the mosque. A group called Saraya Ansar al-Sunna claimed responsibility, targeting the Alawite sect. The same group previously claimed a suicide attack in June at a Greek Orthodox church near Damascus. Mourners prayed outside the mosque, which remains cordoned off.
Millions of Afghans face hunger as aid cuts deepen a humanitarian crisis
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — Millions of Afghans are struggling as international aid cuts sever a lifeline many relied on for food and heating. Rahimullah, a Kabul resident, earns just $4.5 to $6 a day selling socks in Kabul. He’s one of many affected by the halt in U.S. aid to programs like the World Food Program. The International Committee for the Red Cross says nearly half the population needed aid in 2025. The return of millions of refugees has exacerbated the situation, putting pressure on already scant resources. The harsh winter adds to the misery, with many families facing severe hunger and cold.
Cypriot fishermen battle invasive lionfish and turn them into a tavern delicacy
LARNACA, Cyprus (AP) — Fishermen in Cyprus are now targeting invasive lionfish, which have spread from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean. These fish threaten local species and the livelihoods of about 150 fishermen. The species is spreading. Italian authorities have asked the public to report sightings of lionfish and other non-native species. The warming Mediterranean waters have also seen an increase in silver-cheeked toadfish, which damage fishing nets. The European Union is compensating fishermen to catch these invasive species. Efforts to promote lionfish as a delicacy are underway, with local chefs incorporating it into menus to help control the population.
Brazilian judge puts coup plot convicts under house arrest after former police commander flees
SAO PAULO (AP) — A Brazilian judge has issued house arrest orders for 10 people involved in a plot to keep former President Jair Bolsonaro in power after his 2022 election loss. The decision on Saturday came after Paraguay arrested and extradited a former police commander linked to the plot. The individuals under house arrest had previously faced measures like ankle monitors. Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years in prison in September for attempting a coup. The trials have been closely watched in Brazil. The U.S. initially criticized the proceedings. But Washington has since softened its stance by lifting sanctions and lowering tariffs on Brazilian exports.
Jeffrey R. Holland, next in line to lead Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, dies at 85
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Jeffrey R. Holland, a senior official in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has died at 85. The church announced his death on Saturday from complications from kidney disease. Holland led the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, a key governing body. He was next in line to become the church's president. Henry B. Eyring is now next in line. Holland had been dealing with health issues and was hospitalized during the Christmas holiday. He previously served as president of Brigham Young University and was known for his work in education and interfaith relations.
