Author: Rachel Maddow

The United States carried out a series of airstrikes against Islamic State–linked militant groups in northwestern Nigeria, marking a significant intervention in the country’s ongoing struggle against violent extremism. President Donald Trump described the attacks as “powerful and deadly” and said they targeted militants responsible for attacks on civilians, particularly Christians. Trump emphasized that the strikes were aimed at “terrorist scum” who had been “viciously killing innocent people,” underscoring Washington’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fight against extremist violence. Bolstering Nigeria’s Security Forces Nigeria’s military has long faced challenges in combating extremist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State…

European intelligence agencies report that probing Russian interference now demands as much attention and resources as counterterrorism efforts, highlighting the growing scale and sophistication of cyber and sabotage operations across the continent. The warning follows a high-profile cyberattack on France’s national postal service during the peak Christmas delivery season. Postal Service Disrupted by Claimed Pro-Russian Hack French prosecutors said Wednesday that pro-Russian hacking group Noname057(16) claimed responsibility for the attack that knocked La Poste’s central computer systems offline on Monday. The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that the domestic intelligence agency DGSI immediately took over the investigation. The disruption left postal…

Precious metals have dominated markets this year, fueled by rising geopolitical risk, expectations of looser monetary policy and a fragile global economic outlook. Gold prices soared to record levels in 2025, reaching as high as $4,481 (€3,797) per troy ounce — an increase of roughly 55–70% year on year, marking one of the strongest annual rallies in decades. Silver, often seen as the “lesser” metal, outpaced gold in percentage gains, climbing 130–140% and hitting record levels near $69 (€58) per ounce by late 2025. Once sidelined in favor of modern stores of value like currencies, bonds and real estate, precious…

A senior Russian military officer, Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov, was killed in a car explosion in southern Moscow on Monday. The blast occurred in a parking lot adjacent to a residential building, according to local media reports. Sarvarov, who led the Operational Training Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces’ General Staff, was critically injured and later died, authorities confirmed. Investigators immediately opened a criminal case and began examining the circumstances surrounding the attack. Investigation Underway The Investigative Committee said the motive for Sarvarov’s death is still unknown. Officials have not released details about how the explosive device was planted or…

Incomplete Disclosure Sparks OutrageThe US Justice Department released thousands of files connected to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein on Friday, but lawmakers and victims’ advocates immediately criticised the disclosure as partial and heavily redacted. Many of the photographs show former President Bill Clinton, prompting renewed scrutiny, while Democrats demanded the release of the full, uncensored material. The documents include call logs, court records, and investigative files, though the Justice Department acknowledged that numerous files remain withheld and promised further releases in the coming weeks. The partial release frustrated critics who argued it falls far short of congressional intent. Lawmakers said the…

Late Thursday night, EU leaders admitted defeat on a plan many had once hailed as groundbreaking. The proposal aimed to convert frozen Russian central bank assets into a zero-interest reparations loan for Ukraine, an idea without precedent in modern European history. Supporters framed it as morally clear and politically bold, while critics warned it carried immense financial and legal risks. By the final negotiations, enthusiasm had given way to caution, and leaders turned to a safer, more familiar solution. Rather than risk legal and financial uncertainty, the EU decided to raise €90 billion through joint borrowing on financial markets. The…

Across Europe, airport workers are walking out in protest over low wages and poor working conditions, disrupting travel during the busiest season of the year. Unions describe employer behavior as unfair and “Grinch-like,” particularly at a time when travelers are already stressed with holiday plans. Many workers see the festive period as the most effective moment to push for higher pay and better treatment, knowing that cancellations and delays will put pressure on airlines and airport operators. Travelers should be aware that some strikes are announced months in advance, giving people time to adjust, while others appear suddenly, sometimes only…

France’s Interior Ministry suffered a cyberattack that lasted several days, targeting professional email accounts, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez revealed. The ministry, which employs nearly 300,000 people, discovered unusual activity on its servers last week, prompting an internal investigation. Nuñez confirmed the attack publicly on Wednesday, explaining that hackers gained access to sensitive information stored in police databases. While officials acted quickly to contain the breach, the incident highlighted vulnerabilities in the ministry’s internal security practices. The minister stressed that authorities immediately launched a judicial investigation to identify the perpetrators and prevent further damage. “We were the target of a malicious…

Louvre workers walked out on Monday, closing the Paris museum in protest over staffing and safety concerns.Labour leaders said 400 employees voted unanimously to strike for the day, though future action remains uncertain.Strikers gathered at the iconic glass pyramid, waving banners and blocking visitor entry.The Louvre posted a notice online confirming the exceptional closure and promised refunds for all ticket holders. The museum normally closes on Tuesdays, giving employees a chance to meet Wednesday and decide whether to continue striking.Tourists reacted with disappointment. Lindsey Hall, visiting from Sacramento, California, called the closure “really sad.”She described the museum’s collection as “epic”…

Youth athletes across the United States are being celebrated for leadership, character, and sportsmanship. Positive Athlete programs have recognized high-school stars and young competitors for their impact both on and off the field. These programs aim to highlight athletes who demonstrate integrity, teamwork, and dedication. By focusing on character as much as performance, Positive Athlete initiatives encourage young players to lead by example and inspire others in their communities. Recognition comes from a variety of sports, from football and basketball to swimming and track. Athletes are nominated by coaches, teammates, and local organizations for showing consistent effort, fairness, and positive…