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Protests escalate in Tirana as demonstrators demand PM Ramas resignation following corruption charges against Deputy PM Balluku. Tensions rise over allegations of misusing state funds in infrastructure projects. Balluku denies wrongdoing, but Special Prosecution Office seeks her arrest, keeping Albanias political scene in turmoil.

Barry Manilow, the 82-year-old music icon, shares his cancer diagnosis, postponing January concerts for surgery. Despite the news, he maintains a positive attitude, joking about his recovery plans. The stage one tumor is treatable, with surgery scheduled for late December. Fans can look forward to his return in February, with rescheduled January shows.

Russia escalates attacks on Ukraines Odesa region, targeting power grids and key ports, causing widespread blackouts and fires. The strikes have killed and injured civilians, and Ukrainian leaders warn of a systematic effort to block maritime trade. The wars focus may be shifting to Odesa, a vital grain exporter. US-led peace talks in Miami ended with no breakthroughs, and Russia dismissed peace plans, offering a no-invasion pledge. The strikes and stalemate suggest no quick end to the conflict.

South Koreas parliament establishes an independent probe into the deadliest plane crash in the countrys history, aiming to uncover key causes and potential government cover-ups.

Trump Administration Recalls Diplomats, Prioritizing America First Agenda The Trump administration is recalling nearly thirty ambassadors and senior diplomats, aiming to align U.S. embassies with America First priorities. Critics argue this move weakens global leadership, potentially handing influence to China and Russia. The recalled diplomats are encouraged to take new roles within the State Department, as Trump seeks loyalists to push his agenda. This shake-up follows resistance from career officials during his first term, signaling a major push for political appointees in key diplomatic spots worldwide.

In Lexington, Nebraska, Tyson Foods beef plant closure looms, threatening 3,200 jobs and potentially 7,000 total losses. Workers, many immigrants, grapple with tough decisions as the plants final day approaches on January 20th.

The US government halts five major offshore wind energy projects due to national security concerns, citing potential risks to radar systems and east coast cities. The projects, off the coasts of New York, Virginia, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, are under investigation. Critics argue the move is politically motivated, as President Trump has previously criticized wind power. Renewable energy companies and state leaders are pushing back against the decision, which they claim will increase electricity prices and harm clean energy jobs.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam proposes a new draft law to help depositors recover frozen funds, addressing a massive shortfall of over $70 billion. The plan offers different repayment paths based on deposit size, with smaller deposits receiving monthly or quarterly payments over four years. Larger deposits convert into tradable securities backed by central bank assets. The cabinet has approved some parts, with more discussions planned before it goes to parliament. However, banks oppose the plan, citing its impact on their ability to pay and potential hidden government debt. An international audit of central bank assets is due within a month, and the law aims to clear the path for Lebanons economic reboot by wiping out certain deposits tied to illicit funds or unfair currency conversions.