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Rudy Giuliani Held in Contempt Again in Defamation Case Over Georgia Election Workers

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Former New York City Mayor and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani has been found in contempt of court for the second time this week in connection with a defamation case involving former Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss. 

The latest ruling, issued Friday by U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell in Washington, stems from Giuliani’s failure to comply with a court-ordered agreement to cease making defamatory statements about Freeman and Moss. Earlier this week, U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman in New York found Giuliani in contempt for not providing financial information related to the $146 million judgment in the case. 

During the hearing, Howell emphasized the reach of Giuliani’s platform. “You’re the most famous person in this courtroom right now… you’ve got a bigger audience and a bigger public following than anyone in this courtroom,” she said. The judge warned Rudy to be mindful of his influence. 

Freeman and Moss’s attorney, Michael Gottlieb, urged the court to fine Giuliani $20,000 for each violation to deter future defamation. Giuliani’s attorney, Eden Quainton, argued against the penalty, stating it would be “excessive.” Howell questioned whether Giuliani intended to stop making defamatory remarks, calling the ongoing behavior “chilling.” 

Giuliani testified about his financial situation, denying claims that he had significant legal resources at his disposal. He also acknowledged the disappearance of a valuable New York Yankees jersey autographed by Joe DiMaggio, which he had failed to turn over as part of the court-ordered asset disclosure. 

Freeman and Moss sued Giuliani for his false claims that they were involved in election fraud during the 2020 presidential election. The court previously ruled in 2023 that Giuliani defamed the women. Despite his appeals, Giuliani has not fully complied with court orders. 

The defamation case has already resulted in a $146 million judgment against Giuliani. He has maintained that his comments were protected by the First Amendment, a claim the court has repeatedly rejected. 

Delta Passengers Evacuate Plane on Emergency Slides at Atlanta Airport Amid Winter Storm 

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Delta Flight 2668, carrying 201 passengers, was evacuated at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport on Friday morning due to an engine issue. Passengers exited the Boeing 757-300 via emergency slides and were transported back to the terminal using ground vehicles. The flight was scheduled to depart for Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport at around 7 a.m. but faced complications as severe winter weather gripped Atlanta. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that takeoff was suspended at approximately 9 a.m., and an investigation into the engine malfunction is underway.

Delta stated that the flight crew, which included two pilots and five flight attendants, adhered to established safety protocols to suspend the takeoff. The airline reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety, apologizing for the disruption and pledging support to affected customers to ensure they reach their destinations safely and quickly.

Four passengers reported minor injuries. One was transported for medical treatment, while three others were treated on the scene. Airport operations were delayed due to the incident and adverse weather conditions. Officials said the affected aircraft and runway would be cleared shortly.

The winter storm has caused significant travel disruptions across the region, with Atlanta experiencing one to two inches of snow and up to a quarter inch of ice. The National Weather Service urged residents to avoid non-essential travel. The storm has severely impacted flights nationwide, with more than 2,600 cancellations and 2,500 delays reported. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport was the hardest hit, recording almost 900 cancellations and over 430 delays. Power outages have also affected over 4,000 customers in Georgia.

Delta Flight 2668’s evacuation marks another challenge during the ongoing weather crisis. Despite the setbacks, the airline remains focused on ensuring passenger safety while working to resume normal operations.

FA Cup Preview: Liverpool vs. Accrington Stanley – Prediction, Team News, and Lineups 

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Liverpool kick off their FA Cup campaign this Saturday at Anfield, hosting League Two side Accrington Stanley in a David vs. Goliath third-round encounter. This marks the first meeting between the two clubs since Accrington’s reformation in 1968, creating a historic moment for the visitors. 

Liverpool’s FA Cup Journey 

The Reds, eight-time winners of the FA Cup, last claimed the trophy in 2022. However, their recent performances in the competition have been underwhelming, including last season’s quarter-final exit against Manchester United in a dramatic 4-3 extra-time thriller. 

Coming into this tie, Arne Slot’s side saw their 24-game unbeaten streak end midweek in the EFL Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, losing 1-0. Despite the setback, Liverpool remain Premier League leaders and will look to bounce back with a convincing performance in the FA Cup. 

Accrington Stanley: The Underdogs’ Dream 

For Accrington Stanley, this match is a dream opportunity. The League Two outfit, managed by Liverpool-born John Doolan, has a perfect record in FA Cup third-round ties, progressing to the fourth round on all four previous occasions. 

Despite their struggles last season, Accrington have shown resilience this campaign, eliminating non-league Rushall Olympic and Swindon Town on penalties to reach this stage. Their recent form has been promising, with back-to-back wins against Grimsby Town and Colchester United lifting them away from the League Two relegation zone. 

Team News and Possible Lineups 

Liverpool: 

Slot is expected to rotate his squad heavily, giving opportunities to young talents like James McConnell, Tyler Morton, Trey Nyoni, and Jayden Danns. Injuries to Joe Gomez (hamstring) and Jarell Quansah limit defensive options, but first-team players like Darwin Nunez, Harvey Elliott, and Federico Chiesa could make appearances. 

Predicted lineup:

Kelleher; Bradley, Endo, Konate, Morton; McConnell, Nyoni, Elliott; Chiesa, Danns, Nunez 

Accrington Stanley:

The visitors will rely on key players like goalkeeper Billy Crellin, who faces a daunting task at Anfield. Tyler Walton, Accrington’s standout performer in the FA Cup so far, aims to make history as the first player in club history to score in all three opening rounds of the competition in the same season. 

Predicted lineup:

Crellin; Love, Rawson, Awe, B Woods; Whalley, Martin, Khumbeni, Hunter, J Woods; Walton 

Prediction 

While Accrington Stanley will undoubtedly approach this tie with determination, the gap in quality is immense. Even with a rotated squad, Liverpool’s depth and firepower are likely to overwhelm their League Two opponents. 

Final Score Prediction: Liverpool 6-0 Accrington Stanley 

The Reds are poised to dominate and advance comfortably, though Accrington can savor their moment on the big stage. 

FA Cup Preview: Arsenal vs. Manchester United – Predictions, Team News, and Lineups 

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Two of English football’s most storied clubs clash in a highly anticipated FA Cup third-round encounter on Sunday. Arsenal, the FA Cup’s most successful team with 14 titles, welcome defending champions Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium. Both teams aim to assert their dominance in this historic competition. 

Arsenal’s Recent FA Cup Struggles 

Since their last FA Cup win in 2020, Arsenal have struggled in the tournament, experiencing early exits in the past four seasons, including a third-round defeat to Liverpool last year. The Gunners also faltered in the EFL Cup this week, losing 2-0 to Newcastle United in the semi-final first leg. 

Despite these setbacks, Mikel Arteta’s side has proven their ability to dethrone defending champions, doing so in their last six FA Cup matchups with titleholders. Additionally, Arsenal triumphed over Manchester United 2-0 at the Emirates in a Premier League clash just weeks ago, boosting their confidence for this showdown. 

Manchester United’s Roadblocks 

Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United arrive at the Emirates amid a turbulent spell. The team extended their winless streak to five games after a 2-2 draw against Liverpool last weekend, with defensive issues persisting. United have conceded at least two goals in each of their last nine matches. 

However, the defending champions have a strong record in the FA Cup’s third round, advancing in nine of their last 10 matches. Their recent history against Arsenal also bodes well, having won three of their last four FA Cup meetings, including a 3-1 victory at the Emirates in 2019. 

Team News and Probable Lineups 

Arsenal: 

Arteta will be without Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Ethan Nwaneri (muscle), Ben White (knee), and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee). Gabriel Jesus may replace Leandro Trossard on the right wing, while Riccardo Calafiori could feature on the left. On-loan goalkeeper Neto might make his debut for the Gunners. 

Predicted lineup:

Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Jesus, Havertz, Martinelli 

Manchester United: 

Marcus Rashford, recovering from illness, could return, though his potential transfer creates uncertainty. Amorim has confirmed that Altay Bayindir will start in goal. Mason Mount (thigh), Victor Lindelof (unspecified), and Luke Shaw (calf) remain unavailable. 

Predicted lineup: 

Bayindir; De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez; Mazraoui, Ugarte, Mainoo, Dalot; Diallo, Fernandes; Hojlund 

Prediction 

Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal against Newcastle may persist, especially against a determined Manchester United. However, the Red Devils’ inconsistency and Arsenal’s home advantage should tilt the balance in favor of the Gunners. 

Final Score Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Manchester United (Arsenal to win on penalties). 

The Gunners are poised to edge past United and end their title defense in this electrifying FA Cup encounter. 

Houthis Issue Dire Warning to Israel Following Airstrikes

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Yemen’s Ansar Allah movement, commonly known as the Houthis, issued a stark warning to Israel after being targeted by new airstrikes. A source within the group told Newsweek, “Our hand is longer than the hand of Israel, and we will continue our operations without stopping until the aggression on Gaza stops.” The group vowed ongoing retaliation against “Zionist war criminals,” pledging unwavering support for Gaza despite escalating challenges.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced a series of airstrikes on Yemeni targets, including the Hizaz power station in Sanaa and military facilities in Al-Hodeidah and Ras Isa. The strikes responded to Houthi missile and drone attacks launched in solidarity with Hamas amid its conflict with Israel. 

The IDF justified the airstrikes, stating, “The State of Israel has the right and obligation to defend itself.” 

Ansar Allah, a key faction in the Iran-led Axis of Resistance, continues its campaign of drone and missile attacks on Israel and vessels linked to Israeli interests. The group has also targeted U.S. warships, claiming responsibility for attacks on the USS *Harry S. Truman* and other vessels in the Red Sea. 

Newly recruited fighters who joined a Houthi military force intended to be sent to fight in support of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, march during a parade in Sanaa, Yemen December 2, 2023. REUTERS/Khaled Abdullah

Statements from Key Players 

– Houthi Military Spokesperson Yahya Saree: Announced successful strikes on U.S. and Israeli targets, stating their operations aim to challenge “the aggression of the Zionist enemy.” 

– White House NSC Communications Director John Kirby: Acknowledged the group’s continued capabilities, emphasizing efforts to degrade their long-range threats. 

– IDF Statement: Labeled the Houthis a “terrorist regime” relying on Iranian support and reiterated their commitment to counter threats against Israel and its citizens.

The ongoing conflict has intensified Middle East tensions, with maritime warfare by Ansar Allah disrupting shipping routes, raising global consumer goods prices, and straining international coalitions aimed at stabilizing the region. The Houthis’ actions have drawn strikes not only from Israel but also from the United States and United Kingdom. 

With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office in 10 days, the situation adds complexity to an already volatile Middle East. Trump has warned of significant regional instability if a ceasefire is not achieved, particularly regarding hostages held by Hamas. 

Ansar Allah, in prior communications, has directly appealed to Trump to resolve the conflict, emphasizing the economic toll on the U.S. and global markets caused by heightened shipping costs. 

As ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas remain deadlocked, the Houthis’ ongoing operations underscore their role as a significant player in the crisis. The Biden administration’s coalition to counter Ansar Allah attacks is expected to remain active, focusing on defending commercial shipping and mitigating threats to Israel. 

Hollywood Actor Mel Gibson Reveals Home Destroyed in LA Wildfires

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Mel Gibson has confirmed that his Malibu home was destroyed by the Los Angeles wildfires while he was away recording an episode of *The Joe Rogan Experience*. The Oscar-winning actor described his property as “completely toasted” and criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom’s handling of the wildfire crisis.

The devastating wildfires have claimed at least 10 lives, destroyed thousands of structures, and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. Authorities warn that strong winds could worsen the situation, further fueling the flames.

Speaking on Elizabeth Vargas Reports on NewsNation, Gibson expressed his emotional struggle, saying, “It’s kind of devastating, it’s emotional. I’ve been relieved from the burden of my stuff because it’s all in cinders.” 

Gibson revealed he had lived at his Malibu home for 15 years, which he now described as reduced to ashes. Neighboring homes, including one owned by fellow actor Ed Harris, were also destroyed. Gibson confirmed that his family safely evacuated before the flames reached their property. 

Then

The Braveheart star criticized Governor Newsom during his podcast appearance with Joe Rogan, accusing the governor of neglecting forest management despite previous promises. “I think all our tax dollars probably went for Gavin’s hair gel,” Gibson quipped. 

Then

The Los Angeles area is currently experiencing the worst wildfires in its history, with five major fires consuming over 31,000 acres and forcing the evacuation of 180,000 people. Fire chief David Acuna reported that an estimated 10,000 structures may have been destroyed and warned that high winds could lead to further devastation.

Now

Political Fallout 

The wildfire crisis has also sparked political tension. President-elect Donald Trump called for Governor Newsom’s resignation, criticizing his response to the disaster. Trump stated, “One of the best and most beautiful parts of the US is burning down to the ground.” 

Governor Newsom defended the state’s efforts, stating that authorities were “throwing everything at our disposal” to combat the fires and protect communities. A spokesperson for Newsom accused Trump of politicizing the disaster while the governor focused on ensuring firefighters had the resources they needed.

President Joe Biden pledged additional federal resources to California, calling the disaster “the most widespread, devastating fire” in the state’s history.

Celebrity Losses 

Several celebrities have also lost their homes to the wildfires. 

– Paris Hilton shared footage of her devastated property, calling the loss “indescribable.” 

– Billy Crystal expressed heartbreak over losing his Pacific Palisades home of more than 40 years. 

– Ricki Lake described her destroyed home as her “dream house.” 

– Other celebrities, including Sir Anthony Hopkins, John Goodman, Anna Faris, and Cary Elwes, also reportedly lost their homes. 

– Actor Rainn Wilson shared a video of his burned property, calling the disaster a “valuable lesson.” 

Now

Meanwhile, Police Academy star Steve Guttenberg assisted firefighters by clearing parked cars to make room for fire engines. “This is not a parking lot,” he told KTLA. 

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who reside in California, have reportedly offered their home as a safe haven for friends and loved ones affected by the evacuations. In a statement, Prince Harry and Meghan urged others to do the same, saying, “If you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do.”

Trump Announces Plans for Meeting with Putin Amid Ukraine War Efforts

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President-elect Donald Trump announced plans for a potential meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, though no specific timeline has been provided. Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump stated, “He wants to meet, and we are setting it up.”

The Kremlin responded positively, indicating openness to talks but clarifying that no concrete details have been finalized.

Trump, who will take office on January 20, has pledged to prioritize negotiations to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. He has expressed scepticism about continued U.S. military and financial aid to Kyiv, emphasizing the need for a resolution. “President Putin wants to meet,” Trump said on Thursday. “He has said that even publicly, and we have to get that war over with. That’s a bloody mess.”

Ukraine’s foreign ministry acknowledged the potential for high-level discussions with the incoming Trump administration, including a prospective meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. A ministry spokesperson expressed hope that these talks could advance peace efforts.

Trump has nominated retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, a former national security adviser, as his special envoy to Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg outlined his vision for ending the conflict in a research paper published by the America First Policy Institute, a think tank aligned with Trump’s policies. The paper suggested linking future U.S. aid to Ukraine’s willingness to participate in peace talks with Moscow, while also recommending continued support for Ukraine if Russia refuses to negotiate.

Following Trump’s electoral victory in November, Zelensky voiced optimism about the potential for a quicker resolution to the war under Trump’s leadership. The Ukrainian president described a phone conversation with Trump as “constructive,” though he did not elaborate on any conditions Trump might have set regarding negotiations with Russia.

The announcement marks a significant step in Trump’s approach to foreign policy, particularly as the world watches to see how his administration will navigate the complex dynamics of the Ukraine war and U.S.-Russia relations.

US Declares Venezuelan Leader Nicolás Maduro Wanted, Announces $25 Million Reward for Arrest-bbc.com

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FILE - Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro addresses government loyalists gathered at the presidential palace in support of his reelection one month after the presidential vote, in Caracas, Venezuela, Aug. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)

The United States has increased its reward to $25 million for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, coinciding with his inauguration for a controversial third six-year term. The announcement comes amid widespread criticism from international governments and Venezuelan opposition leaders.

FILE – Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro addresses government loyalists gathered at the presidential palace in support of his reelection one month after the presidential vote, in Caracas, Venezuela, Aug. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)

Rewards were also announced for other top Venezuelan officials, including up to $15 million for Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino and additional sums for Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello. These measures follow accusations of corruption, human rights violations, and undermining democracy.

In tandem with the US move, the UK issued sanctions targeting 15 high-ranking Venezuelan officials, including judges, security personnel, and military leaders. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office stated that those sanctioned were responsible for “undermining democracy, the rule of law, and committing human rights abuses.” UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy described Maduro’s regime as “fraudulent” in his statement.

According to bbc.com, the European Union joined the international response by extending restrictive measures against Venezuela, citing the regime’s failure to restore democracy and uphold the rule of law. The EU also sanctioned an additional 15 Venezuelan officials, intensifying global pressure on the Maduro government.

Maduro has dismissed the allegations made by Western nations and opposition leaders as baseless. He has yet to issue a formal response to the latest sanctions. During his swearing-in ceremony on Friday, Maduro vowed that his new term would usher in an era of “peace, prosperity, equality, and new democracy,” saying, “I swear by history, I swear by my life, and I will fulfill it.”

The July election, which declared Maduro the winner, was widely rejected by the international community, including neighboring Brazil and Colombia. Many nations have instead recognized opposition candidate Edmundo González as Venezuela’s legitimate leader.

The bbc.com also stated that González, who fled to Spain in September, has been rallying international support while facing an arrest warrant issued by the Maduro government, which has offered $100,000 for information leading to his capture.

The inauguration, marked by tight security, excluded most Venezuelan media outlets and barred foreign journalists from entering the country. Maduro remains internationally isolated, with only a handful of allies such as Iran, China, and Russia. Leaders from Cuba and Nicaragua were the sole foreign dignitaries to attend his swearing-in ceremony.

The contested election and subsequent developments have left Venezuela in a deepening political crisis. Maduro’s government, backed by the country’s National Electoral Council (CNE), has faced growing resistance both domestically and abroad.

Opposition figures, including former presidential candidate María Corina Machado, continue to be targeted by the regime. Machado, barred from running and now in hiding, has not been seen publicly since August.

Source: bbc.com

Trump Sentenced to Penalty-Free ‘Unconditional Discharge’ in Hush Money Case

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Donald Trump was sentenced on Friday by a New York judge to an “unconditional discharge” in connection with his hush money case, marking him as a convicted felon under New York state law. However, the sentence carries no further penalties.

Speaking remotely from his Florida home, Trump described the experience as “terrible” and reiterated his innocence, stating, “It was done to damage my reputation so I would lose the election.” Trump, who will be sworn in as the 47th U.S. president in 10 days, maintained that he had “done nothing wrong.”

The sentencing, which was scheduled after multiple unsuccessful appeals by Trump’s legal team, followed a 5-4 ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court late Thursday, declining to block the proceedings. The case stems from Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records connected to a hush money payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election.

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass recommended an “unconditional release” given the unique circumstances of Trump’s upcoming presidential inauguration. Steinglass criticized Trump for undermining the legal process throughout the case, especially with frequent verbal attacks on judges and prosecutors.

Trump’s attorney, Todd Blanche, countered that the charges were politically motivated and legally flawed. He stated that the Manhattan district attorney’s office overstepped its bounds and that the case was part of an agenda to target Trump. Blanche promised that Trump would fully appeal the conviction.

Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, remarked that the circumstances of the case were “unique” and “remarkable.” Despite his earlier suggestion that Trump would likely face an unconditional discharge, Merchan condemned the former president for his conduct and continuous attacks on the judicial system.

Trump is set to make history as the only U.S. president to face criminal charges, though the conviction will not result in immediate penalties. Trump’s actions in the case, including repeated violations of a gag order, were also highlighted by Merchan.

The case, which revolves around Trump’s involvement in the payment to Daniels, is one of several criminal cases Trump faces. He is also involved in a paused state case in Georgia related to 2020 election interference.

US House Votes to Sanction International Criminal Court Over Israel Arrest Warrants

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The U.S. House of Representatives voted on Thursday to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) in response to its arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over their involvement in Israel’s Gaza campaign.

The vote passed with a 243-140 majority in favor of the “Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act,” which would sanction foreign individuals who investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute U.S. citizens or nationals from allied countries, including Israel, who are not members of the ICC.

Forty-five Democrats joined 198 Republicans in supporting the bill, while no Republican opposed it. Representative Brian Mast, Republican chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, called the court a “kangaroo court” seeking to arrest Israel’s prime minister, emphasizing the strong U.S. backing for Israel.

This vote highlights the continued support for Israel within the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, particularly as President-elect Donald Trump’s allies assert their position in Congress.

The ICC did not immediately comment on the vote. The Trump administration previously imposed sanctions on the ICC in 2020, in response to investigations into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan. These sanctions were lifted by the Biden administration, but Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated in May 2024 that the U.S. may consider re-imposing sanctions over the ICC’s pursuit of arrest warrants for Israeli leaders.

The newly passed sanctions also target individuals who assist the ICC in its work. ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane warned in December that such sanctions could undermine the court’s operations and jeopardize its existence.

Trump, who is set to begin his second term on January 20, is expected to sign the sanctions bill into law, with Senate Republican leader John Thune promising swift consideration of the measure in his chamber.

The ICC, which prosecutes war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression, has defended its actions, stating that the arrest warrants were issued based on a thorough investigation and sufficient evidence. The court’s decision to pursue the warrants has sparked backlash from Republicans, who accuse the Israeli officials of war crimes in the ongoing Gaza conflict, which Israel denies.

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