Former Syrian President Bashar Assad has fled to Moscow and received asylum, Russian state news agencies Tass and RIA reported Sunday, citing an unidentified Kremlin source, as his family’s 50-year rule ended amid a stunning rebel victory in Damascus.
The reports emerged as Syrians flooded Damascus streets in celebration, with crowds gathering at the historic Umayyad Square and other locations across the capital. RIA reported Moscow had secured guarantees from Syrian insurgents regarding the safety of Russian military bases and diplomatic facilities in Syria.
Rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani, who has renounced his former al-Qaida ties, made his first public appearance at the Umayyad Mosque, calling Assad’s fall “a victory to the Islamic nation.” Using his given name Ahmad al-Sharaa, he accused Assad of making Syria “a farm for Iran’s greed.”
“It’s like a dream. I need someone to wake me up,” said opposition fighter Abu Laith, describing how rebels were welcomed into Damascus “with love.” Scenes of celebration recalled the early Arab Spring, with people waving pre-Assad Syrian flags and honking car horns while others entered the abandoned presidential palace.
The rebels moved quickly to establish order, announcing a nighttime curfew and posting guards at government buildings. At the Justice Ministry, Judge Khitam Haddad said forces were protecting official documents from chaos. Commander Anas Salkhadi appeared on state television to reassure minorities, declaring “Syria is for everyone, no exceptions. Syria is for Druze, Sunnis, Alawites, and all sects.”
Russia has requested an emergency UN Security Council session to discuss the rapidly evolving situation, according to Russia’s UN deputy representative Dmitry Polyansky.
Chelsea emerged victorious from a pulsating seven-goal thriller at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Sunday, as Cole Palmer’s brace from the penalty spot helped the Blues overcome an early two-goal deficit to triumph 4-3.
Tottenham appeared in control after Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski struck within the opening 11 minutes, taking advantage of Marc Cucurella’s footing issues on the slick surface. However, Jadon Sancho’s 18th-minute response sparked Chelsea’s comeback.
Palmer, who earned man of the match honors, transformed the game in the second half. The 22-year-old England international converted penalties in the 59th and 83rd minutes while also setting up Enzo Fernandez’s 74th-minute strike that gave Chelsea their first lead.
“Palmer, as has often been the case, was Chelsea’s star of the show,” match observers noted of his performance, which included four successful dribbles and four shots alongside his two goals and assist. The former Manchester City youngster’s composure from the spot proved decisive after Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr committed fouls in their own box.
Son Heung-min’s 97th-minute goal created late tension but couldn’t prevent Chelsea’s fifth consecutive victory in all competitions. The result moved the Blues to second place, four points behind Liverpool, while Tottenham remained 11th after their seventh league defeat.
Arsenal saw their Premier League title hopes take another hit Sunday as a late winner from Bukayo Saka was ruled out by VAR in a 1-1 draw with Fulham at Craven Cottage, leaving the Gunners potentially nine points adrift of Liverpool should the leaders win their game in hand.
William Saliba’s second-half equalizer from a corner canceled out Raul Jimenez’s surprise opener for Fulham, but Arsenal’s apparent 88th-minute breakthrough was denied when Gabriel Martinelli was judged offside in the build-up to Saka’s header.
The Gunners dominated possession with 67% of the ball and outshot their hosts 12-2, but struggled to break down Marco Silva’s well-organized Fulham side. Declan Rice delivered a masterclass in midfield, completing 98% of his passes and creating three chances, though his excellence wasn’t enough to secure victory.
“Even Arsenal’s trusty set-pieces were failing them in the first half, but only until the early period of the second 45, where Saliba just about kept himself onside to lash in his second corner goal from as many matches,” noted match observers, as Arsenal’s set-piece prowess finally paid dividends.
The result leaves Arsenal six points behind Liverpool, who can extend their advantage with their game in hand. Fulham sit 10th, within reach of European places, as they prepare for a visit to league leaders Liverpool next weekend. Arsenal face Monaco in Champions League action Wednesday before hosting Everton in the Premier League.
In an exclusive interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” President-elect Donald Trump unveiled sweeping plans to reshape domestic and foreign policy as soon as he takes office on January 20. Trump pledged to issue pardons for individuals convicted in connection to the January 6 Capitol attack, impose tariffs on major trading partners, and initiate a large-scale deportation effort targeting millions of undocumented immigrants.
Speaking with “Meet the Press” moderator Kristen Welker from Trump Tower in Manhattan, the president-elect detailed several key priorities for his second term, including measures on immigration, tax cuts, and government spending. Trump also expressed a willingness to collaborate with Democrats on issues such as a legislative solution for Dreamers—individuals brought to the U.S. illegally as children.
“We’re going to have to do something with them,” Trump said, praising Dreamers who have achieved professional success and contributed to the economy.
Immigration at the Forefront
Immigration policy remains central to Trump’s agenda, with promises of mass deportations starting with individuals convicted of crimes and potentially expanding beyond. When pressed on the fate of mixed-status families, Trump emphasized that families would not be separated, suggesting they would face deportation together.
“We’re starting with the criminals,” Trump stated. “But we’re going to see how it goes.”
Trump also reiterated his intent to end birthright citizenship, a move likely to face significant legal and constitutional challenges. He left open the possibility of amending the Constitution to achieve this goal, adding, “We’ll maybe have to go back to the people.”
Economic Plans and Tax Cuts
Trump outlined a continuation of tax cuts introduced during his first term and affirmed his opposition to raising the eligibility age for Social Security and Medicare, distancing himself from calls for entitlement reform. “I won’t do it,” he said.
On trade, Trump pledged to impose tariffs on imports, though he acknowledged the potential impact on American consumers. “I can’t guarantee American families won’t pay more,” he admitted, adding, “I can’t guarantee tomorrow.”
Jan. 6 Pardons and DOJ Autonomy
Trump declared that pardons for those convicted in connection to the January 6 attack would be among his first actions as president. Describing the treatment of rioters in prison as overly harsh, he said, “These people are living in hell.”
However, when asked if he would direct the Department of Justice to pursue his political adversaries, Trump struck a more measured tone. “I’m not looking to go back into the past. Retribution will be through success,” he said.
Trump has nominated allies Pam Bondi and Kash Patel for top law enforcement roles, emphasizing their autonomy in executing the law.
Foreign Policy Priorities
Turning to foreign affairs, Trump discussed the war in Ukraine, suggesting the country may see reduced military aid from the U.S. under his administration. He also expressed doubts about NATO’s future, contingent on member countries meeting financial obligations.
“If they pay their bills, absolutely,” Trump said of maintaining the U.S. role in the alliance.
Later Friday, Trump traveled to Paris to attend the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss efforts toward a “just peace” in Ukraine.
A New Inaugural Vision
Reflecting on the tone of his upcoming inaugural address, Trump promised a message of unity, a sharp contrast to his 2017 speech that warned of “American carnage.”
“This time, it’s going to be a message of unity,” Trump said. When asked directly, he assured, “No American carnage, no.”
Trump also addressed his critics, pledging to govern inclusively. “I’m going to treat you every bit as well as I have treated the greatest MAGA supporters,” he said.
President-elect Donald Trump called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine Sunday following his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris, suggesting Kyiv “would like to make a deal” to end the 1,000-day conflict.
“There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin. Too many lives are being needlessly wasted, too many families destroyed,” Trump posted on Truth Social, urging Russian President Vladimir Putin to help end the fighting. The statement followed what Zelenskyy described as a “constructive” meeting with Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Zelenskyy, while open to peace, emphasized that any agreement “should be just” for Ukrainians, “so that Russia and Putin or any other aggressors will not have the opportunity to return.” The Ukrainian leader revealed Sunday that his nation has suffered 43,000 military deaths and 370,000 wounded since Russia’s February 2022 invasion.
Western officials report that recent months of positional warfare in eastern Ukraine have produced record casualties on both sides, with tens of thousands killed and wounded monthly, though both nations have generally avoided publishing official figures.
The Paris discussions marked a significant diplomatic moment as Trump prepares to return to the White House, where his approach to the Ukraine conflict could dramatically shift U.S. policy in the region.
The Pentagon announced Saturday a new $988 million military assistance package for Ukraine, as the Biden administration accelerates aid delivery before President-elect Donald Trump assumes office in January.
The package, funded through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), nearly depletes half of the remaining $2.21 billion allocated for purchasing weapons directly from defense contractors. It includes drones, HIMARS rocket launcher ammunition, and various equipment and spare parts for artillery systems, tanks, and armored vehicles.
Unlike Presidential Drawdown Authority shipments, which transfer existing U.S. military stocks, USAI funds purchase new equipment from manufacturers, meaning a longer timeline for battlefield delivery. The announcement follows Monday’s $725 million package that included landmines and anti-air weapons.
The urgency reflects growing concerns about future U.S. support for Ukraine under Trump, who has repeatedly criticized American assistance to Kyiv and claimed he could quickly negotiate a ceasefire. The United States has led international support for Ukraine since Russia’s 2022 invasion, coordinating aid from dozens of countries and committing more than $62 billion in security assistance.
The Biden administration retains approximately $6 billion in presidential drawdown authority, including newly authorized 2024 funds and additional money discovered after Pentagon accounting adjustments. However, uncertainty about continued support has raised anxiety in Kyiv and among European allies about Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian forces without sustained American backing.
Israeli strikes killed six people in southern Lebanon Saturday and at least 34 Palestinians in Gaza, officials reported, as violence persists despite recent ceasefire agreements in both territories.
Lebanon’s health ministry confirmed five deaths and five injuries in Beit Lif from an Israeli airstrike, while a separate drone strike killed one person in Deir Seryan, more than 20 kilometers away. The Israeli military acknowledged striking a Hezbollah militant who they said posed a threat to troops, violating the November 27 ceasefire.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati urged “the international community, particularly the parties sponsoring security arrangements, to work seriously and decisively to halt the ongoing violations.” A U.S.-led committee including France, UN peacekeepers, Israel, and Lebanon oversees the fragile truce.
In Gaza, health officials reported an Israeli strike on a Gaza City house killed four women late Saturday, part of at least 34 Palestinian deaths throughout the day. The territory’s Hamas-run health ministry, which doesn’t differentiate between civilian and militant casualties, has recorded approximately 44,500 Palestinian deaths since Israel’s counteroffensive began following Hamas’ October 7 attack that killed 1,200 Israelis.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken had earlier declared the Lebanon ceasefire was “holding” despite incidents, though both sides face accusations of violations. The UN warns nearly Gaza’s entire population of 2.3 million faces famine risk, with three-quarters already displaced.
Explosions tore through a residential building in The Hague early Saturday, killing at least five people and injuring four others, as authorities search for additional victims amid the rubble of the three-story structure.
The blasts occurred around 6:15 a.m. local time in the Tarwekamp neighborhood, The Hague, destroying several homes and prompting a massive emergency response. Mayor Jan van Zanen warned that hopes of finding survivors were diminishing and urged the community to “prepare for a worst case scenario.”
Dutch police reported a vehicle fleeing “at very high speed” shortly after the explosions, though the cause remains under investigation. Rescue teams with sniffer dogs are searching the debris, while some areas remain too hazardous to access.
“I was asleep and suddenly there was this huge bang,” said 14-year-old Adam Muller. “I looked out of the window and just saw flames. It’s a massive shock.”
Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima expressed sympathy for those affected, while National Police Commissioner Janny Knol acknowledged the “disbelief and uncertainty” gripping the community.
Emergency crews have brought in heavy equipment and lighting to assist with the ongoing search and recovery operation. While earlier reports suggested up to 20 people might have been in the building, officials declined to specify how many residents remain unaccounted for.
The New York Police Department released two new surveillance photos Saturday of the masked individual sought in Wednesday’s killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, as investigators believe the suspect may have fled the state.
The latest images show the person of interest wearing a blue medical mask and dark clothing, captured through a taxi partition and walking alongside a vehicle. Police say they’ve tracked some of the suspect’s movements by taxi to the Port Authority bus station near the George Washington Bridge.
Investigators revealed the suspect likely arrived in New York from Atlanta by Greyhound bus on November 24. While staying at an Upper West Side hostel, roommates reported he kept his mask on constantly, only lowering it briefly to eat. Police are working to determine if he used cash and false identification for his accommodation.
“Based on the evidence we have so far, it does appear the victim was specifically targeted,” said NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny, noting shell casings found at the scene were inscribed with the words “deny,” “delay” and “depose.”
Thompson was shot in the back and calf outside the New York Hilton Midtown while heading to UnitedHealth Group’s investor conference. His wife Paulette told NBC News he had received threats related to “lack of coverage,” though she was unclear about specifics.
A combined $60,000 reward from the FBI, Crime Stoppers, and NYPD is being offered for information leading to an arrest. Police recovered a gray backpack in Central Park and a cellphone near the scene, though no weapon was found.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia conceded defeat Sunday to opposition leader John Dramani Mahama in Ghana’s presidential election, as voters rejected the ruling party’s handling of the nation’s worst economic crisis in a generation.
“I’ve just called His Excellency John Mahama to congratulate him as president-elect of the Republic of Ghana,” Bawumia announced at his Accra residence, ahead of official results. Mahama, 65, who previously served as president from 2012 to 2017, described his victory as “emphatic” on social media.
Celebrations erupted across the capital as supporters wearing the opposition National Democratic Congress’s white, green, red and black colors danced to music and trumpet blasts. The party also secured a parliamentary majority, strengthening Mahama’s mandate to implement his promised economic “reset.”
“I think it has to do with the economy, which is largely a bread and butter issue for every Ghanaian,” said Seidu Alidu, head of political science at Ghana’s University of Legon. The election reflects global trends favoring opposition parties against incumbents struggling with economic challenges.
The vote, conducted amid West Africa’s regional instability, tested Ghana’s democratic traditions. Policy analyst Jude Agbemava called Mahama “the only person” capable of fixing Ghana’s troubled economy, while Alidu noted the result stemmed from public dissatisfaction with government transparency during the crisis.
