Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled the country after rebel forces took control of Damascus, with Assad seeking asylum in Moscow. The West is concerned about the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s ties to terrorism but also sees an opportunity for progress in Syria. President Joe Biden praised the fall of Assad and outlined continued U.S. involvement in Syria.
President-elect Donald Trump, in an interview, discussed plans to pardon supporters involved in the Capitol attacks on Jan. 6, as well as his stance on retribution and major policy priorities for his second term. Additionally, Trump mentioned health concerns around vaccines and autism, immigration changes, and his interactions with the Federal Reserve.
Jay-Z was accused in a lawsuit of raping a 13-year-old girl in 2000, along with Sean “Diddy” Combs. The lawsuit was refiled to include Jay-Z as a defendant. Meanwhile, the search for the killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson is ongoing, with a combined $60,000 reward offered.
Notre Dame reopened five years after a devastating fire, with a grand ceremony attended by foreign dignitaries. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol narrowly escaped impeachment over his declaration of martial law, with an apology issued in response. Taylor Swift’s record-breaking world tour comes to a close in Vancouver, and the FDA is considering banning artificial red food dye. Other news includes the unveiling of the 12-team College Football Playoff, tragedy at an ice park in Albany, and other notable events.
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