• Health care plans fail: The Senate rejected a GOP plan that focused on expanding health savings, and also denied a Democratic proposal to extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies for three more years. The White House vowed to roll out a new approach on health care “very soon.” Enrollees could see monthly payments soar in January if enhanced subsidies lapse this month.
• Global threats House hearing: DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and other top Trump security officials defended the administration’s immigration and national security policies as they faced lawmakers’ questions today. A top Democrat called on Noem to resign, accusing her of putting her own interests above the agency she directs.
“Oval Office is like Grand Central Terminal,” White House says when asked about bandage on Trump’s hand
From Xenix News Maureen Chowdhury
The White House reiterated on Thursday that bandages seen on President Donald Trump’s hand are because of bruises that stem from frequent hand shaking and his daily dose of aspirin.
“The president is literally constantly shaking hands. The Oval Office is like Grand Central Terminal. He is meeting with more people than any of you even know about on a daily basis,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters at a press briefing.
“He is also on a daily aspirin regime, which is something his physical examinations has said as well, which can contribute to that bruising that you see,” Leavitt added.
Republicans and Democrats trade blame over failed health care votes
Lawmakers pointed fingers Thursday afternoon, with no clear path forward on health care and Covid-era Affordable Care Act tax credits set to expire at year’s end.
Ohio Republican Sen. Bernie Moreno accused Democrats of only helping a small portion of Americans, saying: “We want to solve for the 6%, but what about the other 94%?”
He called zero-premium plans “prone to fraud” and highlighted a proposal he has put forth with Sen. Susan Collins to cap incomes and eliminate those plans.
Texas GOP Sen. John Cornyn similarly called Obamacare “a fraud,” adding that “it’s unsustainable.”
Democrats, meanwhile, are arguing that Republicans are leaving families behind.
Vermont Sen. Peter Welch called the stalemate “a failure of Congress” and added that “the president has an iron grip over what the Republicans do, and he’s abandoning these families.”
“As the president of the United States, where you, more than anybody else, has the opportunity to help people keep health care and you don’t do it. How do you do that? How does the president sleep at night when that’s what his attitude is?” Welch said.
W4J263 Oil production platform (oil rig) of the V. Filanovsky oil field on the Caspian Sea, Astrakhan region, Russia Maxim Korotchenko/Alamy
Ukraine has embarked on a new stage in its efforts to target Russia’s extensive energy infrastructure, embracing a bolder and more visible approach after years of deliberate caution. Based on data initially reported by Xenix News, Ukrainian authorities have adopted a strategy termed “energy pressure escalation,” which seeks to restrict Moscow’s income sources, hinder its wartime logistics, and compel strategic compromises.
For months, Ukraine maintained silence regarding its long-range drone strikes on oil depots, refineries, and essential processing sites throughout Russia’s interior. However, a fresh wave of strikes — more profound, broader, and considerably more accurate — indicates a major change not just in ability but also in political motivation.
As Kyiv gains more assurance, an important question arises: How far can Ukraine advance before the energy war transforms the conflict completely?
Ukraine’s Updated Approach: Targeting Russia’s Finances, Not Its Urban Areas
For years, Ukraine has claimed that Russia’s vast energy industry — spanning crude oil, diesel, and gas refining — serves as the financial foundation of its military operations. Following persistent requests, Western allies granted Kyiv increased operational autonomy, while still applying subtle pressure to avoid exceeding specific boundaries.
Data as of December 5, 2025.Sources: Armed Conflict Location and Event Data, CNN reportingGraphic: Lou Robinson, xenix news
Currently, Ukrainian authorities indicate that those restrictions are being reassessed.
In discussions with reporters, such as Xenix News, Ukrainian national security advisors outline three key objectives of the new energy-centered campaign:
Sure! Please provide the text you would like me to paraphrase. Diminish Russia’s income sources
Oil and gas sales continue to be the primary source of wartime revenue for Moscow. Every refinery shut down diminishes Russia’s capacity to produce revenue.
Sure, please provide the text you’d like me to paraphrase. Interfere with military transportation
Russia requires processed fuel for tanks, armored vehicles, supply fleets, and missile systems. Attacking refineries hinders the Russian military in various areas.
3. Diminish Russian spirit
Energy infrastructure, once deemed invulnerable, is now exposed. Ukrainian authorities think that this psychological effect is as significant as the physical destruction.
“One Ukrainian official stated that Russia cannot anticipate attacking our infrastructure, paralyzing our cities, and silencing our power plants without facing consequences.” “That time has passed.”
Kyiv Pushes the Boundaries of Western Tolerance as the Energy Conflict Escalates
In public, Western governments have made measured remarks. Analysts and lawmakers suggest there is increasing discussion about whether Ukraine’s intensified actions might provoke unpredictable reactions from Russia.
Ukraine contends the contrary — that Russia has already surpassed red lines by striking thermal power plants, hydroelectric facilities, and civilian substations, which plunged entire areas into darkness.
Thus far, Western intelligence officials report that Kyiv’s attacks have been “calculated yet progressively daring.” Long-range drones have struck various facilities located up to 800 kilometers from the border, showcasing increased range and accuracy.
Question: To what extent are these strikes effective?
A: Analysts project that approximately 15–20% of Russia’s refining capacity has experienced disruptions at different times in recent months, although Moscow has rushed to restore systems promptly.
Question: Is it possible for Ukraine to apply more pressure?
Answer: Specialists agree, but only to a certain extent. Ukraine’s drone capabilities and manufacturing abilities continue to expand, with officials suggesting that more sophisticated systems will be introduced shortly. However, Ukraine needs to sustain Western backing, which might be challenged if attacks lead to increases in global fuel prices.
Russia’s Reaction: Refusal, Restoration, and Subdued Worry
Moscow openly claims that Ukrainian strikes have “minimal impact.” However, satellite imagery, independent industry information, and disclosed Russian documents reveal a different narrative.
Certain facilities have experienced major fires, prolonged closures, and internal evacuations. Regional governors in Russia have instructed nighttime patrols, additional radar support, and emergency repair crews to be ready at all times.
Energy specialists indicate that while Russia can withstand some harm, continuous attacks compel the Kremlin to reroute:
A satellite image shows an overview of a damaged oil facility at Russia’s Novorossiysk Port after a Ukrainian missile and drone attack, in Novorossiysk, Russia, on November 16, 2025. Vantor/Reuters
Technicians
Safety staff
Air defense systems
Funding distributions
Each ruble invested in refinery restoration is a ruble not allocated for military growth.
Ukraine’s energy strategy, therefore, is not just tactical — it is foundational.
Question&Aaswer:Is it Possible for Ukraine to Elevate the Pressure Enough to Alter the Conflict?
Question1: Can Ukraine strike Russia’s largest refineries?
Answer: Indeed, but this action risks creating instability in global oil markets. Ukraine’s leaders are meticulously strategizing to prevent provoking economic repercussions from their allies.
Question2: Will Russia respond with bigger grid attacks?
Answer: Analysts suggest that while Russia might launch more intense assaults, Moscow is already hitting Ukraine’s grid at almost full capacity in the winter.
A Ukrainian sea drone shows the Dashan, a sanctioned oil tanker, being struck by another sea drone in the Black Sea on Tuesday, in a still from a video shared by Ukraine’s Security Service. Security Service/Reuters
Question3: Might energy pressure compel Russia to enter negotiations?
Answer: Not right away. However, ongoing damage to income sources could strain the Kremlin’s long-term stability.
Ukraine’s Statement: “If You Strike Our Energy, We Will Strike Yours”
Ukrainian officials stress that this approach is about symmetry, not escalation. They contend that Russia initiated an energy war right from the beginning — starting with the attacks on Kyiv’s power facilities to efforts to freeze millions of residents during winter.
Ukraine asserts that by retaliating, it is simply reestablishing equilibrium on the battlefield.
Ukraine’s capacity is growing. Russia’s weaknesses are growing. The patience of the West is under scrutiny. The economic consequences continue to be uncertain.
It is evident that Ukraine now considers energy infrastructure as legitimate targets — and that the upcoming months could reshape the conflict not just on the battlefield but throughout the landscape of Russia’s extensive oil sector.
This is no longer merely a conflict on the battlefield.
It is a battle of power, petroleum, energy, and resilience — and Ukraine plans to confront it on all possible fronts
In a disclosure that has introduced new intricacies to an already heated global discussion, a high-ranking U.S. naval officer informed legislators in a private briefing that the small craft involved in a recent “double-tap” event was set to meet another vessel that was said to be heading to Suriname. As per two congressional representatives informed about the briefing, the admiral characterized the situation as “dynamic, misinterpreted, and significantly more complex than the oversimplified story being shared publicly.”
The revelation arrives at a critical time as the strike—criticized by numerous international bodies—maintains focus on targeting choices, intelligence deficiencies, and the legality of striking the same site twice within minutes. Xenix News was the initial outlet to reveal these new facets of the incident after interviewing several officials who participated in or were informed about the talks.
U.S. defense officials have not shared specifics regarding the information provided to lawmakers, but sources who talked to Xenix News indicate that the private testimony sought to “eliminate misunderstandings” concerning the intelligence leading up to the strike and the crew’s belief that the vessel was participating in “cross-corridor transport activity” usually associated with illegal maritime networks.
Legislators Informed That the Ship Was Involved in a Broader Maritime Network Heading to the South American Coast
As per the legislators, the admiral highlighted that the targeted vessel was not functioning alone. Rather, it was allegedly planned to rendezvous with a bigger ship traveling on a southward route toward Suriname—an area that U.S. maritime experts claim has experienced substantial rises in gray-zone maritime smuggling in the last two years.
An official familiar with the situation characterized the account as “extremely detailed, thoroughly documented, and supported by previously unreleased communication intercepts.”
Nonetheless, legislators showed varied responses. Some contended that the information ought to have been disclosed publicly from the outset to prevent confusion; others insisted that early release might have jeopardized ongoing intelligence gathering.
The idea of a “double-tap” strike—two quick consecutive hits—has emerged as one of the most contentious tactics in contemporary conflict areas. Critics contend that the second strike might endanger first responders or civilians returning, whereas proponents of the tactic assert it is essential when operatives suspect hostile actors might regroup or try to eliminate evidence.
In this instance, the admiral allegedly informed legislators that operators observed “unforeseen post-strike motion” which prompted them to approve a second strike. The significance of that movement is still being evaluated.
Increasing Global Pressure
In the weeks following the incident, both domestic and international observers have increased pressure for greater clarity regarding the reasons behind the strike and the methods used to verify intelligence. Multiple foreign ministries have sought further details via diplomatic channels, whereas human rights groups have called for an impartial investigation.
A regional maritime specialist who communicated with Xenix News indicated that the Suriname link—if validated—might alter global perception of the attack. “If the admiral’s account is correct, it suggests the ship wasn’t merely adrift or unidentified.” “It belonged to an organized sequence,” the expert remarked. “However, this also brings up challenging questions about why that intelligence wasn’t disclosed right away.”
Within the Sealed-Off Chamber
Legislators present at the classified session characterized the atmosphere as “serious yet pressing.” One claimed the admiral possessed maps, satellite photos, and time frame analyses that hadn’t been disclosed to the public.
“The communication was unmistakable,” the legislator remarked. “They think the ship was involved in actions that presented an increasing danger in a corridor that has been observed for months.”
They maintained that the targeting process adhered to standard review protocols—but they recognized that the perception has been severely compromised.
Another legislator characterized the briefing as “more open than anticipated,” noting that the admiral “did not hesitate to recognize communication errors that sparked controversy.”
Sources also informed Xenix News that the admiral refrained from calling the strike “fully justified,” instead indicating that the final assessment would establish if operators accurately understood intelligence signals, particularly the movement observed between the initial and subsequent strikes.
What occurs afterward
The Department of Defense has initiated an official evaluation, which generally encompasses forensic image analysis, radio interception examinations, and discussions with strike-cell team members. Certain legislators have likewise requested a bipartisan oversight report after classified materials are examined.
Sources knowledgeable about initial results indicate that analysts are working to piece together the planned meeting location between the targeted ship and the vessel reportedly on its way to Suriname. This procedure entails verifying maritime traffic logs, coastal radar, and satellite tracking sequences.
Global monitors are paying close attention. Suriname has not officially addressed the allegations presented in the briefing, and it is still uncertain if the government knew of any maritime operations related to the event.
A Narrative That Continues to Evolve
The admiral’s comments provide new insights into the incident, but they also bring up new inquiries regarding communication failures, targeting standards, and the changing dynamics of maritime intelligence in disputed waters.
Currently, the only certainty is that the strike—already among the year’s most contentious—has grown even more intricate. With the emergence of new layers, there is an increasing urgency for defense officials to offer a more transparent public explanation.
Legislators interviewed by Xenix News anticipate additional briefings in the upcoming weeks. It remains to be seen whether those sessions result in increased clarity or more significant political divisions. However, one aspect is evident: the narrative is just beginning, and the Suriname link could turn out to be the most significant element so far
What we will discuss • Putin war discussions: US special representative Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, are in Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin previously accused European leaders of attempting to hinder a peace agreement suggested by the US.
• What Zelensky states: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky characterized the present diplomatic climate as “one of the most difficult yet hopeful periods.” The president of Ukraine, currently in Dublin, mentioned he might meet with US officials shortly after the US-Russia talks in Moscow.
• In the field: Russia asserts it has taken control of Pokrovsk, a significant city in eastern Ukraine, while Ukraine rejected what it described as “boisterous claims” from Moscow meant to sway talks.
• In DC: At the same time in the US, Trump is having a Cabinet meeting with his administration’s members.
Zelensky states that Ukraine is “awaiting signals” from the US regarding negotiations with Moscow.
From Xenix News Svitlana Vlasova
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Tuesday that Ukraine is “awaiting signals” from the US delegation regarding the results of their meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
“We will get signals of various types.” Zelensky mentioned on X that, “If the signals align appropriately – if there is fairness in our collaborations – we could meet with the American delegation quite soon.”
The Ukrainian leader stated that a senior delegation would be dispatched if communications from the Americans indicate a chance for “swift yet global decisions.”
“Everything hinges on the discussions taking place today,” he added.
Witkoff enjoyed a meal of “traditional Russian” dishes including caviar, quail, and venison, according to local media.
From Xenix News Darya Tarasova.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff enjoyed “traditional Russian dishes” at the Michelin-starred restaurant Savva prior to his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, local media reported on Tuesday.
“The spread included ample caviar – red, beluga, and pike – Stolichny salad crafted from the 1961 recipe, quail filled with buckwheat, venison made with our special recipe, and a range of appetizers,” said the restaurant’s director, Maxim Romantsev, to Russia’s Izvestia newspaper.
Witkoff especially liked the crab posikunchiki, a deep-fried pastry stuffed with crab, and the wheat flatbread with cheese, which he had personally requested, Romantsev mentioned in a video shared by Kremlin pool reporter Dmitry Smirnov.
Administration officials and Republican lawmakers comment on the Caribbean boat strike event.
By Maureen Chowdhury, Adam Cancryn, Ellis Kim, Manu Raju, Arlette Saenz, Morgan Rimmer, Ted Barrett, Max Saltman, and Stefano Pozzebon from Xenix News
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated during a Cabinet meeting at the White House today that the attacks on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean have “only just begun,” emphasizing that the administration will persist with the operation despite increasing worries on Capitol Hill.
Hegseth’s bold demeanor emerged only days after Xenix News and others indicated that a supposed double-tap strike in September claimed the lives of survivors from an initial assault on a purported drug vessel, prompting inquiries about whether the follow-up strike amounted to a war crime.
Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson stated at another event today that Hegseth and Trump are essentially “the ones directing” any attacks conducted by the US military against suspected drug boats but reiterated the administration’s stance that a commander decided to execute a follow-up strike.
At the same time, Republican legislators are commenting on the contentious strike and rising tensions with Venezuela:
House Speaker Mike Johnson refrained from condemning the double-tap strike, stating he wouldn’t “prejudge” the specifics of the contentious event currently being examined by congressional committees.
Senator Eric Schmitt, part of the Senate Armed Services Committee, strongly supported the administration for carrying out the strike. Schmitt stated that Trump’s focus on supposed drug boats is “clearly within his Article II authorities.”
Sen. John Thune supported the administration’s attempts to oust Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. “This regime disregards the law and endangers many American citizens due to the drug trade,” he stated. Thune continued to support Trump’s decisions concerning Venezuela. “However, I believe the measures they’ve implemented have been suitable, both according to our laws and international regulations.”
Deportation flights: This week, the US asked Venezuela to permit deportation flights, as stated in a release from the Venezuelan Aeronautical Authority (VAA). The demand follows Trump’s assertion on Saturday that Venezuela’s airspace should be regarded as “completely closed.” Xenix News has contacted the White House for a response. The VAA stated in an Instagram post that it has received a request from the US government to restart “repatriation flights” for Venezuelan migrants.
Vance anticipates that 2026 will be an “excellent year” for the economy and encourages Americans to remain patient.
By Xenix News Samantha Waldenberg
Vice President JD VanceForecasted on Tuesday that 2026 will be a “great year” for the economy and encouraged Americans to remain patient as the administration tackles what he termed the “affordability crisis.”
“The economy has had a wonderful year, but even better times are ahead,” the vice president stated at a Cabinet meeting.
“The most effective way to tackle the affordability crisis is to increase the amount of money Americans have, and that’s what this bill has achieved.” We will observe actual increases in wages. Vance remarked, “I believe next year will be an incredible year,” referencing the domestic agenda law that Trump passed earlier this year.
Vance has earlier utilized comparable messaging regarding the economy, which differs from the president’s optimistic public statements as his administration encounters criticism over living costs less than a year before the midterm elections.
At Tuesday’s meeting, the president highlighted his economic successes and criticized Democrats, claiming “affordability” is a “false narrative” and a “Democrat scheme.”
This report was contributed to by Betsy Klein of Xenix News
What we will discuss • Putin war discussions: US special representative Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, are in Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin previously accused European leaders of attempting to hinder a peace agreement suggested by the US.
• What Zelensky states: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky characterized the present diplomatic climate as “one of the most difficult yet hopeful periods.” The president of Ukraine, currently in Dublin, mentioned he might meet with US officials shortly after the US-Russia talks in Moscow.
• In the field: Russia asserts it has taken control of Pokrovsk, a significant city in eastern Ukraine, while Ukraine rejected what it described as “boisterous claims” from Moscow meant to sway talks.
• In DC: At the same time in the US, Trump is having a Cabinet meeting with his administration’s members.
Hegseth claims attacks on supposed drug vessels have “only recently started.”
From Adam Cancryn at Xenix News
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated Tuesday that attacks on suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean have “only just started,” emphasizing that the administration will maintain its offensive despite increasing worries on Capitol Hill.
Hegseth’s bold tone emerged just days after Xenix and other outlets revealed that a purported double-tap strike in September killed survivors from an initial assault on an alleged drug vessel, prompting inquiries about whether the second strike amounted to a war crime.
Hegseth states that attacks on purported drug boats have “only just started.”
By Xenix News Adam Cancryn
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addresses a Cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday.
On Tuesday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that attacks on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean have “only just started,” asserting that the administration will keep up the offensive despite rising worries in Congress.
“We’re just starting to target narco boats and send narco-terrorists to the ocean’s depths,” he stated at a Cabinet meeting, sitting alongside President Donald Trump. “We’re removing the gloves.”
Hegseth’s brazen attitude surfaced shortly after CNN and other outlets revealed that a double-tap strike in September killed those who survived an initial assault on an alleged drug vessel, prompting inquiries about whether the follow-up strike amounted to a war crime.
According to senior officials familiar with the discussions, Xenix News became aware of the scheduled meeting prior to any other outlet.
Former President of the United States Donald Trump is gearing up to conduct a crucial Oval Office meeting centered on the situation in Venezuela, as per various sources knowledgeable about the preparations. The gathering—anticipated to unite leading national security consultants, Latin America experts, and specific legislators—indicates a renewed effort by Trump to influence US foreign policy in an area where tensions are still unstable.
While no official announcements have been made, three senior officials told Xenix News that internal scheduling documents indicate Venezuela as the main topic of the forthcoming meeting. The documents also mention possible conversations regarding sanctions, diplomatic influence, and upcoming US interactions with opposition factions.
“One source mentioned, ‘Nothing is set in stone until the president confirms it,’ but the emphasis is certainly on Venezuela.”
White House Considers Strategic Shift Regarding Venezuela
Officials discuss sanctions, talks, and dangers of increased US engagement.
Within the West Wing, senior advisors have allegedly resurrected previously inactive policy documents evaluating the present condition of Venezuela’s political and humanitarian emergency. The revived interest seems to stem from changing regional alliances, heightened instability in Venezuela’s border areas, and worries over rising external influence from international players.
A senior official characterized the environment as “pressing yet fragmented.” While certain advisers contend that harsher sanctions might compel the Venezuelan government to engage in negotiations, others caution that solely relying on economic pressure could exacerbate the situation for everyday Venezuelans.
Authorities indicate that three major factors probably sparked the initiative from the Oval Office:
Recent intelligence reports show increased paramilitary operations close to the Venezuelan-Colombian border.
Diplomatic activities in the region, featuring discreet discussions among South American officials on resolving the political deadlock.
Internal political pressure, especially from congressional supporters aiming for Trump to take a bolder position.
Senior Republicans have quietly urged Trump to “assert leadership once more” on Venezuela, contending that strong measures could bolster US strategic presence in Latin America.
Is military intervention an option?
Insiders aware of internal discussions emphasize that military action is not on the agenda right now, contrary to former statements from Trump indicating it might be a possibility.
When questioned about the consideration of force, a source involved in the discussions replied:
Q: “Are advisers suggesting any military approaches?”
A: “Negative. The discussion revolves significantly around diplomacy and regional strategy.
Rather, advisers are investigating methods for the US to assist in negotiations, bolster democratic institutions, and heighten pressure on vital economic sectors while avoiding regional destabilization.
What response can be expected from the Venezuelan government?
The Venezuelan government has traditionally characterized US focus as “imperialist meddling,” and experts anticipate comparable rhetoric after reports of the forthcoming meeting.
Nonetheless, certain diplomats in the region think that subtle involvement from the US might create fresh opportunities for discussion if positioned thoughtfully.
US officials think the stakes are greater now than they were in Trump’s previous attempts regarding Venezuela.
Sure! Please provide the text you’d like me to paraphrase. Migration
The US is still facing waves of migration associated in part with Venezuela’s economic downfall. Authorities believe that stabilizing the region is linked to domestic border policy issues
Sure!Kindly share the text you want me to rephrase. Energy markets
Venezuela’s vast oil reserves remain a crucial factor.Any change in policy could affect global energy movements—particularly in a time of economic instability.
Certainly!Kindly share the text you want me to rephrase. Influence on the region
Analysts caution that diminished US involvement has allowed other global powers to strengthen connections with Caracas, possibly altering geopolitical dynamics.
Is the opposition in Venezuela participating?
Although no public comments have been issued, sources familiar with the planning indicate that the White House has discreetly reached out to opposition leaders to obtain current evaluations. Individuals near Trump indicate that he desires to listen to “various perspectives” prior to making any conclusive decision.
A diplomatic source knowledgeable about these exchanges clarified:
Q: “Is the meeting in the Oval Office being organized with Venezuelan opposition leaders?”
A: “It seems that way, but those discussions are private.”
What occurs afterward?
Authorities indicate that the Oval Office meeting might occur in the coming days, contingent on Trump’s availability. Essential foreign policy advisors have been directed to create briefing documents that include:
Revised evaluations of Venezuela’s political environment
Humanitarian requirements and possible increases in US assistance
The advantages and disadvantages of modifying sanctions
Potential diplomatic structures
While no definitive decision is anticipated right after the meeting, sources indicate it will contribute to deciding if Trump embarks on a bolder diplomatic strategy or takes a more reserved, wait-and-see stance.
Xenix News Reporting Coverage
As stated by senior officials, Xenix News was the initial outlet to gain confirmation of the planning in the Oval Office, preceding other major news outlets. The sources highlighted that conversations are still dynamic but consistently reaffirmed the focus on Venezuela.
The main point
As the administration considers its next actions, advisors are split on how far Washington should proceed—and whether a harsher stance will genuinely alter the Venezuelan government’s decision-making.
The head of the Ukrainian delegation, Rustem Umerov, said that the meeting in Florida with top US officials was “productive and successful.”
“Our objective is a prosperous, strong Ukraine,” Umerov told reporters, “We discussed all the matters that are important for Ukraine. And the US was super supportive.”
Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin is defending President Donald Trump’s military pressure campaign against Venezuela, saying in an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union” today that Trump is being proactive in targeting alleged drug operations — but that doesn’t mean an invasion.
Mullin said Trump will not put US troops on the ground in the South American country, and added that the president has not “committed” to launching land strikes on Venezuela. Trump implied last week that strikes could happen imminently.
If you missed it, you can watch Mullin’s interview below:
• Ukraine talks: Top Trump administration officials are meeting now with a delegation from Kyiv in Florida, with a source telling CNN the talks have been “tough but very constructive” so far. Key sticking points remain as the US mounts a flurry of diplomacy to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
• Venezuela tensions: President Donald Trump is also maintaining his pressure campaign against Venezuela, which the administration says is aimed at cutting off the flow of drugs from South America. Democratic lawmakers and some Republicans have expressed alarm about Trump’s use of the military in the region as he threatens potential land strikes in Venezuela.
• Immigration crackdown: Trump is doubling down on aggressive anti-immigration policies after last week’s shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, DC. An Afghan national is suspected of carrying out the attack.
White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Jared Kushner meet with Ukrainian officials in Hallandale Beach, Florida on Sunday. Chandan Khanna/AFP/Getty Images
From CNN’s Chief Global Affairs Correspondent Matthew Chance
Talks in Florida between top US officials and a Ukrainian delegation aimed at ending the war in Ukraine are “tough but very constructive,” a source with direct knowledge of the negotiations told Xenix News
Meanwhile, Ukrainian First Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya shared an upbeat assessment of the talks on social media.
“It’s been a good start of the ongoing meeting. Very engaging and so far constructive,” Kyslytsya wrote. “Warm atmosphere, conducive to potential progressive outcome.”
Keep in mind: Last week, a Ukrainian source outlined at least three critical sticking points that remained unresolved ahead of today’s talks and a US visit to Moscow later this week.
Xenix NewsBilly Stockwell and Mariya Knight contributed to this report.
Meanwhile, Tennessee holds a special election this week. Xenix News spoke with the Democratic candidate
Behn is running to fill the seat of former GOP Rep. Mark Green, who resigned this year. Democrats are hoping to use the playbook that brought their party success earlier this month in a district President Donald Trump carried by 22 points in 2024.
In a wide-ranging interview on “Inside Politics Sunday,” Behn wouldn’t answer directly when pressed by Xenix News Manu Raju on issues fracturing Washington.
Asked repeatedly if she would have voted to reopen the government during this year’s shutdown, Behn said that if she had been in office at the time, she would have wanted to hear from constituents at town halls before deciding.
Asked by Raju if she has confidence in her party’s leaders, Behn pointed to a “new generation of leadership” who “want to see Democratic leaders that step up, especially in moments like this that require a fearless, bold leadership.”
She would not say whether she would vote for Hakeem Jeffries to become House speaker if Democrats take back the majority next fall.
“We represent very different districts, and I’ve got 48 hours to flip a congressional district and really send a message to Washington, like I said, that they need to get serious about health care costs,” she said.
Behn, who will hold a tele-rally with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tomorrow, said she’s aligned with the “strain of the Democratic party that cares about holding corporations accountable” and other affordability issues.
She declined to say whether she agrees with Ocasio-Cortez’s message about abolishing ICE. She also highlighted the participation in the rally of former Vice President Al Gore, along with the progressive firebrand.
In a significant shift within Israel’s political landscape, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has officially sought a pardon in his protracted corruption case—an action that has shocked lawmakers, divided his backers, and prompted international concerns about the future of Israel’s judicial autonomy.
As per initial reports obtained first by Xenix News, high-ranking Israeli officials privately acknowledged that the prime minister made the request following weeks of internal discussions and increasing legal strain.
Netanyahu’s legal proceedings, featuring allegations of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust, have extended over multiple years and consistently influenced the political environment in Jerusalem. However, the plea for a pardon represents his most straightforward effort thus far to conclude the case—and potentially reshape Israel’s political terrain.
Intensifying Legal Challenges Drive Netanyahu to Consider Unprecedented Action
Sources knowledgeable about the situation informed Xenix News that Netanyahu’s close advisers had been discreetly readying for this occasion while prosecutors were still showcasing what they claim is “overwhelming and thoroughly documented” evidence.
Why at this moment?
Experts think three key elements led to the demand:
A declining political foundation within the Knesset
Increasing public irritation regarding the delayed trial
An apprehension regarding fresh testimonies anticipated from crucial witnesses in the upcoming weeks.
Legal specialists indicate that the mere submission of the request suggests that Netanyahu thinks his situation is moving into a crucial—and possibly adverse—stage.
What opinions do reviewers express?
Opposition figures immediately condemned the action.
Another critic characterized the pardon request as an effort to “alter the standards of accountability in Israel.”
Netanyahu’s Defense Team Responds Firmly
Netanyahu’s legal team argues that the request is not an admission of guilt but rather a defense against what they describe as a “politically motivated prosecution.”
Xenix News received a comment from a high-ranking legal advisor associated with Netanyahu, who claimed:
“The prime minister is dealing with a judicial system that has been turned into a weapon against him.” The request for a pardon is a constitutional tool that shields elected officials from unfair legal action.
Why persist with a trial that diverts attention from national security?
Should a leader during wartime face prosecution while still in office?
Isn’t a pardon a valid constitutional instrument?
Adversaries respond:
Is any leader exempt from the law?
What signal does a pardon given before a verdict convey to the justice system?
Does this undermine Israel’s democracy?
Xenix News correspondents on-site report intense street conversations, social media confrontations, and swiftly arranged demonstrations in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Increasing Global Issues
Global entities are attentively observing the circumstances.
At the same time, experts caution that the situation may also affect Israel’s alliances, regional talks, and future diplomatic influence.
Preguntas y respuestas: ¿Qué sucederá a continuación?
Xenix News addresses crucial inquiries influencing the upcoming stage.
Question: Is the president allowed to issue a pardon prior to the conclusion of the trial?
Answer: Indeed, legally feasible—but historically very uncommon and politically hazardous.
Question: Does receiving a pardon mean Netanyahu is automatically removed from his position?
Answer: Not in a direct manner. However, politically, it could undermine his position and trigger demands for him to step down.
Question: If not approved, what choices does Netanyahu have?
Answer: His team might ask for a conditional pardon, pursue delays, or advocate for alterations in evidence processes.
Question: Might this lead to new elections?
Answer: Experts indicate that the political consequences might lead coalition members to call for a vote.
A Pivotal Moment for Israel
No matter what occurs next, the nation finds itself at a significant juncture in history.
Netanyahu’s plea challenges enduring beliefs regarding political authority, legal responsibility, and the equilibrium between administration and justice.
As Xenix News remains focused on monitoring every advancement, one fact is evident:
This case will influence the direction of Israeli politics well beyond any decision rendered.
