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President Joe Biden expressed optimism and caution as Syria enters a new chapter following the departure of its longtime leader, Bashar al-Assad. Speaking from the White House on Sunday, Biden underscored the United States' commitment to working with international partners and stakeholders to support Syria's democratic transition after more than 13 years of devastating conflict. Assad's departure marks the end of a brutal era for Syria. The embattled leader, along with his family, has reportedly requested asylum in Russia, which granted him refuge “on humanitarian grounds,” according to Russian officials quoted by local media. Syrian rebels took full control of…

Franz Wagner has been a cornerstone for the Orlando Magic this season, stepping up at critical moments to keep the team competitive, especially after All-Star forward Paolo Banchero suffered a torn oblique early in the season. season. Now, in a twist of fate, Wagner finds himself sidelined by the same injury, dealing a significant setback to a team that has relied heavily on his contributions to stay afloat. The Magic announced Saturday that Wagner suffered a torn right oblique during Friday's loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. The team said Wagner will be out indefinitely, with his recovery time depending on…

In a heartfelt ceremony that marked his final Christmas tree lighting as president, Joe Biden addressed young Americans with a touching message that their aspirations for the nation are being heard, as he encouraged everyone to keep searching." the light of freedom, of love, of connection, of compassion.” , dignity and decency". The event took place on a chilly evening in Washington, where attendees braved biting winds to gather at Ellipse Park near the White House. The 30-foot tall Christmas tree, a vibrant symbol of the season, stood as the centerpiece of the celebration. Vice President Kamala Harris and Second…

Shell and Norwegian energy company Equinor have unveiled plans to merge their offshore oil and gas businesses in the UK sector of the North Sea, marking a significant step in the energy sector. The joint venture, which will be equally owned by both companies, aims to strengthen energy security and continue fossil fuel production, navigating the UK's evolving energy landscape. The new entity, based in Aberdeen, Scotland, is set to become the largest independent oil and gas producer in the UK North Sea once the merger is completed, probably by the end of next year, pending the regulatory approval. Shell…

President-elect Donald Trump has revealed several significant appointments for his administration, which takes office on January 20. The announcements, made via a late-night statement, highlight priorities such as artificial intelligence (AI), cryptocurrency policy, border protection and diplomatic strategy. In line with his campaign promise to make the United States a global hub for cryptocurrency innovation, Trump appointed David Sacks, former president of PayPal operations, to lead efforts on artificial intelligence and digital currency policy . This move signals a commitment to promoting technological growth while providing clarity and stability to the cryptocurrency industry. “David Sacks will lead the legal framework…

The University of Central Florida (UCF) has reportedly contacted representatives of USC coach Lincoln Riley as part of its search for a new football coach to replace Gus Malzahn. According to sources familiar with the discussions, there has been no clear indication that Riley is considering the move, nor has UCF received any signs of interest from his camp. Currently in the third season of a 10-year contract with USC, Riley makes about $10 million a year. His deal, which is not made public because of USC's private institution status, would likely pose significant financial hurdles for any program trying…

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister announced Tuesday that he will withdraw his name from consideration to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), just days after President-elect Donald Trump nominated him for the role. Chronister's decision makes him the second individual to turn down a top job in Trump's incoming administration, following former Rep. Matt Gaetz, who recently withdrew from his bid for attorney general. Chronister, the longtime sheriff of Hillsborough County, Florida, explained his decision in a post on X, formerly Twitter, underscoring his dedication to serving his local community. “Being nominated by President-elect @realDonaldTrump to serve as Administrator of…

As U.S. travelers braved wintry conditions to return home after the Thanksgiving holiday, residents in the Great Lakes region braced for more snow and freezing temperatures in the coming days, meteorologists said. The National Weather Service (NWS) indicated that Monday's snowfall, combined with gusty winds and dropping temperatures, was just the beginning of what is expected to be a prolonged winter storm. The combination of these elements is likely to intensify in some areas, creating dangerous conditions. Lake-effect snow warnings, caused when cold, dry air moves over the warmer waters of the Great Lakes, producing narrow, intense bands of snow,…

Donald Trump announced in a New York court Tuesday that he is pursuing dismissal of the criminal case against him, which involves 34 counts related to alleged hush money payments to an adult film actress. The development comes in the wake of his victory in the November 5 presidential election. Judge Juan Merchan, who had previously scheduled Trump's sentencing for Nov. 26, agreed to delay the deadline indefinitely, allowing the former president to file his motion to dismiss. Trump's legal team argued that the charges could create "unconstitutional impediments" to his ability to govern as president. These arguments underscore the…