Trump promises more attacks soon; Republicans hold onto Tennessee seat but Democrats make progress

The White House maintains its aggressive maritime strike approach in the Caribbean, even after a follow-up attack that resulted in the deaths of survivors. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has clarified his role during these operations, emphasizing that he witnessed the initial strike but was not present for the subsequent one.

Maritime Operations Under Scrutiny

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth are defending the administrations boat-strike strategy while distancing themselves from the second attack, which killed survivors of a September 2 incident. Both insisted they were unaware of the follow-up strike at the time it occurred.

"I didnt know about the second strike," Trump stated. "I wasnt involved. I knew they took out a boat. But they had a strike."

Hegseth confirmed he observed the first strike but left before the second, noting that the decision to sink the vessel was made by Vice Adm. Mitch Bradley, who had full authority. Lawmakers from both parties are demanding answers, with some questioning whether the deaths of survivors could be considered a war crime.

Trump reiterated that the strikes disrupted drug trafficking routes and signaled plans for similar attacks on land soon. The administration has reported at least 21 maritime strikes and over 80 fatalities, all described as "narco-terrorists."

Tennessee Special Election

In Tennessee, GOP-backed Matt Van Epps won a special election for the 7th congressional district, defeating Democratic candidate Aftyn Behn. Van Epps, a military veteran and former state official, takes over after Mark Green resigned. While Trump celebrated the victory, Democrats highlighted the narrowed nine-point margin compared to the previous 21-point win, interpreting it as a sign of growing competitiveness.

DC National Guard Ambush Case

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national legally residing in the U.S., faces multiple charges including murder and assault after allegedly attacking National Guard members near the White House. One soldier was killed and another remains in critical condition. Prosecutors described the case as "exceedingly strong," and additional charges are expected.

UPS Cargo Plane Crash Lawsuits

Families of victims from the November 4 UPS cargo plane crash in Louisville, Kentucky, are filing wrongful death lawsuits against UPS, Boeing, and GE. The MD-11 aircraft, which lost an engine during takeoff, killed 14 people and injured 23. Preliminary reports cite fatigue cracks and overstress failure, with families alleging negligence and the use of an aircraft "beyond its useful life."

Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

U.S.-led negotiations with Moscow, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, made no breakthrough in ending the war in Ukraine. Putin criticized European interference in the American proposal and insisted talks with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy are futile unless disputed territories are returned. No future Trump-Putin meeting is currently planned.

Record-Breaking Faberg Sale

A rare Faberg winter egg sold in London for over $30 million, surpassing previous estimates. Crafted in 1913 for Czar Nicholas II, the egg features crystal, diamonds, and a miniature quartz flower basket. Only 43 Imperial Faberg eggs survive today, with a few held in private collections.

Supreme Court Examines Free Speech Case

The Supreme Court heard arguments in a New Jersey case concerning "crisis pregnancy centers" and their donor privacy under the First Amendment. The case may shape how states can regulate private organizations promoting contentious viewpoints. Questions from justices focused on constitutional rights rather than procedural matters.

Author: Gavin Porter