Author: Rachel Maddow

Precious metals have emerged as some of the standout performers in 2025, fueled by geopolitical tensions, expectations of looser monetary policy and hopes for global economic stability. Gold prices recently surged to record highs, reaching $4,481 (€3,797) per troy ounce — a year-on-year rise of roughly 55–70%, one of the strongest annual gains in decades. Silver, long considered the “lesser metal,” outpaced gold in percentage terms, climbing around 130–140% to near $69 (€58) per ounce by late 2025. Once overshadowed by modern financial assets like currencies, bonds and real estate, precious metals reclaimed their role as safe-haven investments in a…

Bipartisan talks in the U.S. Senate are moving closer to ending a potential government shutdown. Lawmakers are taking action to secure funding and ensure federal programs continue into 2026, easing disruptions for millions of Americans. The legislation under discussion would restore funding for essential programs, including Social Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), healthcare services, and federal employee salaries. Officials say timely approval will prevent service interruptions and provide stability for families and communities that rely on federal support. Senators from both parties emphasized the importance of cooperation to avoid a shutdown. In recent years, government funding gaps have caused delays in…

A car bomb in southern Moscow on Monday claimed the life of Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov, a high-ranking official in Russia’s military leadership. The explosion took place in a residential parking lot, according to Russian media reports. Sarvarov, who led the Operational Training Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces’ General Staff, was critically injured and later succumbed to his wounds, authorities said. Investigation Launched The Investigative Committee immediately opened a criminal case following Sarvarov’s death, with officials saying the motive is still unclear. While the details of how the device was deployed remain undisclosed, the authorities confirmed that the incident…

Justice Department Publishes Limited Files The US Justice Department released thousands of files on Jeffrey Epstein on Friday, but lawmakers quickly said the release fell far short of expectations. The trove includes photographs, court documents, call logs, and other investigative records, many of which are heavily redacted. Democrats accused the Trump administration of withholding information, arguing that the partial release undermines transparency. The Justice Department stated it plans to continue releasing documents in the coming weeks, promising eventual completion by the end of the year. Much of the public pressure for disclosure stems from years of campaigning for accountability and…

Late on Thursday night, EU leaders quietly conceded that their most ambitious financial plan for Ukraine could not succeed. Months of negotiation and political maneuvering could not bridge the gap between idealism and practical constraints. The proposal had aimed to turn frozen Russian central bank assets into a zero-interest reparations loan, a scheme supporters hailed as both morally urgent and strategically bold. Critics, however, warned it carried enormous financial and legal risks, leaving leaders hesitant to take unprecedented steps. As discussions reached their final hours, caution overtook ambition, and governments returned to a solution they understood: joint debt issuance. Instead…

Airport and airline staff across Europe are preparing for walkouts this festive season, protesting low pay and poor working conditions.Union representatives have criticized employers’ “Grinch-style” behavior, accusing them of taking advantage of staff during one of the most expensive and stressful times of the year. Holiday travel has increasingly become intertwined with strikes, as workers target peak travel periods to amplify their demands.Some strikes are planned months in advance, giving travelers and airlines time to prepare, while others appear with little warning, sometimes only hours before they begin.Passengers are being urged to check travel updates regularly, as last-minute cancellations or…

France’s Interior Ministry suffered a cyberattack that lasted several days, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed. The attackers targeted professional email accounts at the Place Beauvau ministry, which employs nearly 300,000 people. The breach allowed unauthorized access to sensitive internal files, prompting swift action once the intrusion was discovered. Nuñez acknowledged the severity of the incident but emphasized that authorities responded quickly and are now working to fully understand the scope of the attack. The attack came after internal teams noticed unusual activity within the ministry’s email servers, and the situation quickly escalated to a national cybersecurity concern. While the breach…

Travelers looking to save money in 2026 have plenty of options, with a new report highlighting the five cheapest destinations to fly to next year. Affordable travel spots make planning trips easier for budget-conscious vacationers while still offering memorable experiences. Among the top budget-friendly destinations are U.S. cities such as Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. These cities offer not only low flight costs but also a range of attractions, from beaches and amusement parks to cultural experiences and dining options. Visitors can enjoy a full itinerary without overspending on travel. Fort Lauderdale is known for its sun-soaked beaches, lively boardwalk, and…

Louvre employees closed the Paris museum on Monday in protest over working conditions and staffing shortages.The strike follows an embarrassing jewellery heist in October, which exposed security flaws at the landmark museum.CFDT union officials said 400 workers voted unanimously during a morning meeting to walk out for the day. Striking employees blocked the glass pyramid entrance with banners, flags, and placards.The Louvre posted an updated notice online, confirming the museum would remain “exceptionally” closed.Ticket holders received full refunds, and staff may meet again on Wednesday to decide whether to continue the strike. Visitors reacted with disappointment, understanding the staff’s frustrations.Lindsey…

Gunmen opened fire at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, killing ten people, including one of the attackers. More than a dozen bystanders suffered injuries during the assault. A Hanukkah event drew thousands to the beach when the attack occurred. Authorities are investigating the motives behind the incident. New South Wales Police confirmed ten deaths and identified one gunman among the fatalities. Police reported that the other suspected attacker remains in critical condition at a hospital. Witnesses described terrified crowds and dozens of victims lying injured across the sand. Eyewitnesses said blood covered the beach, and many victims required urgent medical attention. Officers…