In recent developments, a federal judge has dismissed an election subversion case against Donald Trump due to the Justice Department's policy on prosecuting sitting presidents, while Special Counsel Jack Smith has similarly dropped an appeal related to a documents case.

Moving across the Atlantic, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel reflects on her tenure in her memoir "Freedom," defending her engagement with Russia and open-door migration policy, arguing it was crucial for Germany's energy transition and demographic needs.

Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump plans to levy tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China, aiming to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking, despite statistical declines in border crossings and crime.

In the Middle East, Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have escalated during ceasefire talks facilitated by the US, targeting key areas and complicating efforts to reach a resolution with Hezbollah.

Shifting to global tensions, the death toll in Gaza continues to rise, while Saudi Arabia extends condolences to Kuwait over a recent loss, and the EU pledges aid to Morocco for earthquake reconstruction.

Finally, Chilean President Gabriel Boric is under scrutiny due to a 2013 sexual harassment allegation, which he denies, amid a broader political scandal involving a former deputy interior minister.