By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

In 2025, Fort Hays State University experienced a remarkable convergence of leadership, generosity, innovation, and partnership that reinforced its role as a driver of opportunity for students and communities across Kansas. From expanding guaranteed pathways to high-demand careers and celebrating philanthropic support to strengthening workforce pipelines and honoring service, these twelve stories capture the heart of what it means to be a Tiger.

FHSU and Kansas Community Colleges announce guaranteed admission program in psychology

The year began with a landmark agreement expanding access to higher education across the state. I was joined by Kansas Association of Community Colleges Director Heather Morgan and leaders from all 19 Kansas community colleges to sign a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a guaranteed admission pathway into FHSU’s clinical and school psychology programs.

Students completing an associate degree at a Kansas community college can now transition seamlessly into FHSU bachelor’s programs—and, uniquely, the guarantee extends through the master’s degree level for both clinical and school psychology, provided GPA requirements are met. The initiative directly addresses workforce shortages in mental health and education while removing barriers for students seeking advanced degrees in critical service professions.

Applied Technology achieves 100 percent graduate job placement

FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology has reached a milestone that speaks volumes about its hands-on approach to education: a 100 percent graduate job placement rate. Department Chair Kim Stewart credited the achievement to long-standing partnerships with industry and a robust internship requirement embedded in the curriculum.

With nine credit hours of internships, roughly equivalent to two summers of professional experience, students graduate not only with degrees but with practical skills, employer connections, and real-world readiness. For a department that has consistently hovered near a 98 percent placement rate, the milestone reinforced FHSU’s reputation as a workforce-driven institution.

Ben Schears named Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development

Leadership for economic growth took a major step forward when Ben Schears, president of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest, was named FHSU’s Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development. In this role, Schears leads efforts to align education, innovation, and workforce needs across the region.

In the opening months that Schear has served in this role, he has worked with Strategic Affiliation partner Fort Hays Tech | North Central to assist High Plains Mental Health and Fort Hays Tech | North Central in addressing the workforce needs associated with their expanding operations. Now in the works is a new associate’s degree program at Fort Hays Tech | North Central that will help High Plains Mental Health staff entry-level positions. The goal of this partnership is to create seamless educational pathways that enable students to earn and learn as they advance in their careers.

Under his leadership, FHSU was selected to serve as one of six entities in the Heartland Rural Innovators Initiative hosted by the Center on Rural Innovation (CORI). Sponsored by the Patterson Family Foundation, the initiative aims to create local efforts that focus on closing the growing gap in tech sector jobs in rural America. The effort will consolidate existing assets across Ellis County to create a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports tech sector jobs.

Grace McCord Selected as a Finalist in Truman Scholar Competition

Fort Hays State University Political Science major Grace McCord was selected as one of just 200 finalists in the national competition for the Truman Scholarship, selected from 800 highly accomplished applicants nominated by their universities. Truman Scholars are college juniors chosen for their commitment to pursuing a career in public service. Truman Scholars receive a scholarship for graduate study funded by the Truman Foundation, which was created to honor the values of President Harry S. Truman.

Grace served her community through a number of service projects, including work with Jana’s Campaign and the Celebration Community Church Quilting Ministry, among other activities. In her career at FHSU, she has led the American Democracy Project and served as a senator in the Student Government Association, where she currently serves as the Legislative Affairs Director, as well as holding leadership roles in the Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society and her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta.

Dr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk named athletic director

Dr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk joined FHSU as its new Athletic Director, bringing with her a national reputation for excellence in Division II athletics. Previously serving as athletic director at Gannon University, she was named NCAA Division II Athletic Director of the Year in 2024.

Under her leadership, Gannon achieved top national rankings in the Learfield Directors’ Cup, a benchmark of athletic and academic success. At FHSU, Goddard McGuirk’s arrival marked a new chapter for Tiger Athletics, one focused on competitive excellence, student-athlete success, and national visibility.

Business Retention and Expansion Program launches regional pilot

Professional and Continuing Education at FHSU launched an innovative pilot program designed to strengthen local economies through business retention and expansion strategies. This initiative was led by representatives from FHSU, Fort Hays Tech | North Central, and Fort Hays Tech |Northwest. Class cohorts were formed in Beloit, Goodland, and Hays, and participants included leaders from business, government, education, and economic development. The program curriculum focused on applying practical tools to support community growth. This initiative highlighted the power of regional collaboration and FHSU’s leadership role in rural economic development.

Corey Isbell named president of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest

Corey Isbell, Ed.D., was named president of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest, succeeding Ben Schears. With more than 25 years of experience in technical education across rural Kansas, Isbell brought a deep understanding of workforce training, student success, and community engagement.

His appointment ensured continuity and momentum within the Fort Hays State system, reinforcing strong partnerships between FHSU and technical education institutions across the region.

FHSU Stroup Hall breaks ground to expand nursing program

On August 21, Fort Hays State University broke ground on a $15.4 million project to expand Stroup Hall. The project will add 30,000 additional square feet and unite the Departments of Nursing and Allied Health under one roof. This expansion will allow the two departments to collaborate more closely in training the next generation of students. Funded by the Kansas Legislature, the new Stroup Hall will include simulation labs, updated classrooms, and hands-on training opportunities, with completion expected in December 2026.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran helped secure an additional $400,000 in U.S. Department of Education funding that will be used to provide advanced technology and essential simulation systems

FHSU is currently serving 425 allied health students and slightly more than 725 nursing students. The University expects the expansion to enable enrollment in nursing programs to increase by more than 65% and in medical diagnostic imaging programs by 40%. Fall 2025 enrollment numbers anticipate expected growth in both disciplines with allied health experiencing a 22% increase in students this fall and nursing seeing a 9% increase.

Seven-Figure gift announced for campus library

Homecoming weekend brought a new reason to celebrate: a seven-figure gift from Stephen and Tatiana Tebo and their family to support the renovation of the campus library, now named the Tebo Library.

The gift marked one of the most significant philanthropic investments in campus infrastructure. The renovated library will serve as a hub for learning, collaboration, and discovery for generations to come.

Kansas SBDC Network earns renewed accreditation

The Kansas Small Business Development Center Network, headquartered at FHSU, achieved renewed national accreditation through 2029. The rigorous process affirmed the network’s commitment to high-quality advising and education for Kansas entrepreneurs.

Serving six regional centers statewide, the Kansas SBDC plays a critical role in strengthening small businesses and local economies - another example of FHSU’s statewide impact beyond campus boundaries.

Department chair honored with Patriot Award

Service and support took center stage when Dr. Richard Lisichenko, chair of the Geosciences Department, received the Patriot Award from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. The honor recognized his exceptional support of Dr. Jonathan Sumrall during Sumrall’s deployment to Kuwait.

Lisichenko’s consistent communication and inclusion of Sumrall’s family exemplified FHSU’s culture of care, earning national recognition and reinforcing the university’s commitment to military-affiliated faculty and staff.

FHSU celebrates first Officer Candidate School graduate

The year concluded with a historic milestone as Jackson Piper became FHSU’s first Officer Candidate School graduate to walk across the commencement stage. Piper, a Kansas City native and Kansas Army National Guard member, joined the OCS program shortly after its launch in 2022.

His achievement symbolized perseverance and service, and highlighted the growing opportunities FHSU provides for students pursuing military and leadership pathways.

Take a Deeper Dive into Heart of a Tiger

In January 2018, I wrote the first Heart of a Tiger column to celebrate the people and culture that make Fort Hays State University special. More than 150 columns later, these stories continue to highlight the compassion, innovation, and determination that define Tiger Nation.

Every Heart of a Tiger column is available at <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/heart-of-a-tiger/">fhsu.edu/president/heart-of-a-tiger/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761318630494.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president. Photo courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president. Photo courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentIn 2025, Fort Hays State University experienced a remarkable convergence of leadership, generosity, innovation, and partnership that reinforced its role as a driver of opportunity for students and communities across Kansas. From expanding guaranteed pathways to high-demand careers and celebrating philanthropic support to strengthening workforce pipelines and honoring service, these twelve stories capture the heart of what it means to be a Tiger.JanuaryFHSU and Kansas Community Colleges announce guaranteed admission program in psychologyThe year began with a landmark agreement expanding access to higher education across the state. I was joined by Kansas Association of Community Colleges Director Heather Morgan and leaders from all 19 Kansas community colleges to sign a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a guaranteed admission pathway into FHSU’s clinical and school psychology programs.Students completing an associate degree at a Kansas community college can now transition seamlessly into FHSU bachelor’s programs—and, uniquely, the guarantee extends through the master’s degree level for both clinical and school psychology, provided GPA requirements are met. The initiative directly addresses workforce shortages in mental health and education while removing barriers for students seeking advanced degrees in critical service professions.FebruaryApplied Technology achieves 100 percent graduate job placementFHSU’s Department of Applied Technology has reached a milestone that speaks volumes about its hands-on approach to education: a 100 percent graduate job placement rate. Department Chair Kim Stewart credited the achievement to long-standing partnerships with industry and a robust internship requirement embedded in the curriculum.With nine credit hours of internships, roughly equivalent to two summers of professional experience, students graduate not only with degrees but with practical skills, employer connections, and real-world readiness. For a department that has consistently hovered near a 98 percent placement rate, the milestone reinforced FHSU’s reputation as a workforce-driven institution.MarchBen Schears named Vice President for Economic and Workforce DevelopmentLeadership for economic growth took a major step forward when Ben Schears, president of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest, was named FHSU’s Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development. In this role, Schears leads efforts to align education, innovation, and workforce needs across the region.In the opening months that Schear has served in this role, he has worked with Strategic Affiliation partner Fort Hays Tech | North Central to assist High Plains Mental Health and Fort Hays Tech | North Central in addressing the workforce needs associated with their expanding operations. Now in the works is a new associate’s degree program at Fort Hays Tech | North Central that will help High Plains Mental Health staff entry-level positions. The goal of this partnership is to create seamless educational pathways that enable students to earn and learn as they advance in their careers.Under his leadership, FHSU was selected to serve as one of six entities in the Heartland Rural Innovators Initiative hosted by the Center on Rural Innovation (CORI). Sponsored by the Patterson Family Foundation, the initiative aims to create local efforts that focus on closing the growing gap in tech sector jobs in rural America. The effort will consolidate existing assets across Ellis County to create a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports tech sector jobs.AprilGrace McCord Selected as a Finalist in Truman Scholar CompetitionFort Hays State University Political Science major Grace McCord was selected as one of just 200 finalists in the national competition for the Truman Scholarship, selected from 800 highly accomplished applicants nominated by their universities. Truman Scholars are college juniors chosen for their commitment to pursuing a career in public service. Truman Scholars receive a scholarship for graduate study funded by the Truman Foundation, which was created to honor the values of President Harry S. Truman.Grace served her community through a number of service projects, including work with Jana’s Campaign and the Celebration Community Church Quilting Ministry, among other activities. In her career at FHSU, she has led the American Democracy Project and served as a senator in the Student Government Association, where she currently serves as the Legislative Affairs Director, as well as holding leadership roles in the Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society and her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta.MayDr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk named athletic directorDr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk joined FHSU as its new Athletic Director, bringing with her a national reputation for excellence in Division II athletics. Previously serving as athletic director at Gannon University, she was named NCAA Division II Athletic Director of the Year in 2024.Under her leadership, Gannon achieved top national rankings in the Learfield Directors’ Cup, a benchmark of athletic and academic success. At FHSU, Goddard McGuirk’s arrival marked a new chapter for Tiger Athletics, one focused on competitive excellence, student-athlete success, and national visibility.JuneBusiness Retention and Expansion Program launches regional pilotProfessional and Continuing Education at FHSU launched an innovative pilot program designed to strengthen local economies through business retention and expansion strategies. This initiative was led by representatives from FHSU, Fort Hays Tech | North Central, and Fort Hays Tech |Northwest. Class cohorts were formed in Beloit, Goodland, and Hays, and participants included leaders from business, government, education, and economic development. The program curriculum focused on applying practical tools to support community growth. This initiative highlighted the power of regional collaboration and FHSU’s leadership role in rural economic development.JulyCorey Isbell named president of Fort Hays Tech | NorthwestCorey Isbell, Ed.D., was named president of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest, succeeding Ben Schears. With more than 25 years of experience in technical education across rural Kansas, Isbell brought a deep understanding of workforce training, student success, and community engagement.His appointment ensured continuity and momentum within the Fort Hays State system, reinforcing strong partnerships between FHSU and technical education institutions across the region.AugustFHSU Stroup Hall breaks ground to expand nursing programOn August 21, Fort Hays State University broke ground on a $15.4 million project to expand Stroup Hall. The project will add 30,000 additional square feet and unite the Departments of Nursing and Allied Health under one roof. This expansion will allow the two departments to collaborate more closely in training the next generation of students. Funded by the Kansas Legislature, the new Stroup Hall will include simulation labs, updated classrooms, and hands-on training opportunities, with completion expected in December 2026.U.S. Senator Jerry Moran helped secure an additional $400,000 in U.S. Department of Education funding that will be used to provide advanced technology and essential simulation systemsFHSU is currently serving 425 allied health students and slightly more than 725 nursing students. The University expects the expansion to enable enrollment in nursing programs to increase by more than 65% and in medical diagnostic imaging programs by 40%. Fall 2025 enrollment numbers anticipate expected growth in both disciplines with allied health experiencing a 22% increase in students this fall and nursing seeing a 9% increase.SeptemberSeven-Figure gift announced for campus libraryHomecoming weekend brought a new reason to celebrate: a seven-figure gift from Stephen and Tatiana Tebo and their family to support the renovation of the campus library, now named the Tebo Library.The gift marked one of the most significant philanthropic investments in campus infrastructure. The renovated library will serve as a hub for learning, collaboration, and discovery for generations to come.OctoberKansas SBDC Network earns renewed accreditationThe Kansas Small Business Development Center Network, headquartered at FHSU, achieved renewed national accreditation through 2029. The rigorous process affirmed the network’s commitment to high-quality advising and education for Kansas entrepreneurs.Serving six regional centers statewide, the Kansas SBDC plays a critical role in strengthening small businesses and local economies - another example of FHSU’s statewide impact beyond campus boundaries.NovemberDepartment chair honored with Patriot AwardService and support took center stage when Dr. Richard Lisichenko, chair of the Geosciences Department, received the Patriot Award from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. The honor recognized his exceptional support of Dr. Jonathan Sumrall during Sumrall’s deployment to Kuwait.Lisichenko’s consistent communication and inclusion of Sumrall’s family exemplified FHSU’s culture of care, earning national recognition and reinforcing the university’s commitment to military-affiliated faculty and staff.DecemberFHSU celebrates first Officer Candidate School graduateThe year concluded with a historic milestone as Jackson Piper became FHSU’s first Officer Candidate School graduate to walk across the commencement stage. Piper, a Kansas City native and Kansas Army National Guard member, joined the OCS program shortly after its launch in 2022.His achievement symbolized perseverance and service, and highlighted the growing opportunities FHSU provides for students pursuing military and leadership pathways.Take a Deeper Dive into Heart of a TigerIn January 2018, I wrote the first Heart of a Tiger column to celebrate the people and culture that make Fort Hays State University special. More than 150 columns later, these stories continue to highlight the compassion, innovation, and determination that define Tiger Nation.Every Heart of a Tiger column is available at <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/heart-of-a-tiger/">fhsu.edu/president/heart-of-a-tiger/</a>

Farmers can now learn how much aid they will get from the Trump administration

From Pope Francis to Charlie Kirk, many deaths in 2025 had a wide impact

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —On Tuesday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office recovered a stolen race car and trailer near 61st and Berryton Road in Shawnee County, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

On October 21, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report that the trailer and race car had been stolen from where it was being kept in the 9000 Block of 110th Road in rural Mayetta. 

 Jackson County Detectives discovered where the stolen items were located and obtained a search warrant for the property.  The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Detectives and Deputies assisted with the execution of the search warrant. 

 If anyone has information about this crime they are asked to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767131287615.png" alt="Google map" />
 <figcaption>Google map</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —On Tuesday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office recovered a stolen race car and trailer near 61st and Berryton Road in Shawnee County, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.On October 21, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report that the trailer and race car had been stolen from where it was being kept in the 9000 Block of 110th Road in rural Mayetta. Jackson County Detectives discovered where the stolen items were located and obtained a search warrant for the property. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Detectives and Deputies assisted with the execution of the search warrant. If anyone has information about this crime they are asked to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251.

Sheriff: Stolen race car and trailer recovered in Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — The CIA was behind&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-facility-boat-strikes-0faff66145c6706e2861fcde36756fe4">a drone strike last week</a>&nbsp;at a docking area believed to have been used by Venezuelan drug cartels, according to two people familiar with details of the operation who requested anonymity to discuss the classified matter.

(click below to listen to the President's explanation of the attack)

The first known direct operation on Venezuelan soil since the U.S. began strikes in September marks a significant escalation in the administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">months-long pressure campaign</a>&nbsp;on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s government. The strike has not been acknowledged by Venezuelan officials.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;first made reference to the operation in an interview Friday with John Catsimatidis on WABC radio in New York, saying the U.S. had knocked out some type of “big facility where ships come from.”

In an exchange with reporters Monday as he hosted Israeli&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;at his Mar-a-Lago resort, Trump added that the operation targeted a “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-facility-boat-strikes-0faff66145c6706e2861fcde36756fe4">dock area where they load the boats</a>&nbsp;up with drugs.” But the president declined to comment when asked whether the attack was conducted by the military or the CIA.

The CIA and White House officials also declined to offer further comment on the matter. Col. Allie Weiskopf, a spokesperson for Special Operations Command, which oversees U.S operations in the Caribbean, said in a statement that “Special Operations did not support this operation to include intel support.”

The strike escalates what began as a massive buildup of U.S. personnel in the Caribbean Sea starting in August, which has been followed by at least 30 U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boat-strikes-drug-trafficking-trump-venezuela-4c21181026cf564fc79ae96d0b931f8d">military strikes on alleged drug boats</a>&nbsp;in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. More recently, Trump has ordered a quasi-blockade aimed at seizing sanctioned oil tankers coming in and out of Venezuela.

CNN first reported on the CIA’s involvement in the operation.

Trump for months had threatened that he could soon order strikes on targets on Venezuelan land. He’s also taken the unusual step of publicly acknowledging that he had authorized the CIA to carry out covert action inside Venezuela.

The administration is required to report covert CIA actions to senior congressional officials, including the chair and ranking members of both the Senate and House intelligence committees. But Trump, by entrusting what appears to be the first land strike of the Venezuelan campaign to the intelligence agency, could be calculating that the action would face less scrutiny from lawmakers than a military strike.

“I authorized for two reasons, really. No. 1, they have emptied their prisons into the United States of America,” he said in October as he confirmed to reporters his approval for the CIA to act. “And the other thing, the drugs, we have a lot of drugs coming in from Venezuela, and a lot of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-maduro-strike-caribbean-drug-trafficking-trump-1061debe2f983ef7bc9666d3f002b3a0">Venezuelan drugs</a>&nbsp;come in through the sea.”

All the while, Trump has repeatedly said Maduro’s days in power are numbered. The Venezuelan leader and members of his inner circle have been under federal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/caribbean-indictments-armed-forces-united-states-miami-d82797206561db03851e47df125c243f">indictment in the United States</a>&nbsp;since 2020 for narcoterrorism and other charges.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-us-news-ap-top-news-venezuela-virus-outbreak-2ceb488313ebb3334f64f6ad705e33b8">Maduro has denied the charges</a>. The U.S. Justice Department this year doubled to $50 million the reward for information that leads to his arrest.

The Venezuelan president made no mention of the CIA operation during an hourlong speech Tuesday at an international leadership school for women.

AP writer Regina Garcia Cano in Caracas, Venezuela, contributed reporting.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The CIA was behind&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-facility-boat-strikes-0faff66145c6706e2861fcde36756fe4">a drone strike last week</a>&nbsp;at a docking area believed to have been used by Venezuelan drug cartels, according to two people familiar with details of the operation who requested anonymity to discuss the classified matter.(click below to listen to the President's explanation of the attack)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">JUST IN: The United States has conducted its first land strike against Venezuela, according to President Donald Trump. Reporter: You mentioned in a radio interview ... did the military do that? Trump: There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up… <a href="https://t.co/XMIZf1vT2q">pic.twitter.com/XMIZf1vT2q</a>&mdash; Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/2005709303488143703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The first known direct operation on Venezuelan soil since the U.S. began strikes in September marks a significant escalation in the administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">months-long pressure campaign</a>&nbsp;on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s government. The strike has not been acknowledged by Venezuelan officials.<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;first made reference to the operation in an interview Friday with John Catsimatidis on WABC radio in New York, saying the U.S. had knocked out some type of “big facility where ships come from.”In an exchange with reporters Monday as he hosted Israeli&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;at his Mar-a-Lago resort, Trump added that the operation targeted a “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-facility-boat-strikes-0faff66145c6706e2861fcde36756fe4">dock area where they load the boats</a>&nbsp;up with drugs.” But the president declined to comment when asked whether the attack was conducted by the military or the CIA.The CIA and White House officials also declined to offer further comment on the matter. Col. Allie Weiskopf, a spokesperson for Special Operations Command, which oversees U.S operations in the Caribbean, said in a statement that “Special Operations did not support this operation to include intel support.”The strike escalates what began as a massive buildup of U.S. personnel in the Caribbean Sea starting in August, which has been followed by at least 30 U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boat-strikes-drug-trafficking-trump-venezuela-4c21181026cf564fc79ae96d0b931f8d">military strikes on alleged drug boats</a>&nbsp;in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. More recently, Trump has ordered a quasi-blockade aimed at seizing sanctioned oil tankers coming in and out of Venezuela.CNN first reported on the CIA’s involvement in the operation.Trump for months had threatened that he could soon order strikes on targets on Venezuelan land. He’s also taken the unusual step of publicly acknowledging that he had authorized the CIA to carry out covert action inside Venezuela.The administration is required to report covert CIA actions to senior congressional officials, including the chair and ranking members of both the Senate and House intelligence committees. But Trump, by entrusting what appears to be the first land strike of the Venezuelan campaign to the intelligence agency, could be calculating that the action would face less scrutiny from lawmakers than a military strike.“I authorized for two reasons, really. No. 1, they have emptied their prisons into the United States of America,” he said in October as he confirmed to reporters his approval for the CIA to act. “And the other thing, the drugs, we have a lot of drugs coming in from Venezuela, and a lot of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-maduro-strike-caribbean-drug-trafficking-trump-1061debe2f983ef7bc9666d3f002b3a0">Venezuelan drugs</a>&nbsp;come in through the sea.”All the while, Trump has repeatedly said Maduro’s days in power are numbered. The Venezuelan leader and members of his inner circle have been under federal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/caribbean-indictments-armed-forces-united-states-miami-d82797206561db03851e47df125c243f">indictment in the United States</a>&nbsp;since 2020 for narcoterrorism and other charges.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-us-news-ap-top-news-venezuela-virus-outbreak-2ceb488313ebb3334f64f6ad705e33b8">Maduro has denied the charges</a>. The U.S. Justice Department this year doubled to $50 million the reward for information that leads to his arrest.The Venezuelan president made no mention of the CIA operation during an hourlong speech Tuesday at an international leadership school for women.—AP writer Regina Garcia Cano in Caracas, Venezuela, contributed reporting.

🎥CIA behind U.S. strike at dock that Trump claims was used by drug smugglers

PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;warned Iran on Monday that the U.S. could carry out further military strikes if the country attempts to reconstitute its nuclear program as he held wide-ranging talks with Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;at his home in Florida.

Trump had previously insisted that Tehran's nuclear capabilities were “completely and fully obliterated” by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-nuclear-fordo-ef530114e5297884b1c3b76a04a3b1de">U.S. strikes on key nuclear enrichment sites</a>&nbsp;in June. But with Netanyahu by his side, Trump raised the possibility that suspected activity could be taking place outside those sites. Israeli officials, meanwhile, have been quoted in local media expressing concern about Iran rebuilding its supply of long-range missiles capable of striking Israel.

“Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again,” Trump told reporters gathered at his Mar-a-Lago estate. “And if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down. We'll knock them down. We'll knock the hell out of them. But hopefully that’s not happening.”

Trump’s warning to Iran comes as his administration has committed significant resources to targeting drug trafficking in South America and the president looks to create fresh momentum for the U.S.-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire. The Gaza deal is in danger of stalling before reaching its complicated second phase that would involve naming an international governing body and rebuilding the devastated Palestinian territory.

At a news conference with Netanyahu after their meeting, Trump suggested that he could order another U.S. strike.

“If it’s confirmed, they know the consequences, and the consequences will be very powerful, maybe more powerful than the last time,” Trump said.

Iran has insisted that it is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-sites-explained-israel-attack-4535b4ecb4aefb2f3de9e3ad62fe363f">no longer enriching uranium</a>&nbsp;at any site in the country, trying to signal to the West that it remains open to potential negotiations over its atomic program. The two leaders discussed the possibility of taking new military action against Tehran just months after June’s 12-day war.

The Iranian mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trump’s warning.

Trump, with Netanyahu by his side, said he wants to get to the second phase of the Gaza deal “as quickly as we can.”

“But there has to be a disarming of Hamas,” Trump added.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">ceasefire between Israel and Hamas</a>&nbsp;that Trump championed has mostly held, but progress has slowed recently. Both sides&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-gaza-palestinians-war-news-24-12-2025-64ef5cd8810543e62360b639c3e47010">accuse each other of violations</a>, and divisions have emerged among the U.S., Israel and Arab countries about the path forward.

The truce's first phase began in October, days after the two-year anniversary of the initial Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 people.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-netanyahu-ran-gvili-594f8faf7514f49750756de52f5c5f95">All but one of the 251 hostages</a>&nbsp;taken then have been released,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-hostages-alon-ohel-5b87cb0e35544d0edd1076c04a0ec95d">alive or dead</a>.

The Israeli leader, who also met separately with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has signaled he is in no rush to move forward with the next phase as long as the remains of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-netanyahu-ran-gvili-594f8faf7514f49750756de52f5c5f95">Ran Gvili</a>&nbsp;are still in Gaza.

Gvili’s parents met with Netanyahu as well as Rubio, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and the president's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, in Florida on Monday.

“They’re waiting for their son to come home," Trump said of the family of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-netanyahu-ran-gvili-594f8faf7514f49750756de52f5c5f95">the young police officer</a>&nbsp;known affectionately as “Rani."

The path to implementing Trump's peace plan is certainly complicated.

If successful, the second phase would see the rebuilding of a demilitarized Gaza under international supervision by a group chaired by Trump and known as the Board of Peace. The Palestinians would form a “technocratic, apolitical” committee to run daily affairs in Gaza, under Board of Peace supervision.

It further calls for normalized relations between Israel and the Arab world and a possible pathway to Palestinian independence. Then there are thorny logistical and humanitarian questions, including rebuilding war-ravaged Gaza, disarming Hamas and creating a security apparatus called the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/international-stabilization-force-gaza-united-nations-trump-464cfda6fbec02b8553a9df9d093df06">International Stabilization Force</a>.

Two main challenges have complicated moving to the second phase, according to an official who was briefed on those meetings. Israeli officials have been taking a lot of time to vet and approve members of the Palestinian technocratic committee from a list given to them by the mediators, and Israel continues its military strikes.

Trump’s plan also calls for the stabilization force, proposed as a multinational body, to maintain security. But it, too, has yet to be formed. Whether details will be forthcoming after Monday's meeting is unclear.

A Western diplomat said there is a “huge gulf” between the U.S.-Israeli understanding of the force's mandate and that of other major countries in the region, as well as European governments.

All spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide details that haven't been made public.

The U.S. and Israel want the force to have a “commanding role” in security duties, including disarming Hamas and other militant groups. But countries being courted to contribute troops fear that mandate will make it an “occupation force,” the diplomat said.

Hamas has said it is ready to discuss “freezing or storing” its arsenal of weapons but insists it has a right to armed resistance as long as Israel occupies Palestinian territory. One U.S. official said a potential plan might be to offer cash incentives in exchange for weapons, echoing a “buyback” program Witkoff has previously floated.

Trump makes case once again for Netanyahu pardon

The two leaders, who have a long and close relationship, heaped praise on each other. Trump also tweaked the Israeli leader, who at moments during the war has raised Trump's ire, for being “very difficult on occasion.”

Netanyahu said Trump during the lunch was formally told that his country's education ministry will award him the Israel Prize, breaking the long-held convention of bestowing the honor on an Israeli citizen or resident.

“President Trump has broken so many conventions to the surprise of people,” Netanyahu said. He added, “So we decided to break a convention too, or create a new one."

Trump also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-netanyahu-trump-politics-letter-trial-36cfeeacf4fa038e784f43f31a56fe4e">renewed his call</a>&nbsp;on Israeli President Isaac Herzog to grant Netanyahu, who is in the midst of a corruption trial, a pardon.

Netanyahu is the only sitting prime minister in Israeli history to stand trial, after being charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-corruption-netanyahu-gaza-war-scandal-17518bca5b27fc47216eed974e96f3e6">fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes</a>&nbsp;in three separate cases accusing him of exchanging favors with wealthy political supporters.

Trump has previously written to Herzog to urge a pardon and advocated for one during his October speech before the Knesset. He said Monday that Herzog has told him “it’s on its way" without offering further details.

“He’s a wartime prime minister who’s a hero. How do you not give a pardon?" Trump said.

Herzog's office said in a statement that the Israeli president and Trump have not spoken since the pardon request was submitted, but that Herzog has spoken with a Trump representative about the U.S. president's letter advocating for Netanyahu's pardon.

“During that conversation, an explanation was provided regarding the stage of the process in which the request currently stands, and that any decision on the matter will be made in accordance with the established procedures,” the Israeli president's office said.

PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;warned Iran on Monday that the U.S. could carry out further military strikes if the country attempts to reconstitute its nuclear program as he held wide-ranging talks with Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;at his home in Florida.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On Dec. 29, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known… <a href="https://t.co/69ywxXk30N">pic.twitter.com/69ywxXk30N</a>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2005776276100207032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump had previously insisted that Tehran's nuclear capabilities were “completely and fully obliterated” by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-nuclear-fordo-ef530114e5297884b1c3b76a04a3b1de">U.S. strikes on key nuclear enrichment sites</a>&nbsp;in June. But with Netanyahu by his side, Trump raised the possibility that suspected activity could be taking place outside those sites. Israeli officials, meanwhile, have been quoted in local media expressing concern about Iran rebuilding its supply of long-range missiles capable of striking Israel.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump: &quot;Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are we&#39;re going to have to knock &#39;em down ... We&#39;ll knock the hell out of them.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/12IAi7AmfS">pic.twitter.com/12IAi7AmfS</a>&mdash; The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) <a href="https://twitter.com/TPostMillennial/status/2005709488817590695?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again,” Trump told reporters gathered at his Mar-a-Lago estate. “And if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down. We'll knock them down. We'll knock the hell out of them. But hopefully that’s not happening.”Trump’s warning to Iran comes as his administration has committed significant resources to targeting drug trafficking in South America and the president looks to create fresh momentum for the U.S.-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire. The Gaza deal is in danger of stalling before reaching its complicated second phase that would involve naming an international governing body and rebuilding the devastated Palestinian territory.At a news conference with Netanyahu after their meeting, Trump suggested that he could order another U.S. strike.“If it’s confirmed, they know the consequences, and the consequences will be very powerful, maybe more powerful than the last time,” Trump said.Iran has insisted that it is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-sites-explained-israel-attack-4535b4ecb4aefb2f3de9e3ad62fe363f">no longer enriching uranium</a>&nbsp;at any site in the country, trying to signal to the West that it remains open to potential negotiations over its atomic program. The two leaders discussed the possibility of taking new military action against Tehran just months after June’s 12-day war.The Iranian mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trump’s warning.<h2>Gaza ceasefire progress has slowed</h2>Trump, with Netanyahu by his side, said he wants to get to the second phase of the Gaza deal “as quickly as we can.”“But there has to be a disarming of Hamas,” Trump added.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">ceasefire between Israel and Hamas</a>&nbsp;that Trump championed has mostly held, but progress has slowed recently. Both sides&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-gaza-palestinians-war-news-24-12-2025-64ef5cd8810543e62360b639c3e47010">accuse each other of violations</a>, and divisions have emerged among the U.S., Israel and Arab countries about the path forward.The truce's first phase began in October, days after the two-year anniversary of the initial Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 people.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-netanyahu-ran-gvili-594f8faf7514f49750756de52f5c5f95">All but one of the 251 hostages</a>&nbsp;taken then have been released,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-hostages-alon-ohel-5b87cb0e35544d0edd1076c04a0ec95d">alive or dead</a>.The Israeli leader, who also met separately with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has signaled he is in no rush to move forward with the next phase as long as the remains of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-netanyahu-ran-gvili-594f8faf7514f49750756de52f5c5f95">Ran Gvili</a>&nbsp;are still in Gaza.Gvili’s parents met with Netanyahu as well as Rubio, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and the president's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, in Florida on Monday.“They’re waiting for their son to come home," Trump said of the family of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-netanyahu-ran-gvili-594f8faf7514f49750756de52f5c5f95">the young police officer</a>&nbsp;known affectionately as “Rani."<h2>Next phase is complex</h2>The path to implementing Trump's peace plan is certainly complicated.If successful, the second phase would see the rebuilding of a demilitarized Gaza under international supervision by a group chaired by Trump and known as the Board of Peace. The Palestinians would form a “technocratic, apolitical” committee to run daily affairs in Gaza, under Board of Peace supervision.It further calls for normalized relations between Israel and the Arab world and a possible pathway to Palestinian independence. Then there are thorny logistical and humanitarian questions, including rebuilding war-ravaged Gaza, disarming Hamas and creating a security apparatus called the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/international-stabilization-force-gaza-united-nations-trump-464cfda6fbec02b8553a9df9d093df06">International Stabilization Force</a>.<h2>Much remains unsettled</h2>Two main challenges have complicated moving to the second phase, according to an official who was briefed on those meetings. Israeli officials have been taking a lot of time to vet and approve members of the Palestinian technocratic committee from a list given to them by the mediators, and Israel continues its military strikes.Trump’s plan also calls for the stabilization force, proposed as a multinational body, to maintain security. But it, too, has yet to be formed. Whether details will be forthcoming after Monday's meeting is unclear.A Western diplomat said there is a “huge gulf” between the U.S.-Israeli understanding of the force's mandate and that of other major countries in the region, as well as European governments.All spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide details that haven't been made public.The U.S. and Israel want the force to have a “commanding role” in security duties, including disarming Hamas and other militant groups. But countries being courted to contribute troops fear that mandate will make it an “occupation force,” the diplomat said.Hamas has said it is ready to discuss “freezing or storing” its arsenal of weapons but insists it has a right to armed resistance as long as Israel occupies Palestinian territory. One U.S. official said a potential plan might be to offer cash incentives in exchange for weapons, echoing a “buyback” program Witkoff has previously floated.<h2>Trump makes case once again for Netanyahu pardon</h2>The two leaders, who have a long and close relationship, heaped praise on each other. Trump also tweaked the Israeli leader, who at moments during the war has raised Trump's ire, for being “very difficult on occasion.”Netanyahu said Trump during the lunch was formally told that his country's education ministry will award him the Israel Prize, breaking the long-held convention of bestowing the honor on an Israeli citizen or resident.“President Trump has broken so many conventions to the surprise of people,” Netanyahu said. He added, “So we decided to break a convention too, or create a new one."Trump also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-netanyahu-trump-politics-letter-trial-36cfeeacf4fa038e784f43f31a56fe4e">renewed his call</a>&nbsp;on Israeli President Isaac Herzog to grant Netanyahu, who is in the midst of a corruption trial, a pardon.Netanyahu is the only sitting prime minister in Israeli history to stand trial, after being charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-corruption-netanyahu-gaza-war-scandal-17518bca5b27fc47216eed974e96f3e6">fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes</a>&nbsp;in three separate cases accusing him of exchanging favors with wealthy political supporters.Trump has previously written to Herzog to urge a pardon and advocated for one during his October speech before the Knesset. He said Monday that Herzog has told him “it’s on its way" without offering further details.“He’s a wartime prime minister who’s a hero. How do you not give a pardon?" Trump said.Herzog's office said in a statement that the Israeli president and Trump have not spoken since the pardon request was submitted, but that Herzog has spoken with a Trump representative about the U.S. president's letter advocating for Netanyahu's pardon.“During that conversation, an explanation was provided regarding the stage of the process in which the request currently stands, and that any decision on the matter will be made in accordance with the established procedures,” the Israeli president's office said.___

🎥Trump issues new warning to Iran of further US strikes 

A Utah judge on Monday ordered the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing in October over whether the man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-suspect-things-to-know-dcde3f792f4d6636d44fb9f4fa53569c">killing Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;must be shackled during court proceedings.

State District Judge Tony Graf said the transcript must be posted on the court docket by the end of the day. Attorneys for media outlets including The Associated Press had argued for details of the closed hearing to be made public.

Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Sept. 10 shooting</a>&nbsp;of the conservative activist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">Utah Valley University</a>&nbsp;campus in Orem, just a few miles north of the Provo courthouse. They plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-tyler-robinson-court-death-penalty-f541df08a936e06497ee2342296bc398">seek the death penalty</a>.

Defense attorneys for Robinson in early October requested that he be allowed to appear in court in civilian clothes and without restraints, to prevent any bias against him among potential jurors.

Days after an Oct. 24 closed door hearing on the matter, Graf ruled that Robinson could appear in civilian clothes but must wear restraints. Utah court rules require defendants who are in custody to be restrained unless otherwise ordered.

Graf wrote in an Oct. 27 order that restraints for Robinson would protect the safety of court staff and the defendant, by allowing him to be quickly secured if court proceedings were disrupted.

But the judge said Monday that public transparency was “foundational” to the judicial system before ordering details of the closed hearing to be released. The judge ordered limited redactions to remove discussions of security protocols in the closely watched case.

Graf also ordered the release of an audio recording of the hearing, again with redactions.

Lawyers for the media wrote in recent filings that an open court “safeguards the integrity of the fact-finding process” while fostering public confidence in judicial proceedings. Criminal cases in the U.S. have long been open to the public, which the attorneys argued is proof that trials can be conducted fairly without restricting reporters.

Graf has said in a separate order that Robinson's restraints could not be shown by media outlets that publish photographs of court proceedings or broadcast them.

Graf briefly stopped a media livestream of a hearing earlier this month and ordered the camera be moved after Robinson’s attorneys said the stream showed the defendant’s shackles.

In a separate ruling Monday, Graf denied a request from attorneys for the media who sought to intervene in the case. The judge said members of the press do not need to be formal parties in the proceedings to access court records.

Robinson was not present in court Monday but appeared via audio link from the Utah County Jail. In a separate ruling on

A preliminary hearing, where prosecutors will lay out their case against him, is scheduled for the week of May 18.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765490146270.jpeg" alt="File photo Tyler Robinson, accused of the murder of Charlie Kirk, appears during a hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. (Rick Egan/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool)" />
 <figcaption>File photo Tyler Robinson, accused of the murder of Charlie Kirk, appears during a hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. (Rick Egan/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATTHEW BROWN Associated PressA Utah judge on Monday ordered the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing in October over whether the man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-suspect-things-to-know-dcde3f792f4d6636d44fb9f4fa53569c">killing Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;must be shackled during court proceedings.State District Judge Tony Graf said the transcript must be posted on the court docket by the end of the day. Attorneys for media outlets including The Associated Press had argued for details of the closed hearing to be made public.Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Sept. 10 shooting</a>&nbsp;of the conservative activist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">Utah Valley University</a>&nbsp;campus in Orem, just a few miles north of the Provo courthouse. They plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-tyler-robinson-court-death-penalty-f541df08a936e06497ee2342296bc398">seek the death penalty</a>.Defense attorneys for Robinson in early October requested that he be allowed to appear in court in civilian clothes and without restraints, to prevent any bias against him among potential jurors.Days after an Oct. 24 closed door hearing on the matter, Graf ruled that Robinson could appear in civilian clothes but must wear restraints. Utah court rules require defendants who are in custody to be restrained unless otherwise ordered.Graf wrote in an Oct. 27 order that restraints for Robinson would protect the safety of court staff and the defendant, by allowing him to be quickly secured if court proceedings were disrupted.But the judge said Monday that public transparency was “foundational” to the judicial system before ordering details of the closed hearing to be released. The judge ordered limited redactions to remove discussions of security protocols in the closely watched case.Graf also ordered the release of an audio recording of the hearing, again with redactions.Lawyers for the media wrote in recent filings that an open court “safeguards the integrity of the fact-finding process” while fostering public confidence in judicial proceedings. Criminal cases in the U.S. have long been open to the public, which the attorneys argued is proof that trials can be conducted fairly without restricting reporters.Graf has said in a separate order that Robinson's restraints could not be shown by media outlets that publish photographs of court proceedings or broadcast them.Graf briefly stopped a media livestream of a hearing earlier this month and ordered the camera be moved after Robinson’s attorneys said the stream showed the defendant’s shackles.In a separate ruling Monday, Graf denied a request from attorneys for the media who sought to intervene in the case. The judge said members of the press do not need to be formal parties in the proceedings to access court records.Robinson was not present in court Monday but appeared via audio link from the Utah County Jail. In a separate ruling onA preliminary hearing, where prosecutors will lay out their case against him, is scheduled for the week of May 18.

Judge gives media significant win in Charlie Kirk murder trial

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/michelle-l-price">MICHELLE L. PRICE</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/will-weissert">WILL WEISSERT</a>

<a href="https://apnews.com/author/will-weissert"></a>PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President Donald Trump has indicated that the U.S. has “hit” a dock facility along a shore as he wages a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-tankers-shipbuilding-3c711c500a627243329807df42fa6ef8">pressure campaign on Venezuela</a>, but the U.S. offered few details.

Trump initially seemed to confirm a strike in what appeared to be an impromptu radio interview Friday, and when questioned Monday by reporters about “an explosion in Venezuela,” he said the U.S. struck a facility where boats accused of carrying drugs “load up.”

“There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs,” Trump said as he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-netanyahu-gaza-ceasefire-arab-nations-229253766673f18c1195550572edd2ce">met in Florida with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>. “They load the boats up with drugs, so we hit all the boats and now we hit the area. It’s the implementation area. There’s where they implement. And that is no longer around.”

It is part of an escalating effort to target what the Trump administration says are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">boats smuggling drugs</a>&nbsp;bound for the United States. It moves closer to shore strikes that so far have been carried out by the military in international waters in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.

Trump declined to say if the U.S. military or the CIA carried out the latest strike or where it occurred. He did not confirm it happened in Venezuela.

“I know exactly who it was, but I don’t want to say who it was. But you know it was along the shore,” Trump said.

Trump first referenced the strike on Friday, when he called radio host John Catsimatidis during a program on WABC radio and discussed the U.S. strikes on alleged drug-carrying boats. The attacks have killed at least 105 people in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">29 known strikes</a>&nbsp;since early September.

“I don’t know if you read or saw, they have a big plant or a big facility where they send the, you know, where the ships come from,” Trump said. “Two nights ago, we knocked that out. So, we hit them very hard.”

Trump did not offer any additional details in the interview.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth or one of the U.S. military’s social media accounts has in the past typically announced every boat strike in a post on X, but there has been no post of any strike on a facility.

The Pentagon on Monday referred questions to the White House, which did not immediately respond to a message seeking more details. The press office of Venezuela’s government did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trump’s statement.

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">for months has suggested</a>&nbsp;he may conduct land strikes in South America, in Venezuela or possibly another country, and in recent weeks has been saying the U.S. would move beyond striking boats and&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/stories/details/0faff66145c6706e2861fcde36756fe4.-1.0.json?type=new" target="_blank">would strike on land “soon</a>.”

In October, Trump confirmed he had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cia-covert-operations-venezuela-ecb477ac7f07d5beaf48d44dee75c5e5">authorized the CIA</a>&nbsp;to conduct covert operations in Venezuela. The agency did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment Monday.

Along with the strikes, the U.S. has sent warships, built up military forces in the region,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tanker-seized-venezuela-maduro-0a148ba01684fc6ce1a228dd276732c0">seized two oil tankers</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-trump-blockade-ship-intercepted-coast-guard-00056eed8071c51ca681fc74528d66f1">pursued a third</a>.

The Trump administration has said it is in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cartels-armed-conflict-cb57804807e55a00ace60ad5f4d4f24d">“armed conflict” with drug cartels</a>&nbsp;and seeking to stop the flow of narcotics into the United States.

Venezuelan President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;has insisted the real purpose of the U.S. military operations is to force him from power.

White House chief of staff Susie Wiles said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/susie-wiles-interview-donald-trump-a9b42bf0580f9ebdf93a45e7d19382f5">in an interview with Vanity Fair</a>&nbsp;published this month that Trump “wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro ‘cries uncle.’”

Price reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Konstantin Toropin in Washington and Regina Garcia Cano in Caracas, Venezuela, contributed to this report.

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/michelle-l-price">MICHELLE L. PRICE</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/will-weissert">WILL WEISSERT</a><a href="https://apnews.com/author/will-weissert"></a>PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President Donald Trump has indicated that the U.S. has “hit” a dock facility along a shore as he wages a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-tankers-shipbuilding-3c711c500a627243329807df42fa6ef8">pressure campaign on Venezuela</a>, but the U.S. offered few details.(click below to listen to the President's explanation of the attack)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">JUST IN: The United States has conducted its first land strike against Venezuela, according to President Donald Trump. Reporter: You mentioned in a radio interview ... did the military do that? Trump: There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up… <a href="https://t.co/XMIZf1vT2q">pic.twitter.com/XMIZf1vT2q</a>&mdash; Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/2005709303488143703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump initially seemed to confirm a strike in what appeared to be an impromptu radio interview Friday, and when questioned Monday by reporters about “an explosion in Venezuela,” he said the U.S. struck a facility where boats accused of carrying drugs “load up.”“There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs,” Trump said as he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-netanyahu-gaza-ceasefire-arab-nations-229253766673f18c1195550572edd2ce">met in Florida with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>. “They load the boats up with drugs, so we hit all the boats and now we hit the area. It’s the implementation area. There’s where they implement. And that is no longer around.”It is part of an escalating effort to target what the Trump administration says are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">boats smuggling drugs</a>&nbsp;bound for the United States. It moves closer to shore strikes that so far have been carried out by the military in international waters in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.Trump declined to say if the U.S. military or the CIA carried out the latest strike or where it occurred. He did not confirm it happened in Venezuela.“I know exactly who it was, but I don’t want to say who it was. But you know it was along the shore,” Trump said.Trump first referenced the strike on Friday, when he called radio host John Catsimatidis during a program on WABC radio and discussed the U.S. strikes on alleged drug-carrying boats. The attacks have killed at least 105 people in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">29 known strikes</a>&nbsp;since early September.“I don’t know if you read or saw, they have a big plant or a big facility where they send the, you know, where the ships come from,” Trump said. “Two nights ago, we knocked that out. So, we hit them very hard.”Trump did not offer any additional details in the interview.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth or one of the U.S. military’s social media accounts has in the past typically announced every boat strike in a post on X, but there has been no post of any strike on a facility.The Pentagon on Monday referred questions to the White House, which did not immediately respond to a message seeking more details. The press office of Venezuela’s government did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trump’s statement.Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">for months has suggested</a>&nbsp;he may conduct land strikes in South America, in Venezuela or possibly another country, and in recent weeks has been saying the U.S. would move beyond striking boats and&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/stories/details/0faff66145c6706e2861fcde36756fe4.-1.0.json?type=new" target="_blank">would strike on land “soon</a>.”In October, Trump confirmed he had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cia-covert-operations-venezuela-ecb477ac7f07d5beaf48d44dee75c5e5">authorized the CIA</a>&nbsp;to conduct covert operations in Venezuela. The agency did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment Monday.Along with the strikes, the U.S. has sent warships, built up military forces in the region,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tanker-seized-venezuela-maduro-0a148ba01684fc6ce1a228dd276732c0">seized two oil tankers</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-trump-blockade-ship-intercepted-coast-guard-00056eed8071c51ca681fc74528d66f1">pursued a third</a>.The Trump administration has said it is in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cartels-armed-conflict-cb57804807e55a00ace60ad5f4d4f24d">“armed conflict” with drug cartels</a>&nbsp;and seeking to stop the flow of narcotics into the United States.Venezuelan President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;has insisted the real purpose of the U.S. military operations is to force him from power.White House chief of staff Susie Wiles said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/susie-wiles-interview-donald-trump-a9b42bf0580f9ebdf93a45e7d19382f5">in an interview with Vanity Fair</a>&nbsp;published this month that Trump “wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro ‘cries uncle.’”___Price reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Konstantin Toropin in Washington and Regina Garcia Cano in Caracas, Venezuela, contributed to this report.

🎥 Trump says U.S. hit drug boat loading dock in Venezuela

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

Venezuela is now storing crude-oil in aging and obsolete oil tankers parked in its coastal waters. Inventories are mounting, with production of 1.1 million barrels a day, and shipping delays across the board prompted by the US blockade. Reuters reports an emerging backlog filling onshore storage. Venezuelan stockpiles are the highest since August, rising over 22 million barrels. They began transferring barrels to tankers over the weekend.

Reuters reported at least one crude carrier flagged to Panama returned to port in Venezuela following the US interception of another.&nbsp; Two tankers, the "Kelly" and the "Centuries," left port under escort by the Venezuelan Navy. The Coast Guard intercepted the Centuries. The Kelly returned to Caracas.

The United States told the United Nations it will impose and enforce sanctions (quote:) "to the maximum extent"... to deprive Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of resources.

Iran state media reports its Navy seized an oil tanker reportedly carrying 25-thousand barrels of smuggled fuel in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Officials did not disclosed the flag of the tanker, nor the nationalities of the 16 crew members taken into custody Friday.

India's largest conglomerate is still receiving crude-oil shipments from Russian supplier Rosneft, despite US sanctions against the company and its customers. Reuters reports Reliance Industries has what it calls a temporary arrangement allowing it to receive Russian cargoes while working toward compliance. The Administration specifically sanctioned Rosneft, and gave its customers until November to comply. Additional shipments were expected in December and January.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes dated Tuesday shows an increase of three oil rigs. The gas tally was unchanged. The total of 545 rigs of all types is down 44 from a year ago. This week, Texas is up two, Louisiana is up one and New Mexico is down one.

Independent Oil and Gas Service notes 15 active drilling rigs in a report dated Christmas Day. Most of those rigs are shut down for the holiday, but actual drilling is reported on leases in Gove and Bourbon County. The current active-rig inventory is unchanged from last week, 14 percent higher than a month ago, and 37 percent lower than a year ago.

In it's final Red Top report for the year, Independent Oil and Gas Service notes 189 active licensed operators in Kansas who have drilled a well here this year. That's down 68 operators, or 26 percent, from last year. Overall activity is down 37 percent compared to last year.

There are nine new well-completions in the final weekly report, or completed wells 1,078 wells year-to-date.&nbsp; The completion tally trails last year by nearly three hundred wells.&nbsp; The statewide leaders are in eastern Kansas: Woodson County with 135 wells, and Anderson County with 117.*Ellis County with 25 well-completions this year, compared to 24 by the end of last year.*Barton County operators completed 33 wells, up from 30 last year.*Russell County completions drop by nearly half, from 19 a year ago to ten this year.*Stafford County is down four from last year to 17 wells.*Finney County operators completed 32 wells, Gove County reports 29 and Haskell County notches 17.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US House passed a sweeping permitting and regulatory reform bill, the so-called SPEED Act, which stands for Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development. The measure eliminates some environmental reviews and accelerates approvals for major energy projects, along with infrastructure, manufacturing and data centers. The bill's supporters say it eliminates duplicate reviews and blocks litigation. Critics say it ties the hands of judges and local communities. It now faces an uncertain future in the Senate.

Crude oil production in North Dakota increased slightly in October. The Department of Mineral Resources in the number-three crude producing state reports output inched up by 483 barrels per day from September to October to 1.168 million barrels per day. Natural gas production is down, and statewide flared volume increased by nearly four percent. Operators were able the capture 95.2 percent of the natural gas coming out of their oil wells. The rest is vented or burned off.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685114004842.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaVenezuela is now storing crude-oil in aging and obsolete oil tankers parked in its coastal waters. Inventories are mounting, with production of 1.1 million barrels a day, and shipping delays across the board prompted by the US blockade. Reuters reports an emerging backlog filling onshore storage. Venezuelan stockpiles are the highest since August, rising over 22 million barrels. They began transferring barrels to tankers over the weekend.Reuters reported at least one crude carrier flagged to Panama returned to port in Venezuela following the US interception of another.&nbsp; Two tankers, the "Kelly" and the "Centuries," left port under escort by the Venezuelan Navy. The Coast Guard intercepted the Centuries. The Kelly returned to Caracas.The United States told the United Nations it will impose and enforce sanctions (quote:) "to the maximum extent"... to deprive Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of resources.Iran state media reports its Navy seized an oil tanker reportedly carrying 25-thousand barrels of smuggled fuel in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Officials did not disclosed the flag of the tanker, nor the nationalities of the 16 crew members taken into custody Friday.India's largest conglomerate is still receiving crude-oil shipments from Russian supplier Rosneft, despite US sanctions against the company and its customers. Reuters reports Reliance Industries has what it calls a temporary arrangement allowing it to receive Russian cargoes while working toward compliance. The Administration specifically sanctioned Rosneft, and gave its customers until November to comply. Additional shipments were expected in December and January.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes dated Tuesday shows an increase of three oil rigs. The gas tally was unchanged. The total of 545 rigs of all types is down 44 from a year ago. This week, Texas is up two, Louisiana is up one and New Mexico is down one.Independent Oil and Gas Service notes 15 active drilling rigs in a report dated Christmas Day. Most of those rigs are shut down for the holiday, but actual drilling is reported on leases in Gove and Bourbon County. The current active-rig inventory is unchanged from last week, 14 percent higher than a month ago, and 37 percent lower than a year ago.In it's final Red Top report for the year, Independent Oil and Gas Service notes 189 active licensed operators in Kansas who have drilled a well here this year. That's down 68 operators, or 26 percent, from last year. Overall activity is down 37 percent compared to last year.There are nine new well-completions in the final weekly report, or completed wells 1,078 wells year-to-date.&nbsp; The completion tally trails last year by nearly three hundred wells.&nbsp; The statewide leaders are in eastern Kansas: Woodson County with 135 wells, and Anderson County with 117.*Ellis County with 25 well-completions this year, compared to 24 by the end of last year.*Barton County operators completed 33 wells, up from 30 last year.*Russell County completions drop by nearly half, from 19 a year ago to ten this year.*Stafford County is down four from last year to 17 wells.*Finney County operators completed 32 wells, Gove County reports 29 and Haskell County notches 17.&nbsp;&nbsp;The US House passed a sweeping permitting and regulatory reform bill, the so-called SPEED Act, which stands for Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development. The measure eliminates some environmental reviews and accelerates approvals for major energy projects, along with infrastructure, manufacturing and data centers. The bill's supporters say it eliminates duplicate reviews and blocks litigation. Critics say it ties the hands of judges and local communities. It now faces an uncertain future in the Senate.Crude oil production in North Dakota increased slightly in October. The Department of Mineral Resources in the number-three crude producing state reports output inched up by 483 barrels per day from September to October to 1.168 million barrels per day. Natural gas production is down, and statewide flared volume increased by nearly four percent. Operators were able the capture 95.2 percent of the natural gas coming out of their oil wells. The rest is vented or burned off.

News from the Oil Patch: Kansas completion stats up, down

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/annie-ma">ANNIE MA</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration said on Tuesday that it will begin garnishing the wages of student loan borrowers who are in default early next year.

The department said it will send notices to approximately 1,000 borrowers the week of January 7, with more notices to come at an increasing scale each month.

Millions of borrowers are considered in default, meaning they are 270 days past due on their payments. The department must give borrowers 30 days notice before their wages can be garnished.

The department said it will begin collection activities, “only after student and parent borrowers have been provided sufficient notice and opportunity to repay their loans.”

In May, the Trump administration ended the pandemic-era pause on student loan payments, beginning to collect on defaulted debt through withholding tax refunds and other federal payments to borrowers.

The move ended a period of leniency for student loan borrowers. Payments restarted in October of 2023, but the Biden administration extended a grace period of one year. Since March 2020, no federal student loans had been referred for collection, including those in default, until the Trump administration’s changes earlier this year.

The Biden administration tried multiple times to give broad forgiveness to student loans, but those efforts were eventually stopped by courts.

Persis Yu, deputy executive director for the Student Borrower Protection Center, criticized the decision to begin garnishing wages, and said the department had failed to sufficiently help borrowers find affordable payment options.

“At a time when families across the country are struggling with stagnant wages and an affordability crisis, this administration’s decision to garnish wages from defaulted student loan borrowers is cruel, unnecessary, and irresponsible,” Yu said in a statement. “As millions of borrowers sit on the precipice of default, this Administration is using its self-inflicted limited resources to seize borrowers’ wages instead of defending borrowers’ right to affordable payments.”

The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/news-values-and-principles/" target="_blank">standards</a>&nbsp;for working with philanthropies, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/supporting-ap/" target="_blank">list</a>&nbsp;of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/annie-ma">ANNIE MA</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration said on Tuesday that it will begin garnishing the wages of student loan borrowers who are in default early next year.The department said it will send notices to approximately 1,000 borrowers the week of January 7, with more notices to come at an increasing scale each month.Millions of borrowers are considered in default, meaning they are 270 days past due on their payments. The department must give borrowers 30 days notice before their wages can be garnished.The department said it will begin collection activities, “only after student and parent borrowers have been provided sufficient notice and opportunity to repay their loans.”In May, the Trump administration ended the pandemic-era pause on student loan payments, beginning to collect on defaulted debt through withholding tax refunds and other federal payments to borrowers.The move ended a period of leniency for student loan borrowers. Payments restarted in October of 2023, but the Biden administration extended a grace period of one year. Since March 2020, no federal student loans had been referred for collection, including those in default, until the Trump administration’s changes earlier this year.The Biden administration tried multiple times to give broad forgiveness to student loans, but those efforts were eventually stopped by courts.Persis Yu, deputy executive director for the Student Borrower Protection Center, criticized the decision to begin garnishing wages, and said the department had failed to sufficiently help borrowers find affordable payment options.“At a time when families across the country are struggling with stagnant wages and an affordability crisis, this administration’s decision to garnish wages from defaulted student loan borrowers is cruel, unnecessary, and irresponsible,” Yu said in a statement. “As millions of borrowers sit on the precipice of default, this Administration is using its self-inflicted limited resources to seize borrowers’ wages instead of defending borrowers’ right to affordable payments.”___The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/news-values-and-principles/" target="_blank">standards</a>&nbsp;for working with philanthropies, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/supporting-ap/" target="_blank">list</a>&nbsp;of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

Student loan borrowers in default may see wages garnished in 2026

PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President Donald Trump on Sunday insisted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukraine and Russia</a>&nbsp;are “closer than ever before” to a peace deal as he hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Florida resort, but he acknowledged the negotiations are complex and could still break down, leaving the war dragging on for years.

The president’s statements came after the leaders met for talks following what Trump said was an “excellent,” two-and-a-half-hour phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose invasion of Ukraine launched the war nearly four years ago. Trump insisted he believed Putin still wants peace, even as Russia launched&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-attacks-9afb64eb232695d5a86f1edb3f1b1872">another round of attacks</a>&nbsp;on Ukraine while Zelenskyy flew to the United States for the latest round of negotiations.

“Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed,” Trump said during a late afternoon news conference as he stood with Zelenskyy after their meeting. He repeatedly praised his counterpart as “brave.”

Trump and Zelenskyy both acknowledged thorny issues remain, including whether Russia can keep Ukrainian territory it controls, as well as security guarantees for Ukraine to ensure it's not invaded again in the future. After their discussion, they called a wide group of European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, and the leaders of Finland, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and Poland.

Zelenskyy said Trump had agreed to host European leaders again, possibly at the White House, sometime in January. Trump said the meeting could be in Washington or “someplace.”

Zelenskyy thanked Trump for his work. “Ukraine is ready for peace,” he said.

Trump said he'd follow the meeting with another call to Putin. Earlier Sunday, Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov said the Trump-Putin call was initiated by the U.S. side and was “friendly, benevolent and businesslike.” Ushakov said Trump and Putin agreed to speak again “promptly” after Trump’s meeting with Zelenskyy.

But Ushakov added that a “bold, responsible, political decision is needed from Kyiv” on the fiercely contested Donbas region in eastern Ukraine and other matters in dispute for there to be a “complete cessation” of hostilities.

Both leaders identified deciding the future of the Donbas region as a major sticking point.

Trump said the parties were inching closer to agreement. “That's a very tough issue but one that I think will get resolved,” he said.

PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President Donald Trump on Sunday insisted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukraine and Russia</a>&nbsp;are “closer than ever before” to a peace deal as he hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Florida resort, but he acknowledged the negotiations are complex and could still break down, leaving the war dragging on for years.The president’s statements came after the leaders met for talks following what Trump said was an “excellent,” two-and-a-half-hour phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose invasion of Ukraine launched the war nearly four years ago. Trump insisted he believed Putin still wants peace, even as Russia launched&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-attacks-9afb64eb232695d5a86f1edb3f1b1872">another round of attacks</a>&nbsp;on Ukraine while Zelenskyy flew to the United States for the latest round of negotiations.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Mar-a-Lago 🇺🇸🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/aRbMAiKGSF">pic.twitter.com/aRbMAiKGSF</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005346794012889166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> delivers remarks upon meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> at Mar-a-Lago: &quot;We had a terrific meeting. We discussed a lot of things. As you know, I had an excellent phone call with President Putin... and I do think we&#39;re getting a lot closer.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/tIHjR0wko2">pic.twitter.com/tIHjR0wko2</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005397981361566190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/WnFGloJw2e">pic.twitter.com/WnFGloJw2e</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005320250330632410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed,” Trump said during a late afternoon news conference as he stood with Zelenskyy after their meeting. He repeatedly praised his counterpart as “brave.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on Russia-Ukraine peace talks: &quot;We could be very close. There are one or two very thorny issues... but I think we&#39;re doing very well. We made a lot of progress today.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/fci939K17q">pic.twitter.com/fci939K17q</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005399260355825824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Everybody wants [the war] ended... I want it ended because I don&#39;t want to see so many people dying.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/pQ4q4lPhzy">pic.twitter.com/pQ4q4lPhzy</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005400040559284280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;What are the thorniest issues still unresolved?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;The land. Some of that land has been taken... You&#39;re better off making a deal now.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/X21Zz3Tt5E">pic.twitter.com/X21Zz3Tt5E</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005400349428027582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on the possibility of traveling to Ukraine: &quot;I&#39;m not sure that it would be really necessary, but if it would help save 25,000 lives a month... I would certainly be willing to do that.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Xxc0sEHJnE">pic.twitter.com/Xxc0sEHJnE</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005400678156394499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">REPORTER: How long will it take to get this last little bit finished? <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other... it&#39;s been a very difficult negotiation.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/iflQTfTAar">pic.twitter.com/iflQTfTAar</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005401647707484432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on his call with Putin: &quot;I saw a very interesting President Putin today... I think we&#39;re going to get there... I was on the phone with him for almost two-and-a-half hours. We discussed a lot of things. We didn&#39;t talk about the weather.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/DUilLAh6lc">pic.twitter.com/DUilLAh6lc</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005401716943106558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;I really believe we&#39;re probably, Mr. President, closer than — by far — closer than ever before with both parties.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ML9lMRRIIc">pic.twitter.com/ML9lMRRIIc</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005402344352346296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;The working group is going to be composed of Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, General &quot;Razin&quot; Caine, Marco Rubio, and a few other people... I think Pete Hegseth should be on that working group.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/K1dnmVq7aO">pic.twitter.com/K1dnmVq7aO</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2005403021757325422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump and Zelenskyy both acknowledged thorny issues remain, including whether Russia can keep Ukrainian territory it controls, as well as security guarantees for Ukraine to ensure it's not invaded again in the future. After their discussion, they called a wide group of European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, and the leaders of Finland, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and Poland.Zelenskyy said Trump had agreed to host European leaders again, possibly at the White House, sometime in January. Trump said the meeting could be in Washington or “someplace.”Zelenskyy thanked Trump for his work. “Ukraine is ready for peace,” he said.<h2>Trump and Putin will speak again</h2>Trump said he'd follow the meeting with another call to Putin. Earlier Sunday, Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov said the Trump-Putin call was initiated by the U.S. side and was “friendly, benevolent and businesslike.” Ushakov said Trump and Putin agreed to speak again “promptly” after Trump’s meeting with Zelenskyy.But Ushakov added that a “bold, responsible, political decision is needed from Kyiv” on the fiercely contested Donbas region in eastern Ukraine and other matters in dispute for there to be a “complete cessation” of hostilities.Both leaders identified deciding the future of the Donbas region as a major sticking point.Trump said the parties were inching closer to agreement. “That's a very tough issue but one that I think will get resolved,” he said.Zelenskyy said: “Our attitude is very clear. That's why President Trump said this is a very tough question and, of course, we have with Russia different positions on it.”Trump said, however, that he still believes Putin is “very serious” about ending the war, even as Russia continued striking targets in Ukraine as Zelenskyy traveled to the U.S. Trump said, “I believe Ukraine has made some very strong attacks also.”He held out the possibility that negotiations could still fall apart.“In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think," Trump said. "We could have something where one item that you’re not thinking about is a big item, breaks it up. Look, it’s been a very difficult negotiation. Very detailed.”Trump and Zelenskyy's sit-down underscored the apparent progress made by Trump’s top negotiators in recent weeks as the sides traded draft peace plans to end the fighting. Zelenskyy told reporters Friday that the 20-point draft proposal negotiators have discussed is “about 90% ready” — echoing a figure, and the optimism, that U.S. officials conveyed when Trump’s chief negotiators met with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-berlin-talks-zelenskyy-5b99faff949ee1ba6212433be2d54b88">Zelenskyy in Berlin</a>&nbsp;this month.During the recent talks, the U.S. agreed to offer certain&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-zelenskyy-peace-plan-d0c476bfa9ec218da5c8d5ff0c1d25c9">security guarantees to Ukraine</a>&nbsp;similar to those offered to other members of NATO. The proposal came as Zelenskyy said he was prepared to drop his country’s bid to join the security alliance if Ukraine received NATO-like protection that would be designed to safeguard it against future Russian attacks.<h2>‘Intensive’ weeks ahead</h2>Zelenskyy also spoke on Christmas Day with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law. The Ukrainian leader said they discussed “certain substantive details" and cautioned “there is still work to be done on sensitive issues” and “the weeks ahead may also be intensive.”The U.S. president has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-plan-92b2c89b62f4326ff67abc5613c9b59e">working to end the war</a>&nbsp;in Ukraine for much of his first year back in office, showing irritation with both Zelenskyy and Putin while publicly acknowledging the difficulty of ending the conflict. Gone are the days when, as a candidate in 2024, he boasted that he could resolve the fighting in a day. Indeed, on Sunday, Trump referred multiple times to the complexity of the negotiations.After&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-putin-ukraine-tomahawks-ce697e5eda6ce9793b4343499d105a8c">hosting Zelenskyy at the White House in October</a>, Trump demanded that both Russia and Ukraine halt fighting and “stop at the battle line,” implying that Moscow should be able to keep the territory it has seized from Ukraine.Zelenskyy said last week that he would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-zelenskyy-peace-plan-d0c476bfa9ec218da5c8d5ff0c1d25c9">willing to withdraw troops</a>&nbsp;from Ukraine’s eastern industrial heartland as part of a plan to end the war, if Russia also pulls back and the area becomes a demilitarized zone monitored by international forces.<h2>Putin wants Russian gains kept, and more</h2>Putin has publicly said he wants all the areas in four key regions that have been captured by his forces, as well as the Crimean Peninsula, illegally annexed in 2014, to be recognized as Russian territory. He also has insisted that Ukraine withdraw from some areas in eastern Ukraine that Moscow’s forces haven’t captured. Kyiv has publicly rejected all those demands.The Kremlin also wants Ukraine to abandon its bid to join NATO. It warned that it wouldn’t accept the deployment of any troops from members of the military alliance and would view them as a “legitimate target.”Putin also has said Ukraine must limit the size of its army and give official status to the Russian language, demands he has made from the outset of the conflict.Ushakov told the business daily Kommersant this month that Russian police and national guard would stay in parts of Donetsk -– one of the two major areas, along with Luhansk, that make up the Donbas region — even if they become a demilitarized zone under a prospective peace plan.Ushakov cautioned that trying to reach a compromise could take a long time. He said U.S. proposals that took into account Russian demands had been “worsened” by alterations proposed by Ukraine and its European allies.Trump has been somewhat receptive to Putin’s demands, arguing that the Russian president can be persuaded to end the war if Kyiv agrees to cede Ukrainian land in the Donbas region and if Western powers offer economic incentives to bring Russia back into the global economy.___Kim reported from Washington and Morton from London. Associated Press writers Illia Novikov in Kyiv, Nicholas Riccardi in Denver and Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report.