China continuing nuclear buildup, strengthening ties to Russia, Pentagon says
A new Pentagon report says China is continuing to expand its nuclear force and has strengthened its ties with Russia over the past year.
Changing China
Trump invites China's Xi Jinping to inauguration
President-elect Donald Trump has invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to his inauguration next month, according to multiple sources.
Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific apologizes for showing "Family Guy" episode
The episode, from the first season of the American cartoon, shows Peter Griffin, the father character in the show, standing next to the "Tank Man" in a recreation of the infamous photograph.
U.S. slams China for hitting Philippine vessels with water cannons
China put "lives at risk" with the "unlawful use of water cannons" against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea, the U.S. ambassador in Manila says.
Jets scrambled as Russia, China warplanes approach South Korea
The Chinese and Russian military aircraft flew "for an extended period without prior notice," South Korea's defense ministry said.
Chinese trans woman awarded thousands over forced electroshock therapy
Trans performance artist Ling'er says she was forced to undergo electroshock treatments at a hospital in China that left her with a heart condition.
Kids, adults injured as car hits crowd outside China elementary school
Chinese authorities haven't said how many children and adults were injured in the latest incident at a school, nor if it was an accident, or the latest in a series of attacks targeting kids.
Biden and Xi to meet in Peru this weekend
Senior administration officials expect it will be the last in-person meeting between the two leaders of Biden's presidency.
What could Trump's return, and his tariffs, actually mean for China?
Could the tariffs Trump's threatened to slap on Chinese imports backfire and help Beijing? Some experts say they will.
Driver rams crowd, killing dozens in Chinese city hosting army air show
Police say 35 people were killed in Zhuhai, China, when a driver rammed his car into a crowded sports center a day before the city hosts a military air show.
China building prototype nuclear reactor for new aircraft carrier, AP says
"Operating a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier is an exclusive club, one that China looks set to join," says a researcher behind the analysis of satellite images and government documents.
Bike ride for dumplings goes viral, gridlocking roads in central China
An online invite for a group bike ride in search of good dumplings proved so popular in China, that it brought some roads to a standstill.
Putin touts growing BRICS alliance as answer to West's "perverse methods"
Hosting a summit of the BRICS alliance, Putin touted the growing club as an alternative to the West's "relentless foreign influence ostensibly promoting democracy."
U.S., Australia, U.K. alliance sharpens its focus on China deterrence
The third AUKUS defense ministerial will see the allies look to expand their global ties as China-Russia cooperation deepens.
Typhoon Bebinca slams Shanghai, sparking evacuation of more than 400,000
Officials in China moved some 414,000 people out of the way in Shanghai before the strongest storm in decades flooded roads and cancelled flights.
China frees 68-year-old U.S. pastor David Lin after 18 years in prison
A Chinese court sentenced U.S. pastor David Lin to life in prison in 2009, but he's been released ahead of China's Thanksgiving-like Mid-Autumn Festival.
11 killed as bus crashes into students, parents outside school in China
Police in China have taken a bus driver into custody after the vehicle crashed into students and parents outside a school in Shandong province, killing 11 people.
Hong Kong court convicts 2 editors of shuttered news outlet of sedition
A Hong Kong court has convicted two former editors of the shuttered Stand News outlet of sedition, highlighting the erosion of press freedom in the region.
U.S. open to escorting Philippine ships amid clashes with China
American warships could escort Philippine vessels in the disputed South China Sea amid increasing confrontations with China, U.S. commander says.
Activist accused of working for Chinese intel decades after Tiananmen Square
Yuanjun Tang once protested against the Chinese Communist Party during the 1989 Tiananmen Square demonstrations, court documents said.
Pandas returning to the San Diego Zoo for first time since 2019
After years of absence, giant pandas return to the San Diego Zoo, a symbol of U.S.-China conservation efforts.
5 years later, "the Hong Kong we used to know is gone"
Five years after massive pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong drew a stern reaction from Beijing, one Hong Konger says it's become a "a police state."
Russia and China push back against U.S. warnings over Arctic activity
The U.S. says climate change is helping Russia and China boost activity in the Arctic. Moscow and Beijing insist there's no cause for alarm.
Canada to quadruple sub fleet as NATO, Russia and China eye the Arctic
Canada plans to buy 12 new submarines as the U.S. and its allies and adversaries step up operations in the thawing Arctic.
U.S. accuses China of reckless action in South China Sea incident
As the Philippines accuses China of ramming a ship, the White House warns something "much more violent" could happen in the South China Sea.
World
What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Over 100 migrants rescued trying to cross English Channel on Christmas
At least 73 migrants have died trying to cross the English Channel to Britain this year, according to French authorities, making 2024 the deadliest year on record for the crossings.
347 skiers rescued by helicopter in French Alps
Chairlifts at two different resorts in the French Alps broke down on Tuesday, stranding hundreds in two separate incidents.
Royal family celebrates Christmas with no sign of Prince Andrew
King Charles III was joined at Christmas services by close members of the royal family, including Prince William and Kate — but Prince Andrew was notably absent.
Bridge collapse in Brazil leaves at least 2 dead, dozen missing
A bridge linking two northern states in Brazil collapsed, sending cars and trucks plunging into the river below. A sulphuric acid spill is complicating the rescue operation.
Pope shares Christmas message, marking start of church's Holy Year
Pilgrims lined up to walk through the great Holy Door at the entrance of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome as Christmas marks the start of the 2025 Holy Year celebration.
Zelenskyy calls Russia's Christmas Day missile and drone attack "inhumane"
A massive Russian missile and drone barrage on Ukraine's energy infrastructure on Christmas morning was "inhumane," Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said.
Plane crash in Kazakhstan killed dozens but some on board survived, officials say
Mobile phone footage circulating online appeared to show the Azerbaijani Airlines plane making a steep descent before slamming into the ground in a fireball in western Kazakhstan.
At least 2 journalists killed in shooting during hospital reopening in Haiti
The suspected gang attack occurred when journalists were covering the reopening of Port-au-Prince's biggest public hospital on Christmas Eve.
U.S.
More U.S.
3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
The toy industry is bracing for the impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that Trump's pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
The toy industry is bracing for the impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that Trump's pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
Pet food brand issues recall over bird flu contamination
A voluntary recall was issued for a line of raw and frozen pet food after a cat died of bird flu.
Lawyers for ex-Abercrombie CEO say he has dementia, can't stand trial
Defense lawyers say the former longtime CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch may have dementia, prompting a competency hearing.
Is anything open on Christmas Day? Here's what's open and closed.
Last-minute grocery items and gifts can be found on Christmas Day, but many retailers and chains may be closed today.
Starbucks strike shuts down hundreds of locations
More than 5,000 workers were expected to take part in walkout that ends later on Christmas Eve, their union says.
Politics
More Politics
Trial of man accused in Trump assassination attempt in Florida pushed back
Ryan Wesley Routh is being held in Miami awaiting trial in Fort Pierce.
With Biden's signature, bald eagle officially America's bird
President Biden signed legislation Christmas Eve to make the bald eagle officially the U.S. national bird.
Biden signs 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve
Among the new laws signed by President Biden are Paris Hilton's bill to protect institutionalized teenagers and a bill to address hazing on college campuses.
Bill Clinton discharged from hospital after being treated for flu
Former President Bill Clinton was released from a hospital in Washington. D.C., on Christmas Eve, following an overnight stay for treatment of a fever and flu.
Biden signs defense bill, despite ban on transgender health care for military kids
President Biden has signed the annual defense authorization bill into law.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Why some children are turning to GLP-1 drugs
A growing number of young people are receiving prescriptions for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Janet Shamlian examines why.
FDA raises urgency of Costco egg recall
The FDA has raised the level of a Costco egg recall, warning of the risk of severe illness or death due to potential salmonella contamination. Over 10,000 cartons of Kirkland brand organic eggs sold at stores across the South are affected. Customers are urged to discard or return eggs marked with Julian code 327 and a use-by date of Jan. 5, 2025.
Expert tips to support your immune system
With flu levels rising, Dr. Rabia De Latour shares ways to support your immune system and stay healthy during the holidays.
How to stay healthy during holiday gatherings
Seasonal illnesses are increasing just days away from the holidays. The CDC reports positive flu tests are up 9% in the most recent week and cases of whooping cough are six times last year's rate. Dr. Susannah Hills, an ear, nose and throat specialist at Columbia University Medical Center, explains how to stay safe.
Health care AI, intended to save money, requires expensive humans
Despite the hype over artificial intelligence in medicine, the systems require consistent monitoring and staffing to put in place and maintain.
World
More World
What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Over 100 migrants rescued trying to cross English Channel on Christmas
At least 73 migrants have died trying to cross the English Channel to Britain this year, according to French authorities, making 2024 the deadliest year on record for the crossings.
347 skiers rescued by helicopter in French Alps
Chairlifts at two different resorts in the French Alps broke down on Tuesday, stranding hundreds in two separate incidents.
Royal family celebrates Christmas with no sign of Prince Andrew
King Charles III was joined at Christmas services by close members of the royal family, including Prince William and Kate — but Prince Andrew was notably absent.
Bridge collapse in Brazil leaves at least 2 dead, dozen missing
A bridge linking two northern states in Brazil collapsed, sending cars and trucks plunging into the river below. A sulphuric acid spill is complicating the rescue operation.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
Angel Blue on Met role debut in "Aida" and Opera journey
Angel Blue, who was recently named Classical Music's "Vocalist of the Year," is set to perform the title role in "Aida" at the Metropolitan Opera. Known for her Grammy-winning performances, Blue will take the stage in New York beginning on Dec. 31. She joins "CBS Mornings Plus."
Netflix carrying 2 NFL games on Christmas Day. It's a big step.
Netflix will have one of its biggest days Wednesday since the site launched in 1998 when it airs two NFL games for the first time.
Prosecutor drops appeal, ending case against Alec Baldwin in "Rust" shooting
The appeal had asked the court to reinstate charges, including involuntary manslaughter, against Alec Baldwin.
Denzel Washington gets minister's license at Harlem church
Just shy of his 70th birthday, Denzel Washington has a new line to add to an already impressive résumé.
Technology
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Technology
AI features dominating tech heading into 2025
New artificial intelligence features appeared across the tech landscape this year, from the latest iPhone to chatbots like Google's Gemini. Adam Auriemma, the editor-in-chief at CNET, joins CBS News 24/7 with more.
Researchers develop robot to help people walk
A robotic exosuit may seem like science fiction, but a team of South Korean researchers is turning the concept into reality. CBS News' Leah Mishkin explains how the new tech is helping people with disabilities walk on their own.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Holiday shoppers on the lookout for big TVs
TVs are some of the most popular items to fly off store shelves during the holidays. But this year, experts say shoppers are going bigger than ever. CBS News' Jeff Wagner explains.
Health care AI, intended to save money, requires expensive humans
Despite the hype over artificial intelligence in medicine, the systems require consistent monitoring and staffing to put in place and maintain.
Science
More Science
Orca who carried her dead calf for 17 days has a new baby
Tahlequah has a newborn girl, years after she made headlines for carrying her dead calf for 17 days.
2,600-year-old shipwreck is raised from waters off Spain
An ancient shipwreck that dates back to the 7th century B.C.E. has been removed from waters off Spain, two decades after its discovery in 1994.
What to know about the winter solstice, 2024's shortest day
The 2024 winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, happens on Saturday, Dec. 21, and is marked with traditions and celebrations around the world.
Class-action lawsuit over plastic recycling
This week a group of plaintiffs in Missouri, Kansas, California and Florida filed a class-action lawsuit against dozens of companies and organizations, claiming they've falsely promoted how easy it is to recycle plastics. CBS News Los Angeles climatologist Marina Jurica has the details.
Why fish, birds and other animals yawn too, according to an expert
Humans aren't alone when it comes to yawning — all vertebrates do it. But why? An expert explains the likely reason behind this "evolutionarily ancient" act.
Crime
More Crime
3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
Backpacks full of $1.1 million worth of cocaine found near Canada border
Agents found 30 brick-like packages of cocaine inside the backpacks, located in a wooded area in Washington near the U.S. border with Canada.
"Desperate" killer who escaped from Mississippi prison is recaptured
Authorities in Mississippi say a "desperate" and "very dangerous" convicted murderer, Drew Johnson, is back in custody after escaping from prison Tuesday.
Former Philadelphia Eagles running back pleads guilty to fraud charges
Former Philadelphia Eagles running back Wendell Smallwood Jr. pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges.
Space
More Space
Discovery of "tipped over" black hole surprises NASA scientists
New analysis techniques and decades-old research helped NASA scientists identify an unusual black hole in a distant galaxy.
Why are the Boeing Starliner astronauts stuck in space?
Here's why NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are stuck, but not stranded, at the International Space Station after launching into space in June.
NASA delayes return date for astronauts
NASA has delayed the return date for Boeing's Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez reports on the decision to keep the two in space.
NASA leader weighs in on Elon Musk, SpaceX and plans for moon rocket
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson says he's optimistic the Trump administration will support the space agency's agenda.
Boeing Starliner crew's return delayed again
Two astronauts who have been stuck in space since June will have to wait until at least the end of March to come home after NASA on Wednesday again pushed back their return date. Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer for the Franklin Institute, joined CBS News to discuss what's causing the delays.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The Scott Peterson case: New evidence?
Peterson's death sentence for the murder of his pregnant wife Laci has been overturned. Now his supporters are pushing for a complete retrial.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Texas couple investigates teen daughter's unusual death
Cayley Mandadi's mother and stepfather go to extreme lengths to prove her death was no accident.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Academy teaches students the art of playing Santa
Twice a year, between 100 and 150 student Santas and Mrs. Clauses from as far away as Europe enroll at the Northern Lights Santa Academy in Atlanta for a three-day boot camp where they will learn to become professional Christmas entertainers. Skyler Henry has details.
In show of unity, 4 pastors swap congregations
In Midland, Texas, four pastors from different denominations decided to exchange pulpits for one day in order to deliver a message about tolerance and acceptance to their congregations and the community. Jason Allen has more.
Celebrating the holidays around the globe
Jericka Duncan takes a look at how Christmas and Hanukkah are being marked around the world and even aboard the International Space Station.
Why some children are turning to GLP-1 drugs
A growing number of young people are receiving prescriptions for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Janet Shamlian examines why.
The impact of tariffs on the U.S. toy industry
If President-elect Donald Trump follows through on his threat of imposing new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China, it could have major repercussions for the U.S. toy industry. Kelly O'Grady explains.