On Chernobyl anniversary, Zelenskyy slams Russia for nuclear "blackmail"
The 1986 incident, which is considered the world's worst ever nuclear disaster, contaminated vast areas of Ukraine, Belarus and Russia.
Chernobyl
Ukraine's nuclear power plants under threat
A Russian missile explodes just 300 yards from a nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine, hundreds of miles from the front lines. These strikes are reigniting fears that the ongoing conflict could unleash a nuclear disaster. John Dickerson spoke with Margaret Kosal, a professor of international relations at Georgia Tech, about what could happen if a nuclear plant is hit.
What's at stake with the Russian-occupied nuclear plant in Ukraine?
"Russia is playing Russian roulette with a nuclear incident," said Barbara Woodward, Britain's Ambassador to the United Nations.
Monitors head to nuclear plant in war zone
Amid fears of a Chernobyl-style disaster at Europe's largest nuclear power plant, a team of inspectors is expected to reach the embattled site in a matter of hours. Debora Patta shares more.
Nuclear plant on Ukraine war's front lines temporarily cut off from grid
The nuclear power plant in the middle of the fighting in Ukraine was temporarily cut off from the electrical grid because of fire damage.
Former Ambassador William Taylor on "The Takeout"
Former Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor discusses the political history of Ukraine and what it was like seeing Volodymyr Zelenskyy's leadership emerge throughout his presidency. Taylor talks with CBS News' Major Garrett about Vladimir Putin's "blunders" during Russia's invasion and the hope he has for Ukraine to stand firm through this next phase of war. Taylor also talks about the international response and the prospect of prosecuting war crimes.
Russia continues threats to use nuclear weapons
The Chernobyl disaster happened 36 years ago, but now Ukraine is faced with a new nuclear threat. Russian forces have fired artillery near nuclear power plants and the Kremlin continues to threaten to use nuclear weapons in its offensive against Ukraine. Chris Livesay has more.
Mayor: "Dire" situation in Mariupol
Ukrainian officials are trying to evacuate civilians who sought refuge in a Mariupol steel mill, which has come under continuous fire from Russian forces. The Mariupol's mayor said the situation is "dire" and people at the mill are running out of food, water and medicine. CBS News foreign correspondent Chris Livesay has an update from Kyiv, Ukraine.
Ukraine says Russia resorting to "blackmail," nuclear threats as war rages
36 years after the Chernobyl disaster, Zelenskyy says Russia firing missiles over the nuclear plant has left him "speechless," as Moscow cuts the gas to 2 Ukrainian allies.
Residents near Chernobyl face new dangers
CBS News foreign correspondent Chris Livesay toured Slavutych, the Ukrainian town outside the Chernobyl exclusion zone that was built specifically for the evacuees in the aftermath of the 1986 nuclear disaster. But today its residents are yet again in a dangerously precarious position, just a few miles from both the Russian and Belarus borders, both of which have been violated by Russian forces in the invasion.
Austin reaffirms support for Ukraine
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is reaffirming Western support for Ukraine. He said the West will "keep moving heaven and earth" to help the nation defend itself against Russia. CBS News foreign correspondent Chris Livesay has an update from Kyiv, Ukraine.
Russians possibly received "significant doses" of radiation at Chernobyl plant
"The thick dust raised by passing vehicles, and the radiation particles in it, may very well have entered the bodies of Russian occupiers through the lungs," the plant director said.
U.S. official says Ukrainian helicopters attacked oil depot in Russia
A U.S. official says it was a rare strike by Ukrainian forces on Russian soil, which came as Putin's troops abandoned the Chernobyl nuclear plant.
Concerns over Ukraine's nuclear facilities
Russian forces took over the Chernobyl nuclear facility in Ukraine last month, and the International Atomic Energy Agency has expressed alarm about the facility's safety. Oleksandr Danylyuk, the co-founder of the Center for National Resilience and Development, joined CBS News to discuss the risks of Chernobyl and other Ukrainian nuclear facilities being under Russian control.
Ukraine says power has been restored to Chernobyl plant
The plant is currently held by Russian troops.
Ukraine says Russia planning "terrorist attack" on Chernobyl
The dire warning, which U.S. and international atomic energy officials have not confirmed, says Putin personally ordered "preparation" for an attack on the notorious site.
Ukraine officials: Mariupol hospital attacked
There are reports Russian missiles hit a children's and maternity hospital in the city of Mariupol, while other cities like Odesa are preparing for a bombardment. Further north, electricity has been cut to the defunct Chernobyl power plant, sparking concerns of a radiation leak. CBS News foreign correspondent Chris Livesay gives an update from Ukraine as Russia continues its attack.
Ukraine says power cut at Chernobyl plant risks "nuclear discharge"
The country's energy minister says backup generators should be able to keep vital cooling systems running, but stresses electricity must be restored "as quickly as we can."
Ukraine's social media resistance
Ukrainian officials and volunteers are trying to stop false reports about the Russian invasion from spreading online. Former Deputy Minister of Information Policy for Ukraine Dmytro Zolotukhin joined CBS News' Vladimir Duthiers and Anne-Marie Green to talk about his country's social media resistance.
U.S. calls Russian attack on Ukraine nuclear power plant a "war crime"
Other Western nations reacted with horror, as well. The attack stoked fears the war could spark another Chernobyl.
House GOP's new funding bill to avoid shutdown fails in fast-track vote
House Republicans are trying to pass a new plan to keep the government funded through mid-March.
How a U.S. government shutdown could impact your benefits and services
The U.S. government could face a shutdown at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024. Here's what could be impacted.
Biden's top hostage envoy in Syria to ask for help in finding Austin Tice
Hostage envoy Roger Carstens is in Syria making the first known in-person U.S. in-person contact with the caretaker government and seeking help in finding missing American Austin Tice.
Luigi Mangione faces federal murder, stalking charges in killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO
Luigi Mangione faces four new federal charges, including murder, which could make him eligible for the death penalty. He is also facing multiple state charges.
Deportations by ICE jumped to 10-year high in 2024, surpassing Trump-era peak
ICE deported more than a quarter-million unauthorized immigrants in fiscal year 2024, the highest tally in a decade.
Communities facing air pollution threats worry about EPA rollbacks under Trump
In the U.S., the biggest polluters are often concentrated in underserved, mostly minority communities.
Officials say mystery drones aren't tracking missing radioactive material
The viral theory circulated even after the material was recovered last week.
Cuomo sues woman who accused him of sexual harassment for defamation
Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo filed a lawsuit Thursday against a former aide, Charlotte Bennett, who alleged he sexually harassed her in 2020.
Georgia appeals court removes Fani Willis from Trump 2020 election case
President-elect Donald Trump was charged in a sprawling racketeering case related to the 2020 election.
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In Alaska, Santa's helpers work around the clock to deliver holiday packages
During the holidays, there are 33 delivery planes a day which fly in and out of Anchorage, Alaska, carrying about 80,000 packages.
Communities facing air pollution threats worry about EPA rollbacks under Trump
In the U.S., the biggest polluters are often concentrated in underserved, mostly minority communities.
Officials say mystery drones are not tracking missing radioactive material
The viral theory circulated even after the material was recovered last week.
Deportations by ICE jumped to 10-year high in 2024, surpassing Trump-era peak
ICE deported more than a quarter-million unauthorized immigrants in fiscal year 2024, the highest tally in a decade.
Norovirus outbreaks reported on 3 cruise ships this month
Just over 300 passengers and crew members fell ill during norovirus outbreaks on three cruise voyages in December.
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He went in for a colonoscopy. The hospital charged $19,000 for two.
A Chicago man was stuck with a big medical bill after undergoing a colonoscopy that found no evidence of cancer. Here's why.
Big Lots is planning "going out of business" sales at all of its stores
The bankrupt discount retail chain plans to liquidate after a deal with a prospective buyer collapsed.
Frito-Lay recalls some Lay's chips over "life-threatening" allergy risk
Some 13 oz. bags of Lay's Classic Potato Chips may contain an undeclared allergen, according to the snack company.
Capybaras are the "it" animal inspiration for toys this holiday
The large semi-aquatic South American relative of the guinea pig is having a big moment.
How a U.S. government shutdown could impact your benefits and services
The U.S. government could face a shutdown at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024. Here's what could be impacted.
Politics
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Biden's top hostage envoy in Syria to ask for help in finding Austin Tice
Hostage envoy Roger Carstens is in Syria making the first known in-person U.S. in-person contact with the caretaker government and seeking help in finding missing American Austin Tice.
Deportations by ICE jumped to 10-year high in 2024, surpassing Trump-era peak
ICE deported more than a quarter-million unauthorized immigrants in fiscal year 2024, the highest tally in a decade.
Cuomo sues woman who accused him of sexual harassment for defamation
Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo filed a lawsuit Thursday against a former aide, Charlotte Bennett, who alleged he sexually harassed her in 2020.
Manchin predicts Senate will go along with House on shutdown negotiations
West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin told "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" he expects the tense negotiations on funding the government will end without a shutdown.
IRS whistleblowers jab at Hunter Biden pardon in lawsuit filing against his lawyer
Two IRS agents have accused Hunter Biden's lawyer of defamation.
HealthWatch
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He went in for a colonoscopy. The hospital charged $19,000 for two.
A Chicago man was stuck with a big medical bill after undergoing a colonoscopy that found no evidence of cancer. Here's why.
Frito-Lay recalls some Lay's chips over "life-threatening" allergy risk
Some 13 oz. bags of Lay's Classic Potato Chips may contain an undeclared allergen, according to the snack company.
"Sleepmaxxing" trend has young adults optimizing their sleep
Sleep optimization, or "sleepmaxxing," is a popular trend among a younger demographic, but experts share a few words of caution.
Liquid-burning firepits behind 2 deaths, dozens of injuries, fed agency warn
Products sold as tabletop firepits, firepots, miniature fireplaces or portable fires for indoor use are "extremely dangerous," consumer agency warns.
Latest on H5N1 bird flu outbreak
A Louisiana patient is critically ill with severe respiratory symptoms from H5N1 bird flu, marking the 61st U.S. human case this year. California has declared a state of emergency. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Celine Gounder explains the public health risks.
World
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Biden's top hostage envoy in Syria to ask for help in finding Austin Tice
Hostage envoy Roger Carstens is in Syria making the first known in-person U.S. in-person contact with the caretaker government and seeking help in finding missing American Austin Tice.
Rare look inside Gaza shows challenges of humanitarian crisis
In a rare moment of access to the war-ravaged Palestinian territory, CBS News visited a critical aid distribution center just inside the Gaza Strip.
Quirky Guinness World Records of 2024 include a skateboarding cat
As 2024 comes to a close, we took a look at some of the oddest Guinness World Records of the year.
Putin laments top general's killing, says he'll meet Trump "any time"
Russia's Vladimir Putin, in his annual marathon news conference, laments "serious blunders" by his security forces and says he'll meet Trump "any time" about Ukraine.
2 highway crashes in Afghanistan leave dozens dead, dozens more hurt
Two highway crashes in southeastern Afghanistan killed a combined total of 50 people and injured 76, a government spokesman says.
Entertainment
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Alicia Keys surprises students at her former high school
The 16-time Grammy winner returned to the Professional Performing Arts School in New York, where she first began her career, and shares advice with current students.
Quirky Guinness World Records of 2024 include a skateboarding cat
As 2024 comes to a close, we took a look at some of the oddest Guinness World Records of the year.
Apollo Theater honored by Kennedy Center
For 90 years, the Apollo Theater has shaped American culture, launching icons like James Brown and Aretha Franklin. This year, it became the first institution honored by the Kennedy Center, cementing its legacy as a hub of innovation.
Alicia Keys surprises students at alma mater
Sixteen-time Grammy winner Alicia Keys celebrates her Broadway musical "Hell's Kitchen" earning a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theater Album. In an exclusive interview, she revisits her alma mater to honor the teacher who inspired her and surprises students.
Inside Variety's acclaimed "Actors on Actors"
Since 2014, Variety's "Actors on Actors" has showcased one-on-one conversations between Hollywood stars, offering unique insights into their craft. Co-editor-in-chief and executive producer Ramin Setoodeh joins us to discuss the series' impact.
Technology
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Technology
Supreme Court agrees to hear case about TikTok ban
The Supreme Court said Wednesday it will hear an appeal from TikTok over a federal law that would ban the social media giant if it is not sold by its Chinese parent company. Jan Crawford has more.
Teen victim of deepfake porn urges Congress to pass "Take It Down Act"
Elliston Berry's life was turned upside down after a photo she posted on Instagram was digitally altered online to be pornographic.
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.
Supreme Court to decide on future of TikTok
The Supreme Court plans to hear arguments in January on a challenge to a new law that could lead to the popular social media app TikTok being banned in the U.S. The Biden administration and lawmakers say the Chinese government's ability to collect data from TikTok poses a significant national security risk, while the app and its Chinese parent company ByteDance argue that the law is unconstitutional. CBS News Supreme Court producer Catherine Cole has more.
FAA: Lithium battery fires on flights now occur nearly twice a week
FAA data shows that lithium battery fires on U.S. flights have risen 388% since 2015, now occurring nearly twice a week.
Science
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Science
EPA tackling pollution in at-risk communities
The Environmental Protection Agency under President Biden created a new Office of Environmental Justice that seeks to address pollution levels in disadvantaged and marginalized communities. However, there is concern that the incoming Trump administration could do away with the new department. David Schechter reports.
"Murder hornets" eradicated in the U.S., agriculture officials say
Giant hornets, dubbed "murder hornets," have been eradicated in the U.S., five years after the invasive species was first detected in Washington state.
Coal use hitting record in 2024, which is likely hottest year yet, report says
World coal use is set to reach an all-time high in 2024, the International Energy Agency says, in a year all but certain to be the hottest in recorded history.
How climate change impacted 2024
From record-breaking temperatures to devastating disasters, 2024 brought the world closer to the reality of what climate change looks and feels like. CBS News national environmental correspondent David Schechter reports.
Bronze-Age Britons were cannibalized after massacre, research shows
Researchers determined that dozens of men, women and children were violently killed and cannibalized in Bronze Age-era England.
Crime
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Crime
Trump's impact on Republicans in 2024
CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett analyzes President-elect Donald Trump's influence on his party and how it will impact the next four years. Garrett also breaks down Democratic losses and political polarization in the U.S.
New details on Madison school shooting suspect
The 15-year-old shooter who killed two people at a Wisconsin school Monday was found to have been in contact with a California man plotting his own attack, according to authorities and court documents. CBS News' Ian Lee has more.
What to know about Mangione's extradition
The man accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Luigi Mangione, is in New York City where he faces federal murder charges. He was extradited from Pennsylvania on Thursday. CBS News crime and public safety unit coordinating producer Anna Schecter has more.
Mangione appears in New York federal court
The suspect in the slaying of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson appeared in a federal courtroom Thursday in New York after being extradited from Pennsylvania. Along with the state charges, he now also faces federal murder charges. Lilia Luciano has details.
Luigi Mangione appears in federal court
Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared before a federal judge Thursday in New York. CBS News' Anna Schecter has more.
Space
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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.
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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.
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Delivering Tomorrow: talabat's Evolution in the Middle East
From a startup to a transformative tech leader, discover how talabat champions innovation, sustainability, and community connections in the MENA region
Trump-backed spending bill fails in House vote
A new government funding bill proposed by Republican lawmakers and supported by President-elect Donald Trump failed Thursday in a House vote after a previous bipartisan agreement was scuttled Wednesday amid opposition from Trump. A Friday midnight deadline is looming to pass the bill, known as a continuing resolution, in order to avoid a government shutdown. Nikole Killion has the latest from Capitol Hill.
"CBS Evening News" headlines for Dec. 19, 2024
Here's a look at the top stories making headlines on the "CBS Evening News with Norah O'Donnell."
Trump's impact on Republicans in 2024
CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett analyzes President-elect Donald Trump's influence on his party and how it will impact the next four years. Garrett also breaks down Democratic losses and political polarization in the U.S.
Why Trump, Ramaswamy are fighting remote work
President-elect Donald Trump said he will challenge a Biden-era deal allowing federal employees to work hybrid or remotely through 2029. Indeed Hiring Lab economist Allison Shrivastava joins "The Daily Report" to discuss why.