Democrats Criticize Biden Over Hunter Biden Pardon  

CNN Politics,

President Joe Biden’s decision to pardon his son Hunter has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats, despite earlier assurances that such a move was off the table. The pardon comes after Hunter faced convictions for gun possession and tax evasion, leading to fines and potential prison time. Some Democratic lawmakers expressed concerns about fairness and the erosion of trust in the justice system. Others suggested that the decision was inevitable given the intense legal and political pressure surrounding the case. Hunter Biden’s legal team maintains that the charges were politically motivated, a sentiment echoed by some White House officials.

White House Defends Controversial Hunter Biden Pardon

BBC News,

The White House has defended President Biden’s pardon of his son, Hunter, amid backlash from both parties. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated the decision aimed to shield Hunter from politically motivated legal action. Critics argue the sweeping pardon, which covers federal crimes committed over a decade, undermines public faith in the justice system. Hunter Biden was previously convicted of tax and gun-related offenses, sparking debates on the justice system’s integrity. Republican figures, including President-elect Donald Trump, labeled the pardon an abuse of power. The administration insists that the pardon rectified injustices in a politically charged environment.

DOJ Special Counsel Rejects Hunter Biden’s Motion to Dismiss Indictment  

Fox News,

Special Counsel David Weiss urged the court to deny Hunter Biden’s motion to dismiss the indictment against him despite his recent presidential pardon. Weiss argued that the grand jury’s decision was based on probable cause, not political bias. Hunter Biden’s legal team countered, citing precedents where indictments were dismissed following a pardon. The debate highlights the contentious nature of the charges, which include tax evasion and gun-related offenses. The case remains a focal point in discussions of justice and presidential clemency powers.

Asian Chip Stocks Rise Amid New U.S. Semiconductor Export Curbs  

CNBC,

Major Asian chip stocks rose despite the U.S. announcing new semiconductor export restrictions targeting China. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company saw shares climb 2.4%, while Japanese firms like Tokyo Electron and Lasertec posted significant gains. South Korean giants Samsung and SK Hynix also recorded modest growth. The restrictions aim to limit China’s access to advanced chip technology, but analysts believe South Korean and Japanese companies can shift demand to other markets. The U.S. Department of Commerce added 140 companies to its export control list, intensifying efforts to curb Beijing’s military advancements.

Russia Outpaces NATO in Weapons Production Amid Ukraine War  

Al Jazeera,

New research by SIPRI reveals that Russian defense contractors have outpaced their NATO counterparts in revenue growth, with a 40% increase compared to 2.5% for U.S. firms. Despite facing sanctions, Russia’s military production has fueled its war efforts in Ukraine, creating a war economy that sustains economic growth. NATO’s fragmented supply chains and reliance on imports have hindered rapid arms production. Experts warn that while Russia’s strategy is effective short-term, financial strain may challenge its sustainability. Meanwhile, the EU and Ukraine are ramping up their defense production to meet escalating demands.

Trump Proposes Canada as 51st State, Attends Notre Dame Reopening  

Fox News,

Former President Donald Trump made headlines with a controversial suggestion to make Canada the 51st U.S. state, citing economic advantages. Meanwhile, he plans to attend the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, marking five years since the devastating fire. Trump also announced Warren Stephens as the nominee for U.S. ambassador to the UK, signaling his focus on strengthening transatlantic relations in his upcoming term.