CNN 5 Things

President Donald Trump praised his meeting with Israel’s Prime Minister, even as disagreements remain. The president also shared an update on the US’ campaign against Venezuela. China is conducting “major military drills” around Taiwan. A second pilot has died after a midair helicopter crash in New Jersey. Plus, weeks after an epic knock out, a British boxing star is injured in a tragic accident. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tensions ease as President Trump and Ukraine's Zelenskyy discuss a potential peace plan. A powerful winter storm disrupts travel across the U.S., causing blizzard warnings and flight delays. Tragedy strikes in New Jersey with a midair helicopter collision under investigation. In Mexico, a newly inaugurated train derails, resulting in casualties. Lastly, New Yorkers bid farewell to the iconic MetroCard as the city transitions to a contactless fare system.

David Beaubaire, Founder and CEO of Sunset Lane Media and former White House staffer, shares insights on the allure of political dramas like "The Diplomat". He discusses why these shows resonate during our current political climate, the potential for Washington, D.C. to become a hub for Hollywood storytelling, and the issues of industry stagnation. Beaubaire emphasizes the power of entertainment to foster empathy and highlights Sunset Lane's mission to unbundle creative development while engaging both political sides in storytelling.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, a neurosurgeon and CNN medical analyst, discusses groundbreaking advancements in xenotransplantation, highlighting progress in pig kidney transplants that could save countless lives. The free travel program for students is set to expand, encouraging exploration of diverse U.S. towns. Learn how goats are restoring a Tennessee nature reserve by clearing invasive plants. Plus, hear about community efforts like Southside Blooms and the Bar Fairies tackling drunk driving, with a powerful narrative of advocacy and change.

A winter storm is poised to impact millions in the Northeast and California. The U.S. claims a strike on ISIS in Nigeria, stirring doubts about the targeted groups. Ukrainian President Zelensky is set to meet Donald Trump to discuss peace negotiations. A mother has been charged with the tragic killing of her nine-year-old daughter. Meanwhile, an explosion at a Syrian mosque has resulted in multiple casualties, raising concerns about regional safety.

The U.S. launched strikes on ISIS in Nigeria, highlighting ongoing global tensions. California faces a state of emergency due to severe storms, prompting evacuations amid power outages. In a surprising twist, peace talks in Ukraine unfolded over Christmas, featuring a 20-point peace plan from Zelenskyy. Additionally, many House Republicans are leaving for gubernatorial races, driven by frustration with Washington. Trump’s Christmas message takes a sharp tone, critiquing media coverage of the Epstein files, overshadowing his holiday plans.

Discover shocking news as over one million documents related to Jeffrey Epstein surface, sparking new scrutiny. A CNN poll reveals what Americans really want to express to their political leaders, focusing on economic worries. Learn about the latest federal charges against the suspect in a National Guard shooting. Explore Israel's declining status in gender equality amidst women's protests. Finally, dive into a significant lawsuit involving multiple states pushing back against new transgender care policies.

The latest release of the Epstein files links Donald Trump multiple times to controversial flights, raising eyebrows despite no current accusations. A significant setback for the Trump administration comes from the Supreme Court regarding immigration rules. In California, heavy rain is expected to inundate areas, causing potential disruptions. Authorities make a tragic update in the search for missing Melodee Buzzard, revealing her remains and charging her mother with murder. Additionally, the government prepares to resume garnishing wages for student loan defaulters, affecting millions.

Recently released Epstein files drop significant names like Trump and Ghislaine Maxwell, stirring controversy. Economic data presents a mixed bag, with strong GDP growth clashing against household worries over wages. The Supreme Court intervenes to stop Trump’s National Guard deployment to Chicago. Meanwhile, a tragic gas-related explosion at a Pennsylvania nursing home leaves multiple injuries. Plus, a pulled '60 Minutes' segment captures the world's attention, showcasing the power of media.

Tensions rise as the U.S. strikes a suspected drug trafficking boat linked to Venezuela. A tragic plane crash in Galveston Bay claims five lives, including a child. In health news, the FDA has approved a pill version of Wegovy, promising similar results to the injection. President Trump shares his concerns over the release of new Epstein files and their potential impact on his reputation. Plus, excitement builds around the Kansas City Chiefs' impending move, with plans for a new stadium underway.