CNN 5 Things

A fierce winter storm is hitting the Northeast, bringing rain and snow. Tensions rise as U.S. officials engage in critical talks with Vladimir Putin over Ukraine. In Tennessee, a surprisingly competitive special election could flip the script for Democrats. Meanwhile, a federal immigration operation is set to target New Orleans. And in a surprising twist, Costco is suing the U.S. government over potential tariff refunds, raising questions about presidential authority. Buckle up for a whirlwind of current events!

The country braces for a winter storm, with freezing temperatures and ice warnings affecting 55 million. Tensions rise as the administration shifts blame regarding an unlawful military strike. Senior officials prepare to meet Putin amidst claims of territorial capture in Ukraine. Additionally, the Justice Department gears up for potential new indictments against James Comey. Meanwhile, Sean Combs battles Netflix over a controversial docuseries, raising questions about legal rights and stolen footage.

Join Claire Duffy, a CNN tech reporter, as she discusses the capabilities of Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses and their potential to replace smartphones. The conversation also dives into the US military's strikes near Venezuela and the concerns raised by lawmakers. Duffy contributes insights on tech while the podcast covers a powerful winter storm's impact across the US. Additionally, hear updates on Luigi Mangione's court case and get a briefing on Zelensky's comments regarding the complexities in Ukraine's peace negotiations.

A bipartisan investigation is delving into a controversial strike during the Trump administration, raising questions about potential war crimes. An appeals court has declared a US attorney's appointment unlawful, stirring legal debates. Updates on the Ukraine peace talks highlight tensions over territorial demands. Meanwhile, new SNAP work requirements could impact millions of food stamp recipients. Additionally, the Oxford Dictionary's word of the year might spark some outrage among listeners.

A manhunt unfolds for a suspect in a child's birthday party shooting, with investigators urging public tips. Winter storms threaten travel across the US, complicating post-holiday journeys. After a call from Donald Trump, Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro reemerges publicly, raising international eyebrows. Meanwhile, deadly storms in Asia have taken over a thousand lives, and Australia is confronting a shocking child abuse ring with multiple arrests already made. Authorities are piecing together evidence as victims are identified.

Joining the discussion is Don Riddell, CNN World Sport anchor, who offers insights on the impending 2026 FIFA World Cup. He reveals how Trump has intertwined his political ambitions with the tournament, even threatening cities that resist his policies. Riddell discusses the complex logistics behind moving games and warns of visa issues that may deter international fans. He also highlights how immigration policies might clash with fan enjoyment, raising questions about safety that could keep spectators at home.

A wild turkey named Astoria has captured the hearts of Manhattan locals. Meet the fifth grader who became Nebraska's first Kid Governor, promoting cancer awareness among his peers. Beachcombers in Australia recently discovered poignant letters from World War I soldiers, reuniting families with lost words. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree will have an unexpected second life, benefiting Habitat for Humanity. Plus, discover inspiring stories from finalists competing for the 2025 CNN Hero of the Year.

A tragic shooting in Washington, D.C. leaves one National Guard member dead and another critically injured, stirring national discussion. As millions prepare for a winter storm post-holidays, severe weather threatens the Midwest and Northeast. The U.S. military conducts strikes on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean, raising legal concerns. Meanwhile, a significant shakeup in Ukrainian leadership complicates peace efforts. Finally, alarming reports highlight a global surge in measles outbreaks, attributed to declining vaccination rates.

The podcast dives into President Trump's new immigration crackdown, targeting green cards from 19 countries. It discusses Syria's accusations against Israel regarding a deadly military raid. A tragic fire in Hong Kong raises concerns over building safety, revealing how construction materials contributed to the blaze. UPS faces disruptions as it grounds planes for inspections, impacting holiday deliveries. Finally, the Louvre Museum plans to hike ticket prices, sparking debate about accessibility for visitors.

A tragic shooting in Washington, DC, claims the life of a National Guard member. In Hong Kong, a deadly apartment fire leaves officials grappling with a rising death toll. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy speaks on new peace discussions as international pressure grows. Trump hints at imminent military actions in Venezuela against drug trafficking. Meanwhile, the Israeli military faces backlash after controversial killings in the West Bank, lighting a firestorm of public outrage.