Politics

Appointment of new VOA chief raises fears for U.S. broadcaster

By Matthew Lee, Associated Press

The appointment of a new director of Voice of America has raised new concerns about the direction of the government's flagship international broadcaster as President Donald Trump's term winds down.

Lawmakers act to avert shutdown, buying time for virus relief talks

By Andrew Taylor, Associated Press

The House on Wednesday easily passed a temporary funding bill that sets a Dec. 18 deadline for Congress to wrap up both a virus relief measure and a $1.4 trillion government spending bill.

Hunter Biden says he's facing federal investigation over 'tax affairs'

By Eric Tucker, Michael Balsamo, Jonathan Lemire, Associated Press

In a statement released by the president-elect's transition office, the younger Biden said he learned about the investigation on Tuesday. He did not disclose details of the matter.

Tensions rise over masks as virus grips smaller U.S. cities

By Heather Hollingsworth, Ryan Foley, Associated Press

Public health officials in Boise, Idaho, were about to vote on a mask mandate but ended the meeting because of fears for their safety amid protests outside the building and at some of their homes.

France unveils draft law to fight Islamist radicalism

By Elaine Ganley, Associated Press

Parliament is expected to open what is likely to be a lively debate on the draft law made public Wednesday in coming months.

Armenian protesters converged on parliament, demand PM resigns

By Avet Demourian, Associated Press

The PM's opponents are angry at a peace deal that ended six weeks of fighting over the separatist region but saw Azerbaijan take over areas that have been controlled by Armenian forces for more than a quarter-century.

Iran says U.S. sanctions hinder access to COVID-19 vaccines

By Nasser Karimi, Associated Press

While the U.S. insists that medicines and humanitarian goods are exempt from sanctions, restrictions on trade have made many banks and companies across the world hesitant.

Poles voice fears of 'Polexit' as government defies EU over budget

By Vanessa Gera, Associated Press

Critics fear the combative tone of Polish leaders could create a dangerous momentum, which if not stopped, could lead the nation to the exit door.

WATCH: House Armed Services committee reviews findings of Fort Hood probe

By Candice Norwood and Associated Press

The hearing follows an announcement by the Army on Tuesday that it has fired or suspended 14 officers and enlisted soldiers at Fort Hood, Texas.

Americans want more COVID-19 economic relief. Most think Congress should compromise

By Laura Santhanam

More than two-thirds of Americans also say they or someone they know has been sick with the virus, and more people said they would get vaccinated against the virus, according to the latest PBS NewsHour/NPR/Marist poll.