Exclusive: AI in the military

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December 12, 2025

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US countering military tech threats from Russia and China with AI

Exclusive: NewsNation got a behind-the-scenes look at new AI training at an Army base in Colorado. Dubbed "Ivy Sting 3," it's the latest round of Army training using artificial intelligence, giving commanders more flexibility to hit enemy targets faster. Take a look >

AI: China and Russia are also layering AI into their military operations, making advanced tech a significant component of future conflict. Details >

Trump signs order to fight state AI laws >

AI data centers strain Texas power grid as temperatures drop >

AI now encouraging 'mass casualty events,' lawyer claims >

US sanctions 6 Venezuelan vessels after seizing oil tanker

Sanctions: The U.S. has sanctioned six Venezuelan vessels, a day after President Donald Trump confirmed the military seized an oil tanker. That mission — which included personnel fast-roping onto the tanker with guns drawn — could be the first of many, the White House said. Details >

Oil: The administration contends the tanker was moving sanctioned oil with the goal of it going to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. The White House said those on board the ship are in custody, and an estimated $60 to $100 million worth of oil aboard will be seized. Read more >

Tension: The seizure comes amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, spurred on by Trump's orders to increase military presence in the region and as deadly strikes continue against alleged drug boats. What to know >

Senate rejects dueling health care plans as ACA expiration looms

Health care: The Senate failed to advance dueling health care plans before Affordable Care Act subsidies expire, which would raise premiums for millions of Americans. The votes ended a monthslong Democratic effort to prevent the subsidies from expiring on Jan. 1. Read more >

Costs: The expiring subsidies have created uncertainty for millions of Americans. The nonpartisan Center on Budget and Policy Priorities says more than 20 million Americans receive the credits. Without them, costs will increase by more than $1,000 for the average enrollee. Details >

What's next? The bills' failure will likely set up a health care battle in January when lawmakers turn their attention to a 2026 spending bill, which could ignite another potential shutdown fight. What to know >

6 more states approved for food stamp soda bans

SNAP: The Trump administration has approved bans for six more states that would prevent people from using SNAP benefits to buy unhealthy foods and sugary drinks, including Hawaii, Missouri, Tennessee, North Dakota, Virginia and South Carolina. Details >

Food benefits: With those additions, 18 states will now have federal waivers to adjust SNAP guidelines, outlawing the purchase of junk food with state funds next year. Each state is using different standards to deem certain foods unhealthy. Read more >

Candy's out: For example, Florida plans to restrict SNAP recipients from buying soda, energy drinks, candy and prepared desserts. How long the waivers will last >

Options: Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins suggested the restrictions may encourage recipients to buy healthier food. Critics raised concerns that people living in "food deserts" may not have access to grocery stores with many healthy food options. Read more >

Kids' products recalled ahead of Christmas: What to know >

Flu or COVID? How symptoms start can tell you which >

Kidney transplant leads to fatal rabies infection: CDC report >

WHAT WE'RE WATCHING 👀

Trump participates in a bill signing ceremony.
Frederick Green, charged in the shooting of New York Jets player Kris Boyd, is due in court.
A court hearing is set for Nima Momeni, convicted of murdering Cash App founder Bob Lee.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visits the newly relocated U.S. Space Command Headquarters in Alabama.
The docuseries about Taylor Swift's "Eras Tour" becomes available on Disney+.

Washington state faces historic floods that have forced evacuation orders for tens of thousands of residents. The latest >

A live hand grenade was found in a donation bin at a Goodwill store in Florida. Read more >

A Border Patrol agent shot and killed an immigrant accused of being in the U.S. illegally during a confrontation between alleged drug smugglers and authorities in Texas, NewsNation has learned. The investigation >

Police in Illinois announced the arrest of a woman in connection with an investigation into a baby's remains found in a suitcase more than five years ago. Read more >

MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell announced a bid for governor of Minnesota. What to know >

A New Mexico company has recalled nasal spray sold nationwide after it was found to contain "microbial contamination," the FDA said. Recall alert >

Public health officials in South Carolina are racing to get a measles outbreak under control, as reported cases climb above 100. Details >

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