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Gingerbread Cookies

These cookies are warmly spiced, with crisp edges and soft centers—perfect for holiday decorating and eating. Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar ¾ cup unsulfured molasses 1 large egg Instructions Mix dry ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Cream butter & sugar : In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add molasses and egg. Combine : Gradually add dry mixture until dough forms. Chill dough : Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Roll & cut : Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Bake : Place on parchment-lined sheets and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until edges are set. Cool & decorate : Let cool com...

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U.S. Leverages Starlink Access in Critical Minerals Negotiations with Ukraine

In a high-stakes negotiation, U.S. officials have reportedly threatened to cut off Ukraine's access to the Starlink satellite internet system, owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX, if Kyiv does not agree to a deal on critical minerals. Starlink has been a lifeline for Ukraine, providing crucial internet connectivity amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

The issue was raised during discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected an initial proposal from U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The proposal demanded $500 billion in mineral wealth from Ukraine as repayment for wartime aid, without offering specific security guarantees.

During a recent meeting, U.S. Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg reiterated the threat of cutting off Starlink access if an agreement on critical minerals was not reached. The potential loss of Starlink would be a significant blow to Ukraine, which relies on the system for military operations and civilian communications.

Despite the pressure, Zelenskyy has remained firm in his stance, rejecting demands that he believes do not adequately protect Ukraine's interests. Negotiations are ongoing, with both sides working towards a potential agreement.




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