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My seven years portraying President Bartlet on *The West Wing* fostered deep respect for the presidency and its immense daily challenges. Recent events have reminded me of one of President Bartlet’s toughest fictional decisions—allowing a federal prisoner's execution—a choice that continues to resonate. Both my fictional staff and viewers recognized this wasn't President Bartlet's finest moment. I even urged the showrunner, Aaron Sorkin, to rewrite the ending. The on-screen execution was dramatic and believable in 2000 when the episode aired, as capital punishment enjoyed widespread American support. Many leaders, including presidents, held similar views. Just years prior, Bill Clinton interrupted his presidential campaign to oversee the execution of a Black man with an IQ of 70 on Arkansas’s death row. President Biden can make a far better decision by commuting all federal death sentences. He has compelling reasons. We now understand the flaws in the death penalty system better. These include inadequate consideration of brain damage and mental illness, prosecutorial misconduct, deficient defense, and the unacceptable risk of executing innocent individuals. Furthermore, a significant portion of those on federal death row were very young—21 or younger—when they committed their crimes. The death penalty's continued use is increasingly questioned across the political spectrum. We now know more about its inherent fallibility, its immense financial cost, and the profound psychological toll it takes on executioners. My political experience, both on *The West Wing* and in real life, teaches me that a policy with such extreme costs and minimal benefit is a failure. My opposition to the death penalty isn't recent or theoretical. Childhood concerns about the government executing an innocent person for political gain sparked my questioning of its morality. In the 1970s, I played two executed men: a Korean War veteran in *Badlands* (1973) and a soldier executed for desertion in *The Execution of Private Slovik* (1974). These roles highlighted the death penalty's dehumanizing impact on all involved. Most importantly, I've corresponded with and visited a death row inmate for two decades. I've witnessed his deep remorse and understanding of his victim's suffering, his religious reflection, and his transformation. This demonstrates humanity's capacity for growth and change. President Biden made history in 2020 as the first American president to [action omitted]. He can now cement a legacy of justice and compassion by commuting all federal death sentences, with the backing of Catholic leaders, corrections officials, prosecutors, and civil and human rights organizations. He has the chance to save real lives. I urge him to do so.

While Christmas celebrations may offer a temporary reprieve from the intense political divisions in America, Christmas traditions themselves have long been politically charged. Accounts of enslaved people's Christmas experiences continue to have political ramifications, impacting the MAGA movement and Donald Trump's presidency. The "Lost Cause" mythology, propagated by white Southerners after the Civil War, glorified Confederate generals and soldiers while minimizing their treasonous efforts to preserve and expand slavery by destroying the Union. Often overlooked is the "Lost Cause's" role in justifying and glorifying Black slavery. Pre-Civil War Christmas customs in the South were frequently used in this propaganda. Nostalgic depictions of Christmases on Southern plantations obscure the brutality of slavery, enabling politicians to exploit neo-Confederate rhetoric and policies to gain support from white Southern voters. Following the Civil War, and particularly after Reconstruction's temporary empowerment of Black men, white Southerners regained political dominance by the late 1870s. To solidify their power, they produced numerous publications—memoirs, history books, novels, poems, speeches—promoting the false narrative that slavery was generally pleasant and beneficial. This propaganda, largely ignoring African American perspectives, depicted Southern white "masters" and "mistresses" bestowing lavish parties, gifts, and freedom of movement on their enslaved workers during Christmas, without punishment or hardship. These accounts portrayed enslaved people as experiencing a blissful Christmas holiday, deeply grateful for their enslavers' generosity. In reality, enslaved people were frequently sold and whipped, even during Christmas. However, these distorted accounts presented Southern slavery as generally humane. For example, memoirs by former enslavers claimed that masters and slaves engaged in playful Christmas morning games, exchanging gifts. Slaves allegedly wished their owners well and received eggnog. A popular myth claims the length of enslaved people's Christmas holiday depended on a Yule log's burn time. The story goes that slaves chose hardwoods, prolonging the festivities for potentially weeks. Supposedly, enslavers either overlooked or didn't realize this trickery. The implication is that enslavers, who considered Black people their property, were fundamentally kind. In truth, there is minimal verifiable evidence—perhaps only three questionable secondhand accounts—supporting this Yule Log custom's prevalence before the Civil War. It's improbable that enslaved people gained extra holiday time due to stubborn Yule logs. Yet, this charming tale has become ingrained in American folklore, appearing on websites, in plantation tours, books, and various publications, including a 1979 Christmas issue of *[Publication Name]*. This illustrates the insidious pervasiveness of the Lost Cause. It explains why Donald Trump championed this myth during the 2017 Charlottesville violence and why, earlier this year, he advocated for the reinstatement of a Confederate general's name to a military base. The myth minimizes the Confederacy's brutality. The exact impact of this myth on Trump's electoral success is immeasurable. However, this ideology's influence on Southern states undoubtedly contributes to the region's political alignment. Undeniably, Donald Trump's presidency relied on Southern support, and myths about Christmas on Southern plantations are embedded in the culture of the former Confederacy. These myths perpetuate a dangerous misrepresentation of slavery's history. They've been part of our political and cultural landscape since the late 19th century, and Christmas provides an opportunity to critically examine these enduring, consequential legends. Robert E. May is Professor of History Emeritus at Purdue University. He is the author of the just released Debunking the Yule Log Myth: The Disturbing History of a Plantation Legend (Roman & Littlefield Press). Made by History takes readers beyond the headlines with articles written and edited by professional historians. . Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of TIME editors.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced Wednesday the first severe human case of H5N1 avian influenza, or bird flu, in the United States—a zoonotic infection raising concerns. The individual, a southwestern Louisiana resident, was reported infected last Friday. According to Emma Herrock, a Louisiana Department of Health spokesperson, the patient, over 65 and with pre-existing conditions, is experiencing severe respiratory illness from the H5N1 infection and is hospitalized in critical condition. Further updates on their condition will not be released due to patient confidentiality. This is the 61st human H5N1 bird flu case in the U.S. since April. However, the CDC states the overall public health risk remains low, with no U.S. deaths reported. Here’s what to know. What caused the severe infection? The CDC's December 18 announcement indicated that, while under investigation, the patient had contact with sick and dead birds in backyard flocks, marking the first known U.S. case with this origin. Of the 61 cases, 58 were linked to commercial agriculture—37 from dairy herds and 21 from poultry farms and culling operations. The exposure sources for the other two U.S. cases are unknown. What’s the current state of H5N1 human infections? Over half (34) of the U.S. human infections this year occurred in California, with nearly all patients having contact with cattle. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency. The CDC noted that a severe infection like the one in Louisiana was anticipated, given cases in other nations. The World Health Organization reported a Vietnamese patient who died after a diagnosis of severe pneumonia, sepsis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome was later found to have an H5N1 infection. The U.S. appears to have the highest number of H5N1 infections globally this year, according to reports. How can infection be prevented? The CDC recommends avoiding contact with wild birds and other potentially infected animals and their bodily fluids. Those working with cattle and poultry on affected farms are at higher risk and should monitor for symptoms. Thoroughly cooking poultry and poultry products eliminates the risk. While unpasteurized milk from infected cows may pose a risk, the CDC notes it's unclear if the virus transmits through its consumption.

NEW YORK — While it's now a humorous family anecdote, Lisa Highfill remembers the day nearly two decades ago quite differently. She had just parked when her then-eight-year-old son revealed a schoolyard discovery. “My son said, ‘There’s no Santa. You’ve been lying to me’,” recalls Highfill, 56, of Pleasanton, California. “He caught me off guard; I was speechless.” She's not alone. The holidays bring joy, gifts, and the perennial parental dilemma: should we tell children the truth about Santa Claus? (If you don't know the truth, stop reading now!) Santa Claus, the jovial, bearded figure celebrated for centuries as a global gift-giver, is inescapable. He's featured in poems, stories, films, and songs, judging children's behavior and receiving countless treats. Remarkable for someone who doesn't exist. (Spoiler alert too late?) Many parents cherish the magic Many adults believe in perpetuating the Santa myth, offering children a brief period of holiday enchantment before reality sets in. Others are more hesitant, questioning the implications of constant surveillance and the ethicality of parental deception in an age of misinformation. David Kyle Johnson, a philosophy professor at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, worries about parents' lengths to maintain the illusion, denying children's growing suspicions about Santa's logistical capabilities. “It's fun, but you're also teaching critical thinking and evidence evaluation,” Johnson says. “How many adults believe things simply because they want to, because it feels good, or because it confirms their worldview?” Tara Boyce prioritizes honesty with her six- and seven-year-old sons, revealing she's always been Santa and that Christmas doesn't require him. However, she acknowledges that other families have different traditions and discourages her sons from disillusioning their friends. Her sons “love Christmas: the lights, movies, music, cartoons, and all the festive aspects,” says Boyce, 46, of Livermore, California. “They haven’t missed the mystery of Santa, but they appreciate everything else.” The modern ‘Santa’ recipe is multifaceted An American creation blending various European cultures and immigrant traditions, Santa Claus emerged in the 19th century and became firmly ingrained in American culture by the early 20th century. Unlike the Tooth Fairy or Easter Bunny, Santa has a rich, developed backstory, says Thomas Ruys Smith, a professor of American literature and culture at the University of East Anglia. “Where does he live? Is he married? Who makes his toys? Popular culture provides answers,” he notes. “We feel we know Santa Claus.” There's no definitive evidence of harm or benefit from believing in Santa. Candice Mills, a psychology professor at the University of Texas at Dallas, found that negative feelings about discovering the truth were usually short-lived. “They anticipate new traditions, enjoy family celebrations, and continue to appreciate Santa, even knowing it’s not real,” she says. Mills' research also showed many parents planned to, or were already, incorporating Santa traditions, despite their own childhood upset at learning the truth. Highfill and her husband followed family tradition, introducing Santa to their sons. She hadn't considered the conflict with their emphasis on honesty—a lesson her sons had clearly internalized, as the car incident revealed. “He wouldn’t leave the car. He was screaming and crying. He felt deceived, his life was a lie. ‘How could you do this?’” It was significant, yet didn't diminish his holiday enjoyment. It became a shared secret, especially regarding his younger brother. “He wanted to protect his brother's belief,” Highfill says. “He didn't want to spoil it for him.” ```

AVIGNON, France — On Thursday, a five-judge panel in France is delivering verdicts for over 40 men charged with aggravated rape and sexual assault against Gisèle Pelicot. This landmark case has significantly impacted the nation over the past few months. Among the accused is Dominique Pelicot, the 72-year-old ex-husband of the victim. He admitted to drugging his wife of 50 years for years, enabling himself and others he recruited online to assault her while filming the acts. Gisèle Pelicot's ordeal, spanning almost a decade within what she believed to be a loving marriage, and her bravery throughout the challenging trial have made her a national feminist icon. The retired power company employee's strength has become a symbol of resilience. The trial, lasting over three months, energized advocates against sexual violence and fueled calls for stricter measures to combat rape culture. Dominique Pelicot and 49 other men faced trial in Avignon for aggravated rape and attempted rape, facing potential 20-year sentences if convicted. Prosecutors sought the maximum sentence for Dominique Pelicot and 10 to 18-year sentences for the others. A four-year sentence was requested for another defendant charged with aggravated sexual assault. All 51 men were implicated in Dominique Pelicot's abusive schemes, enacted in their retirement home in Mazan and other locations. Dominique Pelicot testified to secretly adding tranquilizers to his wife's food and drink, rendering her unconscious for hours while he carried out his actions. One defendant faced charges not only for assaulting Gisèle Pelicot but also for drugging and raping his own wife—with assistance and drugs provided by Dominique Pelicot, who was also on trial for raping this other man’s wife. The five judges cast secret ballots, requiring a majority vote for conviction and sentencing. Sexual violence campaigners hope for substantial sentences, viewing the trial as a potential turning point in the fight against rape culture and the use of drugs to incapacitate victims. Gisèle Pelicot's decision to forgo anonymity as a sexual abuse survivor and to ensure open court proceedings, including the presentation of shocking evidence like videos, has sparked national conversations in France and within families and social groups about protecting women and men's roles in achieving this goal. “Men are starting to talk to women—their girlfriends, mothers and friends—in ways they hadn’t before,” said Fanny Foures, 48, who, alongside other women from the feminist group Les Amazones, displayed supportive messages for Gisèle Pelicot around Avignon before the verdict. “It was awkward at first, but now real dialogues are happening,” she said. “Some women are realizing, maybe for the first time, that their ex-husbands violated them, or that someone close to them committed abuse,” Foures added. “And men are starting to reckon with their own behavior or complicity—things they’ve ignored or failed to act on. It’s heavy, but it’s creating change.” A large banner near the courthouse read, “MERCI GISELE”—thank you Gisèle. Dominique Pelicot first came under police scrutiny in September 2020, when a supermarket security guard observed him secretly filming women's skirts. Police subsequently discovered a vast collection of images documenting years of abuse against his wife—over 20,000 photos and videos, meticulously organized into folders titled “abuse,” “her rapists,” “night alone,” and others. This substantial evidence led to the identification of other defendants. Investigators identified 72 distinct abusers in the videos, though not all could be identified. While some accused, including Dominique Pelicot, admitted guilt, many others denied the charges despite video evidence. The hearings spurred broader discussions in France about potentially expanding the legal definition of rape to explicitly include consent. Some defendants argued that Dominique Pelicot's consent extended to his wife. Others attempted to justify their actions by claiming they didn't intend to rape anyone when responding to the husband's invitations. Some blamed Dominique Pelicot, alleging he misled them into believing their participation was consensual BDSM. ```

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Israeli airstrikes in Yemen have resulted in at least nine fatalities, according to a Houthi-controlled satellite channel reporting on Thursday. Al-Masirah, citing a correspondent in Hodeida, attributed seven deaths to a port strike and two more at the Ras Isa oil terminal. Following a Houthi missile attack targeting central Israel earlier on Thursday, the Israeli military confirmed the strikes. Israel stated it successfully intercepted the missile before it reached its territory. This action intensifies Israel's campaign against the Iranian-backed Houthis, a group that has thus far avoided the level of intense military action directed at Hamas and Hezbollah. Amidst ongoing direct fire exchanges between Israel and Iran, and the collapse of the Syrian government due to rebel advances, regional conflicts have disrupted Iran's network of proxy groups. Thursday's strikes risk escalating the conflict with the Houthis, whose attacks on the Red Sea shipping lane have significantly impacted global trade. The Israeli military's statement provided no details about the targeted locations. “The targets struck by the (Israeli military) were used by the Houthi forces for military purposes,” the statement explained. “The strikes degrade the Houthi terrorist regime, preventing it from exploiting the targets for military and terrorist purposes, including the smuggling of Iranian weapons to the region.” Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, an Israeli military spokesperson, stated that the strikes targeted energy and port infrastructure allegedly used by the rebels for military actions. “Israel will not hesitate to act in order to defend itself and its citizens from the Houthi attacks,” Hagari affirmed. Hodeida, located approximately 145 kilometers (90 miles) southwest of Sanaa, plays a crucial role in supplying food to Yemen amid its decade-long war. Suspicions persist regarding the port's use for Iranian weapons transfers. These strikes followed the Israeli military's announcement of intercepting a missile launched from Yemen before it entered Israeli airspace. “Rocket and missile sirens were sounded following the possibility of falling debris from the interception,” the Israeli military reported. Sirens activated near Tel Aviv and surrounding areas, accompanied by a loud overhead explosion. While the Houthis haven't yet claimed responsibility for the missile attack, they indicated an important military statement would follow, consistent with their usual practice. Israel previously targeted Hodeida and its oil infrastructure in July, following a Houthi drone attack that killed one and injured 10 in Tel Aviv. American forces have also conducted numerous strikes against the Houthis over the past year in response to Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. On Monday, U.S. Central Command reported striking a Houthi “key command-and-control facility” in Sanaa, later identified as the al-Ardi complex, a former Defense Ministry building. However, Israel appears to have acted independently in Thursday's strikes. The Houthis have targeted approximately 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones since the October 2023 Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, which began with Hamas' surprise attack on Israel, resulting in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and 250 hostages. Israel's Gaza offensive has reportedly killed over 45,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials. The Houthis have seized one vessel and sunk two, resulting in four sailor deaths. Other missiles and drones have been intercepted by U.S.- and European-led coalitions in the Red Sea or missed their targets, which have included Western military vessels. The rebels claim their targeting of ships linked to Israel, the U.S., or the U.K. aims to halt Israel's Gaza campaign. However, many of the targeted ships have minimal or no connection to the conflict, including some bound for Iran. The Houthis are stalemated in a broader Yemen war against a Saudi-led coalition, a conflict that has claimed over 150,000 lives, including civilians, and created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, believed to have caused tens of thousands more deaths.

WASHINGTON — President-elect Trump unexpectedly rejected a bipartisan compromise Wednesday to avert a Christmas government shutdown, demanding House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republicans renegotiate just days before the funding deadline. Trump's intervention and new demands threw Congress into turmoil as lawmakers prepared for the holiday recess, leaving Johnson scrambling for a new plan before Friday's deadline. “Republicans must GET SMART and TOUGH,” Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance declared in a statement. The President-elect proposed a plan combining continued government funding with a controversial debt limit increase—a measure his party typically opposes. “Anything else is a betrayal of our country,” they asserted. Democrats criticized Republicans' rejection of the stopgap measure, which included $100.4 billion in disaster aid for states affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton and other natural disasters. “House Republicans have been ordered to shut down the government and hurt everyday Americans,” stated House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Jeffries insisted that “an agreement is an agreement,” and that Republicans would be responsible for any resulting harm to the American people. The already fragile 1,500-page bill faced collapse as hard-line conservatives opposed increased spending, fueled by Trump's billionaire ally Elon Musk, who rejected the plan soon after its release. Rank-and-file lawmakers voiced concerns over extras, including their first pay raise in over a decade, following a particularly unproductive congressional session. Even the inclusion of $100.4 billion in disaster relief and $10 billion in farm aid failed to sway budget-conscious Republicans. Many Republicans awaited Trump's endorsement before deciding how to vote. “This should not pass,” Musk posted on X early Wednesday morning. One lawmaker reported a deluge of constituent calls. “My phone was ringing off the hook,” said Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky. “The people who elected us are listening to Elon Musk.” The outcome was unsurprising for Johnson, who, like previous Republican House speakers, struggled to unite his party behind essential government operations, preferring cuts instead. This highlights the Republicans' upcoming challenge in unifying their control of the House, Senate, and White House. It also underscores Johnson's reliance on Trump's approval for legislative success. Musk, now heading Trump's Department of Government Efficiency, warned that “Any member of the House or Senate who votes for this outrageous spending bill deserves to be voted out in 2 years!” This isn't an empty threat from Musk, who significantly funded Trump's campaign and can wield his America PAC to influence political careers. Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland decried the situation as an “oligarchy” where a few wealthy individuals control everything, creating fear among others. Senators from both parties observed the events with dismay. “Is this going to be the norm? Is this going to be how we operate?” questioned Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., blaming Johnson. Democrats, who negotiated with Johnson and Senate Republicans, are expected to provide crucial support for passage, as is typical for large bipartisan bills. “Republicans need to stop playing politics,” stated White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. However, Trump's new debt limit demands present a significant challenge for Johnson, who cultivated a close relationship with the President-elect—even texting with Musk and DOGE co-chair Vivek Ramaswamy—only to face his opposition. Trump later reiterated his stance on the debt ceiling: “I will fight ’till the end.” The debt limit expires in 2025, and Trump seeks resolution before returning to the White House—a reasonable goal, but one difficult to negotiate. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy spent months negotiating a debt limit increase with President Biden. Despite a bipartisan deal cutting spending in exchange for increased borrowing, House Republicans deemed it insufficient, costing McCarthy his position. Trump now expects Johnson to pass a debt ceiling extension within 48 hours of a potential government shutdown. The rejected bipartisan package extended existing government programs for a few months, until March 14, 2025. This stopgap measure is necessary because Congress failed to pass annual appropriations bills funding various federal agencies, from defense and national security to domestic services. The bill, however, included additional provisions, such as funding to rebuild Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge and transferring the RFK Stadium site to the District of Columbia, potentially paving the way for a new stadium. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., called it a "junk sandwich," using stronger language. And then there's the pay raise. The bill would have lifted a pay freeze, potentially allowing a 3.8% or $6,600 increase in 2025, raising lawmakers' annual salaries to $180,600, according to a Congressional Research Service report. Members of Congress last received a raise in 2009. —Associated Press writers Mary Clare Jalonick, Matt Brown and Farnoush Amiri contributed to this report.

Activist and organizer Raquel Willis's experience at the inaugural Women’s March on January 20, 2017, highlights the organization's significant evolution.  Willis, a rising social justice leader, recalls limited discussions around transgender experiences. She notes increased trans involvement in social justice, yet acknowledges tensions between cisgender and transgender women, as well as women from diverse backgrounds. The first Women’s March, attracting 500,000 marchers in Washington, D.C., and over 4 million nationwide, was a historic protest, defining opposition to Trump's presidency. However, subsequent years saw internal disagreements, accusations of racism and antisemitism, and strategic debates. Willis questioned focusing solely on Trump, advocating for a broader examination of systemic oppression. Nearly eight years later, the Women’s March has undergone significant changes, addressing past criticism and prioritizing inclusivity for Trump’s second term. The upcoming protest, scheduled for January 18th, is titled the “People’s March,” aiming to unite individuals concerned about a second Trump administration, including diverse groups and demographics. Tamika Middleton, Managing Director of Women’s March, explains that the “People’s March” reflects a community-driven response to concerns about demobilization and demoralization.  Middleton emphasizes the need to counter the perception of a broad mandate for Trump’s policies, showcasing continued resistance. While the Women’s March leads the coalition, numerous organizations representing diverse communities participate in the People’s March. Willis's Gender Liberation Movement is one such collaborator. Middleton stresses the inclusive nature of the People’s March, requiring participation from diverse groups including low-income individuals, the middle class, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and men. The People’s March distinguishes itself from the 2017 Women’s March by discouraging weapons, drugs, and *Handmaid’s Tale* costumes. The website clarifies that the *Handmaid’s Tale* imagery often overshadows the historical control of reproductive freedom faced by marginalized women. The November election results show Vice President Kamala Harris narrowly beating Trump among women, though Trump outperformed Harris with white women. Middleton highlights a broader shift towards systemic change, with people seeking alternatives to the current system. The People’s March aims to present a vision for change that resonates with all. Post-inauguration, organizers plan to engage participants in sustained political action, aiming to cultivate ongoing activism. Middleton describes this as building "protest muscle," moving beyond a single event. Willis agrees, urging reflection on the movement's history as a means of learning and growth, focusing on building something new.

The assassination of a high-ranking Russian general in Moscow represents the most audacious attack yet on a top military official, extending the conflict in Ukraine to the Russian capital. Key details regarding the attack and suspected perpetrators are outlined below: The Incident Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov was killed Tuesday morning when a bomb concealed on an electric scooter detonated near his apartment building's entrance in southeastern Moscow. The explosion occurred as he was leaving for work. Kirillov's aide also perished in the blast. According to Russia's FSB (Federal Security Service), the bomb was remotely triggered. Video footage captured by a car-mounted camera shows the men exiting the building and the subsequent explosion. The Victims Kirillov, 54, headed Russia's Radiation, Biological and Chemical Protection Forces. This specialized unit is responsible for safeguarding the military against the use of nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons by enemies and ensuring operational capabilities in contaminated areas. He was sanctioned by several countries, including the U.K. and Canada, due to his role in the war in Ukraine. On Monday, Ukraine's SBU (Security Service) initiated a criminal investigation, accusing him of employing banned chemical weapons. Russia denies using chemical weapons in Ukraine, reciprocating the accusation against Kyiv. Kirillov, appointed in 2017, was a prominent figure in making these accusations. He frequently held briefings alleging Ukrainian military use of toxic agents and planned radioactive attacks—claims dismissed as propaganda by Kyiv and its Western allies. His assistant, Ilya Polikarpov, also died in the attack. Claim of Responsibility An anonymous SBU official claimed responsibility on Tuesday, describing Kirillov as a “war criminal and a legitimate target.” The SBU official provided the bombing video. Arrests The FSB announced the Wednesday arrest of a suspect, a 1995-born citizen of Uzbekistan. Tass and RIA-Novosti news agencies identified him as Akhmad Kurbanov. The FSB claims the suspect confessed to being recruited by Ukrainian special services. The Associated Press couldn't independently verify the circumstances of this confession. According to the FSB, the suspect stated he was promised $100,000 and relocation to an EU country in exchange for Kirillov's assassination. The FSB alleges that, following Ukrainian instructions, the suspect obtained a homemade bomb, placed it on an e-scooter near Kirillov's building, and used a rented car and livestream camera to monitor and detonate it upon Kirillov's departure. The FSB stated the suspect faces a potential life sentence. Russian media reports indicate the FSB tracked the suspect using surveillance camera footage and cellphone records. Unanswered Questions The FSB hasn't disclosed the suspect's recruitment details. Interior Ministry official Irina Volk informed Tass that he was apprehended in a Moscow region village. His detention location and court appearance remain unknown, though this is expected in the coming days to determine pre-trial detention terms. Russian law permits a maximum of 48 hours of custody before a court order. Russia's Response Russian officials labeled the bombing a “terrorist act.” The Kremlin stated Wednesday that Ukraine's involvement was “obvious,” with spokesman Dmitry Peskov asserting Kyiv employs “terrorist methods.” While President Vladimir Putin hasn't publicly commented, Peskov confirmed he offered condolences. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy head of Russia’s Security Council, called the attack an attempt to deflect attention from military setbacks, promising “inevitable retribution” for Ukraine’s “senior military-political leadership.” Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of the lower house of parliament, lauded Kirillov as “a professional military man, an intellectual, a Russian patriot,” who significantly contributed to Russia's national security. — Illia Novikov in Kyiv, Ukraine, contributed.