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The European Union is considering Ukraine’s bid to join the club.
Tell me more.
Yesterday, 26 EU leaders agreed to begin accession talks with Ukraine during the bloc’s summit in Brussels. The historic move came after Hungary abstained from the vote in disagreement. Ukraine applied to join the bloc nearly two years ago — days after Russia’s invasion in February 2022. That’s because EU membership could grant the war-torn country greater security from countries like Russia and provide a path towards wealth. Now, Ukraine is one step closer to joining the bloc. But this is just the beginning.
What do you mean?
Ukraine’s membership approval could take a decade or longer. The reason: The EU requires all aspiring members to get up to speed on its standards and rules. It's why other candidates like Serbia, Albania, and Bosnia have been in membership talks for years. Still, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the EU's decision a “victory” for his country. The European Council President said the agreement shows the EU's “strength.” Meanwhile, Hungary blocked the EU's nearly $55 billion aid package for Ukraine. The bloc plans to resume negotiations on aid next month.
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If Ukraine joined the EU today, it would be the fifth most populous country in the bloc and the poorest. Now, the EU must decide whether that choice is worth potentially disrupting its market and dragging itself into conflict with Russia.
Yesterday, reports revealed the Biden administration is urging Israel to wind down its ground and air offensive in Gaza in the coming weeks. Instead, the US reportedly wants Israel to carry out more targeted attacks in Gaza to destroy Hamas tunnels, kill Hamas leaders, and rescue hostages. The Biden admin’s comments come as Israel's defense minister said yesterday that it’ll take “more than several months” to destroy Hamas — signaling that its ground offensive is far from over.
The US’s push for a new direction in the war is the latest example of it not seeing eye-to-eye with Israel, amid Gaza’s growing humanitarian crisis. Since the war began, more than 18,700 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, and half of the territory’s population is starving. Meanwhile, Israel’s mass arrest of hundreds of Palestinian men is raising backlash amid reports that detainees are being stripped of their clothes and given limited access to food or water. Israel reportedly says they’re treating detainees “according to protocol.”
And Also...This
What's making a mad dash before going on break…
Congress. Yesterday, the House passed an $886 billion defense bill with bipartisan support — a day after the Senate approved the measure. The bill's been months in the making and doesn't include restrictions on the Pentagon's abortion travel policy or transgender care — provisions far-right Republicans had pushed for. As for what the legislation does include, there’s a 5.2% pay increase for service members and Pentagon employees and expanded military partnerships in the Indo-Pacific — China’s backyard. There's also $300 million for Ukraine — separate from the $61 billion currently up for debate in the House. An extension of a controversial surveillance program that targets foreign nationals is also included, amid ongoing negotiations. The bill now heads to President Biden’s desk, who’s expected to sign it.
What might’ve recently binged “The Sopranos”...
Temu. Earlier this week, the online retailer filed a lawsuit accusing Shein of “mafia-style intimidation” tactics against Temu suppliers. Since it first launched in 2022, Boston-based Temu has been chipping away at Shein’s market share through its heavily discounted goods from China. Now, Temu alleges that Shein is taking merchants’ cellphones to snoop for confidential business info. This suit comes weeks after both companies dropped previous lawsuits against each other over copyright and antitrust concerns. Shein said the latest lawsuit is “without merit.”
Who is stirring up controversy (again)…
Ye. Today, the rapper, formerly known as Kanye West, is expected to release his latest album “Vultures” — a collaboration with Ty Dolla $ign. This will be Ye’s first album since making antisemitic remarks last year, when he said he’d go “death con 3 on Jewish people.” At the album’s listening party earlier this week, he wore what looked like a black KKK-style hood. Now, critics are calling out artists like Nicki Minaj, Offset, Quavo, and Chris Brown for being in the album — and standing with Ye after his comments. The album’s release comes amid a surge in antisemitism in the US, with the Anti-Defamation League reporting a 337% surge since the October 7th attacks.
Who actually won’t be able to help with the dishes…
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That’s the percentage of Americans who say they typically use all their vacation days. That’s right: less than half.
If this stat has you ready to write your OOO message ASAP, Virgin Voyages is here to help. Their award-winning, adults-only trips come with gorgeous views, inspiring itineraries, and endless entertainment. Still not convinced? Maybe their 20+ Michelin-approved dining options and super-yacht inspired cabins will win you over. Did we mention they’re offering up to 70% off a second sailor and up to $600 in free drinks on select voyages? Go ahead, reserve your spot. You know you want to.
Gifts, Gifts, Gifts
So you’ve got a fashion person on your hands. They’re the one who keeps you in the loop of what’s trending…but when it comes to picking out a gift for them, you’re at a loss. That’s why you have us. Check out:
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Cutting-edge devices that’ll help you hear the important stuff.
These tiny, game-changing hearing aids have helped 385K+ happy customers tune out the noise and hear what matters. Plus, they’re smartphone and Bluetooth compatible, practically invisible, and German-engineered for crystal clarity. Hear, hear.*
2. Human-grade dog food that checks all the boxes.
This brand’s fresh kibble alternative is made with real meats and veggies. And gives your pup key nutrients so they stay healthy. The best part? Skimm’rs get 60% off their first box.*
3. A third-generation auto industry worker’s rise to the top.
In our latest episode of “9 to 5ish,” we chat with Cynthia Williams — Ford’s Global Director of Sustainability, Homologation, and Compliance — about talking to leaders, using career flexibility to your advantage, and what homologation actually means.*
Still need a holiday party outfit? Haven’t found a gift for someone on your list? Saks OFF 5TH has you covered. Now through Dec 19, get an extra 25% off every. single. thing. when you spend $150+.*
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Not alone…Megan V (CA). She recently started a Substack in hopes of helping other moms feel more supported at work after their maternity leave.
(Some) Birthdays…theSkimm's Gabbie Amboss (NY), theSkimm's Sarah Hong (NY), Natalie Rowe Alexander (IL), Liz Antonelli (NY), Bernadine Bednarz (CA ), Gina Telymonde (PA), Chelsea Webster (OH), Mandy Schnirel (CO), Sumeeth Jonathan (TN), Alyssa Collins (LA), Shirley Garson (WV), Kevin Ward (NY), Diane Ranger (MI), Ashley Crane (CA), Kenya Dawkins (TX)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm'd by: Rashaan Ayesh, Chantal Vaca, Maria del Carmen Corpus, and Julie Shain
Photos by KENZO TRIBOUILLARD via Getty Images, Brand Partners, Free People
