Today’s edition of quick hits.
* In the Middle East: “The Biden administration is open to the possibility of new ways to stop the fighting in Gaza and free hostages there, U.S. officials say. Just before departing Tel Aviv on Wednesday morning, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken told reporters that he discussed new options in a Tuesday meeting with the families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza.”
* In related news: “As Israel escalates its offensive in Lebanon, where it has killed dozens of Hezbollah members, including its top leaders, Blinken said it was ‘absolutely critical’ that the warring parties move back from the border between the two nations ‘and that we can create an environment in which people on both sides of the border can return to their homes in peace and security.’”
* An important confirmation: “North Korea has sent troops to Russia, the United States said Wednesday, its first public confirmation of a move that has rattled Western allies and could mark a major escalation of Moscow’s war in Ukraine.”
* Speaking of the war in Ukraine: “The Group of 7 nations will announce on Wednesday a finalized plan to give Ukraine a $50 billion loan using Russia’s frozen central bank assets, according to Biden administration officials. The loan represents an extraordinary maneuver by Western nations to essentially force Russia to pay for the damage it is inflicting on Ukraine through a war that shows no sign of ending.”
* In Arizona: “Tempe police arrested Jeffrey Michael Kelly on Tuesday night in connection with the shooting at three Democratic Party offices in Tempe and leaving bags of white powder on political signs in Ahwatukee Foothills. Kelly, 60, was charged with seven felony counts and three misdemeanor counts relating to the shootings, including terrorism and unlawful discharge, according to Tempe police.” * Good move: “The Biden administration on Wednesday announced the finalized version of a federal rule tightening standards for exposure to lead paint dust.” * Headed home: “After weeks of delays due to inclement weather, three astronauts and a cosmonaut are finally set to leave the International Space Station on Wednesday, wrapping up an almost eight-month stint in orbit.” See you tomorrow.
Steve Benen is a producer for "The Rachel Maddow Show," the editor of MaddowBlog and an MS NOW political contributor. He's also the bestselling author of "Ministry of Truth: Democracy, Reality, and the Republicans' War on the Recent Past."
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