What is a Russian penal colony, and what are they like?
The vast network of labor camps was inherited by modern Russia: They used to be the Soviet Union's gulags, and there's little sign they improved since then.
Brittney Griner
U.S. slams Russia for moving Griner "to a remote penal colony"
Griner was sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted for possession of a small quantity of cannabis oil.
Russia moves Brittney Griner to penal colony
Despite talks of a potential prisoner swap, Russia has transferred WNBA star Brittney Griner to a remote prison colony. As Ian Lee reports, the sprawling prison camps have a grim reputation.
U.S. diplomats granted access to Brittney Griner
U.S. Embassy officials in Russia visited imprisoned WNBA star Brittney Griner, who was sentenced to nine years in prison for drug possession. The U.S. is trying to get Griner and Marine veteran Paul Whelan released in a prisoner swap.
U.S. Embassy officials meet with Brittney Griner in Russia
"We are told she's doing as well as can be expected under the circumstances," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said.
Biden on Griner appeal, COVID boosters
A Russian court on Tuesday rejected an appeal by WNBA star Brittney Griner of her nine-year prison sentence for drug possession. CBS News senior White House correspondent Weijia Jiang joins John Dickerson on "Prime Time" to discuss President Biden's response to that news, as well as his latest push for people to get updated COVID-19 booster shots.
President Biden addresses economic concerns
President Biden announced a series of actions aimed at giving American families "more breathing room" in the current economy. CBS News' Lana Zak and Tanya Rivero speak with chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes about his announcement, plus the ongoing efforts to bring Brittney Griner home and Mr. Biden's meeting today with Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Biden "not stopping" efforts to free Griner
Brittney Griner's nine-year sentence was upheld after a Russian court denied her appeal request. The WNBA star is expected to sent to a penal colony following the decision. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes joins "CBS News Mornings" to explain how the White House is responding. Plus she takes a look at what's on the agenda as Israel's president travels to Washington to meet with President Biden.
Russian court upholds Griner's 9-year sentence
American basketball star Brittney Griner suffered a major setback after her appeal was denied by a Moscow court, upholding her 9-year sentence. She'll now be sent to a penal colony -- a type of labor camp known for brutal conditions. Weijia Jiang reports.
Russian court upholds Brittney Griner's 9-year prison sentence
Griner has been sentenced for drug possession after vape canisters containing cannabis oil were found in her luggage.
Russian court upholds Brittney Griner's sentence
A Russian court has upheld WNBA star Brittney Griner's nine-year prison sentence. CBS News anchors Lana Zak and Lilia Luciano spoke with William E. Pomeranz, director of the Wilson Center's Kennan Institute, about her case and what could happen next.
Moscow court denies Brittney Griner appeal
A Moscow court heard American basketball star Brittney Griner's appeal against her nine-year prison sentence for drug possession and denied the request to suspend her sentence. Griner, an eight-time all-star center with the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury and two-time Olympic gold medalist, was convicted after police said they found vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport. Imtiaz Tyab reports.
Gayle King on her interview with Griner's wife
WNBA star Brittney Griner remains imprisoned in Russia, awaiting an October 25 appeals hearing. "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King joins us to discuss her exclusive interview with Griner's wife Cherelle.
Wife says after call with Brittney Griner "I cried…for two or three days"
Brittney Griner remains in a Russian prison ahead of an appeal hearing on Oct. 25.
Brittney Griner's wife on WNBA star's detention
"CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King sat down with the wife of WNBA star Brittney Griner, who is imprisoned in Russia on drug charges and has an appeal hearing on Oct. 25. Cherelle Griner told King she hopes the U.S. can negotiate her wife's release before she is moved to a labor camp.
Brittney Griner is a "hostage," wife says in first interview since sentencing
More of Gayle King's interview with Cherelle Griner will air on "CBS Mornings" on Thursday, October 6.
Exclusive: Brittney Griner's wife speaks out
Brittney Griner's appeal of her nine-year prison sentence in Russia has been scheduled for October 25. "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King sits down exclusively with her wife, Cherelle Griner, for her first interview since Griner's sentencing. She says she feels like her wife is a "hostage."
Seven Americans freed in prisoner swap with Venezuela
Seven Americans have been freed in Venezuela in exchange for two imprisoned nephews of President Nicolás Maduro's wife. Five of the Americans were Houston-based Citgo oil executives being detained on corruption charges. Felicia Schwartz, U.S. foreign affairs and defense correspondent for The Financial Times, joined CBS News' John Dickerson to discuss.
Russian court sets Brittney Griner appeal date for Oct. 25
A Russian court has set a date for American basketball star Brittney Griner's appeal against her nine-year prison sentence for drug possession.
Biden meets with Brittney Griner's family
President Biden met at the White House on Friday with family members of WNBA star Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, both of whom remain jailed in Russia. This was the first in-person encounter between Mr. Biden and the families and happened amid unsuccessful efforts by the administration to secure the Americans' release. Christina Ruffini has the latest.
Biden meets with families of Brittney Griner, Paul Whelan
President Biden met with the families of Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan Friday, both of whom are detained in Russia. The meeting comes as the Biden administration works to free the former U.S. Marine and WNBA star. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes explains the measures being taken to secure their releases.
Biden meets with family members of Griner, Whelan
President Biden met with family members of WNBA star Brittney Griner and Marine veteran Paul Whelan as the administration works to secure their release from Russian prisons. The U.S. has offered a prisoner swap, but said Russia has not responded to the offer. Nancy Cordes shares more.
Biden meets with Griner and Whelan families
President Biden is meeting today with the families of two Americans jailed in Russia. It's the first time Mr. Biden is speaking face to face with the loved ones of WNBA star Brittney Griner and Marine veteran Paul Whelan. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes joins us with more.
Biden to meet with Griner and Whelan families
The families of WNBA star Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan will meet with President Biden at the White House on Friday. Both Griner and Whelan are imprisoned in Russia as the Biden administration tries to negotiate a prisoner swap.
Trevor Reed on freedom after Russian prison
Trevor Reed, who was imprisoned in Russia for nearly three years and was released in a prisoner swap in April, joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss his experience in Russian labor camps and why it's crucial to secure the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner and former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan.
Tony Dokoupil: Don't just trust me. Make me earn it.
"You come first," declares the new anchor of the Evening News. "Not advertisers. Not politicians. Not corporate interests — including the new owners of CBS."
Fire kills dozens at crowded Swiss Alps bar on New Year's
Police in Switzerland say a fire at a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort area is believed to have left about 40 people dead and dozens more injured.
Live
Watch Live: NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani's inauguration, address to New Yorkers
Zohran Mamdani was sworn in early Thursday as the 112th mayor of New York City. The democratic socialist is the city's first Muslim mayor, as well as one of its youngest ever.
Price hikes hit ACA health insurance plans as subsidies expire
Enhanced tax credits that have helped Americans offset the cost of Affordable Care Act health insurance for the last four years expired overnight.
Trump says he underwent CT scan, not MRI, during October examination
"In retrospect, it's too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," President Trump told The Wall Street Journal.
Everything we know about Minnesota's massive fraud schemes
A viral social media video has put Minnesota's long-running fraud scandal at the center of the national conversation. Here's what to know.
At least 6 reported killed during Iran protests over struggling economy
The deaths may mark the start of a heavier-handed response by Iran's theocracy over the demonstrations, which have slowed in Tehran but expanded elsewhere.
Coast Guard searches for 77-year-old woman who went overboard from cruise ship
The woman was a passenger on the Nieuw Statendam cruise ship, which was roughly 40 miles northeast of Sabana, Cuba, when she went overboard, the Coast Guard said.
U.S. reduces proposed tariffs on Italian pasta, Italy says
Steep U.S. import duties targeting 13 Italian pasta makers will be sharply reduced, Italy's foreign ministry said on Jan. 1.
U.S.
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Trump says he underwent CT scan, not MRI, during October examination
"In retrospect, it's too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," President Trump told The Wall Street Journal.
Coast Guard searches for 77-year-old woman who went overboard from cruise ship
The woman was a passenger on the Nieuw Statendam cruise ship, which was roughly 40 miles northeast of Sabana, Cuba, when she went overboard, the Coast Guard said.
U.S. reduces proposed tariffs on Italian pasta, Italy says
Steep U.S. import duties targeting 13 Italian pasta makers will be sharply reduced, Italy's foreign ministry said on Jan. 1.
Trump administration delays tariff increases on furniture, kitchen cabinets
The one-year delay comes as President Trump has rolled back some other import duties amid affordability concerns.
What's open on New Year's Day 2026? See which stores are operating.
Banks, post offices and major stock exchanges will be closed in observance of the federal holiday, but some stores are open.
MoneyWatch
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U.S. reduces proposed tariffs on Italian pasta, Italy says
Steep U.S. import duties targeting 13 Italian pasta makers will be sharply reduced, Italy's foreign ministry said on Jan. 1.
Trump administration delays tariff increases on furniture, kitchen cabinets
The one-year delay comes as President Trump has rolled back some other import duties amid affordability concerns.
Price hikes hit ACA health insurance plans as subsidies expire
Enhanced tax credits that have helped Americans offset the cost of Affordable Care Act health insurance for the last four years expired overnight.
What's open on New Year's Day 2026? See which stores are operating.
Banks, post offices and major stock exchanges will be closed in observance of the federal holiday, but some stores are open.
Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Politics
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Trump says he underwent CT scan, not MRI, during October examination
"In retrospect, it's too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," President Trump told The Wall Street Journal.
Trump administration delays tariff increases on furniture, kitchen cabinets
The one-year delay comes as President Trump has rolled back some other import duties amid affordability concerns.
Price hikes hit ACA health insurance plans as subsidies expire
Enhanced tax credits that have helped Americans offset the cost of Affordable Care Act health insurance for the last four years expired overnight.
Live
Watch Live: NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani's inauguration, address to New Yorkers
Zohran Mamdani was sworn in early Thursday as the 112th mayor of New York City. The democratic socialist is the city's first Muslim mayor, as well as one of its youngest ever.
Zohran Mamdani sworn in, becoming NYC's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
HealthWatch
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Price hikes hit ACA health insurance plans as subsidies expire
Enhanced tax credits that have helped Americans offset the cost of Affordable Care Act health insurance for the last four years expired overnight.
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Flu cases spiking this holiday season, CDC data shows
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 32 jurisdictions are showing "high" or "very high" levels of flu.
New California tortilla law aims to decrease birth defects in Latino babies
Mom-and-pop shops will be exempt from this change, but big manufacturers in California will need to start adding folic acid to tortillas beginning January 1.
Advances in treatment for Alzheimer's disease
The number of Americans with Alzheimer's disease is expected to double from 7 million in 2020 to 14 million by 2060, according to the CDC. However, advances in treatment options are giving more people hope in slowing the decline. Dr. Jon LaPook breaks it down.
World
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At least 6 reported killed during Iran protests over struggling economy
The deaths may mark the start of a heavier-handed response by Iran's theocracy over the demonstrations, which have slowed in Tehran but expanded elsewhere.
Pope starts 2026 with prayer for countries "bloodied by conflict"
Pope Leo XIV celebrated a New Year's Day Mass in St. Peter's Basilica and then delivered a special noontime prayer from his studio overlooking the piazza.
Fire kills dozens at crowded Swiss Alps bar on New Year's
Police in Switzerland say a fire at a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort area is believed to have left about 40 people dead and dozens more injured.
France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
British boxer Anthony Joshua released from hospital after crash in Nigeria
The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a fatal road crash near Lagos on Monday.
Entertainment
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France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Noah Wyle on authenticity of "The Pitt"
The hit series "The Pitt" has earned praise for its realistic look at the pressures facing health care workers. Chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook spoke to the star of the show, Noah Wyle, for "CBS Sunday Morning." Wyle talked about how the cast prepared for their roles beyond learning their lines before shooting the series even began.
Here's who's performing on New Year's Eve to ring in 2026
Here's what to know about the lineup of performances scheduled for New Year's Eve, as crowds gather in Times Square to ring in 2026.
Isiah Whitlock Jr., actor known for his roles in "The Wire" and "Veep," dies at 71
Isiah Whitlock Jr. is perhaps best known for his role as state Sen. R. Clayton "Clay" Davis on HBO's "The Wire."
Technology
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Technology
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
OpenAI hiring for head safety executive to mitigate AI risks
The company's investment in safety prevention comes amid growing concerns over the potential harm of artificial intelligence.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Instacart ending AI price tests for retailers
Instacart says its ending its controversial system of using AI price tests for retailers. Earlier this month, an investigation by Consumer Reports and progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative found that Instacart's algorithmic pricing charged various prices for the same item from the same store. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Tech companies push for data centers
Massive tech companies wanting to build more data centers in the U.S. are lobbying for support among Americans, according to a recent report by POLITICO. Gabby Miller joins CBS News with more on her reporting.
Science
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2025 was so hot it pushed Earth past critical climate change mark
2025 was the third hottest year on record and pushed Earth past a critical climate change mark, scientists say.
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Crime
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Crime
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Day care in Minneapolis vandalized after viral video purporting fraud
A Minneapolis day care says that vandals damaged the facility early this week, after a YouTube video purporting to expose fraud among day cares in the Twin Cities metro area went viral.
New details on charges against Stefon Diggs
Patriots star Stefon Diggs is facing charges of strangulation, assault and battery following an incident in Massachusetts earlier this month. Diggs' attorney, David Meier, said in a statement that the wide receiver "categorically denies" the allegations and "looks forward to establishing the truth" in court. CBS News Boston's Aaron Parseghian has more.
New Orleans marks 1 year since terror attack
New Orleans is marking one year since 14 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a terror attack on the city's iconic Bourbon Street. Kati Weis spoke to the family of one of the victims about how they're remembering their loved one.
Space
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Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Mornings Deals, we show you items that might just become essentials in your everyday life. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.
A look back at "CBS Mornings" in 2025
"CBS Mornings" looks back at favorite moments from 2025 as the new year kicks off.
Deadly New Year's fire at Swiss Alps bar
Dozens of people are presumed dead and about 100 others are injured after a fire tore through a bar at a Swiss Alps ski resort, police say. Authorities are working to determine the cause, but do not believe it was an attack.
New Year's celebrations around the world
Hundreds of thousands of people braved the cold weather in New York City to watch the iconic ball drop in Times Square on New Year's Eve. Meanwhile in London, fireworks lit up the sky to welcome 2026 and there were drone displays in the United Arab Emirates.
Dokoupil: Don't just trust me. Make me earn it.
"You come first," declares the new anchor of the Evening News. "Not advertisers. Not politicians. Not corporate interests — including the new owners of CBS."