New York Times

1. Assad, Ousted Syrian Ruler, Leads Life of Luxury in Russia

   Bashar al-Assad’s long, brutal reign ended swiftly, but he and his close circle have had a soft landing in Russia.

2. After the Assad Regime’s Fall, His Enforcers Are Lying Low and Living Large

   A Times investigation into the whereabouts of top Syrian officials who fled after the regime’s fall shows many remain free — shielded by wealth and accommodating host nations.

3. Trump Administration Oil Tanker Seizures Are Meant to Force Maduro Out, Officials Say

   Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the ship seizures were meant to force Venezuela’s president Nicolás Maduro from power.

4. Judge Tells U.S. to Help Bring Back Deported Venezuelans or Allow Legal Challenges

   The judge said the administration had to decide by Jan. 5 whether it wanted to “facilitate” the men’s return to the United States or let them contest their initial removals in the federal courts.

5. Lawmaker Sues to Remove Trump’s Name From the Kennedy Center

   Representative Joyce Beatty, Democrat of Ohio, argues that only Congress is authorized to rename the D.C. performing arts institution.