In this episode of the NPR Up First podcast, we dive into three significant stories. First, we explore President-elect Trump's unconventional choices for his second-term cabinet, which raise questions about his approach to foreign policy. Next, we discuss a landmark $42 million jury award granted to three Iraqi survivors of the Abu Ghraib torture, underscoring the ongoing fight for accountability regarding wartime abuses. Finally, we examine the UK's bold climate commitment at the COP29 summit, especially in light of the expected lack of US leadership with Trump back in office. The podcast unpacks the implications of these developments, from potential Senate confirmations to the challenges faced by victims seeking justice for US military actions, as well as the evolving global climate action landscape.