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CNN Live Today

Bush Thanks Canadians for 9/11 Support; Pressure Builds for Intel Reform; Ukraine Government Votes Out New Government

Aired December 01, 2004 - 10:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


RICK SANCHEZ, CNN CO-ANCHOR: In fact, today's theme is all about thank you. Not just from us to you, but also from the president of the United States.
DARYN KAGAN, CNN CO-ANCHOR: And we'll be hearing from the president in about 20 minutes, we expect, from Nova Scotia in Canada. Right now, let's take a look at what's happening now in the news.

President Bush beginning the second day of his Canadian visit with a speech this hour in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Mr. Bush has been greeted with protests. He will thank Halifax and other Canadian cities for their hospitality in the days surrounding the 9/11 attack. Residents in those cities took in Americans travelers stranded there when the U.S. closed its air space on 9/11

Ukraine's parliament has issued a vote of no confidence in that country's bitterly disputed presidential election. That sacks the newly named government of Moscow-backed, candidate Viktor Yushchenko. He was declared the winner, despite many exit polls showing the opposition candidate a clear winner. That fueled suspicions of election fraud.

In Iraq, U.S. and Iraqi forces have arrested some 210 suspected militants in the weeklong operation dubbed Operation Plymouth Rock. The offensive focused on a region called known as the Triangle of Death, and ominously named for its level of insurgent-backed violence. Operation Plymouth Rock is aimed at quelling that violence ahead of the January elections.

This is World AIDS Day. And women and girls are the subject of a sobering warning. United Nations officials are warning that females are facing ever-increasing risks of infection. As of now, at least 38 million people worldwide are HIV-positive. Female's now account for 47 percent of that number.

And good morning. Thanks for being here with us. I'm Daryn Kagan.

SANCHEZ: And I'm Rick Sanchez. We're going to begin with the president in Canada, once again. President Bush is wrapping up his visit aimed at trying to warm relations with the U.S. neighbor. after holding talks with Prime Minister Paul Martin in Ottawa, Mr. Bush travels to Halifax this morning. The president delivers a speech in just a couple of minutes where he's going to thank Canadians for helping American travelers after 9/11, among other things we understand. CNN's Suzanne Malveaux is joining us now from Ottawa to tell us more about the speech and other things.

Which I understand is not just going to be about thank yous', but also is going to talk policy, right?

SUZANNE MALVEAUX, CNN WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT: Absolutely, Rick. He is going to give his broad vision of the next four years. We saw President Bush's Air Force 1 arriving just moments ago in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He's running about 30 minutes late or so, because of snowy weather. Air Force 1 had to deiced earlier this morning in Ottawa.

What we expect the president to do is address the Canadian people directly this morning. He's going to make the case that America's neighbor is a natural ally in the war on terror. and he's going to cite the moments immediately following the September 11 attacks, talking about how Canadians took in some 30,000 Americans who were stranded, many of their flights diverted to Canada during that time.

But of course, as President Bush realized yesterday, certainly U.S.-Canadian relations since then have become strained.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

(CHANTING)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Bush go home!

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Bush go home!

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Bush go home!

MALVEAUX (voice-over): Thousands of Canadians demonstrated against President Bush's visit, protesting everything from the Iraq War to America's ban on Canadian beef. Mr. Bush used his joint appearance with Prime Minister Paul Martin to make light of it.

GEORGE W. BUSH (R), PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I frankly felt like the reception we received on the way in from the airport was warm and hospitable. and I want to thank the people who came out to wave with all five fingers...

(LAUGHTER)

BUSH: ... for their hospitality.

MALVEAUX: Despite presenting a united front, the two leaders have not resolved their differences over Canada's banned beef and taxed lumber. But they vowed to work together in the war on terror.

BUSH: Canada and the United States share a history, a continent and a border. We also share a commitment to freedom and a willingness to defend it in times of peril.

MALVEAUX: Away from the protests, pomp and pleasantries. Wednesday, Mr. Bush delivers a big thank you to the Canadians in the Eastern Provinces, who helped the more than 30,000 Americans who had become stranded there immediately following the September 11 attacks. The president will address those Canadian volunteers during his brief visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

MALVEAUX: And Rick, of course, this is seen really as just a first step when it comes to fence-mending efforts. President Bush, of course, is going to be traveling to Europe early next year to continue those diplomatic efforts -- Rick.

SANCHEZ: We do also have some pictures we can share. In fact, if we could, let's go over to Router 61 and you'll see some of the protesters. Now, these are not pictures from yesterday in Ottawa. These are pictures that were taken for you right now from the area of Halifax, where the president will be going today. Some of the reports we got were that there will be some protesters. No sense of just how many.

Suzanne, have you got a better handle on what we're expecting today from some of these demonstrators?

MALVEAUX: We don't expect that the crowds are going to be as large. And part of that reason, of course, is that the people who are going to be recognized are essentially invited to this event. They are the volunteers that participated shortly after the September 11 attacks. Many people who they identified, who wanted to be a part of this celebration. But of course, Rick, as expected yes, you're going to have those protests.

What both leaders are emphasizing today, and what they emphasized yesterday is despite some of the disagreements of two nations have had particularly over policy, Iraq policy, that they share common concerns and strategies, particularly when it comes to security and trade. That those are the kinds of things, the issues they're going to have to put behind, even get over if they're going to make that relationship work.

SANCHEZ: Yes. We saw some reports this morning where Halifax city officials were trying to tell some of the people there to perhaps tone down the protests. After all, the president is going there to say thank you to them.

Before we let you go, the president's plate when he returns to Washington, a busy one as well, right -- Suzanne?

MALVEAUX: That's right. The president, of course, it's snowy weather but he's going to get back to Washington after this event. he's going to be participating and recognizing Noble Prizewinners at the White House. And then in the week to come, of course, he is still going to continue those diplomatic efforts. He has important meetings with leaders from Pakistan, as well as Nigeria.

SANCHEZ: Suzanne Malveaux following things there for us. thank you so much, Suzanne -- Daryn. KAGAN: Now back to Washington. Twenty-two years in public service, Tom Ridge says he plans to spend more time on personal and family matters. He announced yesterday he is resigning as Department of Homeland Security secretary. That is effective February 1, unless a successor is confirmed earlier.

Some of the names being bandied about as possible replacements; take a look at the screen. They include: Homeland Security adviser Frances Townsend, EPA administrator Mike Leavitt, and former Virginia Governor James Gilmore, and Asa Hutchinson, undersecretary for Border and Transportation Security in the Homeland Security Department.

Time is running out for Congress to pass any intelligence reform bill this session. With lawmakers reconvening next week, a call has gone out for President Bush to come to Capitol Hill as well.

Our Ed Henry has more on that.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ED HENRY, CNN CONGRESSIONAL CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Tom Kean and Lee Hamilton huddled with Vice President Cheney in a final blitz for the stalled intelligence bill. The former 9/11 Commission co- chairs are also making their case to Congress, warning of dire consequences.

TOM KEAN, CO-CHAIRMAN, 9/11 COMMISSION: Reform is an urgent matter. And reform simply must not wait until after the next attack.

HENRY: President Bush insists he wants a deal, despite the objections of Republican Committee chairman James Sensenbrenner and Duncan Hunter.

BUSH: I believe the bill is necessary and important. and hope we can get it done next week.

HENRY: But one Republican lawmaker suggested if House leaders failed to schedule a vote next week, the president should get the blame.

REP. CHRISTOPHER SHAYS (R), CONNECTICUT: If we don't have a vote on September 11, it will be my feeling that the president didn't weigh in strong enough.

HENRY: Besides the divide between powerful Republicans, there's a split among 9/11 families. Some say reform can't wait.

BEVERLY ECKERT, 9/11 FAMILY STEERING COMMITTEE: America will be watching what Congress does next week to see who is really running this country. Is it Congressmen Hunter and Sensenbrenner? Is it the Pentagon? Or is it the president?

HENRY: But one woman who lost her son on 9/11 argued passionately that this bill isn't strong enough, and Sensenbrenner's immigration provisions should be included. JOAN MOLINARO, 9/11 FAMILIES FOR SECURE AMERICA: No bill should pass the Senate, the House, anywhere unless it contains immigration reform. You secure or borders. You keep my girls alive. You allowed the murder of my son. I will not allow you to kill my daughters.

HENRY (on camera): Republican Congressman Chris Shays challenged President Bush to come to Capitol Hill next week and make his case for the legislation. Shays is convinced that a direct appeal from the president will sway a majority of Republicans and get this bill done.

Ed Henry, CNN, Capitol Hill.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

SANCHEZ: And we turn now to another story that we've been following for you. There are new developments today surrounding Ukraine's contested presidential elections.

CNN's Jill Daugherty, once again, following the story for us. She is joining us via videophone to bring us up to date on what's happened overnight.

What is it -- Jill?

JILL DOUGHERTY, CNN MOSCOW BUREAU CHIEF: Well, Rick, you know, it's a very complicated, very fast-moving game right now. But here's the latest. The good news is, those two candidates, the government- backed candidate and the opposition candidate, are finally sitting down at the same table. They're there with the president of Ukraine, and also international representatives, among them Javier Salana from the European Union. And finally, after those talks broke off, they are sitting down at the same table and talking. It's very, very good news.

Now, for the opposition, that is Viktor Yushchenko, the Western- leaning candidate. He had some good news today. In the parliament, they took a vote of no confidence in the government. The government, of course, run by the Prime Minister, Mr. Yanukovych, who happens to be the man who is declared the winner of this contested election. So it was really good news.

They were high-fiving, literally inside that parliament and with their arm scarves, the symbol of the opposition. And outside, people were very excited as well, because they had been standing out there looking at this on TV screens in the cold.

Finally, you have another event going on. No finish line at this point, but the Supreme Court is hearing complaints from the opposition, who say that those -- these elections were so marred by so many irregularities, that they simply cannot let these stand.

So there you have it, a lot of events. And finally, down at Independence Square, once again, it's dark again here in Kiev, and they're still on the streets 10 days and running.

SANCHEZ: Jill Daugherty, once again bringing us up to date on the ever-evolving story. We thank you, Jill -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Well, still to come, President Bush will be thanking the people of Canada. A live picture there from Halifax, Nova Scotia. He's thanking those that took in stranded travelers on 9/11. We'll take you there live when the president begins to speak.

SANCHEZ: Also when tragedy struck on 9/11, there was one Iraqi in Canada who hurried to lend a hand. A look back at his good deed and what he has to say about President Bush's war in Iraq.

KAGAN: And the fate of a New York firefighter who went to the rescue on 9/11. And then signed up to help in Iraq. We'll tell you his story coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Live pictures from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. President Bush on the second of his two-day visit to the country to the north of the United States. He is expected to, in this speech, thank the many people who live in Nova Scotia who took in American travelers, who were stranded after U.S. air space was closed on 9/11. We will go live to Canada as soon as the president begins to speak.

SANCHEZ: And now let's talk about the fight in Iraq. First an update on the prisoner abuse scandal there in Iraq. A central figure in the case, U.S. Army Private First Class Lynndie England is back in military court this hour for undisclosed pretrial motions. Her trial is scheduled for next month.

U.S. and Iraqi forces detained 15 suspected militants in Babil Province today. Those captures are part of Operation Plymouth Rock. It targets insurgents south of Baghdad. Two hundred and 10 suspected militants have been rounded up in a weeklong operation thus far.

And New York City firefighter who responded to the 9/11 attacks has been killed in Iraq. Sergeant Christian Engeldrum's vehicle came under attack just outside of Baghdad. Engeldrum spent months digging through the rubble of the New York Trade Center. He's the first New York City firefighter to die in Iraq since the war began.

KAGAN: Want to go back to the topic of President Bush's impending speech in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Mr. Bush will continue trying to build bridges and stress America's longstanding friendship with Canada. He's invited about 300 guests who help housed American travelers left stranded by the attacks.

In all, more than 40 U.S.-bond aircrafts were diverted to Halifax on 9/11. Nearly 8,000 passengers were aboard those flights that were grounded. Many were housed in area schools sports centers, private homes and at a military base.

For a closer look, we're going to turn to Michelle Mitchler. She has a report from Halifax.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE) MICHELLE MITCHLER, GLOBAL TELEVISION NEWS CORRESPONDENT (voice- over): When thousands of passengers were stranded in Halifax after 9/11, Talib Abidali (ph) man didn't hesitate.

TALIB ABIDALI, CANADIAN BUSINESSMAN: That day, we asked, what can we do? And there is nothing, you know, a specific thing to do it. But we want to do something. And my partner just went to the airport and drive a lot of people, you know, American people. And we put them in our condos.

MITCHLER: Abidali is an Iraqi. His business partner Hosein Musrafvi (ph) is from Iran. They put up six Americans for three days in condos they own. He says it's the Canadian way. Abidali and his family have been in Halifax for 13 years.

ABIDALI: It's a beautiful city. I'm happy with my family and my partner. We are so happy.

MITCHLER: And he's happy with the president's invasion of Iraq.

ABIDALI: We are working like a partner and States give Iraq a big favor when we get rid from Saddam. Again, we want to build a new Iraq. And to build it should be in a peaceful way.

MITCHLER: But not everyone agrees with Bush's foreign policy. Dr. Ishmael Zayed, head of the Canadian-Palestinian Association says President Bush is a war criminal.

ISHMAEL ZAYED, CANADIAN-PALESTINIAN ASSOC.: The legal occupation of Iraq since March of last year is an illegal occupation, in violation of international law and in defiance of the Security Council.

MITCHLER: He says he applauds the anti-Bush message.

ZAYED: For a country like Canada, which we claim to uphold international law and international legitimacy, I don't think he's welcome. And I think the -- quite a significant portion of our people in this country are opposed to the policies of the United States. And hence, do not see George Bush as a welcome visitor.

MITCHLER: In Halifax, this is Global's Michelle Mitchler reporting.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

SANCHEZ: And this is obviously the story we'll be staying on top of. It's a thank you from President Bush. It's just ahead. In fact, we're going to take you live to Halifax, Nova Scotia. That's where the president does have a message for the people of Canada.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: 'Tis the season for giving, or for shopping, or for the spending impaired. Sounds like a "Seinfeld" episode, regifting. That is a practice somewhat less than proud, of passing along an unwanted gift you've received and you just kind of give it to somebody else. Whether it's thrifty or tacky, here are the "Top Five Tips" or recycling presents.

And for that we bring in personal finance editor Gerri Willis, who must have done a lot of research for this, because I'm sure a classy lady like you has never regifted.

(LAUGHTER)

GERRI WILLIS, CNN-FN PERSONAL FINANCE EDITOR: Well, you know, you've got to do some real research, roll up your shirt sleeves, right? We actually went and talked to some holiday shoppers about what they think of regifting.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Regifting is a wonderful idea. Because then you kind of can recycle everything around at holiday time.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I can't believe people would do that. It's just thoughtless.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I have never regifted. I've never done that. But I'm sure if I started, it would be a slippery slope.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: We caught him one year because he accidentally left a tag on.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I think it's OK if that the other people don't know about it.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: One person's horrible gift is another person's joy.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I assume yes, I've been regifted. I think I've actually regifted myself. But not you, mom.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

(LAUGHTER)

WILLIS: So there's no guilt necessary if you regift. We actually talked to ethics experts to find out what they thought of regifting. They said hey, it's all about the intended impact of what you're giving. You're trying to make people happy. It doesn't matter how much you pay, and even if you pay. So, Daryn, regift away.

KAGAN: What about some people think you have an obligation to regift.

WILLIS: That's right. A lot of the experts say it's not that you can do it, it's that you should do it. Particularly if you're getting things that you can't use because you already have them. Say food, clothing, especially at this time of year. There are people out there who are in need. And you can give it away to somebody who can really use it, do it.

KAGAN: Ah, but there are some rules to do this correctly.

WILLIS: Well, yes. And we heard about some of that from the people we talked to in the shopping mall. Listen, if you're regifting, do it right away with a gift that you've gotten, so you remember who gave it to you in the first place, right? You don't want to give it back to them. That's a bad thing to do.

Also, think about this, you want to make sure that it's new and in good condition, and that you've removed any little gift tags that say they're to you when they're really not anymore. Make sure you wrap it carefully and that present it in good condition.

KAGAN: So also, shouldn't you think about who you're giving it to, or whom you're giving it to?

WILLIS: Well, look, don't talk about how much time you spent looking for this gift, or make a big deal about your search, or your thinking behind the gift. Because obviously it wasn't that hard; just be very up front. And what you can do, particularly if you're not giving it at Christmastime, you might even tell the recipient look, this is something that I got but I want to give it to you because I know you could use it more than I could. And then they're not feeling obligated to give something back.

KAGAN: And what about if you are the givee? If you are regifted.

WILLIS: Well, we've all been regifted, right? and you kind of think hey, this looks familiar, maybe this is something somebody else got that you didn't want. You should never mention it. Never say look, I know this is a regift. Because remember, at the end of the day, you can just pass it on to somebody else.

KAGAN: All right. But your gift to me this holiday season?

WILLIS: Oh, I'll search long and hard, Daryn.

(LAUGHTER)

KAGAN: I'll bet you will. Just your being here, your presence is the only present we desire.

WILLIS: Ah, you're so nice.

KAGAN: Thank you -- Rick.

WILLIS: Thank you.

SANCHEZ: We've got a breaking story that we're following for you right now. These are pictures that we bring you from Clarkston, Michigan. Our understanding is that this is about 40 miles outside of Detroit. And this is happening on Highway 75. As many as 30 or 40 cars, last count, some of these reports just coming in to us right now, have caused this multi-car pileup, to say the very least. The information that we're getting right now is that it is outside the Detroit area.

As far as injuries are concerned, only one injury reported thus far. As you might expect, the interstate there has been shut down. Again, it's the Southbound Interstate 75, near Clarkston, about 40 miles from Detroit. A story that no doubt we will continue to follow for you. Obviously had something to do with the slick roads and the weather conditions that they would be experiencing now in that area.

KAGAN: Mm-hmm.

And we're looking on the international scene as well, where a son's action could cost him his job. Still to come, should U.N. Chief Kofi Annan step down? One senator thinks so. That debate straight ahead.

SANCHEZ: Also, people across the world are reflecting on World AIDS Day today. Coming up next, the new faces of the deadly disease talk about fighting back.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

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Aired December 1, 2004 - 10:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
RICK SANCHEZ, CNN CO-ANCHOR: In fact, today's theme is all about thank you. Not just from us to you, but also from the president of the United States.
DARYN KAGAN, CNN CO-ANCHOR: And we'll be hearing from the president in about 20 minutes, we expect, from Nova Scotia in Canada. Right now, let's take a look at what's happening now in the news.

President Bush beginning the second day of his Canadian visit with a speech this hour in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Mr. Bush has been greeted with protests. He will thank Halifax and other Canadian cities for their hospitality in the days surrounding the 9/11 attack. Residents in those cities took in Americans travelers stranded there when the U.S. closed its air space on 9/11

Ukraine's parliament has issued a vote of no confidence in that country's bitterly disputed presidential election. That sacks the newly named government of Moscow-backed, candidate Viktor Yushchenko. He was declared the winner, despite many exit polls showing the opposition candidate a clear winner. That fueled suspicions of election fraud.

In Iraq, U.S. and Iraqi forces have arrested some 210 suspected militants in the weeklong operation dubbed Operation Plymouth Rock. The offensive focused on a region called known as the Triangle of Death, and ominously named for its level of insurgent-backed violence. Operation Plymouth Rock is aimed at quelling that violence ahead of the January elections.

This is World AIDS Day. And women and girls are the subject of a sobering warning. United Nations officials are warning that females are facing ever-increasing risks of infection. As of now, at least 38 million people worldwide are HIV-positive. Female's now account for 47 percent of that number.

And good morning. Thanks for being here with us. I'm Daryn Kagan.

SANCHEZ: And I'm Rick Sanchez. We're going to begin with the president in Canada, once again. President Bush is wrapping up his visit aimed at trying to warm relations with the U.S. neighbor. after holding talks with Prime Minister Paul Martin in Ottawa, Mr. Bush travels to Halifax this morning. The president delivers a speech in just a couple of minutes where he's going to thank Canadians for helping American travelers after 9/11, among other things we understand. CNN's Suzanne Malveaux is joining us now from Ottawa to tell us more about the speech and other things.

Which I understand is not just going to be about thank yous', but also is going to talk policy, right?

SUZANNE MALVEAUX, CNN WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT: Absolutely, Rick. He is going to give his broad vision of the next four years. We saw President Bush's Air Force 1 arriving just moments ago in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He's running about 30 minutes late or so, because of snowy weather. Air Force 1 had to deiced earlier this morning in Ottawa.

What we expect the president to do is address the Canadian people directly this morning. He's going to make the case that America's neighbor is a natural ally in the war on terror. and he's going to cite the moments immediately following the September 11 attacks, talking about how Canadians took in some 30,000 Americans who were stranded, many of their flights diverted to Canada during that time.

But of course, as President Bush realized yesterday, certainly U.S.-Canadian relations since then have become strained.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

(CHANTING)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Bush go home!

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Bush go home!

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Bush go home!

MALVEAUX (voice-over): Thousands of Canadians demonstrated against President Bush's visit, protesting everything from the Iraq War to America's ban on Canadian beef. Mr. Bush used his joint appearance with Prime Minister Paul Martin to make light of it.

GEORGE W. BUSH (R), PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I frankly felt like the reception we received on the way in from the airport was warm and hospitable. and I want to thank the people who came out to wave with all five fingers...

(LAUGHTER)

BUSH: ... for their hospitality.

MALVEAUX: Despite presenting a united front, the two leaders have not resolved their differences over Canada's banned beef and taxed lumber. But they vowed to work together in the war on terror.

BUSH: Canada and the United States share a history, a continent and a border. We also share a commitment to freedom and a willingness to defend it in times of peril.

MALVEAUX: Away from the protests, pomp and pleasantries. Wednesday, Mr. Bush delivers a big thank you to the Canadians in the Eastern Provinces, who helped the more than 30,000 Americans who had become stranded there immediately following the September 11 attacks. The president will address those Canadian volunteers during his brief visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

MALVEAUX: And Rick, of course, this is seen really as just a first step when it comes to fence-mending efforts. President Bush, of course, is going to be traveling to Europe early next year to continue those diplomatic efforts -- Rick.

SANCHEZ: We do also have some pictures we can share. In fact, if we could, let's go over to Router 61 and you'll see some of the protesters. Now, these are not pictures from yesterday in Ottawa. These are pictures that were taken for you right now from the area of Halifax, where the president will be going today. Some of the reports we got were that there will be some protesters. No sense of just how many.

Suzanne, have you got a better handle on what we're expecting today from some of these demonstrators?

MALVEAUX: We don't expect that the crowds are going to be as large. And part of that reason, of course, is that the people who are going to be recognized are essentially invited to this event. They are the volunteers that participated shortly after the September 11 attacks. Many people who they identified, who wanted to be a part of this celebration. But of course, Rick, as expected yes, you're going to have those protests.

What both leaders are emphasizing today, and what they emphasized yesterday is despite some of the disagreements of two nations have had particularly over policy, Iraq policy, that they share common concerns and strategies, particularly when it comes to security and trade. That those are the kinds of things, the issues they're going to have to put behind, even get over if they're going to make that relationship work.

SANCHEZ: Yes. We saw some reports this morning where Halifax city officials were trying to tell some of the people there to perhaps tone down the protests. After all, the president is going there to say thank you to them.

Before we let you go, the president's plate when he returns to Washington, a busy one as well, right -- Suzanne?

MALVEAUX: That's right. The president, of course, it's snowy weather but he's going to get back to Washington after this event. he's going to be participating and recognizing Noble Prizewinners at the White House. And then in the week to come, of course, he is still going to continue those diplomatic efforts. He has important meetings with leaders from Pakistan, as well as Nigeria.

SANCHEZ: Suzanne Malveaux following things there for us. thank you so much, Suzanne -- Daryn. KAGAN: Now back to Washington. Twenty-two years in public service, Tom Ridge says he plans to spend more time on personal and family matters. He announced yesterday he is resigning as Department of Homeland Security secretary. That is effective February 1, unless a successor is confirmed earlier.

Some of the names being bandied about as possible replacements; take a look at the screen. They include: Homeland Security adviser Frances Townsend, EPA administrator Mike Leavitt, and former Virginia Governor James Gilmore, and Asa Hutchinson, undersecretary for Border and Transportation Security in the Homeland Security Department.

Time is running out for Congress to pass any intelligence reform bill this session. With lawmakers reconvening next week, a call has gone out for President Bush to come to Capitol Hill as well.

Our Ed Henry has more on that.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ED HENRY, CNN CONGRESSIONAL CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Tom Kean and Lee Hamilton huddled with Vice President Cheney in a final blitz for the stalled intelligence bill. The former 9/11 Commission co- chairs are also making their case to Congress, warning of dire consequences.

TOM KEAN, CO-CHAIRMAN, 9/11 COMMISSION: Reform is an urgent matter. And reform simply must not wait until after the next attack.

HENRY: President Bush insists he wants a deal, despite the objections of Republican Committee chairman James Sensenbrenner and Duncan Hunter.

BUSH: I believe the bill is necessary and important. and hope we can get it done next week.

HENRY: But one Republican lawmaker suggested if House leaders failed to schedule a vote next week, the president should get the blame.

REP. CHRISTOPHER SHAYS (R), CONNECTICUT: If we don't have a vote on September 11, it will be my feeling that the president didn't weigh in strong enough.

HENRY: Besides the divide between powerful Republicans, there's a split among 9/11 families. Some say reform can't wait.

BEVERLY ECKERT, 9/11 FAMILY STEERING COMMITTEE: America will be watching what Congress does next week to see who is really running this country. Is it Congressmen Hunter and Sensenbrenner? Is it the Pentagon? Or is it the president?

HENRY: But one woman who lost her son on 9/11 argued passionately that this bill isn't strong enough, and Sensenbrenner's immigration provisions should be included. JOAN MOLINARO, 9/11 FAMILIES FOR SECURE AMERICA: No bill should pass the Senate, the House, anywhere unless it contains immigration reform. You secure or borders. You keep my girls alive. You allowed the murder of my son. I will not allow you to kill my daughters.

HENRY (on camera): Republican Congressman Chris Shays challenged President Bush to come to Capitol Hill next week and make his case for the legislation. Shays is convinced that a direct appeal from the president will sway a majority of Republicans and get this bill done.

Ed Henry, CNN, Capitol Hill.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

SANCHEZ: And we turn now to another story that we've been following for you. There are new developments today surrounding Ukraine's contested presidential elections.

CNN's Jill Daugherty, once again, following the story for us. She is joining us via videophone to bring us up to date on what's happened overnight.

What is it -- Jill?

JILL DOUGHERTY, CNN MOSCOW BUREAU CHIEF: Well, Rick, you know, it's a very complicated, very fast-moving game right now. But here's the latest. The good news is, those two candidates, the government- backed candidate and the opposition candidate, are finally sitting down at the same table. They're there with the president of Ukraine, and also international representatives, among them Javier Salana from the European Union. And finally, after those talks broke off, they are sitting down at the same table and talking. It's very, very good news.

Now, for the opposition, that is Viktor Yushchenko, the Western- leaning candidate. He had some good news today. In the parliament, they took a vote of no confidence in the government. The government, of course, run by the Prime Minister, Mr. Yanukovych, who happens to be the man who is declared the winner of this contested election. So it was really good news.

They were high-fiving, literally inside that parliament and with their arm scarves, the symbol of the opposition. And outside, people were very excited as well, because they had been standing out there looking at this on TV screens in the cold.

Finally, you have another event going on. No finish line at this point, but the Supreme Court is hearing complaints from the opposition, who say that those -- these elections were so marred by so many irregularities, that they simply cannot let these stand.

So there you have it, a lot of events. And finally, down at Independence Square, once again, it's dark again here in Kiev, and they're still on the streets 10 days and running.

SANCHEZ: Jill Daugherty, once again bringing us up to date on the ever-evolving story. We thank you, Jill -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Well, still to come, President Bush will be thanking the people of Canada. A live picture there from Halifax, Nova Scotia. He's thanking those that took in stranded travelers on 9/11. We'll take you there live when the president begins to speak.

SANCHEZ: Also when tragedy struck on 9/11, there was one Iraqi in Canada who hurried to lend a hand. A look back at his good deed and what he has to say about President Bush's war in Iraq.

KAGAN: And the fate of a New York firefighter who went to the rescue on 9/11. And then signed up to help in Iraq. We'll tell you his story coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Live pictures from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. President Bush on the second of his two-day visit to the country to the north of the United States. He is expected to, in this speech, thank the many people who live in Nova Scotia who took in American travelers, who were stranded after U.S. air space was closed on 9/11. We will go live to Canada as soon as the president begins to speak.

SANCHEZ: And now let's talk about the fight in Iraq. First an update on the prisoner abuse scandal there in Iraq. A central figure in the case, U.S. Army Private First Class Lynndie England is back in military court this hour for undisclosed pretrial motions. Her trial is scheduled for next month.

U.S. and Iraqi forces detained 15 suspected militants in Babil Province today. Those captures are part of Operation Plymouth Rock. It targets insurgents south of Baghdad. Two hundred and 10 suspected militants have been rounded up in a weeklong operation thus far.

And New York City firefighter who responded to the 9/11 attacks has been killed in Iraq. Sergeant Christian Engeldrum's vehicle came under attack just outside of Baghdad. Engeldrum spent months digging through the rubble of the New York Trade Center. He's the first New York City firefighter to die in Iraq since the war began.

KAGAN: Want to go back to the topic of President Bush's impending speech in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Mr. Bush will continue trying to build bridges and stress America's longstanding friendship with Canada. He's invited about 300 guests who help housed American travelers left stranded by the attacks.

In all, more than 40 U.S.-bond aircrafts were diverted to Halifax on 9/11. Nearly 8,000 passengers were aboard those flights that were grounded. Many were housed in area schools sports centers, private homes and at a military base.

For a closer look, we're going to turn to Michelle Mitchler. She has a report from Halifax.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE) MICHELLE MITCHLER, GLOBAL TELEVISION NEWS CORRESPONDENT (voice- over): When thousands of passengers were stranded in Halifax after 9/11, Talib Abidali (ph) man didn't hesitate.

TALIB ABIDALI, CANADIAN BUSINESSMAN: That day, we asked, what can we do? And there is nothing, you know, a specific thing to do it. But we want to do something. And my partner just went to the airport and drive a lot of people, you know, American people. And we put them in our condos.

MITCHLER: Abidali is an Iraqi. His business partner Hosein Musrafvi (ph) is from Iran. They put up six Americans for three days in condos they own. He says it's the Canadian way. Abidali and his family have been in Halifax for 13 years.

ABIDALI: It's a beautiful city. I'm happy with my family and my partner. We are so happy.

MITCHLER: And he's happy with the president's invasion of Iraq.

ABIDALI: We are working like a partner and States give Iraq a big favor when we get rid from Saddam. Again, we want to build a new Iraq. And to build it should be in a peaceful way.

MITCHLER: But not everyone agrees with Bush's foreign policy. Dr. Ishmael Zayed, head of the Canadian-Palestinian Association says President Bush is a war criminal.

ISHMAEL ZAYED, CANADIAN-PALESTINIAN ASSOC.: The legal occupation of Iraq since March of last year is an illegal occupation, in violation of international law and in defiance of the Security Council.

MITCHLER: He says he applauds the anti-Bush message.

ZAYED: For a country like Canada, which we claim to uphold international law and international legitimacy, I don't think he's welcome. And I think the -- quite a significant portion of our people in this country are opposed to the policies of the United States. And hence, do not see George Bush as a welcome visitor.

MITCHLER: In Halifax, this is Global's Michelle Mitchler reporting.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

SANCHEZ: And this is obviously the story we'll be staying on top of. It's a thank you from President Bush. It's just ahead. In fact, we're going to take you live to Halifax, Nova Scotia. That's where the president does have a message for the people of Canada.

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KAGAN: 'Tis the season for giving, or for shopping, or for the spending impaired. Sounds like a "Seinfeld" episode, regifting. That is a practice somewhat less than proud, of passing along an unwanted gift you've received and you just kind of give it to somebody else. Whether it's thrifty or tacky, here are the "Top Five Tips" or recycling presents.

And for that we bring in personal finance editor Gerri Willis, who must have done a lot of research for this, because I'm sure a classy lady like you has never regifted.

(LAUGHTER)

GERRI WILLIS, CNN-FN PERSONAL FINANCE EDITOR: Well, you know, you've got to do some real research, roll up your shirt sleeves, right? We actually went and talked to some holiday shoppers about what they think of regifting.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Regifting is a wonderful idea. Because then you kind of can recycle everything around at holiday time.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I can't believe people would do that. It's just thoughtless.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I have never regifted. I've never done that. But I'm sure if I started, it would be a slippery slope.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: We caught him one year because he accidentally left a tag on.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I think it's OK if that the other people don't know about it.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: One person's horrible gift is another person's joy.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I assume yes, I've been regifted. I think I've actually regifted myself. But not you, mom.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

(LAUGHTER)

WILLIS: So there's no guilt necessary if you regift. We actually talked to ethics experts to find out what they thought of regifting. They said hey, it's all about the intended impact of what you're giving. You're trying to make people happy. It doesn't matter how much you pay, and even if you pay. So, Daryn, regift away.

KAGAN: What about some people think you have an obligation to regift.

WILLIS: That's right. A lot of the experts say it's not that you can do it, it's that you should do it. Particularly if you're getting things that you can't use because you already have them. Say food, clothing, especially at this time of year. There are people out there who are in need. And you can give it away to somebody who can really use it, do it.

KAGAN: Ah, but there are some rules to do this correctly.

WILLIS: Well, yes. And we heard about some of that from the people we talked to in the shopping mall. Listen, if you're regifting, do it right away with a gift that you've gotten, so you remember who gave it to you in the first place, right? You don't want to give it back to them. That's a bad thing to do.

Also, think about this, you want to make sure that it's new and in good condition, and that you've removed any little gift tags that say they're to you when they're really not anymore. Make sure you wrap it carefully and that present it in good condition.

KAGAN: So also, shouldn't you think about who you're giving it to, or whom you're giving it to?

WILLIS: Well, look, don't talk about how much time you spent looking for this gift, or make a big deal about your search, or your thinking behind the gift. Because obviously it wasn't that hard; just be very up front. And what you can do, particularly if you're not giving it at Christmastime, you might even tell the recipient look, this is something that I got but I want to give it to you because I know you could use it more than I could. And then they're not feeling obligated to give something back.

KAGAN: And what about if you are the givee? If you are regifted.

WILLIS: Well, we've all been regifted, right? and you kind of think hey, this looks familiar, maybe this is something somebody else got that you didn't want. You should never mention it. Never say look, I know this is a regift. Because remember, at the end of the day, you can just pass it on to somebody else.

KAGAN: All right. But your gift to me this holiday season?

WILLIS: Oh, I'll search long and hard, Daryn.

(LAUGHTER)

KAGAN: I'll bet you will. Just your being here, your presence is the only present we desire.

WILLIS: Ah, you're so nice.

KAGAN: Thank you -- Rick.

WILLIS: Thank you.

SANCHEZ: We've got a breaking story that we're following for you right now. These are pictures that we bring you from Clarkston, Michigan. Our understanding is that this is about 40 miles outside of Detroit. And this is happening on Highway 75. As many as 30 or 40 cars, last count, some of these reports just coming in to us right now, have caused this multi-car pileup, to say the very least. The information that we're getting right now is that it is outside the Detroit area.

As far as injuries are concerned, only one injury reported thus far. As you might expect, the interstate there has been shut down. Again, it's the Southbound Interstate 75, near Clarkston, about 40 miles from Detroit. A story that no doubt we will continue to follow for you. Obviously had something to do with the slick roads and the weather conditions that they would be experiencing now in that area.

KAGAN: Mm-hmm.

And we're looking on the international scene as well, where a son's action could cost him his job. Still to come, should U.N. Chief Kofi Annan step down? One senator thinks so. That debate straight ahead.

SANCHEZ: Also, people across the world are reflecting on World AIDS Day today. Coming up next, the new faces of the deadly disease talk about fighting back.

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