this is Shades of the Day — bringing you different shades of opinion in news & culture so that you can see the big picture quickly. We believe that seeing multiple POVs is the best way to stay informed.

It’s Friday, November 22 — here’s what you’ll find in today’s edition:

• Russia’s hypersonic missile attack

• An alert about toxic tap water

• 4 quick hits of news from the last 24 hours

Russia’s hypersonic missile attack

Russia launched a new hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile at Ukraine. The Russia's experimental hypersonic missile hit Dnipro at 8,000 mph, traveling 15 minutes from launch. The Guardian says it marks a major conflict escalation in the conflict.

President Putin, via CBN, confirmed that the missile was hypersonic. He claimed its speed could overwhelm Western defense systems.

The Independent says the missile shows Russia's tech boost: Its speed and range add tension to the West-Ukraine dynamic. Putin claimed the strike served as a warning to Western nations supporting Ukraine.

The Guardian says the U.S. shouldn't sweat the launch too much, though: Officials are writing it off as “sabre-rattling”. Besides, Putin knows that Trump may cut support to Ukraine once he enters office, anyway.

Toxic tap alert

CNN reports that a chemical called chloronitramide anion, a byproduct in U.S. water treatment, could be toxic. It’s found in the drinking water of millions, hinting at potential health risks.

NBC points out it’s spotted in all samples tested from 10 U.S. water systems, raising eyebrows due to its tiny, reactive structure similar to known toxins.

WHP580 iHeart says a third of Americans drink water with this chemical. Its toxic potential is still a mystery but very concerning.

Yahoo: That’s 113 million people! It's likely found in many homes across the U.S. due to its pervasive nature.

The Hill adds that an international team discovered it, signaling big holes in our current water quality checks.

1) Sarah McBride's election marks a milestone for transgender representation amid rising anti-trans rhetoric.

2) Trump's sentencing in the hush money case is delayed indefinitely, with no new date set by Judge Merchan.

3) Six tourists have died in Laos after drinking alcohol tainted with methanol, prompting travel warnings.

4) Pam Bondi is selected as the new Attorney General by Trump, following Matt Gaetz's withdrawal.