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British military leaders warn of increasing Russian threats, emphasizing the need for societal and military preparedness. UK plans include new arms factories, enhanced intelligence, and a national resilience strategy amid rising tensions and NATO concerns.
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Lea Michele’s star turn in “Chess.” Kara Young as an 8-year-old. A 12-minute monologue delivered from a cloud. These are our favorite scenes from this year.
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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer are discussing closer ties with the EU amid economic pressures. Sunak emphasizes maintaining red lines, while Starmer signals openness to rejoining the customs union, reflecting ongoing debates over Brexit's economic impact and future relationship with Europe.
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Germany's government is engaging in high-level talks with China to address trade issues, including rare earths and supply chain concerns. Chancellor Merz's coalition aims to reduce dependency on China and bolster economic resilience, amid rising tensions and a record trade deficit. The visit signals a strategic shift in Germany's China policy.
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Russia launched drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, targeting Kyiv and energy infrastructure, amid ongoing peace negotiations. The U.S. and Ukraine are revising a 28-point peace plan, while regional airspace breaches prompt NATO and Romanian military responses. Diplomatic talks continue with uncertain outcomes.
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The COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, concluded on 22 November 2025 with a compromised agreement after two weeks of tense negotiations. Despite support from over 80 countries for a fossil fuel phaseout plan, the final deal avoided explicit fossil fuel commitments, opting instead for voluntary initiatives and increased funding to help developing nations adapt to climate impacts. The summit exposed deep divisions between fossil fuel-dependent economies and others pushing for accelerated climate action.
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On December 1-3, 2025, Canada became the first non-EU country to join the EU's €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative, granting Canadian defense firms access to EU-backed loans and reducing reliance on U.S. military procurement. Concurrently, Canada struck an energy and trade deal with Alberta to expand oil exports to Asia via a new pipeline, relaxing federal emissions caps in exchange for stronger carbon pricing and carbon capture projects, despite opposition from British Columbia and Indigenous groups. Canada also restarted stalled trade talks with India aiming to double bilateral trade by 2030.
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Tanzania's government canceled Independence Day celebrations amid ongoing protests over the October election, which opposition and rights groups say led to hundreds of deaths. Authorities have detained activists and supporters, imposed internet blackouts, and warned against planned protests, raising concerns over human rights and political repression.
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EU leaders are working to unlock up to 210 billion euros in Russian assets held in Belgium to fund Ukraine's defense and reconstruction. A legal proposal aims to address legal and political hurdles, with a key meeting scheduled for December 18. Belgium remains cautious amid concerns over legal liabilities and support from other EU nations.
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The EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service has launched a new operational attribution science unit to help governments and insurers assess the physical risks of extreme weather events linked to climate change. The service will publish assessments within a week of events, aiming to inform policy and legal actions.
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As of December 16, 2025, the EU remains deadlocked over a €90 billion 'reparations loan' to fund Ukraine's 2026-27 budget using frozen Russian assets, mostly held in Belgium's Euroclear. Belgium opposes the plan, fearing legal and financial risks, demanding guarantees from other EU states. The European Commission insists the plan is vital for Ukraine's defense and peace leverage, while Russia condemns it as theft and threatens retaliation.
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At the recent CITES conference in Uzbekistan, over 100 countries agreed to ban trade in several endangered shark and ray species, including oceanic whitetip sharks and whale sharks. The measures aim to combat overfishing and illegal trade, with some countries opposing restrictions due to economic and cultural concerns. The move marks a significant step in wildlife conservation.
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The UK is close to finalising an agreement to rejoin the EU's Erasmus student mobility scheme by January 2026, aiming for participation from 2027. The move signals a shift towards closer EU relations after Brexit setbacks, amid ongoing negotiations on defense and trade agreements.
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An outbreak of African swine fever in wild boar near Barcelona has prompted containment measures and export restrictions. Authorities suspect contaminated food as the source, with no farms affected so far. The outbreak threatens Spain's pork industry and international trade, with EU and global responses underway.
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Amid ongoing tensions, U.S. universities are negotiating with the government over federal funding freezes linked to protests and anti-Israel boycotts. Israeli academia faces increased international boycotts, while Harvard and Northwestern settle disputes over funding and campus policies, reflecting broader political and diplomatic pressures.
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Aleksandre Elisashvili, a former opposition MP and Citizens party founder, broke into a Tbilisi court building at dawn, smashing a window, pouring gasoline, and injuring a court official during his arrest. The incident follows ongoing protests against the government’s democratic backsliding.
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European officials, led by Michael McGrath, emphasize that any ceasefire in Ukraine must include accountability for Russian war crimes. They oppose proposals for amnesty and reintegration, warning that impunity would encourage future aggression. The debate follows US and Ukrainian negotiations on peace plans amid ongoing investigations into Russian atrocities.
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Spanish police arrested three individuals linked to a neo-Nazi group called The Base, which operates through a decentralized network of paramilitary cells. Weapons, tactical gear, and neo-Nazi materials were recovered. The group’s leader was in contact with the US-based founder, promoting violent accelerationism amid rising far-right sentiment in Spain. The arrests highlight growing extremism in Europe.
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Belgian authorities raided the College of Europe and EU diplomatic offices, detaining Federica Mogherini and Stefano Sannino amid investigations into procurement fraud, corruption, and conflict of interest related to a 2021-2022 EU-funded diplomat training program. Both were later released without charges.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin accused European nations of obstructing peace efforts in Ukraine, claiming they lack a peace agenda and are 'on the side of war.' US negotiators are in Moscow discussing a draft plan to end the conflict, amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and military developments.
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On December 3, 2025, Israel's COGAT announced the Rafah crossing will reopen soon, allowing Gaza residents to exit to Egypt under EU supervision. Egypt insists the crossing must operate both ways per the US-brokered ceasefire, but Israel restricts entry until all hostages are returned. The crossing's reopening offers critical medical evacuation and economic relief amid Gaza's humanitarian crisis.
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EU lawmakers and member states agreed to end Russian gas imports by late 2027, aiming to reduce dependency and cut Moscow's revenue. The deal includes phased bans on pipeline and LNG contracts, with exemptions for Hungary and Slovakia. The move signals a decisive shift in Europe's energy policy amid ongoing tensions.
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The EU has revised its asylum guidelines following the fall of Assad in December 2024. Opponents of Assad and military service evaders are now considered safe from persecution, while other groups remain at risk. The change impacts around 110,000 pending Syrian asylum cases and reflects a more stable but still volatile post-Assad Syria.
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Farmers across Greece have intensified protests over delays in EU subsidy payments linked to a fraud scandal. Blockades at airports, borders, and highways have disrupted traffic, with police using tear gas and arrests reported. The protests follow investigations into widespread subsidy fraud and ongoing review of farmers' claims.
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French President Emmanuel Macron visited China for a three-day trip focused on trade and diplomacy. Key topics included involving Beijing in pressuring Russia for a Ukraine ceasefire, strengthening bilateral ties, and addressing trade imbalances. Xi pledged support for peace efforts and announced economic cooperation, while trade disputes and geopolitical tensions remain unresolved.
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Twenty-four aid volunteers, including Syrian sisters Sarah and Yusra Mardini, are on trial in Greece for charges related to their rescue work on Lesbos. The case highlights rising anti-migrant policies amid Europe's political shift, with potential sentences up to 20 years. The trial reflects broader tensions over humanitarian aid and migration policies.
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Recent articles highlight escalating tensions over Ukraine, with Russia's economic decline, US diplomatic shifts, and Europe's limited response. Key figures include Putin, Trump, and European leaders, amid ongoing conflicts and geopolitical realignments. The situation remains volatile as international actors navigate complex interests.
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Recent incidents at US schools include a swastika formed by students at Branham High School and antisemitic content at Columbia University. Authorities and advocacy groups are investigating, condemning hate, and working to protect Jewish students amid rising antisemitism following the Gaza conflict.
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On December 5, 2025, the US released a 33-page National Security Strategy (NSS) outlining a major shift in foreign policy. It prioritizes American dominance in the Western Hemisphere, military strength in the Indo-Pacific, and adopts a critical stance on Europe’s future, warning of "civilizational erasure" due to migration and political trends. The strategy downplays ideological promotion abroad, focusing on pragmatic trade and alliances, and signals a distancing from traditional European partnerships.
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Multiple drone sightings over France's Île Longue nuclear submarine base in Brittany have prompted an investigation. French military intercepted the drones, with no confirmed damage or attribution. The incident follows recent drone activity across Europe, raising security concerns amid heightened tensions with Russia and ongoing hybrid warfare fears.
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On December 6-8, 2025, the US released a National Security Strategy under President Trump, sharply criticizing Europe’s self-confidence and immigration policies, warning of 'civilizational erasure,' and signaling a pivot to the Indo-Pacific and Latin America. The strategy calls for ending the Ukraine war and restoring strategic stability with Russia, which Moscow welcomed. European leaders strongly rebuked the document, emphasizing alliance shifts and defending European sovereignty.
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As of December 15, 2025, Ukrainian President Zelensky met with European leaders in London and Brussels amid stalled peace talks driven by a US-backed plan requiring Ukraine to cede parts of the Donbas region to Russia. The US, led by President Trump, pushes for a deal, while Ukraine and Europe resist territorial concessions. Russia continues attacks, and funding Ukraine's defense remains uncertain.
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French President Macron has warned China that Europe may impose tariffs if Beijing does not address trade imbalances and protect European industries. He advocates for a diplomatic approach, including dismantling certain export restrictions, amid rising concerns over China's trade surplus and its impact on Europe’s industrial base.
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U.S. exports increased by 3% in November, reducing the trade deficit to $52.8 billion. Meanwhile, China’s exports rose 5.9% year-on-year, with a record trade surplus of over $1 trillion, despite ongoing US tariffs and trade tensions. The global trade landscape remains complex and evolving.
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The EU is preparing to assist Lebanon's internal security forces ahead of UNIFIL's withdrawal in 2026. Israel continues strikes on Lebanese territory amid ongoing tensions with Hezbollah. Lebanon seeks international verification of Hezbollah's rearmament, with US and French involvement possible.
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government plans to implement the Fingleton review, which could significantly weaken environmental protections, including habitat laws and judicial review costs. The move aims to accelerate nuclear projects but risks diverging from EU standards and harming wildlife, amid ongoing debates on economic growth and environmental preservation.
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Western leaders, including the UK, France, and Germany, reaffirm support for Ukraine amid ongoing peace negotiations. They emphasize security guarantees, military aid, and economic reconstruction, while discussions continue on using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's recovery. US and European efforts aim to bolster Ukraine's defenses and seek a just peace.
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In December 2025, former US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Europe as "decaying" and its leaders as "weak," blaming migration policies and political correctness for the continent's decline. He questioned Ukraine's democracy amid the ongoing war with Russia, urged elections despite martial law, and endorsed far-right European politicians, deepening transatlantic tensions.
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As of December 16, 2025, Ukraine, the US, and European allies are intensifying negotiations on a US-authored peace plan to end the war with Russia. Kyiv finds the draft "very workable" but rejects ceding Donbas territory. The US and Europe back security guarantees for Ukraine. Russia's demands and territorial claims remain major obstacles. Western leaders emphasize unity amid ongoing conflict.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky used group chat to answer reporters' questions mid-flight, emphasizing Ukraine's refusal to surrender land amid ongoing negotiations. He met European leaders to discuss security guarantees and territorial concessions, amid uncertainties over US support.
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EU leaders are set to approve a plan to leverage frozen Russian assets in Europe to fund a large loan for Ukraine's military and civilian needs, amid ongoing tensions and legal disputes. The move aims to bypass opposition from Hungary and Slovakia and will be discussed at the upcoming EU summit.
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Canadian Ambassador Kirsten Hillman is stepping down as the US-Canada trade review approaches in 2026. Prime Minister Mark Carney praised her diplomatic efforts, including leading trade negotiations and securing Canada's role in future US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) review preparations. Her departure follows recent trade tensions and US tariffs.
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Ukraine's bid to join the EU faces delays due to Hungary's opposition and complex reforms. Despite progress in reform commitments, formal negotiations are stalled, with Hungary citing wartime concerns. EU officials remain optimistic about Ukraine's future membership, emphasizing reforms and political will.
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Portugal faces a major general strike as unions protest proposed labour reforms. Disruptions hit transport, hospitals, and public services. The government claims reforms will boost growth, but unions argue they threaten workers' rights and job security. The strike is the largest since 2013, with widespread participation.
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European leaders are debating ratification of a 25-year-negotiated trade agreement with Mercosur, involving Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The deal aims to reduce tariffs and expand markets but faces strong opposition from farmers and some EU nations over concerns about environmental standards and market flooding. A vote is scheduled soon, with key countries pushing for delays.
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Ukrainian military reports that Russian forces in Kupiansk are fully surrounded and cut off, contradicting Russian claims of control. Fighting continues in nearby cities like Pokrovsk, with Ukraine maintaining territorial resistance amid ongoing Russian advances in eastern Ukraine. The situation remains fluid as both sides claim progress.
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The EU has agreed to immobilize €210 billion of Russian sovereign assets for an indefinite period to support Ukraine and prevent economic disruption. This move replaces the current six-month renewal system and aims to facilitate a loan to Ukraine, with legal and political debates ongoing among member states.
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EU leaders are considering a plan to use €210 billion of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's military and economy. The move involves complex legal and diplomatic challenges, including Russia's opposition and lawsuits against Euroclear, which holds most of the assets. The decision will be made at the upcoming EU summit.
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On December 15, 2025, Ford announced it will cease production of the fully electric F-150 Lightning and cancel several EV models, including the next-gen T3 truck and electric vans. Instead, Ford will focus on extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs), hybrids, and gas-powered models, expecting 50% of its global sales to be electrified by 2030, up from 17% today. The company will take a $19.5 billion writedown primarily in Q4 2025 due to these changes.
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U.S. and European leaders, including Zelensky, met in Berlin to advance peace talks amid ongoing conflict. Trump claimed progress toward ending Russia's war in Ukraine, with discussions focusing on security guarantees and territorial issues. Russia remains opposed to key concessions, complicating negotiations.