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UK officials warn of rising threats from Russia, emphasizing the need for societal and military preparedness. Military leaders call for faster defense spending and national resilience, with plans for new arms factories and enhanced intelligence capabilities amid warnings of possible conflict with Russia.
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British intelligence chief Ms Metreweli, the first woman to lead MI6, warns that threats from Russia, disinformation, and cyber attacks are escalating globally. She emphasizes the UK's ongoing support for Ukraine and the need for technological mastery across all security efforts. The UK is also imposing sanctions on Russian and Chinese entities involved in malign activities.
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On December 9, 2025, Lithuania declared a state of emergency due to repeated incursions of weather balloons and drones from Belarus, which have disrupted Vilnius airport operations and civil aviation. Lithuania accuses Belarus of orchestrating a hybrid attack involving smuggling contraband cigarettes and destabilizing national security. The emergency grants military powers to coordinate with law enforcement to counter these threats.
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As of December 2025, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that the New Safe Confinement (NSC) steel shield at Chernobyl lost its primary safety functions after a Russian drone strike in February 2025. While load-bearing structures remain intact, comprehensive repairs are essential to prevent further degradation and ensure long-term nuclear safety amid ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict.
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A Danish intelligence agency report has warned that the United States is using its economic power to assert its will and threaten military force against both allies and adversaries.
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As of December 2025, Russian athletes have been reinstated to compete under their national flag in judo starting with the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, reversing previous neutral status imposed after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russian and Belarusian athletes meeting IOC criteria will compete as neutrals at the 2026 Winter Olympics following a court ruling overturning FIS's ban. Ukrainian diver Lyskun's switch to Russian citizenship has sparked controversy and disciplinary threats.
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A man in Auckland swallowed a limited-edition Fabergé octopus pendant inspired by James Bond after allegedly stealing it from a jewelry store. The egg was recovered six days later after passing naturally. The historic egg, created in 1913, sold for a record NZ$33 million at auction.
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As of December 11, 2025, the EU faces internal divisions over a €90 billion 'reparations loan' to fund Ukraine's 2026-27 budget using frozen Russian assets, mainly held in Belgium's Euroclear. Belgium opposes the plan, fearing legal and financial risks, demanding risk-sharing guarantees. The European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, insists the plan is crucial for Ukraine's defense and peace leverage, while Russia condemns it as theft.
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Germany's parliament approved a law to expand the Bundeswehr, including a new conscription system, amid fears of Russian aggression and NATO commitments. The move has sparked protests and debate over costs, gender equality, and public priorities, with similar reforms seen across Europe.
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The ICC faces internal and external pressures as US sanctions target staff, including the acting prosecutor Karim Niang, amid ongoing investigations into US and Israeli officials. The court's independence is reaffirmed, but member withdrawals and delays in internal probes threaten its future. The 24th Assembly is ongoing today.
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Russian forces announced the capture of Pokrovsk, a strategic city in eastern Ukraine, amid ongoing fighting. Ukraine denies full control, and the situation highlights Russia's slow territorial gains in the Donbas. US peace talks are ongoing, with recent claims timed to influence negotiations.
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On December 4-5, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India for the 23rd Russia-India Summit, hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit focused on deepening defense, energy, and economic ties despite US sanctions targeting India's purchases of Russian oil. The leaders agreed on a $100 billion trade target by 2030 and discussed military hardware deliveries, labor mobility, and cooperation amid ongoing Ukraine war tensions.
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Leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, and the US are engaging in high-level discussions to broker a ceasefire and peace agreement in Ukraine. While diplomatic efforts advance, Russia continues missile strikes, complicating negotiations. The US emphasizes security guarantees and European involvement in the process.
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As of December 2025, 67 journalists were killed worldwide, with Israeli forces responsible for 43%, primarily in Gaza where over 220 journalists have died since October 2023 amid ongoing conflict. Israel continues to bar international journalists from Gaza, despite calls for access and legal challenges. U.S. lawmakers criticize Israel's lack of transparent investigations into attacks on journalists.
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President Trump unveiled a new national security strategy endorsing a quick peace in Ukraine, favoring non-intervention in European security, and adopting a conciliatory stance toward Russia. Meanwhile, Congress reaffirmed support for Ukraine and NATO, restricting troop reductions in Europe. The strategy signals a shift in US foreign policy priorities.
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Russia aims to fully control Ukraine's Donbas region, including key cities like Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, amid ongoing conflict. Ukraine opposes ceding territory without a referendum, and peace talks remain stalled. Russian President Putin insists on military force if necessary, while Ukraine and its allies resist territorial concessions.
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U.S. military and industry are rapidly developing autonomous and swarm drone technology, with recent deployments in the Middle East and increased domestic manufacturing efforts. These innovations aim to enhance battlefield mass, autonomy, and rapid production, reflecting a shift towards cheaper, disposable drones and autonomous systems amid global competition.
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The UK and Norway have signed a new agreement to operate a joint fleet of anti-submarine ships and develop autonomous underwater systems to counter increased Russian submarine activity and protect critical undersea infrastructure in the North Atlantic. The initiative includes a £10 billion warship deal and advanced AI technology, amid rising tensions over Russian threats to undersea cables and pipelines.
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Eurovision winner Nemo has returned their 2024 trophy, criticizing Israel's participation in the 2026 contest amid ongoing Gaza conflict. Several countries are boycotting the event, citing concerns over political interference and human rights issues, challenging Eurovision's tradition of neutrality.
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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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Germany's parliament approved legislation to expand its military, aiming for 260,000 soldiers by 2035. The law includes sending questionnaires to 18-year-olds about willingness to serve, mandatory medical checks for men, and a dual-track recruitment system. Reintroduction of conscription remains a possibility if volunteer numbers fall short.
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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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On December 8, 2024, rebels led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa seized Damascus, ending Bashar al-Assad's 13-year rule. Celebrations marked the anniversary, with the new government focusing on rebuilding, security, and political stability amid ongoing sectarian tensions and external challenges. The country remains fragile but hopeful for the future.
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Russia continues its military push in Ukraine, with Kyiv facing intense fighting and strategic city threats. Western support and peace negotiations remain complex, as Kyiv resists territorial concessions. The conflict's future hinges on military resilience and diplomatic efforts, with ongoing risks of wider escalation.
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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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India continues to buy Russian oil despite US sanctions, balancing its strategic partnership with Moscow and its economic ties with Washington. Putin's visit underscores Russia's ongoing energy cooperation with India amid Western sanctions and diplomatic pressures.
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Syria is focusing on rebuilding its military, following Iran's sudden withdrawal amid advancing rebel forces. The new government relies on loyalists and excludes religious minorities, raising concerns about sectarian tensions. The departure marks a significant shift in regional influence and military support.
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Deceptive AI-generated videos of health experts are circulating on TikTok and other platforms, promoting unproven health products. These videos impersonate real professionals, raising concerns about misinformation and platform moderation failures. TikTok has removed some content after complaints, but the issue persists.
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On December 6-7, 2025, Russia launched a large-scale drone and missile attack on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and causing widespread power outages, including at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Ukrainian forces intercepted most attacks. Concurrently, US-mediated peace talks continue, with progress dependent on Russia's commitment to peace.
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A Gambian-flagged tanker, Kairos, caught fire after an alleged attack with Ukrainian drones near Turkey. The vessel, sanctioned earlier this year, was drifting off Bulgaria after the fire. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over Russian oil exports and maritime security in the Black Sea.
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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 to discuss a US-backed peace plan aimed at ending the nearly four-year war with Russia. The plan’s key sticking point remains Ukraine’s refusal to cede control of the eastern Donbas region. Meanwhile, Russia continues missile and drone attacks, and US and European officials remain divided on concessions to Russia.
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The UK government is advancing its anti-corruption efforts, focusing on legislation to combat strategic lawsuits against public participation (Slapps) and illicit finance. New measures include expanding police units, international summits, and reforms to financial transparency, aiming to curb money laundering, political corruption, and foreign influence. Progress is slow, with full implementation expected by 2029.
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The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act includes provisions demanding unedited videos of US military strikes and increased accountability, amid scrutiny of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's handling of strikes off Venezuela. The bill also addresses troop levels, Ukraine aid, and social policies, reflecting bipartisan concerns over transparency and military commitments.
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Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka, killing 635 people and damaging infrastructure, crops, and land. Affected regions face an estimated $7 billion in recovery costs. International aid is slow, and rebuilding efforts are hampered by economic strain and low funding. The disaster compounds ongoing economic and social challenges.
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Two high-profile killings linked to Russia have occurred in recent months. A Russian pilot was shot dead in Spain after flying from Russia to Ukraine, with possible involvement of Russian operatives. Separately, a Western volunteer in Ukraine was tortured and killed by Russian soldiers, with convictions handed down in Russia. Both cases highlight ongoing covert operations and political tensions.
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Russian and Chinese military aircraft entered South Korea’s Air Defence Identification Zone (KADIZ) on Tuesday, prompting South Korea to deploy fighter jets. Japan also responded with military measures amid joint Russian-Chinese air drills, which China and Russia say are routine exercises. The incident highlights ongoing regional military activity.
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On December 9-11, 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 11, 2025, Ukraine, the US, and European allies are intensifying negotiations over a US-backed peace plan to end the war with Russia. Kyiv resists major territorial concessions demanded by Moscow, while European leaders push for security guarantees. Ukraine launched a significant drone attack on Moscow amid talks, underscoring ongoing conflict tensions.
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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 indefinitely freeze Russian assets held in Europe, enabling the use of these funds to support Ukraine. The move aims to bypass opposition from Hungary and Slovakia, with plans to leverage the assets for a large loan to Ukraine, amid legal disputes and political controversy.
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U.S. negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff met with Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss peace efforts in Ukraine. The talks follow a series of US proposals and Putin's warnings to Europe. Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasizes the need for a definitive end to the war, amid ongoing diplomatic efforts and Russian military advances.
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Recent days have seen increased military activity in East Asia, with US, Chinese, and Russian forces conducting joint and unilateral strategic bomber flights near Japan. Japan and South Korea responded with fighter jet scrambles amid regional tensions over Taiwan and China's assertiveness.
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South Korea plans to enforce new regulations on AI-generated ads, requiring labels and stricter monitoring to combat false advertising and deepfake health videos. The government aims to protect consumers, especially vulnerable groups, amid rising AI misuse across social media platforms.
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Several countries including Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Iceland have announced their withdrawal from Eurovision 2026 due to disagreements over Israel's participation. The EBU's decision to allow Israel to compete despite political tensions has sparked protests and boycotts, with some broadcasters citing disunity and insufficient reforms. The final list of participants will be announced before Christmas.
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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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Ukrainian sea drones struck and damaged the Dashan tanker in the Black Sea, marking the third attack on vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet aiding oil exports. The vessel was sailing with transponders off, and no casualties are confirmed. The attack aims to disrupt Russia’s oil trade amid ongoing conflict.
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European leaders warn of rising Russian threats, calling for increased defense spending and readiness. Dutch PM Rutte warns of potential conflict within five years, citing Russia's brazen actions and the need for urgent NATO action amid ongoing Ukraine peace talks.
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Ukrainian drones attacked the Filanovsky and Korchagin oil rigs operated by Russia’s Lukoil in the Caspian Sea, disrupting over 20 wells. This marks Kyiv’s first strike on Caspian oil infrastructure, aiming to weaken Russia’s energy resources amid ongoing conflict.
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The International Olympic Committee announced that youth athletes with Russian or Belarusian passports can compete under their national flags at the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics, relaxing restrictions amid ongoing tensions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The move does not affect the upcoming 2026 Winter Games.