Hello, this is EUR Radio News.
1. Severe earthquake shakes southern Mexico
A magnitude 6.5 earthquake has struck southern Mexico, with its epicenter located 15 kilometers southwest of San Marcos in Guerrero state. The quake occurred at a depth of ten kilometers, prompting concerns among local residents.
2. FBI thwarts New Year’s Eve terrorist attack in the USA
The FBI has successfully prevented a planned terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve in North Carolina. An 18-year-old suspect was arrested, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the matter.
3. US slashes proposed tariffs on Italian pasta imports
The United States has reduced proposed tariffs on Italian pasta imports, which had previously threatened to impose excessive taxes on 13 producers. This decision is expected to stabilize prices for American consumers and facilitate smoother trade relations.
4. Winter chaos brings Schiphol Airport to a standstill
Severe winter weather has led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. Many travelers are facing delays and disruptions, as airport officials work to manage the situation.
5. Zelenskyy names spy chief Budanov as new head of presidential office
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov as the new head of his office. This change follows the resignation of his previous aide amid a corruption scandal, with Budanov expected to bring a strong leadership presence.
Next.
6. Former President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Tehran, stating that the United States is “locked and loaded” to support Iranian protesters. In response, Iranian political adviser Ali Shamkhani cautioned Trump against intervention, asserting that any attempt to influence Iranian security would be met with a severe backlash.
7. In a grave accusation, Russia claims that Ukraine was responsible for a drone strike that killed at least 27 people during a New Year’s celebration in the occupied Kherson region. The attack reportedly targeted a hotel and cafe, leaving over 30 others injured, according to the region’s Russia-installed governor.
8. China’s recent imposition of new tariffs on beef imports from Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay is intensifying challenges for South American exporters. This move is also seen as a catalyst for advancing the long-stalled EU-Mercosur trade deal, as the tariffs, effective from January 1st, increase pressure on these countries to negotiate better trade terms with the European Union.
Next.
Ukraine’s intelligence service has issued a warning that it anticipates a potential false flag attack orchestrated by Russian President Vladimir Putin. They believe this could be an attempt to disrupt ongoing peace talks, with the possibility of significant casualties. The statement highlights concerns about the location of such a provocation, which may target a religious site or another symbolically significant structure within Russia or occupied territories.
In business news, Lidl has reported a remarkable 10% increase in sales during the Christmas period, marking a record-breaking festive season. The German-owned supermarket chain revealed that nearly 51 million customers shopped with them in the lead-up to Christmas, generating over £1.1 billion in turnover in the UK alone.
Turning to the weather, Madrid will experience a cool day with temperatures ranging from 6 to 11 degrees Celsius and gentle breezes. Meanwhile, Brussels and Berlin are bracing for chilly conditions, with highs of 2 degrees and 1 degree respectively, along with mixed precipitation. London is also expecting rain and temperatures around 3 degrees, while Stockholm faces a cold day with highs of just 1 degree and a chance of snow. In Riga, temperatures will remain below freezing, with light snow showers anticipated.
Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.