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1. Thousands of households in Scandinavia without electricity
Winter storm Johannes has left thousands of homes in Sweden and Norway without power due to strong winds and heavy snowfall. The adverse weather conditions have also caused significant traffic disruptions and impacted ferry services across the region.
2. The end of Teflon Trump
Former US President Donald Trump faces increasing legal challenges, having been impeached twice and indicted four times. Recent assessments suggest that signs of cognitive decline are becoming more apparent, raising questions about his political future.
3. Taiwan rattled by 7.0 magnitude quake
A powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Taiwan near Yilan, shaking buildings in the capital, Taipei. The quake occurred at a depth of 73 kilometers, and authorities are currently assessing any potential damage.
4. Ukraine anti-corruption agency tries to raid parliament
In Ukraine, the anti-corruption agency faced resistance from security services while attempting to raid parliament as part of a new graft investigation involving several MPs. This comes amid ongoing corruption scandals that have already led to high-profile resignations within the government.
5. Zelenskyy to speak with von der Leyen ahead of Trump meeting
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to consult with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other EU leaders before his meeting with Donald Trump for peace talks in the US. Discussions will focus on ensuring security with the support of major global powers.
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6. Thailand and Cambodia have signed a new ceasefire agreement following weeks of deadly clashes along their border. The renewed commitment aims to halt violence after a previous truce, which was touted by former President Donald Trump, fell apart.
7. In Italy, authorities have arrested nine individuals and seized €8 million in a significant operation targeting illicit financing linked to Hamas. The Anti-Mafia District Directorate of Genoa coordinated the crackdown, with all suspects expected to be remanded in custody.
8. UK trade unions are calling on the Labour Party to reconsider rejoining the EU customs union. This comes after the UK formally exited the bloc in January 2020, with unions arguing that alignment with EU trade rules could benefit the economy in the post-Brexit landscape.
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In a significant response to escalating tensions, Poland has scrambled jets along its border with Ukraine following a Russian missile and drone strike on Kyiv that damaged several buildings. This preventative measure aims to bolster security as US-Ukraine peace talks loom.
Meanwhile, the UK is launching a new initiative to recruit teenagers for paid gap years with the armed forces. This scheme is part of a broader strategy to enhance national defense, with plans to expand recruitment to over 1,000 young people annually.
Turning to the weather, expect chilly conditions across Europe today. In London, temperatures will range from 2 to 7 degrees, while Berlin will see a high of just 3 degrees, dropping to -1 tonight. Paris and Brussels will both experience highs of around 5 and 4 degrees respectively, with light breezes. In contrast, Riga and Stockholm will be colder, with highs of 5 and 4 degrees, and strong winds expected.
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