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1. Lidl sales surge 10% in ‘record-breaking’ Christmas
Lidl has reported a remarkable 10 percent increase in sales during the festive season, with nearly 51 million customers shopping at the discounter. The German-owned company announced that its UK operations generated over £1.1 billion, or €1.26 billion, in turnover in the four weeks leading up to Christmas Eve.
2. 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 comes after the resignation of his previous aide in November due to a corruption scandal, with Budanov being recognized for his significant contributions against Russian forces.
3. Trump warns Tehran that US is ‘locked and loaded’ to support Iranian protesters
Former President Donald Trump has cautioned Iran that the United States is prepared to support protesters in the country. In response, Iranian political adviser Ali Shamkhani warned Trump to refrain from intervention, citing the negative consequences of past American involvement in the region.
4. China’s new beef tariffs add momentum to EU-Mercosur deal
China’s recent decision to impose new tariffs on beef imports from Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay is intensifying pressure on South American exporters. This move is also revitalizing discussions around the long-awaited EU-Mercosur trade agreement, with additional tariffs of 55% set to take effect from January 1st.
5. Ukraine warns Putin plans false flag attack inside Russia to derail peace talks
Ukraine’s intelligence service has issued a warning that it anticipates a potential false flag attack orchestrated by Russian special services. They believe this provocation could occur at a significant location within Russia, possibly leading to substantial casualties and an escalation in tensions.
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6. Israel’s foreign ministry has sharply criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for what it deems antisemitic actions on his first day in office. The ministry condemned Mamdani’s decision to scrap the IHRA definition of antisemitism and lift restrictions on boycotting Israel, calling it a dangerous move.
7. A surge of nationalist sentiment is sweeping across England, with a growing movement of extreme patriots making their mark on the political scene. Demonstrations against asylum-seeker accommodations and large rallies in London have drawn significant crowds, showcasing a rising wave of activism draped in national symbols.
8. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is on track to surpass Tesla as the world’s leading seller of EVs. The company reported a nearly 28% increase in sales last year, reaching over 2.25 million units, marking a significant milestone in the competitive electric vehicle market.
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In a significant move, Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is advocating for more female toilets in the parliament building, responding to the increasing number of women in the legislature. As a record 73 women were elected to the Lower House in October, this petition reflects a growing demand for equal facilities.
Meanwhile, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has expressed his willingness to engage in talks with the US regarding drug trafficking and oil. This comes amid heightened pressure on his government, with Maduro stating he is ready for dialogue “wherever they want and whenever they want.”
Turning to the weather, chilly conditions are expected across Europe today. In Berlin, temperatures will reach around 1 degree, dropping to -1 by night, with strong winds and heavy rain predicted. Paris and London will also see highs of 3 degrees, with light rain likely. Meanwhile, Riga and Stockholm will experience similar temperatures around 1 degree, with mixed precipitation anticipated. In contrast, Madrid will be milder, with temperatures ranging between 5 and 10 degrees.
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