4. EU to provide financial support to Jordan The European Union is set to approve a €500 million loan to Jordan during a summit in Amman today. EU leaders, including Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa, will meet with King Abdullah II to discuss this financial assistance.

5. Ongoing violence in Aleppo Clashes between Kurdish forces and Syrian government troops are escalating in Aleppo, with reports of at least twelve civilian casualties over the past three days. The situation remains tense as fighting continues in the region.

Early Rain Covenant Church arrested in Chengdu. This raid highlights the increasing pressure on unregistered religious groups amid a broader campaign against dissent in the country. 6. China's crackdown on underground churches has escalated, with nine prominent leaders from the Early Rain Covenant Church arrested in Chengdu. This raid highlights the increasing pressure on unregistered religious groups amid a broader campaign against dissent in the country.

As tensions rise, both Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are being drawn into the fray, with Putin potentially acting as a mediator in the ongoing unrest. 7. Protests in Iran are intensifying, with demonstrators calling for US President Donald Trump's intervention. As tensions rise, both Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are being drawn into the fray, with Putin potentially acting as a mediator in the ongoing unrest.

British government reassesses its global standing post-Brexit. This situation has sparked renewed discussions about defense and cooperation, emphasizing the need for unity in the face of external pressures. 8. The fragility of relations between the UK and Ireland is under scrutiny as the British government reassesses its global standing post-Brexit. This situation has sparked renewed discussions about defense and cooperation, emphasizing the need for unity in the face of external pressures. In a chilling weather update, London is bracing for a cold day with temperatures peaking at around 4 degrees Celsius, while heavy rain is expected to bring over 20 millimeters of precipitation. Meanwhile, Brussels will see similarly low temperatures, reaching only 1 degree, accompanied by mixed precipitation and wind speeds of 27 kilometers per hour. In Berlin and Riga, conditions remain bitterly cold, with both cities struggling to rise above freezing, and light snow possible in Berlin. Lastly, Stockholm is also facing a frigid day with temperatures below zero and a chance of light snow showers. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Zelensky does not rule out the end of the war by mid-2026 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has suggested that the ongoing war could conclude by mid-2026, contingent on progress in peace negotiations. He emphasized the importance of discussions with European partners and the United States in achieving this goal.

5. European Commission piles up concessions for Paris and Rome hoping to seal Mercosur signature The European Commission is making significant concessions to European farmers to finalize the Mercosur trade deal with Latin America. Efforts include financial incentives and regulatory relaxations aimed at satisfying demands from Italy and France, key players in the negotiation process.

military experts warn that this could detract from ongoing operations elsewhere. Former head of the army Richard Dannatt emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the duration and nature of such a deployment. 6. Concerns are growing in Britain regarding the potential deployment of troops to Ukraine, as military experts warn that this could detract from ongoing operations elsewhere. Former head of the army Richard Dannatt emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the duration and nature of such a deployment.

will continue to sell Venezuelan oil indefinitely, following the completion of current sales. The revenue generated will be managed by the U.S. government and is intended to benefit the Venezuelan people. 7. In Aventura, Florida, Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced that the U.S. will continue to sell Venezuelan oil indefinitely, following the completion of current sales. The revenue generated will be managed by the U.S. government and is intended to benefit the Venezuelan people.

to draft their wedding vows. The ruling has left the couple disappointed, as they believed their vows, created for an informal civil ceremony in Zwolle, were sufficient to formalize their union. 8. A Dutch court has declared a couple's marriage invalid after they used artificial intelligence to draft their wedding vows. The ruling has left the couple disappointed, as they believed their vows, created for an informal civil ceremony in Zwolle, were sufficient to formalize their union. In a chilling weather update, London is set to experience a high of 4 degrees Celsius today, dropping to around 1 degree at night, with rain likely to accumulate about 1.19 mm. Meanwhile, Brussels will see temperatures peaking at 1 degree, with strong winds reaching 36 km/h and mixed precipitation expected, including light snow showers. Over in Berlin, temperatures will not exceed freezing, with gentle breezes and a high chance of rain and light snow, while Stockholm faces similar bitterly cold conditions with mixed precipitation on the horizon. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Ukraine security guarantees signed by Coalition of the Willing The United Kingdom and France have signed a declaration to provide troops for Ukraine as part of a future peace agreement. This declaration, supported by the United States and allied partners, was formalized in Paris and aims to bolster security guarantees for Ukraine.

5. Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban finalize divorce Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban have officially divorced after 19 years of marriage. A Nashville judge has approved their settlement regarding asset division and child custody, marking the end of their high-profile relationship.

Ukraine if a peace agreement is reached with Russia. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to establish military hubs across Ukraine following discussions with allies in Paris. 6. The UK and France have signed a declaration of intent to deploy troops in Ukraine if a peace agreement is reached with Russia. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to establish military hubs across Ukraine following discussions with allies in Paris.

Europe, according to CBS News. US officials indicated that American forces are poised to intercept the vessel, which has a history of transporting Venezuelan crude oil. 7. The US is reportedly preparing to seize a Russian-flagged oil tanker en route to Europe, according to CBS News. US officials indicated that American forces are poised to intercept the vessel, which has a history of transporting Venezuelan crude oil.

in the West Bank, which would divide the territory. A government tender has been issued to solicit bids from developers for the E1 project, as reported by the anti-settlement group Peace Now. 8. Israel has taken a significant step towards the construction of a contentious settlement project in the West Bank, which would divide the territory. A government tender has been issued to solicit bids from developers for the E1 project, as reported by the anti-settlement group Peace Now. In a chilling weather update, London will see temperatures reaching a high of just 4 degrees Celsius, dropping to around 1 degree by night, with rain expected to accumulate about 1.17 mm. Meanwhile, Brussels is bracing for a bitterly cold day, with strong winds nearing 33 km/h and mixed precipitation likely, including light snow. Over in Berlin, temperatures will remain below freezing, accompanied by gentle breezes and a humid atmosphere. Finally, Madrid will experience cool conditions, with temperatures ranging between -1 and 6 degrees Celsius. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Thousands stranded across Europe as air space disrupted A communications failure has led to the closure of Greece's airspace, stranding thousands of passengers across Europe. Authorities are investigating the cause of the disruption, which resulted in widespread flight cancellations and delays.

5. Asylum numbers are falling sharply in Germany Germany has seen a significant decline in asylum applications, with initial requests dropping to 113,236 in 2025, compared to 229,751 the previous year. This trend marks a continued decrease from 2023, when applications reached 329,120.

defense ministry. The joint operation involved Royal Air Force Typhoon jets and French aircraft, striking a location near Palmyra known for its underground cache. 6. Britain and France have successfully targeted an Islamic State arms bunker in Syria, according to the U.K. defense ministry. The joint operation involved Royal Air Force Typhoon jets and French aircraft, striking a location near Palmyra known for its underground cache.

authorities, reactions in Venezuela are mixed. While many Venezuelans abroad celebrate the event, those within the country remain cautious, as the regime continues to hold power despite the president's capture. 7. Following the arrest of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. authorities, reactions in Venezuela are mixed. While many Venezuelans abroad celebrate the event, those within the country remain cautious, as the regime continues to hold power despite the president's capture.

cyberattacks to disrupt power in Caracas during military operations that led to Maduro's arrest. This assertion suggests a significant escalation in the use of cyber capabilities in international conflicts. 8. President Donald Trump has hinted at the use of U.S. cyberattacks to disrupt power in Caracas during military operations that led to Maduro's arrest. This assertion suggests a significant escalation in the use of cyber capabilities in international conflicts. In Berlin, tens of thousands of residents are currently facing a power outage, believed to be a result of sabotage. Authorities are investigating the incident, which has left many households in the southwest without electricity. Meanwhile, in international news, US President Donald Trump has declared that Washington will "run" Venezuela following a military operation that led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro. Trump emphasized the need for a safe and proper transition of power in the country. Turning to the weather, Madrid is experiencing chilly conditions with temperatures around 5 degrees Celsius, while London is even colder, reaching highs of just 2 degrees. In Brussels and Paris, expect bitterly cold weather with mixed precipitation, while Stockholm and Riga are also facing freezing temperatures and light snow showers. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Iconic Elephant Craig Passes Away in Kenya Craig, one of Africa's most renowned elephants, has died at the age of approximately 54 in Amboseli National Park, Kenya. The Kenya Wildlife Service confirmed his passing, noting his fame was largely due to his impressive tusks.

5. Over 100 People Seek Shelter in Japanese Shrine More than 100 individuals were forced to take refuge in the Mitsumine Shrine in Japan due to heavy snowfall that blocked access roads. Around 130 people spent the night in the shrine's halls and lobbies after being cut off from the surrounding area.

10, following two additional fatalities reported by authorities on Saturday. The unrest, fueled by the country’s struggling economy, continues despite warnings from US President Donald Trump regarding Iran's violent response to the demonstrations. 6. The death toll in the ongoing protests in Iran has now reached at least 10, following two additional fatalities reported by authorities on Saturday. The unrest, fueled by the country’s struggling economy, continues despite warnings from US President Donald Trump regarding Iran's violent response to the demonstrations.

countries to discuss a US-brokered peace plan. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism about the negotiations, although key territorial disputes and Russian claims of setbacks remain unresolved. 7. In Kyiv, high-level security talks are underway as Ukraine welcomes advisers from approximately 15 countries to discuss a US-brokered peace plan. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism about the negotiations, although key territorial disputes and Russian claims of setbacks remain unresolved.

epicenter located 15 kilometers southwest of San Marcos in Guerrero. The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, prompting concerns about potential damage and aftershocks in the region. 8. A severe earthquake measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale struck southern Mexico, with its epicenter located 15 kilometers southwest of San Marcos in Guerrero. The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, prompting concerns about potential damage and aftershocks in the region. In other news, the FBI has reportedly thwarted a planned New Year’s Eve terrorist attack in North Carolina. An 18-year-old suspect was apprehended before the attack could be executed, ensuring public safety during the celebrations. Meanwhile, the US has announced a reduction in proposed tariffs on Italian pasta imports, easing concerns for American consumers and importers who faced potential price hikes. This decision comes after negotiations with Italian officials, who welcomed the move as a positive step for trade relations. Turning to the weather, Madrid will experience a cool day with temperatures ranging from 7 to 12 degrees Celsius and gentle breezes. Brussels is set to be quite chilly, with highs around 1 degree and mixed precipitation expected. In Berlin, expect temperatures below freezing and a likelihood of rain and light snow. Paris will also be cold, with highs near 2 degrees and some rain. London mirrors this chill, while Riga and Stockholm brace for bitterly cold conditions and mixed precipitation, including snow. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

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.

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. 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.

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. 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.

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. 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. 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.

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.

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. 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.

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. 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.

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. 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. 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. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Netherlands Police Face Unprecedented Violence Dutch police reported an alarming level of violence during New Year’s Eve celebrations, with officers being targeted by fireworks. A historic church in Amsterdam was severely damaged by fire, although the cause of the blaze is still under investigation.

5. Tragic Fire at Swiss Ski Resort In southern Switzerland, a fire at a bar during New Year’s Eve festivities has left several dozen people presumed dead and around 100 injured. Authorities have stated that the incident is not being treated as a terrorist attack, but the cause remains unclear.

President Donald Trump has criticized actors George and Amal Clooney for obtaining French citizenship, suggesting it undermines their American values. This comes amid ongoing tensions between Trump and Hollywood figures, particularly those aligned with the Democratic Party. 6. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized actors George and Amal Clooney for obtaining French citizenship, suggesting it undermines their American values. This comes amid ongoing tensions between Trump and Hollywood figures, particularly those aligned with the Democratic Party.

effect on January 1st, impacting imports of steel, aluminum, and cement. This initiative aims to level the playing field for EU manufacturers but raises concerns about potential trade escalations with non-EU countries. 7. The European Union's carbon border tax on heavy industry goods is set to take effect on January 1st, impacting imports of steel, aluminum, and cement. This initiative aims to level the playing field for EU manufacturers but raises concerns about potential trade escalations with non-EU countries.

to a "weak" peace deal with Russia that could prolong the ongoing conflict. He stated his commitment to securing a strong agreement to ensure a lasting resolution to the war, which has now lasted nearly four years. 8. In a recent address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that he will not agree to a "weak" peace deal with Russia that could prolong the ongoing conflict. He stated his commitment to securing a strong agreement to ensure a lasting resolution to the war, which has now lasted nearly four years. In a significant development, Bulgaria has officially joined the eurozone, becoming the 21st member of the currency union. This move marks a pivotal moment for the country, which has faced a challenging path to adopting the euro, and is seen as a hopeful step for its urban and entrepreneurial population. In international news, China is set to implement a 13% sales tax on contraceptives starting January 1st, while childcare services will be exempt from taxation. This initiative aims to address the country's declining birth rates amid broader demographic challenges. Turning to the weather, Madrid will see cool conditions today with temperatures ranging from 2 to 8 degrees, accompanied by gentle breezes and a likelihood of light rain. Meanwhile, Brussels and Berlin will experience chilly weather, with highs around 4 and 2 degrees respectively, both facing breezy conditions and significant rain. In London, temperatures will reach a high of 5 degrees, while Riga is bracing for bitter cold with strong winds and mixed precipitation, potentially including snow. Lastly, Stockholm will be chilly as well, with temperatures around 1 degree and heavy showers expected. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Putin declares victory in Ukraine in New Year’s address In a bold New Year’s address, Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that Russia will achieve victory in Ukraine. This declaration comes despite ongoing international efforts, including those from U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at resolving the conflict.

5. Russia releases footage to support attack claims against Ukraine Russia's defense ministry has published video evidence it claims shows a downed drone involved in an alleged attack on a presidential residence. Ukrainian officials have dismissed these assertions, stating that Russia has not provided credible evidence to back its claims.

age of 15, with the draft law expected to be discussed in parliament early next year. If approved, the legislation would take effect on September 1, 2026, prohibiting platforms from offering services to children in this age group. 6. France is set to propose a ban on social media for users under the age of 15, with the draft law expected to be discussed in parliament early next year. If approved, the legislation would take effect on September 1, 2026, prohibiting platforms from offering services to children in this age group.

emphasizing the nation's technological advancements. His remarks come amid ongoing tensions in the region, as he called for reunification with Taiwan as a key goal for the country. 7. In his New Year’s speech, Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China's claim to Taiwan, emphasizing the nation's technological advancements. His remarks come amid ongoing tensions in the region, as he called for reunification with Taiwan as a key goal for the country.

spreading AI-generated disinformation. This call for action follows a rise in misleading videos that have prompted concerns about their impact on public opinion regarding the EU. 8. Poland's digital minister, Dariusz Standerski, has requested the European Commission to investigate TikTok for spreading AI-generated disinformation. This call for action follows a rise in misleading videos that have prompted concerns about their impact on public opinion regarding the EU. In Bucharest, Romania has pledged €50 million in US-made arms for Ukraine, joining other Western nations in supporting the country’s defense efforts. The announcement was made by the Romanian foreign affairs minister via social media, highlighting the ongoing commitment to Ukraine's security. In a tit-for-tat response, Mali and Burkina Faso have announced a travel ban on US citizens, mirroring restrictions previously imposed by the Trump administration. Both countries have stated they will implement these measures as part of a broader diplomatic stance. Turning to the weather, chilly conditions are expected across Europe today. In London, temperatures will reach around 5 degrees, dropping to 1 degree at night, while Berlin will see a high of 2 degrees with mixed precipitation. Paris and Brussels will both experience highs of 4 degrees, and Stockholm will be slightly cooler at 2 degrees. Meanwhile, Riga is forecasted to remain bitterly cold with strong winds and mixed precipitation throughout the day. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Germany faces daily attacks as Russia targets Europe In his New Year’s address, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that Germany is under constant threat from Russian aggression, which he claims is part of a broader plan against Europe. He emphasized the growing urgency of addressing these security challenges.

5. Russian drone strikes on Odesa leave four wounded An overnight drone attack by Russia on the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has resulted in at least four injuries, including three children. Ukrainian authorities reported that the city's infrastructure has been a frequent target since the onset of the conflict.

Belarus, raising concerns among NATO allies. This move is seen as part of Moscow's ongoing military strategy amid heightened tensions in Eastern Europe. 6. Russia has placed its nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile on combat duty in Belarus, raising concerns among NATO allies. This move is seen as part of Moscow's ongoing military strategy amid heightened tensions in Eastern Europe.

injuries and the evacuation of around 100 people. Local authorities reported that helicopters were deployed for rescue operations following the collision of two cabins with the cable car stations. 7. A cable car accident in Italy's Piedmont region has resulted in at least six injuries and the evacuation of around 100 people. Local authorities reported that helicopters were deployed for rescue operations following the collision of two cabins with the cable car stations.

into a savings bank, making off with an estimated €30 million in cash and valuables. Police described the operation as highly professional, likening it to scenes from the film Ocean's Eleven. 8. In a dramatic heist, thieves in western Germany used a large drill to break into a savings bank, making off with an estimated €30 million in cash and valuables. Police described the operation as highly professional, likening it to scenes from the film Ocean's Eleven. Italy postpones ‘sugar tax’ to 2027 as debate grows across Europe. On Tuesday, the Italian Chamber adopted the 2026 finance law, officially delaying the implementation of the tax on sugar-sweetened beverages until January 2027. This tax was initially set to take effect on January 1, 2026, but successive governments have opted for postponements. In other news, Poland has secured a €3.3 billion deal with South Korea to boost domestic missile production. The agreement will see the joint production of missiles for the HOMAR-K rocket launcher, marking a significant step in Poland's defense capabilities. Turning to the weather, chilly conditions are expected across much of Europe today. London and Paris will see highs of 4 degrees, while Berlin is set to reach just 2 degrees. Meanwhile, Brussels will have a high of 5 degrees, and both Riga and Stockholm are facing bitterly cold temperatures, not exceeding freezing. Madrid will experience cooler weather, with temperatures ranging between 3 and 9 degrees. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.