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.

4. Ukraine Criticizes Modi Over Putin Claims Ukraine has condemned Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for endorsing Russia's unverified claims about an alleged attack on President Putin's residence. Ukrainian officials pointed out that Russia has yet to provide credible evidence supporting its allegations against Ukraine.

5. France Delays Plastic Cup Ban The French government has postponed the ban on single-use plastic cups by four years, now set for 2030. The decision was made due to challenges in finding suitable alternatives, with the ecological transition ministry citing a review that deemed the initial timeline unfeasible.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that the raids took place across 21 provinces, highlighting the government's ongoing efforts to combat terrorism. 6. Turkey has detained 357 suspected members of the Islamic State group during nationwide police operations. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that the raids took place across 21 provinces, highlighting the government's ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.

wife Amal, and their twins, Ella and Alexander. The French government announced the naturalization, officially recognizing the family as part of the nation. 7. In a significant gesture, France has granted citizenship to George Clooney, his wife Amal, and their twins, Ella and Alexander. The French government announced the naturalization, officially recognizing the family as part of the nation.

The final sections of the fence, which includes barbed wire and designated patrol routes, have been officially handed over, enhancing the country’s border security measures. 8. Latvia has completed the construction of a fence along its eastern border with Russia. The final sections of the fence, which includes barbed wire and designated patrol routes, have been officially handed over, enhancing the country’s border security measures. In a concerning development, a so-called “zombie tanker” from the Russian shadow fleet has been spotted off the German Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn. This discovery raises questions about the tactics employed by Russia to disguise old ships as new vessels. In other news, Russia has accused Ukraine of attacking President Vladimir Putin's residence with drones, a claim that Ukraine has vehemently denied, calling it a fabrication aimed at disrupting peace efforts led by the United States. Turning to the weather, chilly conditions are expected across Europe today. In London, temperatures will range from 2 to 6 degrees Celsius, while Berlin will see highs around 1 degree, dropping to -1 overnight. Paris will experience similar coolness with temperatures between 1 and 6 degrees. Meanwhile, Brussels is set for a high of 5 degrees, and both Riga and Stockholm will face bitterly cold days with temperatures not exceeding freezing, alongside strong winds and mixed precipitation. Madrid will be slightly warmer, with temperatures between 5 and 11 degrees. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. US commits $2 billion for UN humanitarian aid The United States has pledged $2 billion to support United Nations humanitarian programs, while urging the organization to adapt its operations. This announcement, made in Geneva, highlights the urgency of addressing significant funding cuts.

5. Putin alters law to disregard foreign court rulings President Vladimir Putin has enacted changes that allow Russia to ignore rulings from foreign and international criminal courts. This controversial move raises concerns about the rule of law and Russia's engagement with the global legal framework.

in 2026, aimed at reducing reliance on US tech platforms. The initiative, announced by the Chaos Computer Club during their annual conference, seeks to empower users to transition to alternative technologies starting this Sunday. 6. German digital rights groups and tech companies are set to launch “digital independence days” in 2026, aimed at reducing reliance on US tech platforms. The initiative, announced by the Chaos Computer Club during their annual conference, seeks to empower users to transition to alternative technologies starting this Sunday.

in the annual food fight festival known as "Els Enfarinats." Dressed in military-style costumes, locals threw flour, eggs, and fireworks in a playful mock coup, while also collecting donations for charity from onlookers. 7. In Spain, the town of Ibi was transformed into a battleground as participants engaged in the annual food fight festival known as "Els Enfarinats." Dressed in military-style costumes, locals threw flour, eggs, and fireworks in a playful mock coup, while also collecting donations for charity from onlookers.

Russian fairy tales. This reopening comes over three years after the bombing, which is believed to have resulted in hundreds of casualties, marking a controversial chapter in the city's ongoing recovery. 8. The theater in Mariupol, once devastated by Russian bombs, has reopened with performances of Russian fairy tales. This reopening comes over three years after the bombing, which is believed to have resulted in hundreds of casualties, marking a controversial chapter in the city's ongoing recovery. Riga is bracing for a bitterly cold day with temperatures not exceeding the freezing point and strong winds reaching up to 40 km/h. Meanwhile, Berlin will see chilly conditions with highs around 4 degrees and a high likelihood of rain. Over in London, temperatures will range between 2 and 6 degrees, accompanied by breezy conditions. Finally, Madrid is set for cooler weather with temperatures between 7 and 10 degrees, while Brussels and Paris will also experience similar chilly temperatures, hovering around 4 degrees. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Poland to deploy €2bn anti-drone systems within two years Poland plans to establish a €2 billion anti-drone system within two years to enhance its defense against potential Russian attacks. This initiative comes in response to a rise in drone incursions into European airspace, prompting Poland to engage in NATO Article 4 consultations.

5. US offers ‘strong’ 15-year security guarantees as Kyiv pushes for longer The United States has proposed robust security guarantees for Ukraine, extending for 15 years, though Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is seeking a longer commitment. This announcement follows discussions with President Donald Trump aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia.

January to discuss security guarantees as part of a peace agreement with Russia. This meeting follows former President Trump's remarks suggesting that a peace deal is nearing, despite ongoing challenges. 6. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that allies of Ukraine will convene in Paris early January to discuss security guarantees as part of a peace agreement with Russia. This meeting follows former President Trump's remarks suggesting that a peace deal is nearing, despite ongoing challenges.

by offering financial incentives to women who choose to be fertilized with his sperm. The 41-year-old entrepreneur, who has six children, aims to address the issue in a unique and personal way. 7. Telegram founder Pavel Durov has proposed a controversial initiative to combat declining birth rates by offering financial incentives to women who choose to be fertilized with his sperm. The 41-year-old entrepreneur, who has six children, aims to address the issue in a unique and personal way.

a Jewish event in Bondi Beach, shared his thoughts on that fateful moment. The Syrian-born shop owner tackled one of the shooters from behind, preventing further tragedy in a situation that claimed 15 lives. 8. Ahmed al Ahmed, the man who heroically disarmed a gunman during a shooting at a Jewish event in Bondi Beach, shared his thoughts on that fateful moment. The Syrian-born shop owner tackled one of the shooters from behind, preventing further tragedy in a situation that claimed 15 lives. In a tragic incident in Italy, a mother and her 15-year-old daughter have died after experiencing severe illness following a Christmas dinner. The suspected cause is food poisoning, and despite efforts to seek help, it came too late for the family. In international news, China has announced plans to conduct military drills around Taiwan, simulating the seizure and blockade of key areas. This move is seen as a warning to what Beijing describes as "separatist forces," amid rising tensions in the region. Turning to the weather, chilly conditions are expected across Europe today. In Riga, temperatures will reach a high of 3 degrees, with strong winds and mixed precipitation. Berlin will also see a high of 3 degrees, with a chance of rain and snow. Meanwhile, Paris and Brussels will be slightly warmer at around 5 and 4 degrees respectively, while London remains cool with temperatures between 2 and 6 degrees. Stockholm faces bitter cold, with temperatures not exceeding freezing. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. China boosts nuclear warhead production capacity Recent satellite imagery indicates that China is expanding its nuclear warhead manufacturing sites. This development suggests an increase in the country's nuclear ambitions and a preparation for a quicker response in potential conflicts.

5. Storm Johannes claims two lives in Sweden A powerful winter storm named Johannes has swept across the Nordic countries, resulting in two fatalities in Sweden. The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute has issued warnings for strong winds, leading to travel disruptions and widespread power outages.

of Crete over the past few days. On Friday alone, nearly 400 individuals were picked up by fishing and patrol boats from the Greek coast guard. 6. Around 830 refugees and migrants have been rescued in various operations off the coast of Crete over the past few days. On Friday alone, nearly 400 individuals were picked up by fishing and patrol boats from the Greek coast guard.

than €293 million, with €125 million earmarked for An Garda Síochána. This presidency will run from July to December 2026, giving Ireland a significant role in shaping EU policy during that period. 7. Ireland's upcoming presidency of the European Union is projected to cost the state more than €293 million, with €125 million earmarked for An Garda Síochána. This presidency will run from July to December 2026, giving Ireland a significant role in shaping EU policy during that period.

state, prompting an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council. Ahead of the meeting, 21 predominantly Muslim nations issued a joint statement warning of "serious consequences" stemming from Israel's decision. 8. The Arab world has strongly condemned Israel's recent recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, prompting an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council. Ahead of the meeting, 21 predominantly Muslim nations issued a joint statement warning of "serious consequences" stemming from Israel's decision. In sports, the UEFA Champions League group stage concluded last night, with several teams securing their spots in the knockout rounds. Notably, Manchester City and Bayern Munich both finished at the top of their groups, while surprise qualifiers include FC Porto and RB Leipzig, who will look to make an impact in the next phase of the tournament. In environmental news, the European Commission is set to unveil new measures aimed at reducing plastic waste across member states. The initiative will focus on enhancing recycling efforts and promoting sustainable alternatives, with the goal of achieving a significant reduction in single-use plastics by 2025. Turning to the weather, London will see cool temperatures ranging from 4 to 6 degrees today, with breezy conditions at 17 km/h. Meanwhile, Berlin is expected to be chilly, reaching a high of 2 degrees before dropping to -1 tonight. In Paris, temperatures will hit around 5 degrees, while Brussels will see a high of 4 degrees. Over in Madrid, expect cooler weather with temperatures between 6 and 10 degrees, and rain likely. Lastly, Riga and Stockholm will both experience chilly conditions, with highs of 1 degree and strong winds. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

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.

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. 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.

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. 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.

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

4. Ukraine's Anti-Corruption Agency Confronts Parliament Ukraine's anti-corruption agency reported that security services obstructed their attempts to raid parliament amid a new graft investigation involving several MPs. This incident comes as the country continues to grapple with ongoing corruption scandals that have already led to high-profile resignations.

5. Zelenskyy Prepares for Talks with Trump Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other EU leaders ahead of his peace talks with Donald Trump in the US. Discussions will focus on ensuring security through collaboration with major global powers.

deadly clashes along their border. This commitment aims to restore peace after an earlier truce, brokered with the involvement of President Donald Trump, fell apart. 6. Thailand and Cambodia have signed a new ceasefire agreement following weeks of deadly clashes along their border. This commitment aims to restore peace after an earlier truce, brokered with the involvement of President Donald Trump, fell apart.

a significant operation targeting illicit financing linked to Hamas. The Anti-Mafia District Directorate of Genoa coordinated the crackdown, with all suspects facing remand in custody. 7. In Italy, nine individuals have been arrested and €8 million seized in a significant operation targeting illicit financing linked to Hamas. The Anti-Mafia District Directorate of Genoa coordinated the crackdown, with all suspects facing remand in custody.

This comes as discussions intensify about the implications of Brexit on trade relations and economic stability in the UK. 8. UK trade unions are calling on the Labour Party to reconsider its stance on rejoining the EU customs union. This comes as discussions intensify about the implications of Brexit on trade relations and economic stability in the UK. In a significant development, Poland has scrambled jets along its border with Ukraine following missile and drone strikes on Kyiv by Russia. The Polish military described the action as a “preventative” measure to secure its airspace amid escalating tensions. Meanwhile, the UK is set to introduce paid gap years with the British armed forces, aiming to recruit around 150 teenagers initially, with plans to expand to over 1,000 placements annually. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the country’s defence capabilities. Turning to the weather, chilly conditions are expected 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 at night. Paris and Brussels will also experience similar chilly weather, with highs around 5 and 4 degrees respectively. In Riga, expect strong winds and a high of 5 degrees, while Stockholm will reach 4 degrees. Madrid will be slightly warmer, with temperatures between 4 and 10 degrees, but rain is likely there as well. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. NATO Chief Rejects EU Defense Autonomy NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has dismissed calls for the European Union to pursue a defense strategy independent of the United States. His comments were a response to European People’s Party leader Manfred Weber, who suggested that Europe should prepare for greater autonomy in defense matters.

5. Avalanches in French Alps Result in Two Deaths Two fatalities have been reported following separate avalanches in the French Alps. A 60-year-old mountain guide died while leading a group of skiers in La Plagne, while details surrounding the second incident remain under investigation.

The band confirmed his death on their official website, stating he died at home on Christmas after a brief illness, leaving a significant void in their musical legacy. 6. Perry Bamonte, the beloved guitarist and keyboardist of The Cure, has passed away at the age of 65. The band confirmed his death on their official website, stating he died at home on Christmas after a brief illness, leaving a significant void in their musical legacy.

of flight cancellations and delays. As the northeast prepares for up to 9 inches of snow, over 1,600 flights had already been impacted by Friday night, disrupting holiday travel plans for many. 7. A severe winter storm is wreaking havoc across the United States, leading to thousands of flight cancellations and delays. As the northeast prepares for up to 9 inches of snow, over 1,600 flights had already been impacted by Friday night, disrupting holiday travel plans for many.

of a crucial conversation with US President Donald Trump. The leaders met to coordinate their positions, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in their discussions regarding ongoing geopolitical challenges. 8. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have reaffirmed their unity ahead of a crucial conversation with US President Donald Trump. The leaders met to coordinate their positions, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in their discussions regarding ongoing geopolitical challenges. In a significant development, President Donald Trump has positioned himself as the key decision-maker for any peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia. In an exclusive interview with POLITICO, Trump indicated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will present a new 20-point peace plan during their upcoming meeting in Florida this Sunday. In other news, researchers in Thailand have made an exciting discovery, finding a wild cat species thought to be extinct for three decades. The flat-headed cat was last seen in 1995 and has now been captured on camera in the Princess Sirindhorn Sanctuary, marking a remarkable moment for wildlife conservation. 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. Brussels and Paris are both forecasted to reach around 4 to 5 degrees, and in Riga, temperatures may hit 5 degrees but will drop to 1 degree by night. Strong winds are anticipated in Riga and Stockholm, with the latter also experiencing highs of 4 degrees. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. NATO chief Rutte rejects calls for EU defense independence from US NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has dismissed calls for the EU to establish independent defense structures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining ties with the US. This statement follows remarks from senior European politicians advocating for greater EU defense autonomy.

5. Belgium to introduce gender quotas for top management of state firms Belgium's federal government has agreed to implement gender quotas, requiring that one third of management board and executive committee positions in state-owned companies be held by women. This decision follows extensive negotiations and aims to enhance gender equality in leadership roles.

guarantees aimed at stabilizing the region post-ceasefire. Discussions will include the potential deployment of troops, following a recent 20-point plan developed in talks between Washington and Kyiv. 6. Ukraine's allies are gearing up for a significant meeting in January to finalize security guarantees aimed at stabilizing the region post-ceasefire. Discussions will include the potential deployment of troops, following a recent 20-point plan developed in talks between Washington and Kyiv.

of an EU military force to help secure peace in Ukraine. His call comes in light of the ongoing discussions about a comprehensive plan to end the conflict, which is currently under review by Moscow. 7. Manfred Weber, the leader of the European People's Party, has urged for the establishment of an EU military force to help secure peace in Ukraine. His call comes in light of the ongoing discussions about a comprehensive plan to end the conflict, which is currently under review by Moscow.

the country's enforcement of EU sanctions as a reason for concern. The ministry claims that Russian travelers face arbitrary legal practices from German customs authorities, describing the situation as lawless. 8. The Russian Foreign Ministry has issued a stark warning against traveling to Germany, citing the country's enforcement of EU sanctions as a reason for concern. The ministry claims that Russian travelers face arbitrary legal practices from German customs authorities, describing the situation as lawless. In other news, the European Union is set to revolutionize online shopping in 2026 with the introduction of AI agents capable of autonomously handling shopping orders and holiday bookings. This innovation aims to enhance consumer convenience and streamline the retail experience. Meanwhile, Japan is preparing for record defense spending in response to regional threats, with a draft budget for 2026 proposing around nine trillion yen, equivalent to 49 billion euros. This move reflects the country's commitment to bolstering its national security amid rising tensions in the region. Turning to the weather, today will be quite chilly across much of Europe. In London, temperatures will range from 2 to 6 degrees, while Berlin will see a high of just 1 degree, dropping to -4 tonight. Paris and Brussels will both experience highs of 4 and 3 degrees respectively, with light breezes. In Riga, expect a high of 4 degrees and strong winds nearing 31 km/h. Meanwhile, Madrid will have cool conditions with temperatures between 4 and 7 degrees, and a high chance of rain. Finally, Stockholm will see a high of 3 degrees with gentle breezes. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Türkiye arrests 115 suspected IS members Turkish authorities have detained 115 suspected members of the Islamic State in a series of nationwide raids. The arrests were made in connection with planned attacks during the Christmas and New Year period, with an additional 137 individuals still being sought by police.

5. Lotto madness in the USA: colossal billion-dollar jackpot cracked In the United States, a lottery player from Arkansas has won a staggering jackpot of approximately 1.8 billion dollars on Christmas Eve. This significant win has made headlines, marking a remarkable holiday surprise for the lucky winner.

where he oversaw the test launch of new anti-aircraft missiles. State media reports indicate that Kim criticized South Korea's military advancements during his inspection. 6. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has visited a nuclear submarine production facility, where he oversaw the test launch of new anti-aircraft missiles. State media reports indicate that Kim criticized South Korea's military advancements during his inspection.

The storm has resulted in heavy rainfall, power outages, and closed roads, leading to at least two fatalities. 7. A state of emergency has been declared in Los Angeles as a severe winter storm wreaks havoc across California. The storm has resulted in heavy rainfall, power outages, and closed roads, leading to at least two fatalities.

attack that paralyzed France's postal service just before Christmas. The attack halted parcel deliveries, causing significant disruption during the holiday season. 8. The pro-Russian hacker group "Noname057" has claimed responsibility for a cyber attack that paralyzed France's postal service just before Christmas. The attack halted parcel deliveries, causing significant disruption during the holiday season. In a chilling forecast, Berlin is set for a bitterly cold day with temperatures not expected to rise above freezing, accompanied by breezy conditions. Meanwhile, Brussels will experience similarly frigid weather, reaching a high of just 1 degree Celsius, with strong winds nearing 32 km/h. Over in London, expect a chilly day with highs around 5 degrees and breezy conditions as well. As for Riga, temperatures will peak at 3 degrees, dropping to minus 1 by night, with a humid atmosphere and gusty winds. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.