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.

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.