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.

4. Algeria's Parliament Declares French Colonisation a Crime Algeria's parliament has unanimously passed a law declaring the French colonisation of the country a crime, demanding both an apology and reparations. The law also criminalises the glorification of colonialism, reflecting the growing tensions in diplomatic relations between Algeria and France.

5. Europe Defends Digital Rules Amid US Visa Ban European Union officials have defended their digital regulations following a visa ban imposed by the Trump administration on a former EU Commissioner. The European Commission condemned the US decision, emphasizing the importance of their digital framework in promoting free expression.

This lump of hardened fat, oil, and waste marks a significant find since the last major fatberg was reported in 2017. 6. A massive fatberg has been discovered in London sewers, weighing approximately 100 tons. This lump of hardened fat, oil, and waste marks a significant find since the last major fatberg was reported in 2017.

draft, signaling a potential shift in negotiations regarding the contested Donbas region. This development awaits a response from Russia, marking a notable moment in the ongoing conflict. 7. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed openness to withdrawing troops in a new peace draft, signaling a potential shift in negotiations regarding the contested Donbas region. This development awaits a response from Russia, marking a notable moment in the ongoing conflict.

with retaliatory measures over entry bans affecting former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton and others. Brussels condemned the US government's actions, asserting that such restrictions are unacceptable. 8. The EU Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, has threatened the United States with retaliatory measures over entry bans affecting former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton and others. Brussels condemned the US government's actions, asserting that such restrictions are unacceptable. A small propeller plane in the USA successfully executed an emergency landing after experiencing a sudden loss of pressure on board. The airport fire department confirmed that both individuals on the plane exited uninjured, showcasing the effectiveness of the aircraft's emergency landing system. In Austria, a pastry shop in Klagenfurt is facing backlash for selling a peanut chocolate with a name that includes a racial slur. The term, which has historical connotations, has sparked outrage on social media, prompting discussions about the impact of language and the importance of sensitivity in branding. Turning to the weather, chilly conditions are expected across much of Europe today. In Brussels, temperatures will reach just 1 degree Celsius, while London will see a high of 5 degrees. Berlin and Stockholm are both facing bitterly cold weather, with temperatures not expected to rise above freezing. Meanwhile, Madrid will experience cooler temperatures ranging between 3 and 9 degrees. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Russell Brand faces new allegations In entertainment news, Russell Brand is facing fresh allegations, although details remain limited. This follows a series of accusations against the comedian, prompting increased scrutiny of his past actions.

5. Russia attacks Ukraine before Christmas Ukrainian President Zelensky has criticized Russia's heavy air strikes just before Christmas, highlighting the ongoing military pressure on Ukraine. Reports indicate that Ukrainian forces have had to retreat from the strategically significant city of Siversk amid these attacks.

that growth rates may be only half of the officially reported numbers. The study indicates that a decline in investment is pushing growth down to between 2.5 and 3 percent for 2025, far below the government's target. 6. Concerns are mounting over the accuracy of China's economic figures, with new analysis suggesting that growth rates may be only half of the officially reported numbers. The study indicates that a decline in investment is pushing growth down to between 2.5 and 3 percent for 2025, far below the government's target.

faces death for simply holding a poster during a demonstration. The slogan she displayed, “Mrs. Resistance. Freedom,” has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for her release. 7. International outrage is growing over the imminent execution of Iranian activist Zahra Tabari, who faces death for simply holding a poster during a demonstration. The slogan she displayed, “Mrs. Resistance. Freedom,” has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for her release.

Thierry Breton, due to alleged censorship of American online platforms. This move has raised tensions between the US and Europe, as it targets politicians and activists involved in the ongoing debate over digital freedom. 8. The United States has announced sanctions against several European individuals, including former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton, due to alleged censorship of American online platforms. This move has raised tensions between the US and Europe, as it targets politicians and activists involved in the ongoing debate over digital freedom. In other news, tensions have escalated at the UN Security Council amid a heated exchange between the USA and Russia over the situation in Venezuela. The US ambassador declared Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro as illegitimate, prompting sharp responses from Russian representatives. Meanwhile, in Australia, a British man faces deportation after being charged with displaying Nazi symbols. The 43-year-old was arrested earlier this month in Queensland, with authorities taking swift action against the alleged offense. Turning to the weather, chilly conditions prevail across Europe today. London will see temperatures around 5 degrees Celsius, dropping to 3 by night, while Paris is expected to reach a high of 4 degrees. In Brussels, it will be even colder, with highs of just 1 degree and strong winds nearing 33 km/h. Bitterly cold weather is also forecast for Berlin, Riga, and Stockholm, where temperatures will not exceed freezing. Madrid offers a slight reprieve with temperatures ranging between 3 and 9 degrees. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.