Latest World News
Death Toll Rises in Ukraine After Russian Drone Strikes
Russia launched 131 drones overnight on Ukraine, causing several deaths and injuries as confirmed by Ukrainian officials and air force. Strikes occurred on Christmas Day, intensifying the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy noted a peace deal is much closer via a 20-point US-negotiated plan under review by Moscow.
Japan's Cabinet Approves Record Defense Budget to Deter China
Japan approved a defense budget exceeding 9 trillion yen for the coming year, aimed at countering regional threats particularly from China. This marks a significant military spending increase. The plan focuses on enhancing deterrence capabilities amid tensions in Asia.
Pope Leo XIV Delivers First Christmas Message Urging Compassion
Pope Leo XIV urged the faithful to overcome indifference to suffering in his inaugural Christmas Day address from the Vatican. He called for silencing weapons and pursuing dialogue in conflicts like Gaza. Thousands gathered at St. Peter's to hear the Urbi et Orbi speech emphasizing peace and reconciliation.
Turkey Begins Black Box Analysis of Jet Crash Killing Libyan Military Chief
Turkey's Ministry of Defense started technical analysis of black boxes from a jet crash that killed eight, including Libya’s military chief. The incident has prompted international attention. Investigations aim to determine the cause of the fatal crash.
Algeria Declares French Colonization a Crime, Demands Restitution
Algerian legislators voted to classify France's 130-year colonization as a crime and seek restitution for seized properties. This escalates historical tensions between the nations. The move reflects ongoing demands for colonial reparations.
Blast in Gaza Wounds Israeli Soldier, Israel Accuses Hamas of Ceasefire Breach
An explosive device detonated in Gaza, injuring one Israeli soldier; Israel blamed Hamas for violating the US-brokered ceasefire. Tensions persist despite the truce. Pope Leo XIV highlighted the Gaza crisis in his Christmas address.
DRC and Rwanda Sign Peace Agreement in Washington
Presidents FĂ©lix Tshisekedi of DRC and Paul Kagame of Rwanda signed a formal peace deal hosted by US President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. This aims to end their prolonged border conflict. The agreement addresses ongoing hostilities in eastern DRC.
US Military Strikes Boat in Pacific, Killing Alleged Drug Traffickers
The US Navy struck a boat in the Pacific Ocean carrying illegal narcotics, killing four people, as per US Southern Command. President Trump announced a related strike on Christmas Day targeting militants. It underscores the war on drugs amid regional tensions.
Rapid Support Forces Capture Sudan's Largest Oilfield Heglig
Sudanese Rapid Support Forces seized Heglig, Sudan's biggest oilfield, after Sudanese Armed Forces withdrew. This escalates the civil war over key resources. Control of oil infrastructure intensifies the conflict.
Tatmadaw Airstrike Kills 34 in Myanmar Hospital
At least 34 killed and 80 injured in a Myanmar military airstrike on a hospital in Mrauk U, Rakhine State. The attack targeted areas amid ongoing civil war. International reports confirm the high civilian toll.
ISIL Attacker Kills US Personnel in Syria Convoy Attack
An ISIL member attacked a joint Syrian-US convoy in Palmyra, killing two US service members and one civilian interpreter, injuring three others before being killed. US Central Command identified the attacker. This highlights persistent threats in Syria.
South Korea Vows to End Foreign Adoptions
South Korea announced plans to halt foreign adoptions, addressing long-standing issues in its adoption practices. The decision aims to reform domestic child welfare systems. It impacts international adoption processes globally.