24 December 2025
Calendar:
King Felipe VI's Christmas Address: A Call for Coexistence and Dialogue in Times of Challenge
This Christmas Eve, King Felipe VI of Spain made a significant departure from tradition by delivering his annual Christmas message while standing, a change from the previous eleven occasions when he sat during his addresses. This shift reflects an effort to present a more approachable and dynamic image of the monarchy, incorporating technical innovations such as wider camera angles and
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A New Era in Christmas Addresses: King Felipe VI Stands Up to Connect with Spaniards
This year, King Felipe VI of Spain has made a significant departure from tradition by delivering his Christmas message standing up for the first time since his ascent to the throne in 2014. This notable change in posture aligns the Spanish royal family with the evolving practices of other European monarchs, such as King Charles III of England and King
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Reflections on Coexistence and Democracy: A Christmas Message from King Felipe VI
Good evening. Forty years ago, in this same Column Hall of the Royal Palace in Madrid, we signed the treaty through which we entered the European Communities. We also celebrate fifty years since the start of our democratic transition. These anniversaries encourage me to discuss coexistence and our democratic journey this Christmas Eve while reflecting on our past and harboring
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WhatsApp Chronicles: How Political Leaders Communicated During the Valencia Disaster
On October 29, 2024, the province of Valencia was struck by a catastrophic DANA (Dana de Estancamiento) that resulted in the tragic loss of 230 lives. In the midst of this chaos, a series of WhatsApp messages exchanged between former Valencian Generalitat president Carlos Mazón and the leader of the People's Party (PP), Alberto Núñez Feijóo, revealed just how dire
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Algerian Parliament Unanimously Approves Bill to Criminalize French Colonization
On Wednesday, the lower house of the Algerian parliament took a historic step by unanimously approving a bill aimed at criminalizing French colonization. This move serves as a strong demand from Algeria for reparations and official apologies from France for the widespread violence and abuses that characterized the colonization from 1830 to 1962, a period marred by mass killings and
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Deliciously Sustainable: Cooking with Norwegian Saithe and Cauliflower Risotto
In recent culinary trends, the focus on sustainability and health has led to a delightful exploration of seafood, particularly Norwegian saithe. Renowned for its mild flavor and firm flesh, saithe takes center stage in various dishes, appealing to palates young and old alike. One innovative and clean dish is the cauliflower risotto, where traditional rice is substituted with grated cauliflower. This
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Alberto Núñez Feijóo Submits WhatsApp Messages to Court Ahead of Testimony
On Wednesday, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the president of the Popular Party (PP), submitted WhatsApp messages exchanged with Carlos Mazón to the Court of Instruction of Catarroja. This submission came in anticipation of his upcoming testimony set for January 9, which he has requested to conduct via telematic means. According to PP officials, the messages were provided upon the judge's voluntary
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Iran's Nuclear Ambitions: Assessing the Fallout of June's Conflict with Israel
Speculation is rising regarding whether Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has authorized the development of nuclear weapons, especially following a devastating twelve-day conflict with Israel in June. US intelligence reports indicate that Khamenei has not sanctioned such a program, even after Israeli and US strikes notably weakened Iranian nuclear facilities and resulted in significant casualties. As of August, the US intelligence
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Ukraine's Strategic Shift: Navigating Challenges Ahead
As Ukraine looks towards 2026, the country finds itself in a precarious position, having secured an essential €90 billion loan from the European Union to maintain its defense capabilities until late 2027. However, this funding comes with the acknowledgment that it will not dramatically alter the current military landscape. Since 2024, Russia has taken the initiative in the conflict, making
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New Royal Decree-Law Exempts Unemployment Benefit Recipients from Filing Tax Returns
In a significant policy shift, the Government has announced the removal of the requirement for unemployment benefit recipients to file their income tax returns. This change was outlined in the Royal Decree-Law of economic measures approved by the Council of Ministers on Tuesday and published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) the following day. Starting from the 2025 tax year,
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Zelenski Unveils 20-Point Peace Plan Aiming for Resolution with Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski has revealed the first detailed account of a 20-point peace plan developed in collaboration with Washington, aimed at bringing an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This marks a significant moment as Zelenski expresses a willingness to negotiate territorial compromises, particularly in the Donbas region, which has long been a focal point of hostility between
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EU Condemns US Sanctions Against European Figures in Tech Regulation Dispute
The European Union issued a strong condemnation on Wednesday against sanctions imposed by the United States on five European figures involved in the regulation of technology companies, including former European Commissioner Thierry Breton. The US State Department announced on Tuesday that it will deny visas to Breton and four others, alleging they are attempting to coerce American social media platforms
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Zelensky Confirms Shift in Peace Negotiations with Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signaled a pivotal moment in peace negotiations with Russia, declaring, "The ball is now in Russia's court." In a statement made on Tuesday, December 23, Zelensky presented the results of extended negotiations with the United States aimed at crafting a draft agreement to end a conflict that has raged for almost four years since Moscow’s
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Former Councillor Among Six Charged with Over 60 Sexual Offenses Against Ex-Wife
Philip Young, a 49-year-old British citizen, along with five other men, has been charged with more than 60 sexual offenses against his ex-wife, Joanne Young, spanning a harrowing 13-year period. The charges include multiple rapes, administering drugs to subdue his wife, voyeurism, and possession of indecent images of minors and extreme imagery, according to Wiltshire police in southwest England. Young, who
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Current Developments in the Ongoing Ukraine Conflict: A Detailed Overview
The situation in Ukraine remains precarious as updates emerge amid the ongoing conflict. Recent reports from Ukrainian and Russian authorities report various developments that cannot be independently verified, and concerns are mounting amid escalating tensions. Important global stakeholders, including Pope Leo XIV, have called for a ceasefire in light of the Christmas season, an appeal which was reportedly rejected by
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Extremadura's Elections: A Harbinger of Spain's Political Shift Towards the Right
The recent elections in Extremadura serve as a pivotal indicator of the political landscape in Spain, showcasing the ongoing rightward shift and the waning effectiveness of traditional fear-based rhetoric against Vox. As elections unfold within this autonomous region, they reveal deeper ideological trends that could reshape the nation. The latest pre-election data from the Center for Sociological Research illustrates a notable
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Revelations from the Epstein Files: Ghislaine Maxwell's Grooming Tactics Exposed
The recently released documents regarding Jeffrey Epstein, unveiled by the US government, shed light on Ghislaine Maxwell's disturbing role in the normalization of abuse among vulnerable teenagers. These files, tied to Maxwell's conviction for sex trafficking, provide unsettling insights into her manipulative strategies aimed at drawing young girls into Epstein's web of exploitation. Through a detailed examination of testimonies presented
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Checco Zalone: The Icon of Italian Comedy Dominating the Box Office
Checco Zalone, whose real name is Luca Medici, has emerged as the most successful actor and screenwriter in Italian cinema over the past forty years, renowned not only for his comedic prowess but also for his profound impact on the film industry. His journey in the entertainment world began with a humorous character he created, a tacky neomelodic singer known
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Exploring the Sentiment and Commerce of Christmas: A Literary Journey
After Charles Dickens popularized the concept of Christmas through his novels and fairy tales, he effectively laid the groundwork for a new sentimental and commercial landscape surrounding this festive season. Dickens’ narratives often reward virtue, but they also reveal the darker sides of human nature, such as envy and revenge. These contrasting elements contribute to what makes Christmas stories compelling,
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The Fall of Siversk: A Turning Point in the Ongoing Conflict in Eastern Ukraine
On December 23, the Ukrainian army announced its complete withdrawal from Siversk, a pivotal town that had served as a stronghold against the Russian advance toward Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. These two cities represent the last significant urban areas in the Donetsk region still under Ukrainian control, amid fears that the neighboring towns of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad may soon fall as
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Indulge in Elegance: Creamy Jerusalem Artichoke Soup with Gruyère for the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, many are seeking unique ways to elevate their festive dining experiences. One such way is by starting the dinner with a luxurious and elegant appetizer: creamy Jerusalem artichoke soup served in chic small shot glasses. This remarkable dish, featuring the nutty flavor of Le Gruyère AOP, is not only easy to prepare but also sure
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Savor the Flavor of Sustainable Coley: A Delicious Cauliflower Risotto Recipe
Coley is quickly becoming a go-to choice for both culinary enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters. This fish, known for its firm flesh and mild flavor, is not just delicious but also a sustainable seafood option. Caught in the clear waters of Norway, coley meets some of the world's highest standards for fishing regulations, ensuring that the ocean ecosystems remain protected while
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Ryanair Fined €256 Million for Limiting Online Travel Agents, Plans to Appeal
Ryanair, Europe's largest airline, has been slapped with a hefty fine of €256 million (approx. $223 million) by Italy's competition authority for allegedly abusing its dominant market position to restrict the sale of tickets by online travel agents. The authority's investigation revealed that Ryanair had enacted a deliberate strategy designed to create technical barriers for both travel agents and customers,
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In the Midst of Crisis: How Christmas Will Look for Ukraine and Other Current News
This morning, the world turns its attention to a series of pressing issues ranging from ongoing conflicts to legislative changes in Italy. Notably, new attacks from Russia have once again escalated tensions, casting a shadow over the holiday season for those in Ukraine. Christmas plans are a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by many as the Ukrainian budget law
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France's Budget Crisis: Urgent Calls for Action Amidst Economic Turmoil
France, grappling with rising debt, has resorted to an emergency measure following the Parliament's inability to agree on the budget for the upcoming year. The transitional arrangement allows the government to maintain tax collection, secure loans, and continue fundamental state financing. However, Economic Minister Roland Lescure emphasized in a recent interview with BFMTV that this solution merely provides 'minimum service'
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Brussels Strikes Back at China Over Dairy Tariffs Amid Ongoing Trade Tensions
Brussels retaliated on Monday, December 22, in response to China's imposition of duties reaching as high as 427% on certain dairy products imported from the European Union. The European Commission labeled the move as unjustified. The newly imposed duty deposits, which range between 219% and 427%, are set to take effect on Tuesday. They apply to a variety of items,
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Navigating Stomach Issues: Understanding Symptoms, Triggers, and Solutions
The stomach is not just an organ; it is a complex system that reacts swiftly to a myriad of influences—stress, dietary habits, infections, and hormonal changes. Symptoms typical of stomach issues can wax and wane, which often leads people to brush them off as insignificant. But these fluctuations can indicate deeper underlying problems. Many individuals might find their gut functioning erratically:
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The Evolving Threat of the Ghost Fleet: Sanctions Evasion and Maritime Security
In recent weeks, the United States has intensified its pressure campaign against the regime of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by seizing two oil tankers off the coast of Venezuela and attempting to board a third. On another front, Ukraine has ramped up its attacks on Russian tankers in the Baltic Sea, the Black Sea, and even in the Mediterranean. These
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The Paradox of War: Mourning a Radical and the Kremlin's Tightening Grip
Beneath the radiant frescoes and golden icons of Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Savior, a somber gathering unfolded as hundreds dressed in dark winter jackets filled the lower hall on a chilly Monday. They were there to bid farewell to Stanislav Orlov, known by his callsign 'Spaniard', the controversial founder of the far-right Española unit, a group of football hooligans
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New Epstein Documents Raise Alarming Questions About Royal Connections
In a shocking development from the ongoing Jeffrey Epstein case, newly released court documents by the United States Department of Justice have surfaced concerning communications with British figures, revealing troubling associations. A pivotal email, which has been a focal point of public interest, appears to have originated from an account linked to Balmoral Castle, the summer residence of the British
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US Coast Guard Shadows Venezuelan Tankers Amid Rising Tensions
In a significant escalation of maritime enforcement, the US Coast Guard is currently pursuing a third oil tanker purportedly linked to Venezuela's shadow fleet, operating under false pretenses to evade international sanctions. A US official, who requested anonymity, indicated that this vessel was engaged in illegal activities related to sanction evasion, tracking it amidst international waters near Venezuela. The ongoing
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Deadly Car Explosion in Moscow Claims Lives of Two Police Officers and Suspect
In a tragic incident in Moscow, two traffic police officers and a third individual have lost their lives due to a car explosion, as reported by Russia's investigative committee. The committee stated that an explosive device was detonated when the officers approached a suspicious person near their patrol vehicle on Yeletskaya Street, located in the southern part of the city. The
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France's New Era of Naval Power: The Revolutionary PANG Aircraft Carrier
France is poised to make a significant leap in its naval capabilities with the introduction of the new Porte Avions Nouvelle Génération (PANG), which translates to Next Generation Aircraft Carrier. This monumental ship aims to replace the aging Charles de Gaulle and is set to become the largest aircraft carrier ever constructed in Europe, signifying a substantial advancement in naval
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Tragic Loss: Libya's Chief of Staff Killed in Plane Crash
In a devastating turn of events, Libya's Chief of Staff, Mohammed Ali Ahmed al-Haddad, has tragically died in a plane crash shortly after departing from Ankara, Turkey. The confirmed death was announced by Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, the Prime Minister of Libya's internationally recognized government, on Tuesday evening, marking a significant loss for the nation and its military institution. Al-Haddad was not
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NBA and FIBA Unite to Launch New Pan-European Men's Basketball League
The NBA and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) announced on Monday, December 22, their plans to prospect teams and owners for the creation of a pan-European men's basketball league. In a joint statement, the two organizations revealed that they would move forward in January by engaging prospective teams and ownership groups as part of their exploration of this ambitious project. NBA
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Greenland's Prime Minister Asserts Sovereignty Amid U.S. Interest
On Tuesday, December 23, Greenland's Prime Minister Jens Frederik Nielsen firmly stated that the future of the autonomous territory will be determined by its own people, following remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump emphasizing the strategic importance of Greenland for national security. Nielsen expressed his sentiments through a Facebook post, underscoring that ‘Greenland is our country. Our decisions are made
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Global Calls for Peace Amid Escalating Conflict: Pope Leo XIV's Plea and Ongoing Violence in Ukraine
Pope Leo XIV has made a heartfelt appeal for a global ceasefire on Christmas Day, expressing his profound sadness over Russia's refusal to accept this request. Speaking to reporters at his residence near Rome, the Pope emphasized the significance of peace on this sacred occasion, urging all people of goodwill to honor at least one day of tranquility in the
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Bonoloto Results for December 23, 2025: Winning Numbers and Prize Breakdown
The Bonoloto draw held today, Tuesday, December 23, 2025, has revealed the winning numbers: 11, 14, 22, 30, 33, and 37. The complementary number is 3, while the refund number is 7. Bonoloto is a popular lottery game managed by Loterías y Apuestas del Estado in Spain. To participate, players select six numbers from a pool ranging from 1 to 49.
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US State Department Targets European Figures for Censorship Efforts
The U.S. State Department has taken a bold step by barring five European individuals from entering the United States, alleging their involvement in campaigns aimed at pressuring technology companies to censor or suppress American perspectives. This action is seen as a significant move against European regulations that address hate speech and misinformation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the visa bans
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First Look: Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey Odissea' Trailer Unveiled
Universal Pictures has officially released the first trailer for Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated film 'The Odyssey Odissea.' Set to hit theaters on July 16, 2026, the movie offers a fresh take on the classic tale of Odysseus's perilous journey home following the Trojan War. The trailer primarily features Matt Damon as Odysseus, showcasing gripping scenes set against the backdrop of
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US Economy Surges 43% in Q3: A Boon for Exports and Consumer Spending
In a stunning turn of events, the US economy experienced a remarkable growth rate of 43% during the third quarter of 2023, which spanned July to September. This surge not only defied the expectations of many analysts—who were forecasting a growth range of 32 to 33 percent—but also marked the highest quarterly growth rate in two years, notably surpassing the
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