France

Irakli Kobakhidze denied Macron's statement about Russia's growing aggression in neighboring countries, noting that it concerns only Ukraine. The Georgian prime minister advised the French president to focus on helping Ukraine.

French far-right politician Jean-Marie Le Pen has died at the age of 96. The five-time French presidential candidate was known for his scandalous statements about the Holocaust and racial discrimination.

The Polish Foreign Minister said that European countries may be pressured to conclude a peace agreement with Russia. He emphasized that peace should be achieved on fair terms, not through Ukraine's surrender.

The French General Staff has confirmed cases of desertion among the soldiers of the 155th Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine during training. The number of deserters is several dozen, but French law does not provide for punishment for this.

Demi Moore won her first Golden Globe for her role in the movie Substance. Her three daughters filmed their mother's emotional reaction to the victory, and the video quickly went viral.

The French president said that a quick solution to the conflict in Ukraine is impossible and that realistic negotiations are needed.

The President of Ukraine stated the need for tax reform to attract foreign investment. Zelensky spoke about the resources available in Ukraine and its readiness to cooperate with American companies.

Francois Hollande said that Emmanuel Macron should complete his presidential term. The former president also spoke out against the dissolution of the parliament and shared his vision of the future Bayou government.

The first three Mirage 2000-5F fighters will be delivered to Ukraine by January 20, 2025. In total, the Ukrainian Armed Forces will receive about ten aircraft equipped with SCALP-EG and Storm Shadow missiles.

A large-scale fire destroyed the Kantamanto market in Ghana's capital, causing millions in damage. 13 fire brigades fought the fire, with the preliminary cause being a failure in electrical connections.

An armed prisoner with mental disorders has taken 3 to 7 hostages in Arles prison. Among the hostages are medical workers and guards, and law enforcement officers are working at the scene.

Consumption of red wine in France has fallen by 90% since the 1970s due to changing tastes of the younger generation. Producers are forced to adapt to new realities and switch to producing other types of wine.

The President of Ukraine outlined the key elements of a just peace, including a powerful army and reliable security guarantees. Zelenskyy emphasized that NATO was the best option, and that guarantees without US participation would be weak.

Ukraine's president expressed support for the initiative to deploy a French military contingent, but believes that 2-3 more countries should be involved. Trump is positive about this idea.

The SBI is investigating violations in the 155th mechanized brigade “Anna Kyivska”, which was trained in France. According to media reports, 1,700 soldiers left the brigade without permission after engaging in combat near Pokrovsk.

In Switzerland, starting from January 1, 2025, it will be illegal to cover your face in public places. Violations are subject to a fine.

In 2024, 36,816 migrants crossed the English Channel by boat, 25% more than in 2023. This was the second highest figure since 2018

The President of France stated that the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East directly threaten the security of Europe. He called for unity and strengthening the continent's defense in 2024.

Tens of thousands of pro-European demonstrators celebrated the New Year outside Georgia's parliament, continuing their protests against the government. President Salome Zurabishvili joined the protesters, refusing to hand over power to a successor.

Côte d'Ivoire announced the withdrawal of 600 French troops from its territory. Senegal has also confirmed the closure of French military bases by the end of 2025, which weakens France's military influence in the region.

The Kremlin has rejected proposals to deploy a European peacekeeping contingent to Ukraine. Germany and other Western countries are considering sending peacekeepers if a consensus is reached.

Latvia has prepared more than 1,000 combat drones of various types for transfer to Ukraine. In 2025, the country plans to allocate an additional 20 million euros for the purchase of drones as part of a coalition with the United Kingdom.

Denmark, France, and Lithuania have provided Ukraine with more than €150 million for the development of the defense industry. The funds will be used to produce missiles, deep-strike drones, and artillery systems.

German chancellor candidate Friedrich Merz admits the possibility of sending peacekeepers to Ukraine, subject to a consensus with Russia. He also supports providing Ukraine with Taurus missiles.

russia plans to hold a teleconference between the occupied Crimea and Western countries to justify its aggression. The occupiers are looking for partners in the West to spread the narrative of “Nazism in Ukraine.

In Norway, a bus carrying foreign tourists went off the E10 highway and ended up in the water, killing three people. Among the passengers were citizens of 8 countries, 11 people were hospitalized, and the rescue operation is ongoing.

Ukrainian wines are rapidly integrating into the global gastronomic culture due to their high quality and naturalness. The products are exported to many countries and appear on the menus of well-known international restaurants.

France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs condemned Russia's massive strikes on six regions of Ukraine on December 25. The attacks caused severe damage to energy infrastructure, leaving thousands of homes without electricity for Christmas.

In Khmelnytsky region, police prevented the sale of a unique artifact from the Great Migration era. The silver overlay with gilding and solar signs dates back to 425-450 and is a rare find.

In seven Western European countries, support for Ukraine “until victory” has sharply declined. Most Europeans favor peaceful negotiations, even if it means Russia's control over some territories.