London
Turkish banks have begun to close the accounts of an increasing number of Russian companies and impose stricter requirements on individuals as they tighten their policies toward Russian clients amid sanctions imposed in connection with the war in Ukraine.
A former russian official has been detained in London on charges of violating British sanctions and money laundering. He is currently under arrest and awaiting trial in prison.
The Queen spoke about King Charles III, who recovered from a three-day hospital stay for prostate treatment, while she herself opened a new cancer support center.
Chita Rivera, the legendary Broadway actress, has died at the age of 91. The Tony Award-winning actress played several iconic roles on Broadway during her 60-year career, including Anita in West Side Story and Velma Kelly in Chicago.
Ukraine's Navy commander says they will gladly accept two British frigates that the UK plans to decommission in 2024 due to a shortage of sailors. The UK Defense Secretary has previously stated that 2024 will be a crucial year for Ukraine's fate and that the UK will continue to support Kyiv.
The United Kingdom, Italy and Finland have suspended funding for the UN Refugee Agency in Gaza following allegations that some staff members were involved in the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Earlier, the United States, Australia and Canada also froze funding for the Agency.
Two men in south London steal Banksy's work depicting drones on a stop sign.
Mohammed Dovtayev was sentenced to 3. 5 years for spying on an opposition TV channel in London with the aim of a potential terrorist attack. He claimed to be interested in architecture, but prosecutors proved that his goal was to identify security vulnerabilities.
On December 20, the International Day of Human Solidarity, established by the United Nations in 2005 in honor of human rights, peace and global cooperation, is celebrated around the world.
The EU Council has reached consensus on packaging waste reform, adding exemptions for wine and cardboard to gain broader support, while environmental activists express disappointment over the weakening of reuse targets. Denmark and Belgium have expressed concerns about the revised proposals.