The European Union has approved an indefinite freeze on Russian assets, a move tied to discussions about financial support for Ukraine. As the war between Russia and Ukraine nears four years, Ukraine faces a significant funding shortfall and requires about €135.7 billion over the next two years to sustain its efforts. This decision reflects ongoing Western efforts to restrict Russian resources while aiding Kyiv's financial needs.
Additionally, tensions remain high around Ukraine’s ports. A Turkish car ferry was damaged in a strike on a Ukrainian port, which Ukraine’s president blamed on Russia. In response, Turkey has called for a halt to attacks on shipping lanes and port facilities, highlighting broader concerns about the conflict's impact on regional trade and maritime safety.
Germany has accused Russia of conducting a cyber-attack targeting its air traffic control systems. The German government summoned the Russian ambassador, linking Moscow to both the cyber incident and alleged attempts to interfere in German elections. This situation underscores rising cyber tensions in Europe and the diplomatic challenges posed by hostile actions in cyberspace.
In Iran, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi, known for her activism on women’s rights, was arrested by Iranian security forces at a memorial event, according to her supporters. This arrest highlights ongoing human rights concerns and crackdowns on activism within the country.
Meanwhile, in France, farmers have launched protests following the culling of a herd affected by a cattle disease. The demonstrations, which have spread across several regions, reflect rural frustrations over disease management and government responses to agricultural crises.
Eritrea has announced its withdrawal from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad), a regional bloc, citing grievances that it has been targeted by the group and accusing it of failing to uphold its founding principles. This move signals rising tensions between Eritrea and neighboring Ethiopia and marks a significant shift in the East African regional political landscape.
At the recent Game Awards, the French-made role-playing game *Clair Obscur* won nine awards, including game of the year. The event showcased major achievements in the gaming industry and highlighted the creative success of French developers on the global stage.
In a separate cultural note, footage from British singer Taylor Swift’s world tour shows her in tears after meeting survivors and families affected by a UK attack. This moment reflects the emotional toll such tragic events can have on performers and communities alike.
In Colombia, a remarkable underground cathedral, built 180 meters below ground, is drawing attention. The idea originated in the 1930s when miners created makeshift altars inside mines as places of prayer for safety before their shifts, now inspiring a permanent structure.
In the United States, a Ghanaian influencer has been charged in connection with an $8 million romance scam targeting elderly Americans. Authorities say he used online platforms to defraud victims and publicly showed off the illicit profits on Instagram, highlighting issues of online fraud and victim vulnerability.