A former Brazilian police chief, Silvinei Vasques, was arrested in Paraguay for trying to flee to El Salvador. He was previously convicted for his role in an attempted coup linked to ex-President Jair Bolsonaro. Vasques was caught using a fake identity and handed back to Brazilian authorities.
Key Facts
Silvinei Vasques is a former police chief from Brazil.
He was convicted for helping in an attempted coup under ex-President Jair Bolsonaro.
Vasques was arrested at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Paraguay.
He was trying to fly to Panama and then go to El Salvador.
Vasques used a false identity, pretending to be Paraguayan.
He had escaped Brazil after being sentenced to over 24 years of house arrest.
Vasques was handed over to Brazilian authorities at the border with Paraguay.
Brazil's ex-intelligence director Alexandre Ramagem and Bolsonaro also faced legal troubles for related coup attempts.
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The UK will offer teenagers a paid "gap year" experience with the armed forces, aiming to attract more young people to military careers. This new scheme comes amid rising tensions with Russia and includes basic training without active combat deployment.
Key Facts
The UK plans to offer military "gap years" to young people aged 18 to 25.
The initiative is part of a strategy to boost military recruitment among youth.
The plan is initially for 150 participants, with hopes to expand to over 1,000 annually.
The young recruits will not participate in active military operations.
The program will include 13 weeks of basic training for army recruits.
Navy placements will last one year; the RAF details are still being decided.
The program aligns with similar initiatives in other European countries like France, Germany, and Belgium.
Rising tensions with Russia have influenced the development of this program.
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A winter storm is impacting parts of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania with snow, sleet, and ice. Forecasts show reduced snow totals compared to earlier predictions, but driving conditions remain difficult due to the weather. Authorities advise caution for those traveling during the holiday season.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service (NWS) released a new map showing winter storm warnings for the New York area.
Snow and sleet totals have been reduced in New York City and northeast New Jersey.
Despite these reductions, heavy snow is making travel difficult, especially overnight.
Up to 10 inches of snow have fallen in some areas, mostly affecting New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Freezing rain and a wintry mix are contributing to road hazards by creating icy conditions.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul advised residents to monitor weather updates and prepare for travel.
More than 122 million Americans are traveling during the holiday season, potentially impacted by these weather conditions.
The winter storm warning is in effect until 1 p.m. on December 27, 2025, for the Tri-State area.
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A doctor highlights three habits that she believes help older adults maintain strong physical and mental health. Known as "super agers," these individuals stay socially connected, physically active, and mentally agile. The doctor suggests starting these habits at any age for better health outcomes.
Key Facts
A "super ager" is someone in their 60s and 70s with strong physical, mental, and emotional health.
Dr. Amy Shah shared a video showcasing her parents, who are in their 70s, performing physical exercises.
Maintaining social connections is critical for super agers; loneliness can increase health risks.
Physical activity, such as exercises for lower-body strength, helps maintain brain health.
Mental agility practices, like learning new skills, are essential for super agers.
Research shows stronger leg muscles are linked to slower mental aging.
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Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to stop fighting and called for an immediate ceasefire after weeks of clashes. The ceasefire, effective immediately, allows civilians to return home and includes the release of Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand. The agreement followed talks between officials of both countries after recent intense conflicts resulted in deaths and displacement.
Key Facts
Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a ceasefire to stop recent border clashes.
The clashes displaced almost one million people and caused at least 41 deaths.
The ceasefire allows civilians to return to their homes in border areas.
The agreement includes a freeze on troop movements and requires the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand.
The recent fighting began after an October ceasefire agreement was breached.
Both sides blame each other for the breakdown of the previous truce.
The conflict involves a long-standing border dispute dating back over a century.
Efforts to mediate included Malaysia and U.S. President Donald Trump, leading to an earlier fragile ceasefire called the "Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords."
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Mia Hansson, an artist in Cambridgeshire, is creating a full-size replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, which originally depicts the 1066 Norman conquest of England. She aims to complete her project by October 2027, coinciding with the tapestry's display in London and its return to the Bayeux Museum in Normandy. Hansson has already completed 55 meters of the replica and works steadily each year to meet her deadline.
Key Facts
Mia Hansson is working on a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, an artwork that is nearly 1,000 years old.
The original tapestry tells the story of the 1066 Norman conquest of England.
Hansson started her project in 2016 and has been working for nearly ten years.
She aims to finish by October 2027, when the tapestry will be displayed in London and later return to Normandy.
As of now, she has completed 55 meters out of the total 70 meters.
The original tapestry uses only seven colors, which Hansson is replicating in her work.
Hansson works from a personal "roadmap" to plan her embroidery scenes.
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Citizens in the Central African Republic (CAR) are set to vote in controversial presidential and legislative elections. President Faustin-Archange Touadera seeks a third term after removing term limits, a move that some opposition groups have boycotted. The nation, facing ongoing conflict and economic challenges, will also hold local elections for the first time in 40 years.
Key Facts
CAR voters will participate in presidential, legislative, and local elections.
President Touadera aims to extend his presidency beyond two terms after eliminating term limits.
Opposition groups have boycotted the elections, labeling them as unfair.
Local elections will occur for the first time since the 1980s amidst a lengthy civil conflict.
The ongoing civil war involves the Seleka and Anti-balaka groups, displacing about one million people.
CAR has a diverse population of 5.5 million, speaking French and Sango.
CAR suffers from political instability despite having rich natural resources.
The country, reliant on Russian security support, exports diamonds, gold, and timber.
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An Australian mother, Rachel Petersen, discovered that her three-year-old daughter, Nyah, bears a striking resemblance to her own great-grandmother, Hilary Sumpton. Rachel shared this discovery on TikTok, where it quickly went viral, gathering over 1.4 million views.
Key Facts
Rachel Petersen is an Australian mom who shared a story about her daughter on TikTok.
Her daughter, Nyah, resembles Rachel's great-grandmother, Hilary Sumpton.
Hilary Sumpton is remembered fondly by the family as "Memar."
Nyah was around three years old when the resemblance was noticed.
The story has gone viral, reaching over 1.4 million views on TikTok.
People in the TikTok comments were amazed at the uncanny resemblance.
The viral post has led to reliving family memories and sparked discussions about genetics.
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A large winter storm is affecting parts of the United States from the Northeast to Colorado and Alaska, with significant snowfall and strong winds. The storm is expected to cause dangerous travel conditions, power outages, and poor visibility in many areas through the weekend. Winter storm warnings have been issued for several states, advising caution for those who must travel.
Key Facts
A winter storm is bringing up to 18 inches of snow to parts of the U.S., affecting areas from the Northeast to the Rockies and Alaska.
The storm will continue into early next week, with warnings of dangerous travel due to icy roads and poor visibility.
Ten states have winter storm warnings, including heavy snow and mixed precipitation in Connecticut, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Colorado and Idaho face snow and strong winds, making travel difficult in mountain regions.
Wyoming and California are also experiencing significant snowfall, with warnings of hazardous outdoor conditions.
In Alaska, the Panhandle may see up to 45 inches of snow in some areas, making travel nearly impossible.
Alerts are mainly in place until Saturday, although in Alaska, some extend into Monday, urging drivers to carry emergency supplies.
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In 2025, South Korea introduced several initiatives to increase its low birth rate. Births increased for 15 months straight, but experts warn this might only be temporary. New policies include generous parental leave and financial support for families.
Key Facts
South Korea's birth rate has been the lowest in the world for over a decade.
The country has invested nearly $300 billion in policies to encourage more births since 2006.
In 2025, births rose each month, showing a 6.9% increase from the previous year.
South Korea's "6+6 Parental Leave Scheme" offers financial incentives for both parents to take leave after birth.
New financial support includes a birth grant of 2 million won for newborns and more for additional children.
Free fertility treatments are now available, covering costs even if treatment fails.
Housing policies have changed to help newlyweds and families with young children.
Despite these efforts, high living costs and societal pressures remain challenges for increasing birth rates.
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A dachshund named Bagels went viral after his owner, Jennifer West from Tulsa, Oklahoma, shared a video of him ignoring her because he wanted to watch a deer documentary. Bagels usually responds quickly but became interested in deer videos, and the internet found his new hobby amusing. The video gained hundreds of thousands of views and likes, with many people enjoying Bagels' quirky love for deer.
Key Facts
A dachshund named Bagels began ignoring his owner due to an interest in watching deer documentaries.
The dog's owner, Jennifer West, filmed his reaction and shared it on TikTok where it went viral.
Bagels usually pays attention to West, making this behavior unusual and amusing.
The video received over 347,700 views and 75,000 likes shortly after being posted.
Bagels has shown interest only in whitetail deer, ignoring other animals in videos.
West and Bagels enjoy spotting deer on their walks, leading to his love for watching deer videos.
Online responses to the video have been positive, with many users enjoying the dog's unique interest.
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Thailand and Cambodia have signed a ceasefire agreement to stop fighting that has taken place along their border. The conflict has resulted in over 100 deaths and the displacement of more than half a million people from both countries. The ceasefire will stop all weapon use and attacks and maintain current troop levels.
Key Facts
Thailand and Cambodia signed a ceasefire agreement.
The fighting has been going on for 20 days between the two countries.
Over 100 people have died due to the conflict.
More than 500,000 civilians have been displaced.
The ceasefire took effect at noon local time (05:00 GMT).
The agreement was signed by Thai Defence Minister Natthaphon Narkphanit and Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha.
The agreement stops the use of all weapons and attacks on civilians and military targets.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accuses Russia of using Belarus territory to attack Ukraine, suggesting they are using apartments for military purposes. Intelligence experts report Russia possibly placing nuclear-capable missiles in Belarus to strengthen its military reach in Europe. Belarus has remained an ally to Russia, although it claims not to be directly involved in the conflict.
Key Facts
President Zelenskyy claims Russia uses Belarusian territory for military actions against Ukraine.
Russian missiles may be stationed at a former airbase in eastern Belarus.
Zelenskyy mentioned the use of residential buildings in Belarus to support Russian drone attacks.
Russia and Belarus have a history of military cooperation, with Belarus allowing certain strategic activities.
Recent satellite images suggest missile base construction in Belarus.
The Oreshnik hypersonic missiles, reportedly stationed in Belarus, have a long range and are hard to intercept.
US researchers confirmed the likelihood of missile deployment based on satellite imagery.
Belarus has not committed troops to the Ukraine conflict but remains aligned with Russia.
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The UK Ministry of Defence plans to introduce a 12-month "gap year" program aimed at young people under 25 to help improve military recruitment. Set to begin in 2026, this initiative will let participants experience life in the Army, Royal Navy, or RAF without a long-term commitment. The program seeks to attract a more diverse group and address recruitment challenges.
Key Facts
The UK's new military "gap year" program is aimed at people under the age of 25.
This initiative lets participants spend 12 months in the Army, Royal Navy, or RAF.
The program is paid, but the exact salary is not announced yet.
Initial applications open in spring 2026 for 150 participants, with goals to expand to 1,000 people each year.
Participants will gain skills like leadership and teamwork during the program.
The gap year initiative aims to make military service more appealing and diverse.
This program follows a recommendation by the UK Strategic Defence Review.
The idea was inspired by a similar program run by the Australian Defence Force.
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Paul Nowak, the leader of the Trades Union Congress in the UK, suggests keeping an open mind about joining the EU customs union to improve economic ties. This comes as the government focuses on addressing the cost of living crisis. He emphasizes that having a strong relationship with the EU is important for economic growth.
Key Facts
Paul Nowak is the leader of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) in the UK.
Nowak urges for a close economic and political relationship with the EU.
A customs union with the EU could reduce trade barriers by eliminating tariffs between the UK and EU.
Critics argue a customs union limits the UK's ability to create its own trade deals.
The UK government has fears that joining a customs union might affect trade deals with the US and India.
Thirteen Labour MPs support talks about joining a customs union with the EU.
The Conservative and Reform UK parties oppose rejoining a customs union due to Brexit benefits.
Nowak highlights the need to handle the cost of living crisis by 2026 to maintain public confidence in politics.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sent a New Year's message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the strong ties formed between their countries during the Ukraine war. North Korea has supported Russia by sending troops and military supplies. North Korea also confirmed that some of its soldiers died during their deployment in Russia's Kursk region.
Key Facts
Kim Jong Un sent a New Year's message to President Putin emphasizing strong ties during the Ukraine war.
Kim described their countries' relationship as a "precious common asset" that should continue.
North Korea confirmed it deployed troops to support Russia in the war against Ukraine.
At least nine North Korean soldiers died while clearing landmines in Russia’s Kursk region.
North Korea recently increased missile production and is building more factories for munitions.
Pyongyang has supplied Russia with artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems.
Russia has provided North Korea with financial aid, military technology, and food and energy supplies.
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On December 27, Russian forces launched a major attack on Kyiv with missiles, while claiming to have captured a village in the Zaporizhia region. Ukraine's military admitted a mistake leading to the loss of a position, and drone attacks caused damage in various regions. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy is discussing peace talks with President Trump, focusing on security guarantees.
Key Facts
Kyiv faced a major attack by Russian forces with air defenses responding to missiles.
Russia claimed to have captured the Ukrainian village of Kosivtseve in the Zaporizhia region.
Ukrainian military errors allowed three Russian soldiers to take a post in Huliaipole town.
Drone attacks by Russia damaged vessels in Odesa and Mykolaiv regions.
Poland intercepted a Russian aircraft and reported potential threats from Belarus.
U.S. researchers suggest Russia may be placing new missiles in Belarus.
President Zelenskyy aims to discuss peace and security guarantees with President Trump.
A nearly complete 20-point peace plan between the U.S. and Ukraine is in progress.
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Voters in Guinea and the Central African Republic (CAR) are set to elect their presidents for seven-year terms. Incumbents in both countries are favored to win in the first round of voting. Despite challenges, CAR is progressing in peace efforts, while Guinea's coup leader seeks election amid limited opposition.
Key Facts
Elections are taking place in Guinea and the Central African Republic on Sunday.
Both countries could have run-off elections, but current leaders are expected to win outright.
The Central African Republic has faced long-term instability but maintains a system of multi-party politics.
President Touadéra of CAR, a former mathematician and university vice-chancellor, aims for a third term after changing the constitution.
In Guinea, General Mamadi Doumbouya, leader of the 2021 coup, seeks election as a civilian president.
Doumbouya's campaign in Guinea faces limited political opposition.
Guinea's return to an elected government is important for West African regional stability.
Ecowas, a regional bloc, is relieved by Guinea's election process following military coups in other member countries.
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British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abdel Fattah arrived in the UK after the Egyptian government lifted his travel ban. He had been jailed for over ten years and was released in September following a pardon. His arrival in the UK marks a reunion with his family, including his son in Brighton.
Key Facts
Alaa Abdel Fattah is a British-Egyptian activist.
He was jailed in Egypt for over ten years.
He was released in September after being pardoned by Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi.
His travel ban was recently lifted, allowing him to come to the UK.
He has a 14-year-old son living in Brighton, UK.
His release and arrival in the UK followed a campaign supported by his family and notable figures like Judi Dench and Olivia Colman.
His case was a priority for the British government, according to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
His family has faced significant hardships, including hunger strikes by his mother to advocate for his release.
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A new exhibit at The King's Gallery in Buckingham Palace features iconic outfits worn by Queen Elizabeth II during her lifetime. The exhibition includes 200 pieces of clothing and accessories that reflect her personal style and the fashion trends of different decades. Highlights include outfits that show the Queen's influence on British style, showcasing her use of fashion for diplomacy and national pride.
Key Facts
The exhibit is held at The King's Gallery in Buckingham Palace and marks the centenary of Queen Elizabeth II's birth.
It includes 200 pieces of clothing, jewelry, hats, shoes, and accessories from her life.
Queen Elizabeth's style was known for its consistency and symbolic messages of diplomacy and stability.
A tweed jacket and tartan skirt designed by Norman Hartnell is featured, showcasing British fashion.
The 1953 Coronation dress included symbols from the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, reflecting the Queen's diplomatic role.
An elaborate green gown was worn during a state banquet for US President Dwight Eisenhower, highlighting the Queen's strategic fashion choices during international visits.
Queen Elizabeth’s style influenced modern designers, including Italian luxury brand Miu Miu’s collection inspired by her tartan style.
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