A winter weather advisory is in effect for parts of the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest due to potential ice and snow. This weather system could disrupt travel after Christmas with slick roads and possible power outages. The storm is expected to ease by the weekend.
Key Facts
A winter weather advisory affects the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest, including Wisconsin, Michigan, northern Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.
The storm system may bring freezing rain, sleet, and snow, leading to hazardous roads.
Ice accumulation could reach up to a quarter-inch, increasing travel dangers and possibly causing power outages.
Snowfall could range from 1 to 3 inches in the Upper Midwest and 3 to 6 inches near the eastern Great Lakes.
Travel delays are possible on major highways and at airports due to snow and ice.
Transportation agencies are treating roads, but conditions may worsen quickly.
Improvement in weather conditions is expected by the weekend.
Additional weather alerts may be announced as the situation develops.
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Popular podcaster Joe Rogan criticized President Donald Trump's moves toward a possible war with Venezuela, calling it a "terrible idea." Rogan, who previously supported Trump, expressed disapproval over his approach to Venezuela and his administration's actions on immigration policy.
Key Facts
Joe Rogan is a well-known podcaster who previously supported President Trump in the 2024 election.
Rogan criticized President Trump for his aggressive stance toward Venezuela, suggesting it could lead to war.
He expressed that there is little support for a conflict with Venezuela.
Rogan and other podcasters have started distancing themselves from Trump's administration.
Rogan criticized Trump's immigration policy for targeting people who have lived in the U.S. for many years.
President Trump described the Venezuelan government as a terrorist organization and announced a blockade on oil tankers to and from Venezuela.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo commented on Venezuela's situation, blaming socialism for the country's issues.
U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized U.S. sanctions on Venezuela, suggesting they have worsened the asylum crisis.
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Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro successfully underwent surgery for an inguinal hernia. Bolsonaro is currently serving a 27-year prison sentence for his involvement in an attempted coup. His son, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, has announced his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election.
Key Facts
Jair Bolsonaro, aged 70, had surgery for an inguinal hernia, which was successful.
Bolsonaro is in prison for a 27-year term due to an attempted coup.
He received permission to leave prison for medical reasons.
Bolsonaro was Brazil's President from 2019 to 2022.
He has had several surgeries since being stabbed in 2018.
Doctors are considering an additional procedure for him.
Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, Jair's son, announced his run for president in the next election.
Bolsonaro maintains his innocence, claiming political persecution.
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A woman in her 80s died after an incident in a flat in Devizes, and a 63-year-old woman was arrested for murder. Police confirmed that they are not looking for any other suspects.
Key Facts
A woman in her 80s died following a serious assault at a flat in Devizes.
Police were alerted around 08:10 BST on Christmas Day.
Emergency services responded, but the victim died at the scene.
A 63-year-old woman, known to the victim, was arrested on suspicion of murder.
The arrested woman was taken to a hospital for injuries not considered life-threatening.
Police have set up a crime scene at the flat and are conducting an investigation.
There will be increased police presence in the area for some days.
Authorities are asking the public for any information related to the incident.
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An attack on a Palestinian home in the West Bank by Israeli settlers led to the injury of an eight-month-old baby. Israeli police arrested five settlers for throwing stones at homes in the town of Sair. Separately, a 17-year-old Palestinian was shot during an Israeli army operation in another part of the West Bank.
Key Facts
Five Israeli settlers were arrested for attacking a Palestinian home in the West Bank.
An eight-month-old baby was injured in this attack.
The attack involved settlers throwing stones at homes in the town of Sair.
Israeli settlements in the West Bank are built on Palestinian land and are considered illegal under international law.
About 700,000 settlers live in the West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem.
A separate incident involved Israeli forces shooting a 17-year-old and using tear gas in Beit Furik.
Israeli forces detained three Palestinians after conflicts near Masafer Yatta.
Additional settler attacks in Deir Jarir resulted in injuries to a young Palestinian man.
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A dog named Whisky ate a mince pie left unattended during a holiday party in England, which led to an emergency vet visit costing nearly $900. Mince pies can be dangerous for dogs due to ingredients like raisins, which can cause serious health problems. The incident serves as a reminder for pet owners to keep holiday foods out of reach of their pets.
Key Facts
A dog named Whisky ate a mince pie during a party in Leighton Buzzard, England.
Mince pies contain ingredients like raisins that are toxic to dogs.
The dog's owner, Oliver Bennett, spent nearly $900 for emergency vet care.
Vets induced vomiting to prevent potential harm from the pie.
Pet insurance helped cover most of the vet bill.
Pet owners are advised to be cautious with holiday foods as many can be harmful to pets.
About one-third of pet poisoning cases occur during the holiday season.
Other dangerous foods for dogs include chocolate, alcohol, and meat bones.
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A Great Pyrenees dog named Zeus was left at an animal shelter in California just before Christmas Eve. An Instagram account shared a video of Zeus shaking in his kennel, trying to find him a new home. Despite efforts to find an adopter, Zeus spent Christmas at the shelter.
Key Facts
A dog named Zeus, a 2-year-old Great Pyrenees, was given up by his family at an animal shelter in California.
The family cited "responsibility" as the reason for surrendering Zeus, indicating they could no longer care for him.
An Instagram account posted a video of Zeus shaking in a kennel, which gained over 1.3 million views.
Despite efforts to find a new home through social media, Zeus stayed at the shelter over Christmas.
Common reasons pets are surrendered include housing issues, financial constraints, and lack of time.
Zeus's owner described him as "affectionate" and "noble," and he has lived with small dogs, cats, and kids.
The video and Zeus's story touched many people, resulting in a large online response.
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China is expected to continue its rapid nuclear weapons development, aiming to challenge U.S. military dominance. The country currently has over 600 nuclear warheads and this number is expected to exceed 1,000 by the end of the decade. Analysts note that China is focused on building a strong military with new technologies, like intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Key Facts
China is the world's third-largest nuclear power, following Russia and the United States.
The country has unveiled new nuclear missiles, including those that can be launched from land, air, and underwater.
China is estimated to have over 600 nuclear warheads, with predictions to increase to over 1,000 by 2030.
The Chinese military showcased its new missiles in a parade, highlighting its global targeting capabilities.
Analysts believe China has achieved a strong second-strike capability, meaning it can retaliate with nuclear force if attacked.
China aims to have a "world-class" military by 2049, as part of its strategic goals outlined by President Xi Jinping.
The U.S. is concerned about China's development of advanced intercontinental missiles with capabilities to bypass early warning systems.
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Pope Leo delivered his first Christmas message as pope, calling for an end to conflicts in various regions worldwide. During his speech in Vatican City, he specifically mentioned conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, Thailand, and Cambodia. He asked for justice, peace, and stability in places like Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Syria.
Key Facts
Pope Leo gave a Christmas speech at St Peter's Square in Vatican City.
This was his first Christmas address as pope after being elected on May 8.
He called for an end to global conflicts, highlighting specific areas.
The speech was part of the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" address.
Conflicts mentioned included those in Ukraine, the Middle East, Thailand, and Cambodia.
He also prayed for justice, peace, and stability in Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Syria.
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The article discusses "The Scarecrows' Wedding," a story from Julia Donaldson about two scarecrows, Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay, who are planning their wedding. The story highlights the importance of togetherness over grand gestures.
Key Facts
The story is called "The Scarecrows' Wedding."
Characters in the story are scarecrows named Betty O'Barley and Harry O'Hay.
The key message is that being together is more important than making grand gestures.
The story is adapted from a book by Julia Donaldson.
The program duration is 25 minutes and first aired on December 25, 2025.
It's available to watch for over a year on iPlayer.
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King Charles delivered his Christmas message from Westminster Abbey, focusing on unity and community strength in uncertain times. He commemorated the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, praising wartime values and spontaneous acts of bravery in current emergencies. His speech also touched on the social effects of technology and encouraged finding common ground among diverse communities.
Key Facts
King Charles gave his Christmas message from Westminster Abbey's Lady Chapel.
He urged people to support each other during divisive times and get to know their neighbors.
The message highlighted the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day.
King Charles praised the courage and togetherness of the wartime generation.
The speech included examples of bravery from recent events, like the Bondi Beach gun attack.
A Ukrainian choir sang a carol, acknowledging the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
King Charles encouraged people to find calm amid fast technological changes.
He visited a synagogue and spoke about religious unity during a state visit to the Vatican.
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Palestinian actor and filmmaker Mohammad Bakri has died at the age of 72 in northern Israel. Bakri was known for his influential work in Palestinian cinema, including the 2002 documentary "Jenin, Jenin," which sparked controversy and legal battles in Israel. Throughout his career, he focused on telling Palestinian stories and became a cultural icon.
Key Facts
Mohammad Bakri died at Galilee Medical Centre in Nahariya, Israel, due to heart and lung problems.
He was a key figure in Palestinian cinema, working as an actor and filmmaker for about 50 years.
Bakri made a significant impact with his 2002 documentary "Jenin, Jenin," which was banned in Israel.
The Israeli Supreme Court upheld the ban on the documentary, labeling it defamatory.
Bakri faced legal challenges and fines in Israel due to the film, with all copies ordered removed.
He was a Palestinian citizen of Israel, born in Bi’ina, and studied at Tel Aviv University.
Throughout his career, Bakri appeared in over 40 films and directed documentaries about Palestinian life.
He is survived by his wife and six children, some of whom are actors.
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Istanbul police detained over 100 people suspected of being part of the Islamic State group, who were allegedly planning attacks during Christmas and New Year's celebrations. This action followed U.S. military strikes in Syria targeting Islamic State fighters after a deadly ambush.
Key Facts
Istanbul police carried out multiple raids, detaining over 100 suspected Islamic State members.
The suspects were allegedly planning attacks during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Police acted on information saying the group targeted action against non-Muslims.
A total of 137 arrest warrants were issued; 115 suspects were detained.
Officers seized firearms, cartridges, and documents during the raids.
The coordinated raids took place at 124 locations across Istanbul.
The U.S. military conducted strikes in Syria against IS after an attack that killed two U.S. troops and an interpreter.
Syrian forces have also captured and killed IS leaders in recent actions.
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Five people died during a firefight along the border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan. The incident involved armed intruders crossing into Tajikistan and attacking a border post. The situation highlights ongoing security challenges on the Tajik-Afghan border.
Key Facts
A firefight happened on the Tajik-Afghan border, resulting in five deaths.
Heavily armed raiders from Afghanistan crossed into the village of Kavo in Tajikistan.
The raiders killed two Tajik border guards; three raiders died in the armed conflict.
The weapons recovered from the raiders included M-16 rifles, a Kalashnikov, pistols with silencers, grenades, and a night-vision scope.
This was the third similar incident in recent weeks involving casualties on the border.
The Tajikistan border agency blamed the Taliban government for not ensuring border security.
Chinese citizens in the area have also been victims of these border incidents.
Russian forces are present in Tajikistan and have conducted joint exercises to help secure the border.
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Four members of Palestine Action are on a hunger strike in UK prisons. They are protesting against their detention conditions and the UK's designation of the group as a terrorist organization. The situation has attracted significant international attention and support.
Key Facts
Four Palestine Action members are on a hunger strike in UK prisons.
They are protesting for better prison conditions and a fair trial.
The group opposes the UK labeling them as a "terror" group.
The hunger strike participants are facing health issues and hospitalizations.
Lawyers for the detainees plan to take legal action against the UK government.
The protest has gained international attention, focusing on UK-Palestine relations.
Historical context shows hunger strikes have been used internationally as a form of protest.
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People worldwide celebrated Christmas on December 25, 2025. Various activities and services took place in different countries, showcasing cultural and religious traditions. Photos captured events from Ukraine, Thailand, Spain, Kenya, and many other locations.
Key Facts
Christmas celebrations took place globally on December 25, 2025.
In Kyiv, Ukraine, people wore traditional Ukrainian costumes during the celebrations.
A seven-year-old girl in Bangkok, Thailand, visited decorated areas set up for Christmas and New Year with her family.
People participated in a swimming race dressed as Santa Claus in Barcelona, Spain.
Christians attended a Christmas Eve vigil in Nairobi, Kenya.
Palestinian Christians attended a Mass in Gaza City on Christmas Eve.
A ten-year-old Colombian migrant girl joined a Christmas Eve service at a church in New York City.
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A winter storm is forecasted to impact the Northeast of the United States, bringing up to 10 inches of snow to certain areas in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. The storm is expected to begin Friday afternoon and continue through Saturday, with additional snowfall predicted early next week followed by potential rain. The Midwest is also expecting colder weather after mild temperatures on Christmas Day.
Key Facts
Up to 10 inches of snow is expected in parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
Most areas will see between 4 and 8 inches of snow.
The storm will affect multiple areas in New York and New Jersey, including New York City boroughs and several counties.
The storm watch starts at 4 p.m. on Friday and ends at 1 p.m. on Saturday.
Snow will be dry and powdery during the day, turning wet overnight with sleet.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul advises residents to stay informed and drive carefully.
Another storm is expected from Sunday into Monday, potentially turning into rain.
The Midwest will experience mild Christmas temperatures but will see a sudden drop to the 20s on Sunday night.
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Five people died in a helicopter crash on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The helicopter was on a rescue mission when it crashed, killing everyone on board, including two foreigners, a doctor, a guide, and the pilot. Investigations into the crash have begun.
Key Facts
A helicopter crashed on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, killing five people.
The crash happened on Wednesday evening during a rescue mission.
Two foreigners were among those killed in the crash.
The victims included two foreigners, a local doctor, a tour guide, and the pilot.
The accident took place at over 4,000 meters (13,100 feet) above sea level.
The helicopter belonged to the Kilimanjaro Aviation company.
The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority is investigating the accident.
Aircraft accidents on Mount Kilimanjaro are rare, with the last incident reported in 2008.
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A video of a golden retriever named Roo not wanting to go outside unless both of his owners are home went viral on TikTok. Roo, who is four years old and developed this habit recently, shows signs of separation anxiety as he refuses to leave the house or go to bed alone. The American Kennel Club advises using strategies to teach dogs independence in such cases.
Key Facts
Roo is a golden retriever who refuses to go out without both of his owners present.
The video of Roo's behavior has received nearly 8 million views on TikTok.
His owners, Marissa and Joe Lombardi, describe his behavior as a habit started recently.
Roo was adopted during the coronavirus pandemic, which may have contributed to his attachment and separation anxiety.
The American Kennel Club suggests teaching dogs to spend time alone to reduce clinginess.
Strategies include training dogs to stay in another room and keeping greetings calm.
The TikTok video received over 1.2 million likes and thousands of comments discussing similar behaviors in other dogs.
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Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Christmas message, calling for an end to wars and highlighting humanitarian issues. He urged kindness towards immigrants and mentioned suffering in regions like Gaza and Ukraine.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Christmas message since being elected in May.
He called for an end to global wars and highlighted humanitarian crises.
The Pope particularly mentioned suffering in Gaza, Ukraine, Yemen, Africa, Haiti, Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia.
He emphasized the importance of sympathy for immigrants worldwide.
Pope Leo has often disagreed with the Trump administration on immigration issues.
In his message, he drew attention to the plight of refugees, underpaid workers, and those who lost their jobs.
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