A train derailed in the Oaxaca region of Mexico, resulting in 13 deaths and nearly 100 injuries. The accident happened near the town of Nizanda, and an investigation is underway.
Key Facts
The train derailed near Nizanda, Oaxaca, in south-western Mexico.
At least 13 people died, and nearly 100 were injured.
The train carried 241 passengers and nine crew members.
Of those injured, 36 are in the hospital, with five in serious condition.
The Mexican navy operates the railway network, and they confirmed the accident details.
Mexico's Attorney General is investigating the accident.
The Interoceanic train connects the Pacific port of Salina Cruz with Coatzacoalcos on the Gulf Coast.
The train service aims to modernize the railway and boost economic development in the region.
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China conducted military drills around Taiwan shortly after the U.S. approved a large arms sale to Taiwan. The drills, called "Justice Mission 2025", involved air, navy, and rocket forces and took place in various areas around the island. Taiwan's Defense Ministry criticized China's actions, stating they threaten regional peace.
Key Facts
China's military announced exercises around Taiwan called "Justice Mission 2025."
The drills involve air, navy, and rocket forces.
Exercises are occurring in the Taiwan Strait and other areas around Taiwan.
Taiwan condemned China's actions as threats to regional peace.
The U.S. recently approved a significant arms deal with Taiwan.
China claims Taiwan as its territory, but it has never governed the island.
President Trump aims to maintain stable U.S.-China economic and military relations.
China opposed the U.S. arms sales and sanctioned American defense companies.
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President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida to discuss a possible peace agreement to end the Ukraine war. They made progress on security guarantees for Ukraine but did not settle the future of eastern Ukraine's Donbas region. European leaders joined the discussions by phone, while Russian forces continued attacks in Ukraine.
Key Facts
President Trump hosted Ukrainian President Zelenskyy for peace talks in Florida.
They discussed security guarantees for Ukraine and the division of the Donbas region.
A deal on security guarantees is almost complete, but Donbas's future remains undecided.
Russia's envoy praised Trump's peace efforts, while Trump also spoke with President Putin.
European leaders participated in part of the meeting via phone and support continued efforts.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned against European troops in Ukraine.
Russian forces attacked a heating plant in Kherson, Ukraine.
Ukrainian forces targeted a Russian oil refinery and contested Russian advances in southeast Ukraine.
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Some senior members of the Labour Party in the UK want Egyptian activist Alaa Abdel Fattah's British citizenship taken away, due to past controversial social media statements. There are concerns about how he got UK citizenship without full background checks. Meanwhile, there is increasing pressure on UK leader Sir Keir Starmer to act on this issue.
Key Facts
Senior Labour MPs are urging Sir Keir Starmer to strip Alaa Abdel Fattah of his UK citizenship.
Fattah is an Egyptian activist recently released from prison in Egypt and allowed into the UK.
Past social media posts from Fattah called for violence against Zionists, leading to criticism.
Some government ministers privately described Starmer’s response as "ridiculous" and "shocking".
A reported loophole in the European Convention on Human Rights meant Fattah did not complete "good character" checks.
Tory leader criticized the decision to allow Fattah into the UK.
Kemi Badenoch, another official, voiced opposition to Fattah staying in the UK.
The issue has created political tensions in the UK regarding citizenship and controversial figures.
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President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported progress in talks to end the war in Ukraine. They agreed on most points of a peace plan, but still have unresolved issues, especially concerning territory. Russia continues to control significant parts of eastern Ukraine, and further discussions are planned.
Key Facts
Talks took place in Florida between President Trump and President Zelensky.
A peace plan agreement is almost complete, but territory issues remain unresolved.
Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and now controls about 20% of Ukraine.
The Donbas region's future status is a major unresolved issue.
President Trump mentioned potential trilateral talks involving the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine.
Security guarantees for Ukraine are nearly finalized, with further discussions planned.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed support for security guarantees for Ukraine.
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President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes in northwestern Nigeria on Christmas night, targeting a militant group called Lakurawa. The group is linked with other terrorist organizations and operates in a remote area near the Niger border, causing fear among local residents. The airstrikes took place near villages like Nukuru, where security is limited and residents fear the militants' return.
Key Facts
President Trump authorized airstrikes against the Lakurawa militant group in Nigeria.
Lakurawa is affiliated with other Islamist groups in the Sahel region.
The militants have lived in camps in Tangaza, Nigeria, for several years.
Local villagers are afraid to talk about Lakurawa due to fear of reprisals.
The area lacks strong government presence, with no visible schools or hospitals.
Militants use motorbikes to quickly navigate rough terrain.
Residents in Nukuru village reported destruction and fear following the strikes.
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President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a lengthy meeting in Florida. They expressed optimism but did not announce any concrete steps towards peace in Ukraine. Key issues like territorial concessions and security guarantees remain unresolved.
Key Facts
President Trump and President Zelensky met at Mar-a-Lago in Florida for two-and-a-half hours.
Both leaders called the meeting "terrific" and "great."
The talks did not result in any clear progress towards peace in Ukraine.
There is no decision on whether Ukraine will give up territory for peace, though Zelensky mentioned a possible referendum for any peace deals.
Security guarantees for Ukraine remain unclear despite claims of agreement.
Russia has already dismissed some proposals, such as a ceasefire and multinational monitoring forces.
President Trump continues to speak positively about Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying he is serious about peace.
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The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are expected to be visible in the UK skies during 2026. This increased visibility is due to heightened solar activity from the Sun's natural cycle. Improved technology also helps predict and capture these stunning light displays.
Key Facts
The Northern Lights are caused by solar activity, which is part of the Sun's 11-year cycle.
Solar activity peaked in October 2024, leading to frequent displays of the Northern Lights.
In November 2025, a large solar flare resulted in a notable Northern Lights display in the UK.
The Sun's cycle will head toward a quieter phase or "solar minimum" by 2031-32.
Even during quieter solar periods, large solar flares can cause Northern Lights displays.
Improved technology and satellite monitoring help predict solar activity better.
People now use phone cameras to capture and share images of the Northern Lights.
The spring and autumn equinoxes can increase chances of seeing the aurora due to a particular Sun-Earth alignment.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a test launch of long-range cruise missiles and emphasized continuous development of the country's nuclear forces. The missiles were launched from near Pyongyang, flew above the sea west of the Korean Peninsula, and hit their target. Kim also inspected a submarine under construction, while suggesting military advancements as a response to perceived threats.
Key Facts
Kim Jong Un oversaw a test of long-range strategic cruise missiles.
He called for ongoing development of North Korea's nuclear capabilities.
The missiles flew above the sea west of the Korean Peninsula and reached their target.
The launch is part of activities before a key party congress set for early 2026.
Kim stated that regularly testing the nuclear deterrent is necessary.
South Korea detected the missile launch from near Pyongyang.
Kim inspected a nuclear-powered submarine being built in North Korea.
The North Korean leader mentioned threats from US and South Korean alliances.
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Kosovo's Vetevendosje party, led by Albin Kurti, won the parliamentary elections, securing 50.8% of the vote, according to preliminary results. This win follows months of political deadlock, as Kosovo lacked a functioning government. Although Vetevendosje did not get enough seats to govern alone, Kurti is likely to find support from ethnic minority parties.
Key Facts
Vetevendosje won 50.8% of the votes with 90% counted, ensuring a third term for Albin Kurti.
Opposition parties PDK and LDK received 20.98% and 13.89% of the votes, respectively.
Kosovo has faced governmental gridlock since February due to a lack of coalition support.
Ethnic minority parties are expected to hold 20 out of 120 seats in parliament, possibly supporting Kurti.
The political impasse has cost Kosovo potential EU funds and agreements amounting to over €1 billion.
Restoring relations with the EU and the US is a priority for Kurti after previous tensions.
The EU has lifted punitive measures against Kosovo imposed in 2023.
Normalizing relations with Serbia remains a challenge due to strained ties with Serbia's president, Aleksandar Vucic.
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Many young people from the UK are moving abroad due to high living costs and limited job opportunities at home. Nearly 200,000 people under 35 left the UK in the year leading up to June, with popular destinations including Japan and Dubai, where they find better job prospects and living conditions.
Key Facts
Around 195,000 young people under 35 moved from the UK to other countries from July 2024 to June 2025.
Rising rents and a tough job market in the UK are driving young people to seek opportunities overseas.
Ray Amjad, a graduate who moved to Tokyo, cites safety and affordable living as reasons for staying in Japan.
Many young people from the UK are drawn to Japan, Australia, South Korea, and Hong Kong.
Isobel Perl plans to move to Dubai to expand her skincare business and benefit from a business-friendly environment.
Perl received a golden visa for Dubai, providing a 10-year residency.
Three-quarters of British nationals who emigrated last year were under 35, according to official statistics.
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Angela Bushby is eagerly waiting for her son, Karl, to complete a 27-year journey walking around the world. Karl began his expedition from Chile in 1998 and aims to return to Hull, England, by September 2026. During his travels, he faced challenges like visa issues and geopolitical events.
Key Facts
Karl Bushby left Hull, England, in 1998 to walk 36,000 miles around the globe.
He intends to finish his journey and return home by September 2026.
Karl began his expedition in Chile and has traveled through the Americas, parts of Asia, and is now near Austria in Europe.
His journey faced obstacles including geopolitical tensions and difficulties in obtaining visas.
Angela Bushby, his mother, has only seen Karl three times since he started his trip.
Angela keeps scrapbooks documenting Karl's journey and sees him as an inspiration for overcoming challenges.
Karl struggled with dyslexia and bullying during his school years but overcame these issues with determination.
He hopes his story can inspire others facing similar challenges.
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Indian cities are struggling with issues such as pollution, traffic, and poor waste management despite significant infrastructure investments by the government. Problems persist because the cities lack effective local governance and power remains concentrated at higher government levels. Unlike China's model, Indian city administrators have limited control over urban planning and services.
Key Facts
Indian cities produce millions of tonnes of waste each year, but disposal systems are inadequate.
Cities like Jaipur, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi face problems with air pollution, traffic, and waste management.
India has made large infrastructure investments, including airports, highways, and metro networks.
Cities in India rank low on liveability indexes.
The constitution provides for state and central power but lacks strong urban governance structures.
An attempt to empower cities in 1992 has not been fully implemented.
Unlike India, China uses a centralised planning model where local governments have substantial control and are centrally monitored.
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In 2025, the United Kingdom experienced over 300 earthquakes. The largest quakes occurred in Scotland's Perth and Kinross, with magnitudes of 3.7 and 3.6. Most of the seismic activity was in parts of Scotland, Wales, and northern England.
Key Facts
Over 300 earthquakes recorded in the UK in 2025.
The largest occurred near Loch Lyon, Scotland, with 3.7 and 3.6 magnitudes in October.
There were 309 earthquakes documented by December 18, 2025.
Seismic activity was most frequent in Perthshire, the western Highlands, southern Wales, and northern England.
The UK averaged nearly one earthquake per day in 2025.
A total of 34 earthquakes occurred near Loch Lyon from October to December.
Lancashire experienced two minor earthquakes in December.
The UK generally experiences 200-300 earthquakes annually, but only 20-30 are felt by people.
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In 1996, British and Irish officials discussed a potential visit to Ireland by then Prince Charles, using the royal yacht HMY Britannia. The trip was cancelled due to concerns that the yacht might symbolize superiority, as well as security risks without an IRA ceasefire.
Key Facts
The royal yacht HMY Britannia was in service from 1954 to 1997 for the British monarchy.
A planned visit in 1996 by Prince Charles to Ireland using the yacht was discussed.
Irish Prime Minister John Bruton expressed concerns about the yacht's image and suggested it symbolized opulence and superiority.
Security concerns were also a factor in the trip's cancellation, with risks outweighing benefits.
The trip involved planned stops in Galway Bay, Kerry, and Cork but was ultimately called off.
A revised, smaller-scale visit was considered but later abandoned.
A 2003 request for a British Navy ship to dock in Dublin was denied, as it was seen as promoting military displays.
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A leader of Yemen's Houthi rebels warned that any Israeli activity in Somaliland would be seen as a military threat. Israel recently announced it recognizes Somaliland, a region that declared itself separate from Somalia in 1991. This recognition has drawn criticism from Yemen's Houthis and several international groups.
Key Facts
The Houthi leader, Abdel-Malik al-Houthi, said Israeli presence in Somaliland would be a military target.
Israel officially recognized Somaliland as a separate entity, despite its lack of widespread international recognition.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains diplomatically isolated.
The Houthi leader claims Israeli recognition of Somaliland poses a threat to Somalia, Yemen, and the region.
The African Union, Egypt, Turkiye, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation criticized Israel's move.
The European Union stressed the need to respect Somalia's sovereignty.
Somaliland has a key location on the Gulf of Aden and has its own currency, passport, and army.
There is an ongoing fragile truce in Gaza, and the Houthis have stopped their attacks since its start.
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The article discusses the illegal trapping of rare songbirds in China and efforts to stop poachers. Thousands of birds are caught each year to sell on the black market, which is a profitable business. Silva Gu works to protect these birds by tracking and stopping poachers, often with the help of volunteers.
Key Facts
Illegal trapping of songbirds is common in China, especially for the pet trade and meat.
Many poachers sell birds on the black market, making a significant profit.
Songbirds like the Siberian rubythroat can sell for nearly 2,000 yuan.
China hosts over 1,500 bird species, including 800 migratory species.
Poachers use "mist nets" to catch birds unnoticed.
Silva Gu is actively working to stop poachers and uses his savings to protect birds.
Silva has been successful in recruiting volunteers and works with police to catch poachers.
In October, China sees a high number of migrating birds, making them vulnerable to poachers.
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A ski patroller named Cole Murphy died after being caught in an avalanche while working at Mammoth Mountain, California, on Friday. An avalanche occurred during safety operations before the ski area opened, and Murphy was one of two people affected. The mountain closed for the day due to the accident and recent heavy snowfall.
Key Facts
Cole Murphy was a 30-year-old ski patroller at Mammoth Mountain.
He died from injuries received in an avalanche on Lincoln Mountain in California.
The avalanche happened during control operations on Friday morning.
Murphy was taken to a local hospital and then airlifted for further care before his death.
The incident led to the mountain's closure for the rest of the day.
Murphy's family stated skiing and ski patrol work were his passion, and he is survived by his partner and parents.
Each winter, 25 to 30 people in the U.S. die from avalanches, with Colorado having the most fatalities since 1950.
The second patroller involved in the incident is recovering from injuries.
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President Donald Trump announced that peace talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war are in the final stages. He met with Ukraine's leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, at his Florida estate to discuss the possibility of a strong agreement to ensure Ukraine's security. Both leaders aimed to bring the ongoing conflict to an end, with discussions about potential security guarantees for Ukraine.
Key Facts
President Trump stated the peace discussions to end the Russia-Ukraine war are nearing completion.
Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met in Florida to discuss a new proposal to end the conflict.
Trump's administration has been working to end the war during his current term as President.
Ukraine may receive security guarantees similar to those provided to NATO members.
Zelenskyy indicated a willingness to forgo NATO membership if these guarantees are granted.
Russia intensified attacks on Ukraine shortly before the meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy.
Trump spoke with Russian President Putin by phone prior to meeting with Zelenskyy.
The focus remains on achieving a ceasefire as a basis for further peace discussions.
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Two helicopters collided in mid-air over a city in New Jersey, leading to one person's death and another person's critical injuries. The incident involved two Enstrom helicopters, and authorities are investigating what caused the collision.
Key Facts
Two helicopters collided mid-air in New Jersey.
One person died, and another is critically injured.
Only the pilots were on board each helicopter.
The collision involved an Enstrom 280C and an Enstrom F-28A helicopter.
Hammonton Police reported one helicopter was on fire when it crash-landed.
A federal investigation will look into the cause.
The city of Hammonton is about 35 miles southeast of Philadelphia.
Recent data shows the rate of deadly helicopter accidents has decreased over the last three years.
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