The Economic Times

A Ukrainian drone attack hit the Russian city of Voronezh overnight. One woman died and three people were injured. Many buildings, including apartment blocks and houses, sustained damage. The region's governor described it as a heavy attack. Ukraine states such strikes aim to disrupt Russia's war effort.

A Ukrainian drone strike caused a fire at a Russian oil depot in Volgograd. This follows a massive Russian overnight assault on Ukraine with drones and missiles, hitting energy sites. Kyiv officials report at least four deaths in the capital. Russia also deployed a new hypersonic missile. Both sides are targeting energy infrastructure.

Some Chinese netizens are calling for a swift capture of Taiwan's leaders, inspired by a recent US operation. However, analysts believe China's military is not ready for such a high-risk mission. Taiwan has bolstered its defenses and early warning systems. Any attempt to seize leaders would likely escalate into a full-scale conflict, facing significant challenges and potential intervention.

Russian strikes on Ukraine overnight left more than one million people in the Dnipropetrovsk region without water supplies or heating, a Ukrainian minister said Thursday, as temperatures dipped below freezing. Repair work continues in Dnipropetrovsk region to restore heat and water supply for over a million subscribers, Restoration Minister Oleksiy Kuleba wrote on social media.

Iran's judiciary will not show leniency to ioters despite acknowledging the public's right to protest. These demonstrations, sparked by economic issues, have spread across the country. The US has warned Iran of severe consequences if more demonstrators are killed. Meanwhile, Israel expresses solidarity with the Iranian people's aspirations for freedom. Protests are being closely monitored.

North Korea said leader Kim Jong Un observed test flights of hypersonic missiles and stressed the need to strengthen the countrys nuclear deterrent, as it steps up weapons displays ahead of a key ruling party conference. The announcement followed reports by South Korea and its neighbours of multiple ballistic missile launches.

Myanmar's military-appointed election body announced the military-backed USDP party won the majority of seats in the first phase of its general election. Critics decry the polls as illegitimate due to excluded parties and repression, while the military claims high voter turnout. The election aims to legitimize the current military rule following the 2021 coup.

Pakistan Air Force has successfully tested its new Taimoor Weapon System. This indigenous cruise missile can strike targets up to 600 kilometers away. It is designed for high precision against land and sea targets. The Taimoor missile can fly at low altitudes to evade defense systems. This development significantly boosts Pakistan's defense capabilities and self-reliance in its defense industry.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has praised his troops fighting abroad as forging an invincible alliance with Russia in a new year's message, state media said Thursday. The North Korean leader praised soldiers for strengthening the invincible alliance with Russia, calling on them to fight for the fraternal Russian people.

Thieves drilled into a German bank vault in Gelsenkirchen and stole tens of millions of euros. Around 2,700 customers were affected by the massive heist. Police discovered the ransacked vault after a fire alarm. Witnesses reported seeing men with large bags and masked individuals in a stolen vehicle. The theft is considered one of Germany's largest.

Israel will suspend several humanitarian groups in Gaza starting January 1. This action follows new rules for international organizations. The Ministry of Diaspora Affairs stated these groups did not share required staff, funding, and operations data. Doctors Without Borders is among those facing suspension. Israel cited concerns about staff links to militant groups.

Russia claims a Ukrainian drone attack on a presidential residence will harden its stance on peace talks. Ukraine denies the accusation, calling it a fabrication to justify further attacks. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated the incident aims to disrupt negotiations.

Bangladesh High Commissioner Reaz Hamidullah has returned to Dhaka. This follows an urgent summons from the foreign ministry. The move comes amid visibly strained bilateral ties with India. Hamidullah reached Dhaka on Monday night. He is expected to discuss the recent situation in bilateral relations. This development signals significant diplomatic activity.

The United States has pledged two billion dollars for UN humanitarian aid. This move comes as the administration seeks reforms within the world body. The US wants to see aid delivery consolidated and made more efficient. This new funding structure aims to ensure better accountability and results. Agencies must adapt to these new financial realities.

North Korea launched long-range cruise missiles into the sea. Leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test, expressing satisfaction. This display aims to bolster the nation's nuclear deterrence. South Korea and the US remain vigilant. These launches follow recent weapons tests, including a nuclear-powered submarine. Observers anticipate further demonstrations ahead of a party congress.

US President Donald Trump said he believes both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin want to end the war, as he hosted Zelenskyy for talks at his Florida resort amid intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine.

Switzerland's army chief has issued a stark warning. The nation cannot defend itself against a major attack. He states military spending must increase due to growing threats from Russia. Current equipment gaps are significant. Neutrality alone offers no protection. Defence spending is rising, but readiness will take decades. This pace is too slow given the current danger.

China has enacted a new law for drones. This regulation will impact the country's growing drone and low-altitude economy. The rules, effective July 1, require airworthiness certification for most drones. This move aims to bring order to the rapidly expanding drone market. It will affect major manufacturers like DJI and EHang.

Kyiv faced a major Russian assault early Saturday. Explosions rocked the Ukrainian capital as air defenses engaged incoming missiles. This significant military action occurs just two days before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump. The leaders aim to finalize details of a peace accord to end the protracted conflict with Russia.

Is Walmart open today on Christmas Day 2025? Many other popular stores like Kroger, Aldi, Target, and Costco will be shut their doors. Consumers will need to plan ahead for any last-minute holiday needs. Stores are expected to reopen on December 26th. This closure affects grocery and retail outlets nationwide.

Trump has accused the South American country of flooding the U.S. with drugs, and his administration has for months been bombing boats originating in South America that it alleges were carrying drugs. Many nations have condemned the attacks as extrajudicial killings.

Forecasters said Southern California could see its wettest Christmas in years and warned about flash flooding and mudslides. Areas scorched by January's wildfires were under evacuation warnings, and Los Angeles County officials said Tuesday they were going door to door to about 380 especially vulnerable homes to order residents to evacuate.

Social Security payments Wednesday, December 24, 2025: Social Security payments scheduled for Christmas Eve 2025 are drawing attention after new federal holidays. Trumps order closed SSA offices December 24 through 28. Payments still follow the official SSA calendar. Eligible beneficiaries should receive deposits Wednesday. Direct deposit stays on time. Mailed checks may face delays. Online services remain open.

Russia on Monday expressed full support for Venezuela as the South American country confronts a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers by US forces deployed in the Caribbean, the two governments said. US President Donald Trump on December 16 announced a blockade of sanctioned oil vessels sailing to and from Venezuela.

Japan is gearing up to bring its largest nuclear facility, Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, back online, making a bold statement about the future of nuclear power in the wake of the 2011 Fukushima incident.

The commissioning ceremony of PNS Khaibar was held at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard. Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistan's Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf attended the ceremony, the Pakistani military's media wing said in a statement.

CoreWeave stock falls 61% from all-time high: CoreWeave shares have plunged 61% from a $187 peak to around $69, wiping out $33 billion in value in six weeks. Investors are spooked by data-center delays, heavy debt, and widening losses, amplified after short seller Jim Chanos raised red flags. Operating costs jumped to $1.19B in Q2, outpacing revenue. Despite $5.05$5.35B 2025 guidance, negative EPS and execution risks keep volatility high and investors on edge.

Thanksgiving 2025 brings changes to your favorite coffee spots. Starbucks hours will differ by location, so check ahead. Dunkin' Donuts and Krispy Kreme will serve coffee, with Krispy Kreme closing at 2 PM. McDonald's will also be open. Panera will be closed. IHOP and Cracker Barrel offer breakfast. Shake Shack, Freddy's, and First Watch will be closed.

As Thanksgiving 2025 is in progress, Americans busy with holiday meals or traveling between states are also seeking convenient dining choices. Although many essential services shut down for the federal holiday, a number of retail and restaurant chains continue to operate with limited hours.

Millions of Americans could lose or see big cuts in their SNAP food stamp benefits this month under a new Trump administration plan. Some families may get very small payments or none at all. States are warning of delays as they struggle to manage the new system, raising concern about food aid reaching people on time.