Ukraine's economy shrank by more than 30% in 2022
Ukraine's economy shrank by more than 30% in 2022 after Russia's brutal invasion destroyed infrastructure, paralyzed businesses and disrupted daily life, according to the country's economy ministry.
Blackface at Spain's Three Kings parade sparks calls to end the controversial practice
A Spanish tradition of people wearing blackface to represent one of the Three Wise Men -- or Three Kings -- in parades across the country has sparked calls to end the controversial practice.
Australia to purchase US-made HIMARS missile system
Australia on Thursday confirmed it is purchasing two advanced missile and rocket systems, including one used by Ukraine with devastating force against Russia, as deterrence to potential regional threats to its security.
Myanmar junta to free more than 7,000 prisoners under amnesty
Myanmar's military government will release 7,012 prisoners under an amnesty to mark the country's independence day, state broadcaster MRTV reported on Wednesday, as the junta chief praised some countries for maintaining support for his nation.
China to open border with Hong Kong after three years of tight control
The Chinese government announced on Thursday that it will reopen its border with Hong Kong on January 8, nearly three years after it was largely shut in an effort to contain the spread of Covid.
China, Philippines to revive talks over oil exploration in South China Sea
Chinese leader Xi Jinping and his Philippine counterpart Ferdinand Marcos Jr. have agreed to strengthen economic ties and resume talks on oil exploration, as they look to revive their economies amid the pandemic downturn and friction over contested areas of the South China Sea.
Funeral of former Pope Benedict XVI to be held at Vatican in prestigious ceremony
The funeral of former Pope Benedict XVI, who died Saturday at the age of 95, will take place Thursday in a traditional ceremony led by Pope Francis at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City.
Iranian authorities release prominent actress Taraneh Alidoosti on bail
One of Iran's best-known actresses, who was arrested after she criticized the execution of a man involved in nationwide protests, was released on bail on Wednesday, state-aligned ISNA said.
Israel's rightward shift leaves its new Arab allies in an awkward spot
It was a rare embrace between one of Israel's most controversial politicians and an Arab ambassador. Itamar Ben Gvir and the United Arab Emirates' Ambassador to Israel Mohamed Al Khaja clutched each other's hands in a warm greeting in Tel Aviv in early December.
Poland says Germany refused talks on World War II reparations
Germany has rebuffed the latest push by Poland's nationalist government for vast reparations over World War II, saying in response to a diplomatic note that the issue was closed, the foreign ministry in Warsaw said on Tuesday.