China to hike tax on condoms in attempt to boost falling birth rate

The Trump administration has announced an unprecedented arms package for Taiwan, valued at over $11 billion, which includes medium-range missiles, howitzers, and drones. This decision has provoked a strong backlash from China, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province and opposes any military support for it from foreign nations.

The European Union has imposed sanctions on an additional 41 vessels linked to Russia's shadow fleet, bringing the total number of sanctioned ships to nearly 600. This action is part of the EU's ongoing efforts to counter Russia's military aggression and economic activities that undermine international sanctions.

Facebook is testing a new system that charges users for sharing web links, limiting those without a paid Meta Verified subscription to just two external links per month. This trial raises concerns among news organizations that rely on social media for content distribution, as it could significantly hinder their reach and engagement.

Jimmy Lai, a prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul, was convicted of collusion with foreign forces in a trial that has raised significant concerns about judicial independence and media freedom in Hong Kong. His son, Sebastien Lai, condemned the political persecution of his father, asserting that the trial produced 'more than 100 pages of nothing'.

The Trump administration has announced a significant arms sales package to Taiwan valued at over $10 billion, which includes medium-range missiles, howitzers, and drones. This decision has elicited a strong backlash from China, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province that must unify with the mainland.

An 85-year-old Bavarian successfully caught a phone fraudster attempting to extort money by posing as a police officer, marking his second triumph against such scams. The pensioner received a call claiming a family member was in distress, a tactic commonly used to deceive elderly individuals.

The Guardian's picture editors have curated a selection of photographs capturing an adopted polar bear cub and Christmas celebrations in the Holy Land, showcasing the intersection of wildlife conservation and cultural festivities. These images reflect the joy and warmth of the holiday season amidst diverse global contexts.

A recent analysis by The Guardian highlights a significant increase in ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, particularly affecting the cheapest tickets, which have become a luxury for many fans. The study compares current prices with historical data dating back to 1994, revealing that the financial barrier to attending the tournament has risen sharply, especially for those seeking affordable options.