Bavarian pensioner lays trap to catch phone fraudster who was out for his gold

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.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Ukraine may need to reduce its drone production if a deal is not reached regarding the use of frozen Russian assets to support its war efforts. He emphasized the moral clarity of transferring these assets to fund Ukraine's military needs during a critical EU summit in Brussels.

Brazilian President Lula has urged the European Union to finalize the long-stalled EU-Mercosur trade deal, warning that Brazil may withdraw from the agreement if it is not signed soon. The deal faces opposition from France and Italy, who are concerned about the impact on their agricultural sectors, while Germany and Spain advocate for its approval, citing potential benefits for EU exports.

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.

EU leaders convened in Brussels to discuss the contentious issue of utilizing frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine, with Germany supporting the initiative while Belgium expressed concerns over potential repercussions from Russia. President Zelensky urged swift action to address Ukraine's financial needs amid ongoing conflict. The EU has proposed a €90 billion loan to assist Ukraine's economy.

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.

A recent study claims that the AI boom has resulted in carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to those of New York City by 2025, highlighting the environmental costs associated with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technologies. The research also indicates that water usage related to AI now surpasses global bottled-water demand.

Saudi Arabia's plans to construct 11 new stadiums for the 2034 World Cup are experiencing delays as the Public Investment Fund (PIF) seeks to reduce costs. Architecture firms involved have been instructed to resubmit their designs due to high expenses, and contractors set to begin work next year have been informed that construction will not commence on schedule.