Weather tracker: Bushfires ravage Western Australia as temperatures soar

The Bureau of Meteorology has released its Christmas Day forecast, indicating a mixed weather pattern across Australia. While some regions are expected to enjoy hot and dry conditions, others may experience cooler temperatures and rain, affecting holiday celebrations nationwide.

Seven men were arrested in Sydney's south-west amid fears of a planned violent act, with police alleging they adhere to an Islamist ideology. Heavily armed officers intercepted two vehicles, with suspects seen restrained on the roadside. This incident follows a recent mass shooting at Bondi Beach during a Jewish holiday celebration, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, raising concerns about public safety and potential terrorist threats.

Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has vowed to veto a bill passed by Congress that aims to reduce former President Jair Bolsonaro's prison sentence from over 27 years to just over two years for his role in a coup attempt against the 2022 elections. The bill was approved by the lower house and subsequently by the Senate, raising concerns about its potential to undermine judicial decisions.

Farmers in France have blocked roads in protest against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, fearing that an influx of cheaper agricultural products from Brazil and its neighbors will undermine their livelihoods. This protest coincides with an EU leaders meeting where the deal is set to be discussed.

Brazil's Senate has passed a bill that could significantly reduce former President Jair Bolsonaro's prison sentence from 27 years to just over two years for his involvement in a coup plot. This bill follows prior approval by the lower house and now awaits President Lula's decision, who has the option to veto it, although Congress could override such a veto.

Venezuela has dismissed the impact of a U.S. blockade on its crude oil exports, asserting that operations continue as normal despite President Trump's announcement. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has offered to mediate between the U.S. and Venezuela to prevent armed conflict, with the UN Security Council scheduled to discuss the escalating situation next week.

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.

Hundreds of farmers protested in Brussels against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, blocking roads and disrupting an EU summit. The farmers argue that the deal threatens their livelihoods by allowing cheaper agricultural imports from Brazil and its neighbors. Brazil's President Lula emphasized the urgency of signing the deal, warning that delays could jeopardize Brazil's participation.