Electric vehicles in China: Beijing expands battery recycling

NPR's international team shares insights from Yimianpo, China, where local artisans specialize in crafting Russian nesting dolls. This weekly series, titled Far-Flung Postcards, highlights unique cultural practices and the lives of those involved in traditional crafts.

Tensions between Japan and China are escalating after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested Japan might defend Taiwan against a Chinese invasion. In response, Beijing has suspended Japanese seafood imports and issued travel warnings, prompting Japan to alert its schools in China about heightened security risks.

Norway conducted a test to determine if Chinese-made buses could be hacked, highlighting growing security concerns regarding the increasing presence of Chinese technology in European infrastructure. The investigation reflects broader anxieties about the implications of relying on foreign technology for critical services.

China has announced a ban on all imports of Japanese seafood, escalating tensions in the diplomatic relationship between the two countries. This decision follows remarks made by Japan's Prime Minister regarding Taiwan, which have been met with strong opposition from Beijing. The ban reflects ongoing disputes and could have significant economic implications for Japan's seafood industry.

The Buckingham Palace Christmas market, newly established this year, attracted many tourists hoping for a festive experience. However, visitors were met with locked gates and large puddles, leading to disappointment. This situation mirrors other tourist attractions that have failed to meet expectations.

The death toll from a recent Russian attack in Ternopil, Ukraine, has risen to 25, with over 70 individuals injured. Ukraine plans to address this incident at the UN Security Council. The attack is part of a broader escalation of violence in the region, prompting heightened security alerts across the country.

The Netherlands has suspended its state seizure of the Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia, pausing a dispute that had threatened global car production. Dutch Economic Affairs Minister Vincent Karremans announced the decision, which aims to alleviate tensions between the EU and China over semiconductor supply chains.

Japan is facing economic repercussions from China's retaliation amid escalating diplomatic tensions over Taiwan. Travel agencies have canceled group tours to Japan, and there are growing concerns about a potential ban on Japanese seafood and films as part of China's broader strategy to exert pressure on Japan.