Trump to host Netanyahu at White House on December 29: Israeli government

The UK government, represented by No 10, has refrained from commenting on a claim made by the White House that Europe is facing 'civilisational erasure' as part of a broader critique in the US National Security Strategy regarding issues like migration and declining birthrates. This statement has sparked discussions about the implications for European nations and their policies.

Former President Donald Trump commented on the stalled trade negotiations with Canada while attending the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors, stating, 'We’ll see' regarding the potential for resuming talks. This remark comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations over trade policies and tariffs.

Former President Donald Trump has introduced a new national security doctrine that emphasizes the need for the U.S. to 'cultivate resistance' within Europe, reflecting a shift in focus towards European dynamics and away from traditional alliances like NATO. This strategy criticizes European leaders for their unrealistic expectations regarding the Ukraine conflict and calls for an end to NATO expansion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet with leaders from the UK, France, and Germany in London to discuss strategies for ending the ongoing war with Russia. This visit comes amid significant pressure from the Trump administration for Ukraine to consider territorial concessions to Moscow as part of a peace agreement.

Israeli operatives are reportedly conducting extensive surveillance on US forces and allies at a newly established Civil-Military Coordination Center in southern Israel, which is intended to support the planning of aid and security in Gaza. This has raised concerns about the recording of meetings that exclude Palestinian representatives, prompting US base commander Lt Gen Patrick Frank to demand an end to such practices.

One year after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, Syria is experiencing significant changes under new leadership, with celebrations marking this anniversary in cities like Hama. The current government is attempting to establish authority and rebuild the nation, but challenges remain evident.

Seymour Hersh, the journalist known for exposing the My Lai massacre and the Abu Ghraib torture scandal, has quit the film project titled Cover-Up, which aimed to chronicle his impactful career and numerous investigative scoops. His departure raises questions about the challenges of capturing his complex legacy on screen.

The cease-fire brokered by former President Trump between Thailand and Cambodia has collapsed, leading to renewed hostilities. The Thai army has conducted airstrikes in retaliation for earlier gunfire originating from the Cambodian side of the border.