Bulgaria Embraces the Euro: 21st Eurozone Member
On Jan 1, 2026, Bulgaria adopted the euro, becoming the 21st eurozone member. The lev and euro will circulate in January; euro becomes sole legal tender from Feb 1, 2026.
World
Explore global events and news highlights with a focus on stories that matter most to young, connected audiences.
Russia, Ukraine Trade Blows: Putin Residence Claim and Drone Strikes
Russia and Ukraine have exchanged drone strikes and power cuts this week, with Russia denying Ukrainian attacks on Putin’s residence and Ukraine hitting Moscow, Crimea, and western Russia.
Russia’s MoD Unveils Drone Debris Footage from Putin Residence Attack
On December 31, 2025, Russia’s Ministry of Defense released dramatic video footage and a flight map of intercepted drones from a failed overnight attack on President Putin’s residence.
Ocean’s Eleven-Style Christmas Heist: €30M Stolen from Sparkasse in Gelsenkirchen
A daring Christmas heist in Gelsenkirchen saw thieves drill into Sparkasse’s vault, smash open more than 3,000 boxes, and escape with €30M in cash, gold and jewelry.
Guinea’s Doumbouya Wins Landslide with 86.7% Vote
Guinea’s Mamady Doumbouya wins 86.7% of the December 28 vote, securing a seven-year presidency and returning the nation to civilian rule.
Africa’s 2025 Business Highlights: What Shaped the Continent
From trade deals to tech booms, discover the key business events that defined Africa in 2025 and what’s next for 2026.
Arsenal’s 4-1 Win Over Villa Secures Premier League Top Spot
Arsenal beat Aston Villa 4-1 at the Emirates, ending 2025 atop the Premier League table after a second-half blitz featuring goals from Magalhaes, Zubimendi, Trossard and Jesus.
Beijing Demands Netherlands Reverse Nexperia Decision to Safeguard Chip Supply
Beijing calls on the Netherlands to reverse its Nexperia intervention, warning of risks to the global semiconductor supply chain stability.
10 Countries Sound Alarm Over Gaza’s Worsening Aid Crisis
Foreign ministers from 10 countries urged Israel to lift restrictions and boost humanitarian aid to Gaza after the October ceasefire, warning of a catastrophic situation despite recent improvements.
Iran Vows Harsh Response After Trump’s Military Threats
On December 30, 2025, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned of a harsh response to any US aggression after Donald Trump threatened military strikes if Iran revives its missile or nuclear programs.