The Halawa family’s building still stands two storeys above the rubble in Gaza City, a rare survivor after two years of nonstop Israeli air attacks that levelled buildings across the besieged Palestinian enclave.
One section has collapsed, with bent metal rods protruding from where a roof once existed. The family built a narrow set of creaking wooden steps to access their home, though these makeshift stairs threaten to give way at any moment. Yet amid the destruction, it remains home.
Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza has killed more than 70,000 Palestinians, destroyed or damaged more than 70 percent of the buildings, and displaced most of the territory’s 2.3 million residents.
In October, Israel reached an agreement to cease fire, but its attacks have not stopped. It has killed more than 400 Palestinians since then, in violation of the truce agreement. It has also not allowed the full entry of aid.
Reconstruction has not begun and is projected to take years, as Israel has kept total control over what goes in and comes out of the enclave. This means families like the Halawas are struggling to rebuild their lives.
The family abandoned their home three months after the war began on October 7, 2023. They returned during the fragile calm established by the truce. Like many others, this family of seven found living in their damaged residence preferable to tent life, particularly as winter rains flooded tent shelters over the past weeks.
In one damaged room, Amani Halawa brewed coffee in a small tin over a fire while thin rays of light filtered through concrete fragments. Amani, her husband Mohammed, and their children have made repairs using concrete scraps, hanging backpacks from exposed metal rods and arranging pots and pans across the kitchen floor.
The home’s walls feature a painted tree and messages to family members separated by the conflict.
Throughout damaged apartments in Gaza City, daily life persists, even as families lie awake fearing their walls might collapse. Health officials report that at least 11 people died from building collapses in a single week in December.
In her home, Sahar Taroush swept dust from carpets placed over rubble. Her daughter Bisan’s face glowed in the light of a computer screen as she watched a movie beside gaping holes in the wall.
On another building’s cracked wall, a family displayed a torn photo of their grandfather on horseback from his time serving in the Palestinian Authority’s security forces during the 1990s. Nearby, a man reclined on a bed precariously balanced on a damaged balcony, scrolling through his phone above the devastated al-Karama neighbourhood.
TATE McRae has been spotted on a cozy date with NHL star Jack Hughes hours after attending his hockey game.
The couple sparked rumors they might have struck up a romance after Tate, 22, supported Jack, 24, from the stands at the New Jersey Devils vs. Buffalo Sabres game in Newark, New Jersey, on Sunday.
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Tate McRae sparked romance rumors after being spotted out with NHL star Jack HughesCredit: TheImageDirect.comThe pair were photographed taking a stroll in New York City on MondayCredit: TheImageDirect.comTate dressed casually in jeans, a long trench coat, and a baseball cap, while Jack rocked pants and a black jacketCredit: TheImageDirect.com
Several photos and videos circulated on social media, showing Tate at the game, leading many to wonder if she was there to cheer on Jack, who returned to the ice after an over-a-month-long recovery from a hand injury.
Further fueling chatter of a possible romance, the pair were seen taking a stroll on Monday in New York City.
Photos obtained by The U.S. Sun show the pop star rocking baggy blue jeans, a navy blue shirt, and a long black trench coat for the chilly outing.
She kept the look casual, accessorizing with white sneakers, a small tan handbag, and a yellow baseball cap while carrying a small coffee cup.
Jack wore blue pants, a tan sweater, and a dark blue jacket, paired with white sneakers and a navy baseball cap.
His right hand was in a cast, seemingly due to the hand injury he endured off the ice last month.
They each appeared to be enjoying the other’s company as they smiled and laughed throughout the walk.
Tate most recently dated Australian rapper The Kid LAROI, who is widely believed to be the subject behind her new track, Tit for Tat.
The former couple broke up in July, but it wasn’t until her Rolling Stone cover story earlier this month that Tate confirmed their split.
Tate admitted that “it was really scary and overwhelming” at first to write and release the track about her relationship.
“I would never talk that way, even about my friends’ lives. I didn’t realize how much it would affect me, the public knowing my private life—because no one knows the full story of anything, ever,” the Canadian singer said, adding that the media coverage about their breakup made the heartbreak even harder to bear.
“I also hate people painting a situation that’s worse than it is.”
Tate also shared that she expects songs will be written about her, just like she writes about her experiences, because that’s often how artists process their emotions.
“What I’ve had to realize is that he’s going to write songs and I’m going to write songs, and that’s our way of expressing ourselves,” the So You Think You Can Dance alum explained.
“That’s our art, that’s our job. And once it’s out there, it’s not mine anymore.”
Tit for Tat is rumored to be in response to The Kid LAROI’s song A COLD PLAY, which seemingly details their split, although he hasn’t explicitly confirmed the speculation.
The couple appeared to be enjoying each other’s company as they smiled and laughed throughout the walkCredit: TheImageDirect.comHours earlier, Tate cheered on Jack from the stands of the New Jersey Devils vs. Buffalo Sabres gameCredit: X/notsoickyvicki
Democratic Party of Korea leader Chung Cheong-rae and floor leader Kim Byeong-gi confer during a Supreme Council meeting at the National Assembly in Seoul on Dec 22. Photo by Asia Today
Dec. 22 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s presidential office said Monday it “respects the National Assembly’s decision” after the ruling Democratic Party backed the opposition’s call for a special prosecutor to investigate matters linked to the Unification Church.
A senior presidential official said the office has consistently supported a thorough investigation regardless of party or religion and described the move as consistent with that stance.
“The presidential office has consistently advocated for a strict investigation regardless of party or religion, so a special prosecutor aligning with that stance is only natural,” the official said, adding that the party’s shift should be seen as reflecting the presidential office’s position.
Democratic Party floor leader Kim Byung-ki said during a Supreme Council meeting at the National Assembly that he supports a special probe that would include politicians from both the ruling and opposition parties.
He said the People Power Party appears to believe the Democratic Party is avoiding a special investigation and urged proceeding with a special prosecutor focused on the Unification Church.
Democratic Party leader Chung Cheong-rae also said there was no reason not to accept the proposal and called for a full accounting that includes any People Power Party figures involved.
US President Donald Trump warned Nicolas Maduro to ‘not play tough’ and to step down on Monday, while the Venezuelan leader said Trump should focus on the issues in his own country. Trump told reporters the US will keep 1.9 million barrels of oil that were seized near Venezuela in December.
Vince Zampella, the video game developer who helped launch the wildly lucrative and enduring “Call of Duty” franchise and “Apex Legends” studio Respawn Entertainment, has died.
A representative for Electronic Arts, which owns Respawn, confirmed Zampella’s death Monday in a statement shared with The Times. He was 55.
Zampella was one of two people who died Sunday afternoon in a car crash along Angeles Crest Highway, NBC 4 reported. The crash involved a red 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS, and the identities of the deceased are pending release by the county coroner, said California Highway Patrol spokesperson Sgt. Daniel Keene.
Zampella was a noted sports car collector, often sharing photos of his luxury vehicles and visits to car races on Instagram.
“This is an unimaginable loss, and our hearts are with Vince’s family, his loved ones, and all those touched by his work,” said the Electronic Arts representative in a statement. “Vince’s influence on the video game industry was profound and far-reaching.”
The CHP said in a Sunday news release that it received a call at 12:43 p.m. about a crash at Mile Post 62.70 of the scenic drive, which reopened in August after a years-long closure due to storm damage. Officers responded to the scene of the crash, and a preliminary investigation found that a car had been traveling southbound when, “for unknown reasons, the vehicle veered off the roadway, struck a concrete barrier, and became fully engulfed,” according to the release.
“The passenger was ejected from the vehicle, and the driver remained trapped,” the CHP statement said. “Both parties succumbed to their injuries.”
Video emerged online showing a red Ferrari shooting out of a tunnel along the highway at a high speed, slamming into a concrete barrier where the road curved and erupting into flames.
The 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS is a hybrid convertible powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 and an electric motor, producing a combined 819 horsepower.
The CHP said Sunday it was unclear whether drugs or alcohol were a factor in the crash.
Zampella was a formative figure in the modern gaming scene. Alongside Jason West and former creative partner Grant Collier, he co-founded the original “Call of Duty” studio, Infinity Ward, in 2002 and released the first installment of the first-person military shooting game in 2003. Activision acquired the studio that same year. Since its inception, “Call of Duty” has spawned dozens of sequels and spin-offs across various consoles and platforms, most recently “Call of Duty: Black Ops 7,” released in November.
He and West, after an acrimonious split with Activision, founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010. Though West departed Respawn in 2013 due to unspecified family issues, Zampella remained head of the studio, overseeing the creation of titles including “Titanfall,” “Apex Legends” and “Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond.” Additionally, Respawn expanded its lineup with the story-driven “Star Wars” titles “Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order” and “Star Wars Jedi: Survivor,” starring Cameron Monaghan.
Zampella also led the L.A. branch of Swedish video game developer DICE, which was renamed in 2021 to Ripple Effect Studios, and was appointed to oversee its “Battlefield” franchise.
“A friend, colleague, leader and visionary creator, his work helped shape modern interactive entertainment and inspired millions of players and developers around the world,” Electronic Arts said in its statement. “His legacy will continue to shape how games are made and how players connect for generations to come.”
Zampella is survived by his three children, Quentin, 26; Kyle, 22; and Courtney, 19.
A gas station in Seoul is seen Dec. 14 as weekly average gasoline and diesel prices in South Korea fell for the first time in seven weeks. Photo by Yonhap News Agency
Dec. 22 (Asia Today) — South Korea has surpassed 100 million barrels in government-held oil reserves as it seeks to bolster energy security against global supply disruptions, the industry ministry said Monday.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy said the government’s secured stockpile exceeded 100 million barrels after the final tanker shipment of the year arrived at the Korea National Oil Corporation’s Geoje oil reserve base.
Including about 95 million barrels held by private companies, South Korea now has enough oil to cover more than 210 days under International Energy Agency standards in an emergency, the ministry said.
South Korea, which relies on imports for its oil, adopted a national stockpiling plan in 1980 and has expanded reserves over about 45 years after experiencing global supply shocks during past oil crises, the ministry said.
The country now holds the fourth-largest oil reserves among the agency’s member countries, the ministry said, describing the stockpile as an energy safety net that can help respond to supply crises.
The ministry said it plans to strengthen crisis response capabilities and shift focus from simply expanding volume to improving the quality of reserves.
In its fifth petroleum stockpiling plan prepared earlier this month, the ministry said it would restructure reserves to prioritize oil grades better suited to domestic demand.
An industry ministry official said oil reserve bases operate under strict safety requirements and the government will phase out aging equipment and strengthen disaster response systems.
Mohamed Salah puts Liverpool controversy behind him with dramatic winner against Zimbabwe in their AFCON opener.
Published On 23 Dec 202523 Dec 2025
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Mohamed Salah snatched a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Egypt came from behind to beat Zimbabwe 2-1 in their first fixture at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Morocco on Monday.
Egypt’s captain, starting his first game after four successive matches on the bench at Liverpool, fired home a left-footed effort in the 91st minute to earn the seven-time champions a late victory after Zimbabwe had stunned them by going ahead in the first half.
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Egypt laid an early siege to Zimbabwe’s goal, but it was the underdogs who netted first through Prince Dube in the 20th minute.
It was left to Egypt’s Premier League contingent of Omar Marmoush, who equalised in the 64th minute, and talisman Salah to see them to a last-gasp victory.
Salah had come into the tournament in Morocco under the spotlight following a fiery outburst after being dropped by the Premier League champions, and struggled to find his rhythm for most of the match at the Grande Stade d’Agadir. When it counted, however, he swept home the winner to see Egypt join South Africa, who beat Angola 2-1 earlier in Marrakesh, at the top of Group B.
It was as much as Egypt deserved, breaking a run of six successive draws over the last two editions of the Cup of Nations.
They had four good chances in the opening 10 minutes as they put Zimbabwe under intense pressure but fell behind when Emmanuel Jalai fed the ball inside for Dube, who turned in possession and placed his effort into the bottom left corner.
It could have been 2-0 as Daniel Msendami’s pace set up a scrambled chance for Washington Navaya that Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy managed to gather before it could be bundled over the line.
Salah, centre, puts Egypt ahead 2-1 in stoppage time [Stringer/Anadolu via Getty Images]
Marmoush sole effect
Marmoush equalised in the 64th minute, picking up a long pass on the left wing before cutting inside and firing home with his right foot from an acute angle for a superb solo goal.
“We created many chances without being able to score early, but in the end everything went well,” Marmoush said.
“We kept a good mindset and finished the match strongly. We will learn from everything that happened in tonight’s game.”
Substitute Ahmed Zizo should have headed home at the back post from Mohamed Hamdy’s inviting cross but put his effort wide, and missed again four minutes from the end when Salah teed him up with a good chance.
It was left to Salah to secure the three points, holding off his marker to bring the ball under control before steering it home for his first goal since early last month.
In the next set of Group B fixtures, Egypt meet South Africa in Agadir on Boxing Day while Zimbabwe and Angola clash on Friday in Marrakesh.
Our picks for this year’s best in arts and entertainment.
Thankfully, we can still turn to our bookshelves — and podcasts — to ground us. We tapped science doyenne Alie Ward, the host of the funny cult favorite “Ologies” podcast, to share her picks for the best science books of 2025.
Spanning fascinating subjects from bees to human anatomy, Ward’s insightful list reminds us that books remain a timeless vessel for truth and knowledge.
“Dr. Li is the botanist of our dreams… the way he talks about ferns and why he loves them, and about growing up in Taiwan (in essentially a fern forest), and how the sexual reproduction of ferns has been a great way to draw attention to the LGBTQ and nonbinary community is so charming and funny. They even named a whole genus after Lady Gaga because they were listening to ‘Born This Way’ a lot in the lab and also because there are sequences in their DNA that are ‘GAGA.’
“Laura Silburn’s illustrations are gorgeous — they really put a lot of texture into some of these plants that are really tiny. Every page is like looking at a botany poster. As we’ve seen so much science research being underfunded, especially in the last year, there’s this big question by the culture at large of why does it matter? Why does studying the fern genome matter? It has real-world impacts — that’s fewer pesticides on your crops because we figured out something from a foreign genome. I always love when something is overlooked or taken for granted and because of someone’s passion and their dedication to studying it, we learn that it can change our lives.”
“Krystle is an astounding photographer and an incredible visual artist. Her passion for native bees is infectious. A lot of people, when they think of bees, they think of honeybees. And honeybees are not even native to North America. They’re not native to L.A. They’re not native to this country. They’re feral livestock. What I love about her book is it opens your eyes to all of these species that are literally right under our noses that we wouldn’t even consider — and that a lot of people wouldn’t even identify as bees.
“The other reason why I love this book is that she puts these essays into it that are about her experiences going to find the bees. So you’re getting to see these gorgeous landscape pictures. You’re getting to see what it took to find the bee, how to look for it, and more about this particular species. It’s organized in these ABCs that you can pick up at any chapter and check out a bee you’ve never heard of before.”
“Justin is hilarious. He is such a good writer, and his voice is really, really approachable. The way that he writes about science is through such a wonderful pop culture and pop science lens. You feel like you’re reading a friend’s email who just has something really interesting to tell you.
“This book is all about anthropomorphizing everything from our toasters to why we like some spiders but hate other spiders. This is a discussion that is so important in this time when we literally have bots on our phones that are like, ‘I’ll be your best friend.’
“Justin speaks to human psychology and our need to want to be friends or villainize objects —or technology or animals — and project our own humanity onto them in ways that are sometimes helpful and sometimes dangerous.
“As a science communicator, you can tell people the most fascinating facts and can give them the best stories. But unless you can give people a takeaway, then a lot of times it doesn’t stick or the interest isn’t there. He really addresses the question of ‘Well, what does this mean for my life?’”
“The humanity that she brings is such a wonderful base for how our bodies fail us sometimes and what we are trying to do to bring them back. From her being present during orthopedic surgeries and the way that she describes the sound of hammer on bone (and just the kind of jovial atmosphere in an operating room that, as a patient, you would never be clued in about because you are passed out half dead on a slab). She really soaks up a vibe that you would never have access to. She goes to Mongolia to learn about eye surgery there in yurts. She takes you to places you would never be able to go. She’s rooting around in archives and old papers — she just makes anything interesting.
“Mary really is both an ally and an outsider, and I think that that’s a really beautiful thing in her book.”
“Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman is an absolute force. I’ve followed her work in economics and in equity for years, and I was really excited for this book to come out. We did an episode on kalology, which is the study of beauty standards, years ago and I have always loved the conversation of how different members of society have a certain tax on them — these extra resources that they are expected to provide.
“I was really excited to read about specifically women of color, because that is something that I don’t feel is discussed at large. Anna combines the sociology of it with the reality of her experience and other women of color. Because she is so deft when it comes to policy and economics, she also considers, ‘What can we do about this?’ It’s not just enough to discuss this, but what can be done?
“She has totals of what the gender gap is and what the double tax is, and it’s written up like a receipt. This book really addresses the double tax in a way that, even if you have no insight or it’s something that you haven’t thought about — or you are someone who hasn’t experienced this — it’s laying it out economically in a way that is really accessible and has a lot of impact.”
Recinos is an arts and culture journalist and creative nonfiction writer based in Los Angeles. Her first essay collection, “Underneath the Palm Trees,” is forthcoming in early 2027.
People escaping fighting, lack of essential supplies in Heglig area faced with tough humanitarian conditions in search for shelter and safety.
Published On 23 Dec 202523 Dec 2025
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Kosti, Sudan – The flow of displaced people fleeing the fighting in Sudan shows no sign of slowing – the latest hailing from Heglig.
In early December, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized the strategic Heglig oilfield in West Kordofan province after its rival, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), withdrew from the area.
Nearly 1,700 displaced people, most of them children and women, escaped the fighting in the southern region and the lack of basic necessities.
Some of them were fortunate enough to board trucks as they fled from their towns and villages in the area. After an arduous journey, the displaced people arrived at their new home – the Gos Alsalam displacement camp in Kosti, a city in the White Nile province.
“We left without anything … we just took some clothes,” said an elderly woman who appeared exhausted and frail.
Inside the camp, the people arriving are faced with extremely harsh humanitarian conditions. Tents are being pitched in haste, but as the number of displaced people grows, so do the immense humanitarian needs. Yet, humanitarian support remains insufficient to cover even the bare minimum.
“We have no blankets or any sheets, nothing. We are old people,” said a displaced elderly woman.
‘I gave birth in the street’
Nearly three years of war between the RSF and SAF have forced 14 million people to flee their homes in a desperate attempt to find shelter and safety away from the heavy fighting that has killed tens of thousands.
Some 21 million across the country are facing acute hunger, in what the United Nations calls the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.
In a small corner of the Gos Alsalam camp, Umm Azmi sits next to her newborn baby. She recalled how she was overtaken by labour on the road and delivered her baby in the open air without any medical assistance.
“I was trying for nine months … but I gave birth in the street – the condition is very difficult,” the mother said.
“I had just given birth, and I had nothing to eat. Sometimes we eat anything we find in the streets,” she added.
At least two people killed in clashes in northern city of Aleppo during Turkish FM Fidan’s visit to Syria.
By News Agencies and Reuters
Published On 23 Dec 202523 Dec 2025
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Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces agreed to stop fighting in the northern city of Aleppo, after a wave of attacks left at least two civilians dead.
Syria’s state news agency SANA cited the defence ministry as saying that the army’s general command issued an order to stop targeting the SDF’s fighters after the deadly clashes erupted during a visit by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.
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Fidan, whose country views the SDF, which controls swathes of northeastern Syria, as a ‘terrorist’ organisation, said on Monday that the SDF appeared to have no intention of honouring its pledge to integrate into the state’s armed forces by an agreed year-end deadline.
Following the SANA report on Monday evening, the SDF said in a later statement that it had issued instructions to stop responding to attacks by Syrian government forces following de-escalation contacts.
The famous Christmas film stars Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black and Jude Law
The White Horse pub features in the movie(Image: Chris Harris/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
A chocolate box village in England is the setting of a Christmas movie that has become a modern classic. The Holiday is a cherished Christmas story that many enjoy annually during the festive season.
The 2006 movie tells the tale of two women who switch homes for two weeks during winter, allowing them to recover from heartbreak and discover new love. Iris, portrayed by Kate Winslet, escapes her life in England to enjoy a stay in a luxurious California house, while Cameron Diaz’s character moves from Hollywood to a charming, traditionally British cottage.
Although ‘Rosehill Cottage’ was specially constructed for the film and isn’t a real location, its picturesque countryside setting makes it worth visiting around Christmas. Remarkably, you can even visit the same pub where Cameron Diaz’s character had her first real date with Graham, played by Jude Law.
The enchanting village of Shere in Surrey is situated halfway between Guildford and Dorking. Its river filled with ducks, and its historic ambience attracts both tourists and filmmakers, and it was also a filming location for Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason.
Yet, it’s at the corner of Shere Lane that you’ll find the historic 15th-century, Grade II-listed pub where parts of the Christmas movie were shot. The White Horse offers a variety of traditional dishes, such as hearty British steak and ale pies and Sunday roasts, all enjoyed by guests beside cosy fireplaces.
According to a previous Mirror article, a description from the Chef & Brewer Collection read: “Built in 1475, this stunning pub displays traditional features of solid wooden beams and natural stone fireplaces, creating the quintessential cosy pub atmosphere.
“Settle down and enjoy some hearty comfort food. From soul-warming Sunday roasts to perfectly seasoned steaks cooked just the way you like; each dish is crafted with the utmost care and passion. Connect to the free Wi-Fi and browse the well-stocked bar for your favourite local cask ale or quality wine, and don’t forget – we’re dog-friendly, so bring your four-legged pals.”
After visiting The White Horse, tourists might also want to explore the village’s charming tearooms or stop by the 12th-century St James’ Church. It is believed to be the place where Bridget Jones’ parents, played by Jim Broadbent and Gemma Jones, renew their wedding vows in The Edge of Reason.
The wedding celebration spills out of the church into the snowy yard. Bridget and Mark Darcy, portrayed by Colin Firth, follow the parents as they leave through the church’s Lych Gate.
Information from Visit Surrey also adds: “The Church of St James appeared in the Domesday Book. It contains a tiny enclosed cell in which Christine Carpenter, an anchoress (religious recluse) lived. Her only contact with the outside world was through a grid and an aperture through which food was passed.”
To visit Shere, the nearest station is Gomshall, about a five-minute drive away. It typically takes around 20 minutes to walk from Gomshall to Shere, and bus services are also accessible in the vicinity.
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A K9 self-propelled howitzer is displayed during an Armed Forces Day media event in Gyeryong, South Korea, Sept. 29. File Photo by Yonhap News Agency
Dec. 22 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s science ministry said Monday it has selected its 2025 “Top 100 National R&D Achievements,” highlighting projects including a domestically produced 1,000-horsepower engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer and a high-performance vanadium flow battery stack.
The Ministry of Science and ICT said the program marks its 20th year. Launched in 2006, the cross-government selection aims to raise public awareness of national research and development and recognize scientists and engineers.
The ministry said 970 candidate projects recommended by government bodies were reviewed by a selection committee of 105 experts from industry, academia and research institutes, followed by public verification. The final 100 were chosen across six categories: machinery and materials, life and marine, energy and environment, information and electronics, basic science and infrastructure and convergence.
Among the selections, STX Engine was cited for developing and commercializing a 1,000-horsepower engine for the K9, localizing a system and core components previously dependent on overseas imports. The ministry said the achievement helped address export approval hurdles and supported market expansion, including K9 exports to Egypt equipped with domestically produced engines.
In life sciences, IM Biologics was selected for work on treatments for autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis. The ministry said the company transferred related technology to U.S.-based Navigator Medicine and China’s Huadong Pharmaceutical in deals totaling 1.7 trillion won ($1.3 billion).
In energy and environment, H2 was cited for developing low-cost, high-power-density stack technology for vanadium flow batteries, a key component used in energy storage tied to solar and wind generation. The ministry said the technology contributed to South Korea’s first export of the stack technology to Germany.
Other selections included the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute’s demonstration of 6G wireless transmission technology and the Institute for Basic Science research group’s real-time observation of molecular ion formation and structural transitions, the ministry said.
The ministry said selected projects will receive certificates and plaques in the name of Deputy Prime Minister and Science and ICT Minister Bae Kyung-hoon. The ministry said projects and institutions may receive evaluation advantages under relevant rules and researchers may be recommended for national R&D awards.
Starting next year, the ministry said it will launch follow-up support aimed at boosting technology maturity and commercialization. Each selected project will be eligible for about 1.3 billion won (about $1.0 million) in support over three years, the ministry said.
Park In-gyu, head of the Science and Technology Innovation Headquarters, said the projects reflect sustained challenges and innovation by universities, research institutes and companies and pledged expanded support in coordination with other ministries.
These are the key developments from day 1,398 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Published On 23 Dec 202523 Dec 2025
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Here is where things stand on Tuesday, December 23:
Fighting
A car bomb killed Russian Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov in southern Moscow, the third such killing of a senior Russian military officer in just more than a year. Russian investors pointed the finger at Ukraine. Kyiv has not commented on the incident.
Russian forces struck Ukraine’s Black Sea port of Odesa late on Monday, damaging port facilities and a ship in the second such attack on the region in less than 24 hours, according to Ukrainian officials.
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Kuleba said on the Telegram app that the latest attack on Odesa is part of Russia’s attempt “to disrupt maritime logistics by launching systematic attacks on port and energy infrastructure”.
Kuleba said the attack also caused damage to energy infrastructure, disrupting electricity supply to more than 120,000 customers in the Odesa region. One person was hurt in the attack, the Ministry of Internal Affairs said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed media reports that residents of Hrabovske village, straddling the border with Russia in Ukraine’s Sumy region and home to 52 people, were taken by Russian troops. Zelenskyy said that 13 Ukrainian servicemen were among those taken.
Ukraine’s military said it hit a Tamanneftegaz oil terminal in Russia’s Krasnodar region in an overnight attack, causing explosions and a fire. The Ukrainian General Staff said the oil terminal was part of Russia’s energy infrastructure that supported the financing and logistics of Russian troops fighting in Ukraine.
A Ukrainian drone attack also damaged two vessels in the same region. All crew on the ships at the Volna terminal have been safely evacuated, according to regional authorities.
Russia’s Ministry of Defence said it had captured Vilcha village in Ukraine’s eastern Kharkiv region. The claim could not be immediately verified.
Politics and diplomacy
US President Donald Trump said that talks to end the war in Ukraine are going “OK”, amid questions about their progress, with Moscow and Kyiv still far apart on some key matters.
Zelenskyy, meanwhile, described the negotiations in Miami as “very close to a real result”. He also told a gathering of Ukrainian diplomats that the peace process “all looks quite worthy”, even as he conceded that “not everything is ideal with this, but the plan is there”.
Separately, in his nightly video address to the nation, Zelenskyy said the key issue in the talks was to determine whether the US was able to “get a response from Russia; real readiness on the part of that country to focus on something other than aggression”. He said that continued pressure on the Kremlin was vital to reduce Moscow’s capacity to wage war.
The Kremlin said talks between Russia and the US in Miami on ways to resolve the conflict in Ukraine should not be seen as a breakthrough. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Izvestia news outlet that the discussions were expected to continue in a “meticulous” expert-level format.
Peskov also questioned the reliability of the sources cited in a Reuters news agency report, which said that the US intelligence community believes Putin wants to seize all of Ukraine and reclaim parts of Europe that belonged to the former Soviet bloc. Peskov told reporters in Moscow that if the report was accurate, then the US’s intelligence conclusions were wrong.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov declared that Moscow is ready to confirm in a legal agreement that it has no intention of attacking either the European Union or the US-led NATO military alliance, the state RIA news agency reported.
Military aid
The Czech Republic’s National Security Council will debate the future of a Czech-led, Western-financed scheme organising artillery ammunition supplies for Ukraine on January 7, Prime Minister Andrej Babis said. The scheme also brings together foreign donors, including Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands.
Regional security
Swedish customs released the Russian ship Adler, which it boarded over the weekend to perform an inspection, with marine tracking data showing the vessel was on the move again. Swedish customs declined to say what cargo the Adler had been carrying. The Adler is under EU sanctions, while the vessel and its owners, M Leasing LLC, are both subject to US sanctions, suspected of involvement in weapons transport.
Professional dancer Jowita Przystal has been a part of Strictly since 2022 – and even won that year. But now fans have been left fearing she is set to walk away from the ballroom for good.
22:19, 22 Dec 2025Updated 22:19, 22 Dec 2025
Strictly Come Dancing professional Jowita Przystal has sparked fears she will quit the show(Image: BBC)
Strictly Come Dancing professional Jowita Przystal has addressed her future on the show after hinting she has quit. The 31-year-old dancer joined the cast of the BBC show in 2022 – winning that year alongside wildlife cameraman Hamza Yassin.
She then danced with cyclist Jody Cundy, 47, in 2023 – and caused a frenzy when she danced with notorious Lothario Pete Wicks, 37, during the 2024 competition. But fans are now fearing that the 2025 contest has been the last for Jowita – after she shared a cryptic message online.
For the latest season of the show – which concluded over the weekend – the Polish dance star was partnered with Scottish presenter Ross King, 63. However, the pair were the second couple to be booted off the show after failing to impress viewers and the judges.
Following Saturday night’s live final – in which footballer Karen Carney and dancer Carlos Gu won – Jowita took to Instagram to share a photograph of herself alongside Ross. Fans were left startled and alarmed when she added a caption stating: “Last dance partner on strictly floor x.”
Her comment provoked a flurry of speculation, with one fan fearfully commenting online: “Jowita just shared this! Is this her last year?” Another, fearing the worst, replied: “I wondered also. I hope not she is my fav female pro.” While a further fan remarked “it would be a weird way to announce something like that.”
Jowita later returned to Instagram Stories to share a photo of herself posing alongside other Strictly professionals. And in an accompanying caption, she clarified her prior comment. She wrote: “So grateful for being a part of the best show on tv. And just to clarify my last post it was about my last dance with ross, not me leaving the show. Hopefully far from my last dance on that dance floor.”
Fans of Strictly have been left devastated, however, by the fact that hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman won’t return to the show. The duo stunned fans in October when they abruptly announced that they would be quitting the show at the end of the year and won’t return to host the 2026 season.
And on Saturday night, the ladies bid farewell to the series. Tess, 56, who has hosted the show since it began back in 2004 shared an emotional message to fans on social media after working through the final.
She wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post: “So that’s a wrap. What an incredible Final – fitting for what, for me, has been an absolutely brilliant series. Strictly is a show that is made with love, where joy is the currency and the only agenda. That love is down to every single member of the brilliant team that makes it, because to none of them is it just a job. It is a gift, and it is truly treasured. I will be forever grateful for the unforgettable years I have spent sharing this magical show with you. I’ll miss the Strictly viewers, because they are the very best, the most loyal and supportive, and as passionate about the show as I have always been. It has been the most wonderful privilege to have shared it with you all for so many years.”
She concluded: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the memories of a lifetime.” Her post included a montage video from the final night, with the star dazzling in a sequin gown. While co-host Claudia looked sharp in a tailored suit, with the catchphrase “Keep dancing” emblazoned across her back.
In a post of her own, Claudia shared a backstage photo of herself with Tess as they walked hand in hand to the main stage. In a simple message, she wrote: “For the last time… I love you @tessdaly,” and added a red heart emoji.
And in a later post, she shared a photograph of Karen and Carlos accepting their trophy after winning the show. She wrote alongside the image: “Massive congratulations to our amazing winners @kazcarney and @gkx_carlos and also to the brilliant @amb_d @nikita__kuzmin and @georgeclarkeey and @alexis_warr – what a final, what a team.”
Unification Ministry spokesperson Yoon Min-ho briefs reporters at the Government Complex Seoul on Dec 22 Photo by Yonhap News Agency
Dec. 22 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s Ministry of Unification said Monday it has never reported to President Lee Jae-myung on reviewing constitutional amendments tied to a “peaceful two-state” approach as a way to bring North Korea to negotiations.
Unification Ministry spokesperson Yoon Min-ho said at a regular briefing that claims the ministry suggested reviewing constitutional changes during a closed-door work report on Friday were “completely false.”
“Reports saying that the ministry proposed reviewing constitutional amendments to draw North Korea into dialogue are untrue,” Yoon said. He added that the ministry neither raised nor examined such an issue during the briefing.
Earlier Monday, a media report said President Lee took a negative view of a purported ministry suggestion to review changes to Article 3 of the Constitution, which defines the territory of the Republic of Korea as the entire Korean Peninsula, in order to engage Pyongyang.
Yoon reiterated that no such proposal was made and said the ministry has not reviewed the matter.
He also said discussions with the U.S. Embassy on North Korea policy are expected to begin early next year. Preparations are also underway to set a schedule for regular vice-ministerial-level communication with the Foreign Ministry, he said.
On the issue of public access to North Korean media, Yoon said the ministry’s interpretation is that simply viewing North Korean outlets such as Rodong Sinmun does not violate the National Security Act.
A top Amazon executive has said the US technology giant has blocked more than 1,800 job applications from suspected North Korean agents.
North Koreans tried to apply for remote working IT jobs using stolen or fake identities, Amazon’s chief security officer Stephen Schmidt said in a LinkedIn post.
“Their objective is typically straightforward: get hired, get paid, and funnel wages back to fund the regime’s weapons programs,” he said, adding that this trend is likely to be happening at scale across the industry, especially in the US.
Authorities in the US and South Korea have warned about Pyongyang’s operatives carrying out online scams.
Amazon has seen a nearly one-third increase in job applications from North Koreans in the past year, said Mr Schmidt in his post.
He said the operatives typically work with people managing “laptop farms” – referring to computers based in the US that are run remotely from outside of the country.
The firm used a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and verification by its staff to screen job applications, he said.
The strategies used by such fraudsters have become more sophisticated, Mr Schmidt said.
Bad actors are hijacking dormant LinkedIn accounts using leaked credentials to gain verification. They target genuine software engineers to appear credible, he said, urging firms to report suspicious job applications to the authorities.
Mr Schmidt warned employers to look out for indicators of fraudulent North Korean job applications, including incorrectly formatted phone numbers and mismatched education histories.
They used stolen or forged identities of Americans to help North Korean nationals get jobs in the US, said the Department of Justice (DOJ).
It also indicted US brokers who had helped secure jobs for the North Korean operatives.
In July, a woman from Arizona was sentenced to more than eight years in jail for running a laptop farm to help North Korean IT workers secure remote jobs at more than 300 US companies.
The DOJ said the scheme generated more than $17m (£12.6m) in illicit gains for her and Pyongyang.
But there was one sign this weekend that appeared to back the speculation. As Karen and Carlos spoke to host Claudia Winkleman, there appeared to be tension brewing in the studio. Elated by their performance ahead of taking home the Glitterball Trophy, Carlos and Karen were both extremely emotional.
Carlos told Claudia that Karen had unlocked his inner “team player” throughout their time on the show. He said: “I came to Strictly after competing live.
“I was self-centred, I was me, me, me. It’s no wonder I didn’t get a partner last year because I’m not grateful.” But Nancy, who this year didn’t have a famous partner, didn’t look impressed as she wrapped her arm around Johannes Radebe.
As the moment aired on screens, fans instantly took to social media to share their thoughts with one writing: “Could Nancy even attempt to hide her dislike for Carlos?” A second penned: “If you don’t like him then stay out of camera shot and keep your feelings to yourself.”
“Nancy so not bothered by Carlos’s tears,” said a third. A fourth typed: “‘No wonder I didn’t get a partner last year.’ Bit of a dig at Nancy, Luba and Neil. For context, Nancy and Carlos were BFFs until a big fallout last year, I think it was.”
However, after Karen and Carlos were announced as the winners, Nancy appeared to offer an olive branch. Sharing a snap of this year’s stars on Instagram, she said: “Congratulations for all the final couples! And Well‑deserved Winner @kazcarney and Carlos. Thank you for all the tears and laughing Strictly 2025.”
But she failed to tag Carlos in the post, which didn’t go unnoticed. One follower said in the comments: “Brilliant series! Shame there seems to be a bad atmosphere between you and Carlos. I guess, in my ideal world, I want you all to be BFFs.” “Now Nancy is not tagging Carlos in her post for Karen. They clearly had a big fallout,” commented another.
Meanwhile, a third said: “Gutted Nancy and Carlos are no longer friends. I hope the final has made them patch things up.” Carlos and Nancy met as children and instantly became close friends. At one point, he said she was his “favourite sister,” while Nancy also called Carlos her “baby brother.”
However, last year the pair unfollowed one another on social media. It was also reported that they would avoid speaking to one another backstage on the BBC One dancing competition. Meanwhile, Nancy was said to be extremely disappointed this year after not getting matched with a celebrity.
It was claimed she was “absolutely incensed” having performed well during the Christmas special, which aired almost a year ago to the day.
The Mirror has approached Nancy’s spokesperson for comment.
The guided-missile submarine USS Florida transits the Suez Canal en route to the Red Sea on Friday amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. File U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elliot Schaudt
Dec. 22 (Asia Today) — China has voiced strong opposition to potential cooperation between South Korea and the United States on nuclear-powered submarines, warning it could undermine the global nuclear nonproliferation regime, Chinese state media reported.
Song Zhongping, a Chinese military analyst, said in an interview published Monday by the Global Times that consultations between Seoul and Washington on nuclear submarine-related cooperation could pose a “serious threat” to nuclear nonproliferation.
The Global Times cited South Korean media reports saying the two countries plan to begin sector-by-sector consultations next year related to leader-level understandings that include nuclear submarine construction, uranium enrichment and spent nuclear fuel reprocessing.
Song said the AUKUS nuclear submarine effort with Australia set a negative precedent and suggested a similar case could emerge with South Korea. He argued that U.S. support for allies’ access to nuclear technology and nuclear fuel would weaken the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Song also said Japan has raised the idea of acquiring nuclear-powered submarines and warned the trend could fuel an arms race. He said more countries operating nuclear-powered submarines would increase the risk of technology leakage and accidents.
He further argued South Korea has limited practical need for nuclear-powered submarines because of its restricted coastline, the report said.
In October, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a regular briefing that Beijing hopes South Korea and the United States will fulfill nonproliferation obligations and avoid actions that run counter to regional peace and stability, according to the report.
As Washington intensifies its political, economic, and military attacks against Venezuela, opposition to imperialism is also growing inside the United States—particularly among working-class and immigrant communities who experience the costs of imperialism directly. From cuts to social programs and housing insecurity to mass deportations and ICE raids, many are drawing connections between repression at home and US intervention abroad.
Elizabeth Blaney is a key figure in the Los Angeles tenant movement, a co-founder and co-director of Unión de Vecinos and part of the broader Los Angeles Tenants Union (LATU). With decades of experience organizing in Boyle Heights against displacement and gentrification, Blaney has also been deeply involved in international solidarity with Venezuela.
This conversation took place in the context of her participation in the recent People’s Assembly for Peace and Sovereignty held in Caracas. In it, she reflects on grassroots opposition to war and how the Bolivarian Revolution has helped radicalize housing struggles in the Los Angeles tenant movement.
How are organized working-class communities reacting to the latest imperialist military escalation against Venezuela?
Among the working-class base we organize with, there is absolutely no support for the war against Venezuela. In East Los Angeles, where I’m from—and in Los Angeles more broadly—the population is majority Latino, African American, and Asian. Most people in our communities are immigrants. Many come from countries that have experienced violence as a direct result of US intervention. Because of that, they understand the situation and recognize the real motivations behind what the US government is doing here in Venezuela. There is strong opposition to war and a clear demand for the United States to get out of the Caribbean.
People also understand that war funding comes directly at their expense. We’ve lost school programs, social services, and benefits. Starting in January, many people will lose Medicaid support. There is a widespread understanding that public resources are being redirected to fund wars. So, beyond solidarity or morality, there is also a concrete economic reason that people oppose war…. They know that they are already paying the price.
This has translated into organization. People want to learn more and get involved in the growing anti-war movement, and our leadership has participated in solidarity protests across Los Angeles. The ongoing ICE raids have also deepened understanding of what is happening to Venezuela: witnessing family members, friends, and neighbors abducted by ICE has generated fear, but also a growing disposition to resist.
Many people now understand that retreating into fear only strengthens the state. They also recognize that the same violence the US government deploys against them is being used against the people of Venezuela and Palestine. This has led to a broad rejection of imperialist aggression—people overwhelmingly oppose the imperialist military buildup in the Caribbean and the Israeli genocide, which is funded and enabled by the United States.
You participated in the recent “People’s Assembly for Peace and Sovereignty” [December 9-11] in Caracas. Getting to it was not easy, since most airlines stopped flying to Venezuela after Trump closed the airspace. Despite these obstacles, the Assembly took place and was a huge success. What can you tell us about it?
Hundreds of people were stranded in airports or had their flights canceled at the last minute because of Trump’s illegal attempt to control Venezuelan airspace. As a result, many delegates who were scheduled to attend didn’t make it.
Despite this, the conference went forward, with between 600 and 800 delegates from around the world present. In that sense, it was a success. Some people traveled through five or six countries just to get here. That level of commitment shows how deeply people oppose US aggression and support the call for peace!
Politically, what stood out most was how clearly delegates connected US aggression against Venezuela to its global impact. People discussed how sanctions and seizures—such as the illegal confiscation of oil tankers bound for Cuba and other countries—directly affect energy access and economic stability elsewhere. This makes it clear that what’s happening in Venezuela is an international issue.
There were also discussions about how war funding drains resources from working people in the United States and promotes speculation in financial and housing markets globally. One session focused specifically on housing, examining how imperialist war drives up rents and housing prices, worsening conditions for tenants worldwide.
Beyond peace, the Assembly’s debates emphasized people’s sovereignty and who has the right to control resources. The conclusion was clear—those resources belong to the Venezuelan people. If they are stolen from Venezuela, nothing prevents similar theft elsewhere.
The Peace Assembly helped develop a shared understanding of how to defend Venezuela’s sovereignty while preparing for what comes next globally. Now the analysis has to go back to our communities.
Members of the Unión de Vecinos in an LA concentration against the US military deployment in the Caribbean. (Unión de Vecinos)
You’ve said on other occasions that the Bolivarian Process, despite being demonized by the media establishment, has helped radicalize housing struggles in Los Angeles. How has that experience shaped your organization?
I’m part of the Unión de Vecinos, the East Side chapter of the Los Angeles Tenants Union. We’ve been engaged in internationalist solidarity work for many years. We first came to Venezuela in 2019 and have returned several times since, not only to oppose sanctions but to strengthen the tenant movement in Los Angeles and to be fellow travelers in the march toward socialism.
In July 2023, we organized a brigade of about 25 tenant organizers from across California. For many participants, it was a transformative experience. What people in the United States often don’t grasp is that in Venezuela, there is a real socialist project. Of course, it is not perfect and has contradictions, but it is a true emancipatory project with tangible advances. Housing rights, free university education, and free healthcare already exist here in ways they do not in the US.
Seeing this reality firsthand shifted how our organizers think. It made it clear that socialism is not just an abstract demand but something that can be built in practice. Over the past two years and across our 15 chapters, this experience has fueled profound debates about what it means to build a socialist project in Los Angeles.
We don’t see ourselves as just a housing movement. It is about tenants’ ability to survive, remain in their neighborhoods, and collectively shape their communities. This broader vision was strongly influenced by what we learned in Venezuela. Following a process of internal debates, the LA Tenants Union collectively declared itself a socialist organization in August. That decision would not have been possible without the internationalist exchange with Venezuela.
Another crucial lesson has been learning about participatory democracy. In the United States, democracy is reduced to voting every few years or speaking at meetings with no real power. In Venezuela, democracy is practiced as an ongoing process through communal assemblies and popular consultations. For our organizers, seeing Venezuela’s communal assemblies, which are the communes’ highest decision-making body—with “voceros” [spokespeople] accountable to them—has been especially influential. We are strengthening that model across our chapters.
This work goes beyond visits. We’ve built ongoing relationships with Venezuelan movements like the Movimiento de Pobladores, the Movimiento de Inquilinos, and the Simón Bolívar Institute through regular exchanges and political education initiatives. Reciprocal solidarity is central to our political formation and our ability to challenge dominant narratives in the United States.
At a recent event in El Panal Commune, the Simón Bolívar Institute launched the “Solidarity Committee with the Peoples of the US.” What does this initiative represent for grassroots movements in your context?
Solidarity requires sustained commitment and concrete action. This initiative creates a space where analysis and action converge in a spirit of reciprocal solidarity. At the launch, around ten or eleven organizations from the United States were present, all rooted in working-class communities, in addition to El Panal communards and spokespeople from the Instituto Simón Bolívar. That matters, because this isn’t just about organizations—it’s about the people they represent and organize.
The initiative strengthens our responsibility as organizers and working-class people in the US to fight fascism at home, while opposing imperialism abroad. It also demonstrates that we are not fighting alone. Through this work, we will also be deepening ties with movements in Mexico, Honduras, and Argentina, where people are facing similar crises, particularly around housing. Bringing these struggles together strengthens all of us.
Finally, how have the current ICE raids reshaped the political landscape inside the United States, and how do people connect this repression to US imperialist aggression abroad?
The raids and kidnappings being carried out by the US government against immigrants are a turning point. In practice, the Supreme Court has legalized racism, allowing federal agents to detain people based on skin color, language, or where they gather for work, without due process.
This has sparked resistance well beyond traditional activist circles. While working-class communities have always resisted, many people who were never politically active before are now organizing. Neighborhoods are forming patrols, blocking streets, warning residents, and physically slowing ICE operations.
This has opened space for deeper political conversations. People are increasingly connecting what is happening in their neighborhoods to US aggression abroad. They are asking: if the government can do this here—deporting people, including Venezuelans, or sending migrants to third countries—what stops it from escalating further against countries like Venezuela?
As a result, international solidarity no longer feels distant or abstract. More people are recognizing the shared enemy and taking action in solidarity with Venezuela. That political awakening is one of the most significant developments of the present moment.
Bob Mortimer is leading the tributes for Chris Rea following the Driving Home For Christmas star’s tragic deathCredit: youtubeBob was good friends with the late star the pair even making the song Lets Dance together in 1997 for Middlesbrough’s Football Club’s FA Cup FinalCredit: YouTube/Gone FishingOn his tribute post bob added a sweet picture of Chris in a bubble bath holding an eggCredit: X/RealBobMortimer
He made a huge impact in the entertainment industry and following his passing a host of celebrities have shared their tributes to the late singer.
Comedian Bob Mortimer branded the star a ‘brilliant bloke’, taking to X to pen a heartfelt message, he wrote: “So so sad. A lovely brilliant funny giant of a bloke. Oh Man….RIP Chris .. Boro legend forever. Love to family and friends”.
On the post the comedian added a sweet picture of Chris in a bubble bath holding an egg, which features in Bob’s memoir recalling a time on Would I Lie To You ? where Chris had ‘supposedly’ put an egg in his bath, after the episode Rea sent him the pic.
Bob was good friends with the late star, the pair even making the song Lets Dance together in 1997 for Middlesbrough’s Football Club’s FA Cup Final.
The football team also wrote a tribute on their own page for Chris, who hails from Middlesborough, they wrote: We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Chris Rea. A Teesside icon. Rest in peace, Chris.”
TV star Lizzie Cundy also took to X to express her own condolences, she said: “I’m so sad to hear Chris Rea has died. I was lucky enough to star in his music video Driving home for Christmas.
“I loved every minute and was an honour to work with him and be in his iconic music video . He will always be an inspiration and legend to me. Rest in peace Chris.”
Lizzie appeared in the smash festive hit’s music video back in 2009, alongside a host of celebs including Gail Porter and Martin Shaw.
TV presenter Timmy Mallet wrote in his tribute: “ #RIP Chris Rea I bought his house 1991 on garage wall is happy Christmas message his daughters sprayed it’s still there.
“Chris is driving home For Christmas now singing for our nearest & dearest. Grateful for his wonderful gravely voice. God bless you Chris #RIP”
During Rea’s last TV appearance, on BBC’s Mortimer and Whitehouse Gone Fishing in 2020, the singer revealed a special gift he gave childhood sweetheart Joan.
He guest starred on the show for a special Christmas episode where he talked about his battle with serious health issues over the years.
Mortimer also spoke about how his health battles had strengthened the bond between him and his family.
Rea was quick to agree and beamed as he said he shared a similar experience with Joan.
The singer replied: “It was exactly the same for me. I was in hospital and the pancreatic cancer nurse comes in and tells me ‘it’s not grade three cancer phone your wife!’
“So I phone my wife and she pulled the car over and burst into tears.”
Themusicianhad his pancreas removed after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2001 and suffered a stroke in 2016.
The singer went on to make a light-hearted joke about leaving his wife the royalties to his famous hit.
“I gave her all the money, all the rights to all the songs, and now she won’t give them back,” he laughed.
Rea’s wife of 57 years played a key role in writing his Christmas smash hit.
Rea’s wife of 57 years Joan played a key role in writing his Christmas smash hitCredit: Shutterstock EditorialFollowing a short illness Chris sadly passed away in hospital just three days before ChristmasCredit: EPARea’s last TV appearance was on the BBC’s Mortimer and Whitehouse Gone Fishing in 2020Credit: WARNING: Use of this image is subject to the terms of use of BBC Pictures’ Digital Picture
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (R) talks with President Donald Trump in the Cabinet Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on May 13, 2020. On Monday, Polis called on Trump to reverse his recent decision to deny the state disaster relief for recent flooding and fire damage. File Pool Photo by Doug Mills/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 22 (UPI) — Colorado lawmakers have called on President Donald Trump to reverse a recent decision denying state disaster aid requests in the wake of “life-threatening flooding and historic wildfires.”
In a statement Sunday, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis announced Trump had rejected the state’s requests for help and accused the president of playing “political games.” He said the state would be appealing the decision.
“Coloradans impacted by the Elk and Lee fires and the flooding in Southwestern Colorado deserve better than the political games President Trump is playing,” Polis said.
“I call on the president’s better angels, and urge him to reconsider these requests. This is about the Coloradans who need this support, and we won’t stop fighting for them to get what they deserve,” the Democratic governor added.
Polis declared a disaster emergency on Aug. 3, for the Elk Fire and added the Lee Fire three days later. He filed an executive order by the end of August as the state revealed initial damage estimates from the fires and mudslides totaled more than $27 million.
In October, Polis declared a disaster emergency to unlock $6 million in state funding for flood response and recovery in Western Colorado.
Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet said, “Trump’s decision to deny Colorado’s request for critical federal assistance is unacceptable.”
“Communities in Western Colorado are in serious need of help after the life-threatening flooding and historic wildfires earlier this year,” Bennet added. “Trump continues to use Coloradans for political games; it is malicious and obscene.”
While a president can tap additional federal assistance with a major disaster under the Stafford Act, the Trump administration has recently denied some states’ requests for aid as it works to downsize the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The White House said Monday, “there is no politicization to the president’s decisions on disaster relief.” White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson explained Trump’s decision, adding that the administration sent two firefighting planes to Colorado to help fight the fires.
“The president responds to each request for federal assistance under the Stafford Act with great care and consideration,” Jackson said, “ensuring American tax dollars are used appropriately and efficiently by the states to supplement — not substitute, their obligation to respond to and recover from disasters.”
United States President Donald Trump has issued a new warning to Nicolas Maduro, saying “it would be smart” for the Venezuelan leader to leave power, as Washington escalates a pressure campaign against Caracas.
The warning on Monday came as Russia pledged “full support” for Maduro’s government, and China condemned the US’s seizure of two oil tankers off the coast of Venezuela.
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Trump, speaking at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida alongside his top national security aides, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, suggested that he remains ready to further escalate his four-month pressure campaign.
When asked if the goal was to force Maduro from power, Trump told reporters: “Well, I think it probably would… That’s up to him what he wants to do. I think it’d be smart for him to do that. But again, we’re gonna find out.”
“If he wants to do something, if he plays tough, it’ll be the last time he’s ever able to play tough,” he added.
Trump levied his latest threat as the US coastguard continued for a second day to chase a third oil tanker that it described as part of a “dark fleet” that Venezuela uses to evade US sanctions.
“It’s moving along, and we’ll end up getting it,” Trump said.
The US president also promised to keep the ships and the nearly 4 million barrels of Venezuelan oil the coastguard has seized so far.
“Maybe we’ll sell it. Maybe we’ll keep it. Maybe we will use it in the strategic reserves,” he said. “We’re keeping it. We’re keeping the ships also.”
Maduro fires back
Trump’s campaign against Venezuela’s vital oil sector comes amid a large US military buildup in the region with a stated mission of combating drug trafficking, as well as more than two dozen strikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea near the South American nation.
Critics have questioned the legality of the attacks, which have killed more than 100 people.
Venezuela denies any involvement in drug trafficking and insists that Washington is seeking to overthrow Maduro to seize the country’s oil reserves, which are the world’s largest.
It has condemned the US’s vessel seizures as acts of “international piracy”.
Maduro fired back at Trump hours after the latest warning, saying the US president would be “better off” if he focused on his own country’s problems rather than threatening Caracas.
“He would be better off in his own country on economic and social issues, and he would be better off in the world if he took care of his country’s affairs,” Maduro said in a speech broadcast on public television.
The exchange of words came on the eve of a United Nations Security Council meeting on Tuesday to discuss the growing crisis.
Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov, in a phone call with his Venezuelan counterpart, Yvan Gil, slammed the US’s actions and expressed support for Caracas.
“The ministers expressed their deep concern over the escalation of Washington’s actions in the Caribbean Sea, which could have serious consequences for the region and threaten international shipping,” the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
“The Russian side reaffirmed its full support for and solidarity with the Venezuelan leadership and people in the current context,” it added.
US blockade
China also condemned the US’s latest moves as a “serious violation of international law”.
“China opposes any actions that violate the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and infringe upon the sovereignty and security of other countries,” said Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
“Venezuela has the right to develop independently and engage in a mutually beneficial cooperation with other nations. China understands and supports Venezuela’s stance in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests,” he added.
Last week, Rubio brushed aside Moscow’s stated support for Caracas.
Washington, he said, was “not concerned about an escalation with Russia with regards to Venezuela” as “they have their hands full in Ukraine”.
US-Russia relations have soured in recent weeks as Trump has voiced frustration with Moscow over the lack of a resolution on the war in Ukraine
Gil, on Monday, also read a letter on state television, signed by Maduro and addressed to UN member nations, warning that the US blockade “will affect the supply of oil and energy” globally.
“Venezuela reaffirms its vocation for peace, but also declares with absolute clarity that it is prepared to defend its sovereignty, its territorial integrity and its resources in accordance with international law,” he said.
“However, we responsibly warn that these aggressions will not only impact Venezuela. The blockade and piracy against Venezuelan energy trade will affect oil and energy supply, increase instability in international markets, and hit the economies of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the world, especially in the most vulnerable countries.”
