Europe's economy faces a bumpy ride in 2025. Here are 5 things to watch

A person was critically injured and a home partially collapsed in a Pacoima neighborhood after an explosion caused by fireworks. The injured male resident in his 40s was taken to the hospital with burns, while four dogs were also in the home during the incident. Emergency responders, including hazmat units and bomb squads, are on the scene to investigate the cause of the explosion and ensure the safety of the remaining dogs. Full Article

Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon expressed relief and vindication as Police Scotland confirmed she would face no action in the investigation into SNP finances, with her estranged husband, Peter Murrell, charged with embezzlement. Former SNP treasurer Colin Beattie was also cleared, ending a two-year cloud of suspicion for Ms Sturgeon, who maintained her innocence throughout. The investigation, dubbed Operation Branchform, has cast a shadow over the SNP, leading to resignations and ongoing political implications. Full...

The European Union is planning to increase defense spending significantly amidst rising geopolitical tensions, with a proposed 800 billion euros in new defense spending by the European Commission. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis believes that while the current measures are a step in the right direction, the EU should be more ambitious. The ReArm Europe plan includes 150 billion euros in loans for member states to invest in defense and security capabilities, with the condition...

A civil police officer co-piloting a helicopter was shot in the head during a raid against a criminal group in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The officer is in critical condition, but the helicopter did not crash. Police operations in working-class communities, known as favelas, have faced restrictions due to a Supreme Court case, leading to increased attacks on police helicopters by criminals using military-grade weapons. Full Article

The United States refugee programme was suspended by President Donald Trump, halting the processing and relocation of refugees. This action raises questions about the extent of presidential power and the country's obligations to refugees, with potential global implications. Experts warn that leaving refugees in dangerous conditions and undermining the values of the programme could have severe consequences. Full Article

Two Wisconsin parents filed a civil rights complaint against Westosha Central High School, claiming their daughters were forced to share a locker room with a male transgender student and faced academic penalties for trying to avoid changing in front of the student. The school allegedly failed to address the concerns of the female students and created an environment that hindered their participation in gym class, violating Title IX protections. The Wisconsin Institute for Law &...