
Rocket hits tank at Libya’s biggest oil port
A rocket hit a tank at the eastern Libyan oil port Es Sider, officials said on Thursday.

Russia’s Putin to ministers: No holiday for you!
Russian President Vladimir Putin has scrapped New Year’s holidays for government ministers because of the unfolding economic crisis.

Queen Elizabeth II praises workers who fight Ebola
Queen Elizabeth II will use her Christmas broadcast to call for international reconciliation and to praise workers fighting Ebola in Africa.

Pope wishes Christmas hope and peace for Mideast
Pope Francis is focusing his attention on refugees, hostages and all those suffering in conflicts in the Middle East, Africa and Ukraine.

Hack threat comedy released in US
The Sony Pictures comedy The Interview opens in some US cinemas and online, after a major cyber-attack and threats over its release.

CDC worker monitored for possible Ebola exposure
A CDC lab technician is under observation for possible Ebola exposure due to an apparent mix-up in lab specimens.

Germans balk at plan for wind power lines
Germans welcomed renewable energy, but enthusiasm may be waning with a plan for high-voltage transmission lines. The New York Times reports.

Putin acts to halt rising vodka cost
Russian President Vladimir Putin calls for a cap on rising vodka prices, fearing they are pushing drinkers towards cheap, illegal substitutes.

Italy steps in to save steel plant
The Italian government intervenes in the management of the Ilva steel plant, in an attempt to reform the beleaguered business.

SFA rejects Ashley’s Gers stake hike
The Scottish FA board rejects Mike Ashley’s request to raise his shareholding in Rangers International Football Club to 29.9%.