Across Europe, leaders face a difficult decision over Russian steel imports. Although finished steel was banned after the invasion of Ukraine, semi-finished steel continues to enter the EU because several countries rely on it for infrastructure projects. Nearly three million tonnes arrive each year, worth billions of euros. Some lawmakers argue these purchases indirectly strengthen Russia’s war capacity, while others warn that a sudden ban would harm industries and delay construction. Negotiations are now under way to decide whether imports should end immediately or continue until 2028 as previously planned. The debate reveals a deeper struggle: balancing economic stability with moral responsibility during wartime. The outcome could shape Europe’s unity, economic resilience, and witness to justice, reminding believers that political decisions carry spiritual weight.

While Donald Trump’s administration is pedalling back on American commitment to green energy, China is rapidly expanding renewable energy across its vast landscapes, building huge solar and wind installations to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. In some desert regions, solar panels are not only providing shade but also slowing land degradation, giving farmers renewed hope. The country now produces more solar panels than the rest of the world combined and aims to peak emissions by 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by 2060. Yet the transition brings tensions. Oversupply has hurt manufacturers, while some rural communities lose farmland or feel excluded from decisions. Concerns also remain about labour practices and environmental impacts linked to mining and construction. At the same time, coal still supplies much of the nation’s electricity, meaning the shift must balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. The changes show both promise and hardship as society adapts to a new energy future.

A major court case has just begun, designed to examine whether social media platforms are intentionally designed to keep children engaged in harmful ways. A young woman, ‘Kaley’, alleges that after she began using Meta and WhatsApp as a child, she developed anxiety, distorted body image, and suicidal thoughts after prolonged exposure. Company leaders argue they implemented safety measures and relied on research showing mixed evidence about mental health harm. Parents, however, say their children were exploited through addictive features and inadequate age protections. The trial, which started by cross-examining Mark Zuckerberg, might influence hundreds of similar cases and could force changes to how social media platforms operate. The debate raises broader concerns about technology, profit, responsibility, and the wellbeing of young people growing up online.

In western Syria, families live with fear after reports of kidnappings targeting women from the Alawite minority. Survivors describe being seized by armed men, beaten, threatened, and sometimes assaulted while held in secret locations for days or weeks. Human rights groups have recorded dozens of cases since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad (an Alawite) in December 2024, but many families say the authorities have failed to investigate properly. Some victims were questioned about their identity and accused because of their background, leaving deep trauma and stigma. Several families fled their homes, afraid of retaliation if they spoke publicly. Even after release, women struggle with nightmares, broken relationships, and isolation. The crisis highlights how instability can expose vulnerable people to exploitation and revenge.

There is continuing political instability in Peru after congress removed interim president José Jerí only four months after he was appointed. Secret meetings with businessmen and allegations of influence-peddling triggered public outrage and a parliamentary vote of censure. His departure makes him the latest in a series of leaders forced from office in recent years, leaving citizens weary and distrustful of institutions; they long for transparent leadership which addresses corruption, crime, and social unrest. The frequent changes of government have disrupted long-term planning and weakened confidence in justice and security. The situation highlights how fragile governance affects everyday life, especially for the poor who depend most on stability. Congress will soon name a new interim president, who will serve only until a new president is chosen by the people in a general election in April.

A United Nations report reveals severe abuse faced by migrants and refugees in Libya. Many fleeing war or poverty hope to cross the Mediterranean, but instead encounter exploitation. Testimonies describe detention in crowded centres, forced labour, trafficking, and repeated violence. Some are intercepted at sea and returned to conditions where dignity and safety are absent. Investigators say criminal networks often operate alongside officials, creating a system where suffering becomes routine. Thousands remain held without due process, and families are left uncertain about missing relatives. The crisis shows how vulnerable people can be when trapped between conflict, poverty, and political instability.

Regional leaders in Southeast Asia are divided over how to respond to Myanmar’s ruling military junta.  After the coup in 2021, ASEAN called for an immediate end to violence, constructive dialogue, the appointment of a special envoy, humanitarian assistance, and a visit by a regional delegation – conditions that the junta has largely ignored. Some governments favour renewed engagement with the ruling authorities, hoping dialogue may reduce conflict. Others insist recognition should wait until violence stops and meaningful participation from all groups is possible. A third group tries to balance principles with diplomacy, maintaining contact while withholding full acceptance. The lack of agreement has stalled regional efforts to bring peace, leaving civilians caught in ongoing instability years after the military takeover. Humanitarian needs continue, refugees cross borders, and uncertainty weakens trust between nations. The situation shows how difficult peacemaking becomes when security, national interests, and justice collide.

Southern Baptists are seizing a remarkable evangelistic opportunity as the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold in Milan / Cortina. International Mission Board (IMB) missionaries serving across Italy have partnered with hundreds of American volunteers to proclaim the hope of Christ to the nations gathered for the Games. Outreach strategies include distributing Bibles and copies of John’s gospel, hosting welcoming hospitality points, and engaging in Olympic pin trading – each pin carrying a QR code linking to a multilingual gospel presentation. Kim Cruse of Tennessee is leading a team and encouraging bold, faith-filled conversations, reminding volunteers that many people are more spiritually open than we assume. Teams have prepared using AI chat tools to practise engaging with varied worldviews. Missionaries Dylan and Isaura Jeronimo-Lancaster are welcoming faithful church partners, reflecting the power of long-term collaboration. Volunteers testify that such global events offer a rare, God-given opportunity to impact lives from every continent with the timeless message of Christ.

Actor Tim Allen has publicly celebrated completing a 13-month, word-by-word journey through the entire Bible – a 'no skimming' commitment from Genesis to Revelation. The 72-year-old, known for the films Toy Story and The Santa Clause, shared that he felt 'humbled, enlightened and amazed' by what he read, and plans to begin again after time for reflection and meditation. His announcement drew encouragement from fans and Christian leaders, including Family Research Council president Tony Perkins, who invited him to join a two-year Bible study. Allen has become increasingly open about his faith, and in a recent podcast he reflected on the relationship between God’s law and human sin. Last year he revealed he had never previously read the Bible fully; he began with the Old Testament and found it 'amazing and not at all what I was expecting’. He has also called for clearer Christian themes in The Santa Clauses series, insisting Christmas be recognised as rooted in Christ.

Rachel Reeves has described closer trade relations with the EU as 'the biggest prize' for the UK economy, signalling Labour’s desire for further alignment with Europe. She said that while deals with India, the USA, and other nations are welcome, none compare in scale to improving trade with the EU, which accounts for nearly as much UK trade as the rest of the world combined. She favours removing barriers for businesses and rebuilding trust with European partners, citing renewed participation in the Erasmus programme and plans for a Youth Mobility Scheme as signs of progress. Though Labour’s manifesto rules out rejoining the single market or customs union, several senior figures have suggested deeper integration could boost growth. Critics accuse the Government of attempting to dilute Brexit, warning against surrendering tariff control or repeating complications seen in other customs arrangements.