Brussels (AFP) – The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, says allegations of bribery by World Cup host Qatar to burnish its image at the European Parliament were “certainly very worrisome — very, very worrisome,” after Belgian police charged four suspects with corruption. SOUNDBITE
Odessa (Ukraine) (AFP) – The southern Ukrainian city of Odesa was plunged into darkness following attacks by Russian “kamikaze drones”. On Sunday, regional governor Maksym Marchenko said that 300,000 people had no electricity, but that power was “gradually” returning to Odesa.
Alotenango (Guatemala) (AFP) – One of the most active volcanoes in Central America erupts, spewing lava and ash and forcing authorities in Alotenango, a municipality in Sacatepequez department 65 kilometers southwest of Guatemala City.
Pismo Beach (United States) (AFP) – Despite having lost his sight when he was very young, Matt Formston has spent his life taming the ocean. The 44-year-old Australian is among the best disabled surfers in the world, and has competed at Pismo Beach last week in the World Para Surfing Championship.
Newry (United States) (AFP) – Over 300 people dressed as Santa Claus ski and snowboard down the trail at the Sunday River resort in Newry, Maine, as part of an event to raise money for the River Fund charity, which supports youth education and recreation, and the local food pantry.
London (AFP) – London is covered with a thick blanket of snow following snowfall on Sunday night, as the UK is hit by heavy snow and freezing conditions, causing major travel disruption.
Pacific Ocean (United States) (AFP) – NASA’s Orion space capsule splashes down safely in the Pacific, completing the Artemis-1 mission — a more than 25-day journey around the Moon with an eye to returning humans there in coming years.
Pismo Beach (United States) (AFP) – In sunny Pismo Beach, California, surfers participate in the World Para Surfing Championship. Surfers with disabilities gathered from all over the globe here share the same dream: that their sport is chosen to be part of the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. “It would be incredible” says Peruvian surfer, Pancho Arbulu, “I would feel so proud if the sport is approved and if I’m selected to represent my country’s team”.
Doha (AFP) – South America’s football boss, CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez, says that FIFA should honour the legacy of Pelé and the late Diego Maradona by awarding the centennial 2030 World Cup to the continent. With competition intensifying before the global body decides on the event in 2024, Domínguez adds there should be less focus on “money” in the process.
London (AFP) – Jersey Chief of Police, Robin Smith, confirms at least three fatalities after an explosion in an apartment block in the island’s capital of St Helier. He says the service expects a final figure in the region of 12 fatalities after the operation moved from a rescue to a recovery mission.
