European Union

Some aspects of the Defence City plan call to mind the EU's own simplification initiatives to support the continent's defence manufacturers

Spain is home to the largest number of Venezuelans outside Latin America and the US

Brussels also suggested that Washington’s military intervention "can create an opportunity" for the overthrow of Maduro's regime

The meeting comes as the Commission plans to sign the major trade deal on 12 January

Presiding judge Thierry Donard described the claims of the French first lady's "alleged paedophilia" as "malicious, degrading and insulting"

Commission asks EU countries to help shape a new centre to fight online hybrid attacks and election interference from countries like Russia in a letter seen by Euractiv

In Venezuela, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has taken over as leader of the country after head of state Nicolás Maduro was captured by the US and taken to New York, where he and his wife are to be brought to trial. Venezuela's allies have condemned the US operation, while European countries are appealing international law to be upheld.

A devastating fire in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana on New Year's Eve has claimed 40 lives and left 119 people injured. The blaze apparently broke out when sparks from table fireworks ignited the ceiling panelling in a bar. Commentators express shock at the extent of the tragedy.

Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed Kyrylo Budanov, the former head of the military intelligence service HUR, as the new Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine. He succeeds Andriy Yermak, who was forced to step down from this key position in Ukrainian politics in December amid a major corruption scandal. What prompted the appointment of the popular lieutenant general?