Jean-Marie Le Pen, French fiery far-right leader, dies at 96 Le Pen was convicted numerous times of antisemitism, discrimination and inciting racial violence. But the nativist ideas that propelled his popularity remain ascendant in today's France and beyond. The Associated Press
U.K. leader Starmer slams 'lies and misinformation' after attacks from Elon Musk British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday condemned "lies and misinformation" that he said are undermining U.K. democracy, in response to a barrage of attacks on his government from Elon Musk. The Associated Press
Elon Musk wades into European politics Elon Musk wades into political life in several European countries with messages of support for right-wing parties, and attacks on elected leaders. REBECCA COLLARD
A record number of migrants reached the Canary Islands by sea in 2024, Spain says The number beats the previous record, set in 2023, as a recent report also points at a peak in the number of deaths recorded in the dangerous Atlantic migration route. Miguel Macias
A man who killed at least 12 people in a shooting spree in Montenegro dies by suicide A gunman who fatally shot at least 12 people, including two children, in Montenegro has killed himself while surrounded by police, officials said Thursday. The Associated Press
A discotheque in Berlin founded by Soviet Jews finds new life Some 200,000 Jewish refugees came to Germany after the fall of the USSR, and brought cultural traditions — like partying hard during Christmas. REBECCA COLLARD
These Ukrainian women survived a massacre. Now, they're shooting down Russian drones Women from a Kyiv suburb traumatized by a 2022 massacre by Russian troops joined an all-female volunteer air defense unit to deal with their fears. Joanna Kakissis
Ukraine's capital opens 2025 under a new wave of Russian drone attacks The attack began hours after Ukraine's president addressed his nation. He acknowledged the agony of 2024 with heavy battlefield casualties and Russia's army advancing along much of the 600-mile front. Brian Mann
Ukraine halts transit of Russian gas to Europe after a prewar deal expired Among the hardest-hit will be Moldova, which has brought in emergency measures as residents brace for a harsh winter and looming power cuts. The Associated Press
Biden administration to send billions more in aid to Ukraine The White House says it will send nearly $6 billion in military and budget aid to Ukraine. It's likely to be the last bit of support by the Biden administration as Trump's team is about to take over. Jackie Northam