EU foreign policy chief says US-Russia talks could increase pressure on Kiev to make concessions
Kaja Kallas, the EU's foreign policy chief, warns that the meeting between Vladimir Putin and Steve Witkoff - appointed as Trump's special envoy - could push Ukraine towards unfair concessions, reminding that the aggressor remains Russia.
Zelenskyy and European leaders insist that there can be no dictated peace and that Ukraine should not reward Russian aggression, while negotiations with the US remain difficult and unfinished.
Israeli settlers attack and rob Italian and Canadian volunteers in the West Bank
Four volunteers, three Italians and a Canadian, were attacked and robbed by Israeli settlers in Ein al-Duyuk, in the West Bank, where they were helping the Palestinian community in the face of increasing settler violence.
The attack, carried out by a group of masked and armed settlers, raised concerns in Italy and Canada, while activists say violence in the area has become almost daily.
In the absence of police intervention, Palestinian communities and foreign volunteers say that an international presence is necessary to protect residents from attacks aimed at cleansing the territory.
Japan's prime minister's promise to "work, work, work, work and work" wins slogan of the year
Japan's new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi,'s declaration that she would "work, work, work, work and work" and that everyone should "work like horses" was widely criticized in a country known for its overworked work culture, but was nevertheless declared the phrase of the year.
Her comments sparked public concern, especially after she admitted to sleeping only two to four hours, while victims of karoshi (overwork) called the statements dangerous and irresponsible.
Shells found in Spain may be among the oldest known musical instruments
Archaeologists and musicologists have discovered 12 trumpets made from shell in Neolithic settlements and mines in Catalonia, dating from the late fifth to early fourth millennium BC, and may have been used as musical instruments and communication tools.
Experiments with eight preserved shells showed that they produce powerful and controllable sounds, with a tone similar to a French horn, and can also be used for musical improvisation.
These trumpets are considered some of the oldest instruments known in human history, showing the connection between utilitarian function and early musical expression.
