Japan earthquake: Hundreds trapped, hope dwindles

A devastating earthquake that rocked Japan's Noto Peninsula on New Year's Day has left hundreds isolated and sparked desperate rescue efforts amidst fading hope for those trapped under debris, News.ro reports.

Nordic freeze: Travel disruptions in Finland, Sweden

A blast of arctic air is gripping parts of Finland and Sweden, prompting weather warnings and travel advisories.

Hospital mask mandates: US States take action amid virus rise

Hospitals in four US states are requiring masks once more, citing a concerning upward trend in COVID-19 cases, seasonal flu, and other respiratory illnesses.

Moldova braces for biting Siberian blast

Brace yourselves, Moldova: a blast of Siberian air is set to arrive on January 7, ushering in a wave of wintry weather.

Moldova's 2% tax boosts civil society with over 12 million lei

Moldova's civil society sector received a boost thanks to over 12 million lei (approximately $650,000) redirected from individual income taxes in 2023.

EU diamonds sanctions target Russia's war chest

The European Union has tightened its grip on Russia's war chest by sanctioning its diamond giant, Alrosa, and its CEO, Pavel Marinichev, as reported by AFP and Reuters, quoted by Agerpres.

Scandinavia shivers: Record cold grips Nordic region

A frigid blast from Siberia has plunged Scandinavia into record-breaking chills, while storm Henk unleashed fury across Western Europe, causing disruptions and claiming a life, as reported by The Guardian.

Today in history: Burj Khalifa rises, Braille embraces, and more

January 4th marks a day brimming with significant moments across history, from international alliances to towering accomplishments and inspiring innovations.

U.S. Secretary Blinken initiates diplomatic tour amid escalating Israel-Hamas tensions

In a move to address mounting concerns over the Israel-Hamas conflict, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to embark on a new diplomatic tour in the Middle East, starting with a stage in Israel on Thursday, Agerpres reports.

US quietly reaches agreement with Qatar to keep operating largest military base in Middle East

The United States has quietly reached an agreement that extends its military presence at a sprawling base in Qatar for another 10 years, three US defense officials and another official familiar with the agreement told CNN.

English doctors begin longest-ever NHS strike

Hospital doctors in England on Wednesday, January 3, began their longest consecutive strike in the seven-decade history of Britain's National Health Service (NHS). Junior doctors – those below the consultant level – started a six-day walkout, in a major escalation of their long-running pay dispute with the UK government, AFP reports.

The Republic of Moldova officially became a member of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism

The Republic of Moldova officially became a member of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism- a coordination initiative in situations of crisis and natural hazards. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Dorin Recean on his Facebook page.