World

A Unified Digital Format for Migrant Exams is Introduced in Russia

Starting from January 1, 2026, foreign citizens wishing to assess their knowledge of the Russian language, as well as the history and legislation of Russia, will be required to take exams only in digital format. This change will affect everyone planning to obtain a patent or residence permit. The Ministry of Education and Science of Russia has confirmed the transition to computer-based testing. The main goal of this reform is to increase the transparency of the examination process and reduce

28.12.2025, 14:07

World

In Uzbekistan, a blogger was sentenced to four years in prison for insulting the president

The court proceedings established that in February 2023, Yusupov was in Kazakhstan and made derogatory remarks about the president and the government during a live broadcast on TikTok. This video quickly went viral on social media, causing significant public outcry. After this incident, the blogger remained outside Uzbekistan for an extended period, traveling through Turkey and Azerbaijan. In April of this year, he was detained in Azerbaijan as part of operational measures.

28.12.2025, 13:49

World

The volcano Etna erupted in Italian Sicily

The Italian island of Sicily has experienced a resurgence of activity from Mount Etna, leading to the fall of volcanic ash in several populated areas. According to local sources, significant volcanic activity was observed throughout the day. At the peak moment, lava was seen fountaining from the volcano's crater to a height of 300-400 meters. The ash column rose several kilometers and was shifted by the wind first to the west and then to the southwest.

28.12.2025, 13:17

World

Zelensky outlined Ukraine's "red lines" in negotiations to end the war

Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, emphasized the importance of "red lines" for Kyiv in the context of future peace negotiations to end the conflict with Russia, as reported by DW. According to him, the issue of occupied territories and the status of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant cannot be legally recognized under any circumstances. Zelensky added that any decisions on these matters should be discussed with the public — this could be done through a referendum or by

28.12.2025, 13:09

World

In Japan, traffic has been restored on the highway after an accident involving 67 vehicles

A mass accident, in which two people died and 26 were injured, occurred as a result of a truck skidding on a "blind" turn. Following this, other vehicles began to crash into it, leading to a fire.

28.12.2025, 12:15

World

A strong fire broke out in a three-story building in Astana

A fire occurred on Ikhlas Dukenuly Street in the Saryarka district. Emergency services from the capital are working at the scene, actively using fire hoses and ensuring a continuous water supply. A special headquarters has been established to coordinate actions in extinguishing the fire. A total of 100 people and 24 units of equipment are involved in the firefighting efforts. Currently, according to data from the emergency service 112, there have been no reports of injuries.

28.12.2025, 11:56

World

A meeting between Putin and Nazarbayev took place in the Kremlin

This meeting is a continuation of their dialogue, which began earlier, specifically on May 29, 2025, when they last met. Additionally, it is worth noting that a year ago, Putin also hosted Nazarbayev at his residence in Novo-Ogaryovo, located near Moscow.

28.12.2025, 09:11

World

ArchDaily: From Housing Policy in Europe to Large-Scale Master Planning in Mongolia. Video

“This weekly review focuses on specific steps to address common urban issues such as housing affordability, long-term sustainability, and the impact of cultural and material innovations on urban formation. The review includes legislative initiatives related to housing markets in European cities, projects for multi-story buildings and residential development in New York, as well as major reconstruction and urban planning plans in London, Barcelona, Ulaanbaatar, and Drammen. It also discusses

28.12.2025, 04:27

World

Lithuania Withdraws from the Ottawa Convention on the Prohibition of Anti-Personnel Mines

Lithuania has completed its participation in the Ottawa Convention on the prohibition of anti-personnel mines. This decision became final six months after notifying the UN, as reported by the LRT portal. According to the information provided, the deadline expired on December 27, which was set from the moment Vilnius notified the UN Secretary-General. This convention prohibits the use, production, and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines.

28.12.2025, 00:40

World

"Mother of Drones": The heavy drone "Jutian" made its first flight in China

In northern China, in the Pucheng County, the first flight of the new heavy drone "Jiutian" (Jiutian SS-UAV) was successfully completed. This information was confirmed by Chinese state media. This UAV has a wingspan of 25 meters and a maximum takeoff weight of 16 tons, while it is capable of carrying up to six tons of payload. "Jiutian" can launch over 100 drones or small-sized missiles. Its flight range is up to 7,000 kilometers, and its maximum flight altitude is 15,000

27.12.2025, 23:36

World

In Uzbekistan, the format of holiday celebrations will be updated

As reported by Podrobno.uz, the government of Uzbekistan has made the relevant decision and approved a Concept aimed at popularizing significant dates. As part of this reform, more than 50 national holidays will be reviewed. Each holiday will receive its unique identity, including new musical elements, songs, and decorations.

27.12.2025, 23:23

World

In the USA, robbers stole an ATM but lost it.

Two suspects in a black SUV arrived at a Seven-Eleven store in North Texas, where one of them smashed the storefront with a sledgehammer and attached a metal cable to the ATM. After that, they attempted to flee, causing significant damage to the building; however, during their escape, the ATM broke free from the cable and was left on the road. Information about the incident was provided by CBS News. Later, law enforcement discovered the abandoned ATM on the roadway, and the stolen SUV was found

27.12.2025, 21:48

World

In Britain, graduates will be offered a year of military service experience.

At the first stage, it is planned to recruit 150 participants, with a subsequent increase in the number of places to 1,000 per year. It is worth noting that participants will not be involved in combat operations, and the content of the training programs is still being finalized. This initiative aims to address the problem of staff shortages, with training taking place in the army, navy, or air force, while information about the salary for participants has not yet been disclosed.

27.12.2025, 21:07

World

People will start receiving pig kidneys for transplants, - The Guardian

Illustrative photo As a result of genetic modification of pig organs, the risk of rejection in patients is reduced. Experts emphasize that this opens new horizons for medicine. According to the publication, the first transplant of pig kidneys has already been carried out as part of clinical trials, with the next one scheduled for January. During these trials, six patients will receive organs whose genomes have been edited at ten sites to minimize the likelihood of rejection. If the FDA gives

27.12.2025, 17:51

World

Russia extended the complete ban on gasoline exports until the end of February.

The ban on the export of diesel fuel, marine fuel, and other gas oils has also been extended, except in cases concerning direct producers. The restrictive measures will come into effect the day after the official publication of the relevant resolutions.

27.12.2025, 17:34

World

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Sentenced to 15 Years for Abuse of Power

Judge Collin Lawrence Sequerah found Najib Razak guilty on four counts of embezzlement and 21 counts of money laundering, totaling over 544 million dollars. This is already the second significant trial against the former Prime Minister on corruption charges: he was previously convicted in a similar case. The court noted that Razak was aware of all financial transactions, despite the defense's attempts to claim that the funds were "political donations" from Saudi Arabia.

27.12.2025, 17:07

World

In Kazakhstan, those without AI skills will not be accepted into public service

The Minister of Digital Development and AI, Jaslan Madiyev, announced the training process for civil servants in the field of artificial intelligence, as reported by Orda.kz. This initiative by the ministry aims to prepare civil servants.

27.12.2025, 17:03

World

Precipitation and Fog: What Weather Awaits the People of Uzbekistan at the End of December?

In the last days of December, Uzbekistan is expected to experience rain and variable cloudiness. In Tashkent, Samarkand, Jizzakh, and Syrdarya regions, precipitation is possible on December 30 and 31, while dry weather is anticipated on December 29 and January 1. Night temperatures will range from 0 to 10°C, while daytime temperatures will fluctuate between 5 and 18°C. Karakalpakstan and Khorezm region will also face rain and snow on December 29 and 30, while no precipitation is forecasted for

27.12.2025, 16:54

World

British couple welcomed a homeless man on Christmas, and he stayed with them for 45 years

The situation that began as a temporary act of kindness led to 45 years of shared life filled with care and support. Text excerpt:

27.12.2025, 15:59

World

More than 50 countries condemned Israel's decision to recognize the independence of Somaliland

In their statement, the foreign ministers of Turkey, Egypt, and Djibouti expressed concern that the recognition of Somaliland could create a dangerous precedent, threatening international peace and security. They reaffirmed their support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia. Additionally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia also condemned Israel's actions, calling them unilateral and contrary to international norms. The Prime Minister of Somalia, Hamza Abdi

27.12.2025, 15:49

World

In 2001, Putin complained to Bush that "Russia gave away Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and the Caucasus"

Documents that were previously classified have become available following a court ruling, thanks to a lawsuit by the National Security Archive based on the Freedom of Information Act. In the materials concerning meetings between Putin and Bush in 2001, 2005, and 2008, the Russian president discussed the collapse of the Soviet Union in 2001. During the first meeting, he expressed the opinion that Russia "voluntarily gave up thousands of square kilometers" of territory, which he

27.12.2025, 15:43

World

China Imposed Sanctions Against the USA

Among the companies on the sanctions list are Northrop Grumman and Boeing's St. Louis division. China has taken measures by freezing their assets within the country and prohibiting local companies and citizens from interacting with these organizations, as well as restricting entry into China for the specified individuals. Recall that in early December, the USA approved a package of arms supplies to Taiwan worth $11.1 billion, which includes HIMARS systems, Javelin missiles, Altius drones,

27.12.2025, 15:38

World

In Russia, the criminal case regarding the AZAL plane crash has been closed.

The minister noted that the letter from Alexander Bastrykin, the head of the Investigative Committee of Russia, regarding the closure of the criminal case came as a surprise to Baku. “The content of the letter contains aspects that raise serious questions for Azerbaijan. Bastrykin reported the termination of the criminal case in connection with this incident, which causes confusion and surprise. The Azerbaijani authorities have already expressed their position on this matter, and we hope for a

27.12.2025, 15:24

World

Trump and Zelensky to Hold Talks in Florida on December 28

The meeting, announced by the White House, will begin at 3:00 PM local time. Representatives of the media are expected to be present at the event. Earlier, Zelensky himself shared information about the upcoming meeting with Trump, adding that he plans to present a new peace plan consisting of 20 points developed by the Ukrainian side during the negotiations.

27.12.2025, 14:57

World

Trump announced a planned conversation with Putin and expressed confidence in its success

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he intends to have a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the near future and expressed confidence that the negotiations will go well. As reported by The Independent, Trump made this statement in an interview with Politico. According to the White House chief, the conversation with the Russian leader could take place at any time convenient for him.

27.12.2025, 14:12

World

Theater and film actress Vera Alentova has passed away.

She was 83 years old

27.12.2025, 14:01

World

NATO Aircraft Scrambled Due to Flight of Russian Tu-95MS

NATO fighters were activated to monitor the flight of Russian strategic bombers over the neutral waters of the Barents and Norwegian Seas. According to information provided by the British publication Mirror, Alliance aircraft were called in after Russian Tu-95MS approached NATO airspace. This flight was perceived as a demonstration of potential pressure from Moscow, and the article mentions rumors of a possible threat to the northern territories of the United Kingdom.

27.12.2025, 13:56

World

In Uzbekistan, plans are being made to tighten penalties for early and consanguineous marriages.

The draft law, aimed at protecting the rights of women and children, is currently in the public discussion stage. This document introduces a ban on marriages between cousins, second cousins, and third cousins, as well as between uncles, aunts, and their nieces and nephews. The only exceptions are cases where there is no actual blood relationship.

27.12.2025, 13:34

World

In Tashkent, a schoolboy lost his fingers after a pyrotechnics explosion

Illustrative photo. The incident occurred in an apartment where the boy was present. His mother, being in the adjacent room, heard a loud explosion and, upon entering the room, saw her son with an arm injury. The child was urgently taken to the hospital, where he underwent surgery. According to medical information, the explosion damaged bone tissue and nerve endings, making it impossible to save the fingers. Additionally, the schoolboy suffered thermal burns on his face and right arm. His

27.12.2025, 13:33

World

Trump and Zelensky to Meet in Florida

The meeting is scheduled for 3 PM local time (02:00 Astana time) in Palm Beach, and representatives of the press will be allowed to attend the event. Earlier, President Zelensky made a statement about the upcoming meeting, noting that he would present a new peace plan consisting of 20 points developed in Kyiv.

27.12.2025, 13:15

World / Exclusive

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak sentenced to 15 years in prison for corruption case

Razak was found guilty of money laundering and abuse of power in the context of large-scale theft from the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) fund, as reported by Euronews. In addition to the prison sentence, the court also imposed a fine of 2.8 billion euros. This is not the first time Razak has been under investigation: he was previously convicted in another case related to 1MDB and is currently serving his sentence.

27.12.2025, 12:27

World

In Japan, a massive traffic accident involving 56 vehicles occurred

The incident occurred late Friday evening on the Kan-Etsu Expressway, located in the city of Minakami in Gunma Prefecture. According to preliminary police reports, a collision between two trucks was the cause of the massive traffic accident. After the crash, part of the road was blocked, and vehicles approaching from behind were unable to stop in time on the slippery, snow-covered road. A total of 57 vehicles were involved in the collision. At the scene, a 77-year-old woman from Tokyo died.

27.12.2025, 12:00

World

The Speaker of the Parliament of Kazakhstan met with the Secretary General of TURKPA

The meeting took place on December 26 as part of the official visit of Ramil Hasan. The Secretary General of TURKPA spoke about the current activities of the organization, as well as the work of the International Secretariat and recent visits to countries such as Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, Hungary, Uzbekistan, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The parties discussed TURKPA's participation in the 151st Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, taking place in Geneva, as well as the

27.12.2025, 11:05

World

Large remains of hundreds of horses were discovered in the nomadic burial mounds of Khirgisuur in Mongolia

Geological studies in Mongolia have revealed 3000-year-old nomadic burial mounds known as khirgisuur. Geological research at the Oyut deposit in Mongolia has uncovered nomadic burial mounds dating back 3000 years, representing Bronze Age and medieval burials associated with the khirgisuur period. The unexpected discovery during geological exploration has opened a new perspective on the ancient nomadic history of Mongolia.

27.12.2025, 04:17

World

Scandalous "Aiki List". Blogger Reveals Identity

Blogger Aika, who became the subject of public discussion in Kazakhstan, made her first statement to the media after the court postponed the execution of her sentence, as reported by Tengrinews.kz. She emphasized that many rumors have arisen around her name, and some of them distort reality or are presented in a biased light.

26.12.2025, 20:36

World

No traces of the explosion. Interim results of the investigation into the plane crash in Aktau published.

The Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan, through the Department for the Investigation of Transport Incidents and Accidents, has published the interim results of the investigation into the incident involving the Embraer 190 aircraft 4K-AZ65, owned by Azerbaijan Airlines. In this report, it is stated that during the preparation of the interim message, the commission collected and analyzed factual data, which includes information about the crew, air traffic controllers, regulatory documents of the

26.12.2025, 18:21

World

It will get warmer in Kazakhstan on the weekend.

In the east and southeast of the country, heavy snow is expected on December 27, and on December 28, precipitation will also occur in the west. Fog is forecasted throughout the republic. Nevertheless, meteorologists note that the air temperature will rise. In the north, northwest, and center, nighttime temperatures will range from -10 to -18 degrees, while during the day they will rise to 0-8 degrees. In the east, nighttime temperatures are expected to be from -15 to -20, and during the day

26.12.2025, 17:13

World

China Successfully Launched a Group of Internet Satellites into Orbit

On Friday, China successfully launched a group of low-orbit internet satellites, as reported by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). The launch of the "Chang Zheng-8A" rocket took place at 07:26 from the Wenchang Space Launch Site located in Hainan. CASC noted on its social media that "the launch was completely successful."

26.12.2025, 14:38

World

Mirziyoyev announced the growth of Uzbekistan's GDP to $145 billion and record gold and foreign exchange reserves

The GDP of Uzbekistan has exceeded $145 billion for the first time in its history. This was stated by Shavkat Mirziyoyev in his address to the parliament and the people of the country on December 26, as reported by the president's press secretary Sherzod Asadov. The president noted that nine years ago, reaching the $100 billion mark seemed like a huge goal. "This year, we have for the first time crossed the threshold of $145 billion. These results emphasize that our people are

26.12.2025, 13:12

World

"In Ukraine, there is no money for holding elections, - Zelensky's advisor"

Mikhail Podolyak During his speech, Podolyak noted that the issue of election funding should be resolved by the Central Election Commission and a working group in parliament. "We should not take on this responsibility, as the budget is in a difficult situation," he added. According to the advisor, the current priorities of the state budget are focused on militarization and social programs aimed at supporting households affected by economic losses. Podolyak also previously emphasized

26.12.2025, 12:24

World

Trump stated that the U.S. struck the "Islamic State" in Nigeria

President Trump noted that he had previously warned terrorists about the possible consequences if they did not stop the violence against Christians. "Tonight they faced a hellish price," he wrote on his social network Truth Social. In his address, the president expressed confidence that under his leadership, the United States would not allow the spread of radical Islamic terrorism. Trump also wished everyone a Merry Christmas, adding that "dead terrorists" would multiply if

26.12.2025, 12:04

World

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol was asked to be sentenced to 10 years in prison for the first of his four criminal cases.

Yoon Suk Yeol In this first of four criminal trials against the former president, prosecutors claim that Yoon Suk Yeol attempted to obstruct his arrest by barricading himself in the presidential residence in January 2025. Additionally, he is accused of violating the rights of nine members of his cabinet who were not summoned to a meeting regarding the plan to impose martial law. At the final hearing of the case, the prosecution presented its arguments. Yoon Suk Yeol, who is in custody,

26.12.2025, 11:19

World

"‘Siberian’ Frosts Expected in Turkey"

According to forecasts, starting from Friday, a significant territory of Turkey will be affected by frosts typical of Siberia. Snow is expected even in Istanbul, which is experiencing a prolonged drought this year, local meteorologists report, as conveyed by RIA Novosti. According to the meteorological service, from December 26, cold and rainy weather will settle in the country. In the northern, central, and eastern regions, rain mixed with snow and snowfalls are expected. The perceived

26.12.2025, 11:16

World

The J-1 Cultural Exchange Program in the USA has turned into a scheme for profiting from and exploiting foreign interns, - The New York Times

Another scheme involved employing close relatives of the CEO, which brought his family over 1 million dollars in the last two years. The third company sent young interns to work on farms owned by its management members, as well as at wineries.

26.12.2025, 11:13

World

North Korea intends to increase missile production in 2026

During his visit, Kim Jong Un positively assessed the results of defense enterprises this year and outlined key tasks for the next year. He noted the "promising demand" for missile and artillery systems and emphasized the importance of "strengthening the technical base of related industries" to enhance production capacities. Additionally, he announced that a decision on the creation of new military-industrial enterprises will be made at the IX Congress of the Workers'

26.12.2025, 10:46

World

Three Mongolian Athletes to Participate in the 2026 Winter Paralympic Games in Milan-Cortina

At the Winter Paralympic Games, which will start on March 6, 2026, in Milan and Cortina (Italy), three athletes from Mongolia have received the opportunity to participate in cross-country skiing competitions. This information was announced by the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sports. Among the participants are GANBOLD Batmunkh and DASHDORJ Tsegmid, who will compete in the 10 km and 20 km distances, respectively. SELENGE Adiyaamunkh, in turn, will participate in the sitting category

26.12.2025, 10:12

World

Trump announced a "powerful and deadly" strike by the U.S. on ISIS targets in an African country

On December 26, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social account that the United States conducted a "powerful and deadly" strike against Islamic State (ISIS) targets in northwestern Nigeria. Trump noted that these terrorists had ruthlessly killed innocent Christians for many years. The White House leader added that he had previously warned ISIS about the consequences if they did not cease their actions against Christians. "Tonight they faced punishment," he

26.12.2025, 09:51

World

Kazakhstan's Ministry of Transport on the plane crash near Aktau: The AZAL aircraft was damaged by elements of a warhead, their affiliation has not been established

The Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan has published the preliminary results of the investigation into the incident involving an Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) aircraft that occurred near Aktau. According to the report, the aircraft may have sustained damage from elements of an explosive device, although their origin has not yet been established. Through-and-through damage was recorded on some sections of the aircraft's hydraulic system, which is believed to have been caused by metallic

26.12.2025, 09:29