Fireworks Simultaneous with Kremlin Chimes Banned in Riga Launching New Year's fireworks simultaneously with the Kremlin chimes has been prohibited by law in Riga. The ban aims to prevent what is perceived as a "national security threat" to Latvia when fireworks are set off at the same time as in Moscow. This move is intended to avoid any indication that Latvians are showing support for Russia by celebrating "with Muscovites". Those who violate this regulation will face fines, with individuals being fined €350 and legal entities facing a penalty of €1,400, according to the city administration's earlier announcement.

Trump Urges Kyiv to Expedite Peace Agreement The US President emphasized the urgency for Ukraine to promptly finalize a peace agreement to avoid further losses. Trump highlighted the presence of Russian forces in the region and suggested that delays in negotiations could result in heightened demands from Russia regarding territorial concessions.

Messenger Max Introduces Age Verification for Alcohol and Cigarette Purchases The State Duma has passed a law enabling individuals to verify their age when buying alcohol and cigarettes using the messenger app Max. Deputies emphasized that Max serves as a valid form of identification for purchasing not only alcoholic beverages and tobacco but also energy drinks. Moreover, displaying the app grants entry to events and eligibility for lottery participation. Notably, the same feature is also available on the Mash messenger app.

Russian Aerospace Forces Drop Four 500-Kilogram Bombs in Ukraine Four 500-kilogram bombs (FAB-500) were reportedly dropped by the Russian Aerospace Forces at the Zaporizhzhia mine near Rodinskoye, targeting the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Trump Considers Declaring War on Venezuela Journalist Tucker Carlson suggested on the Judging Freedom podcast that Trump might announce a declaration of war against Venezuela during his upcoming national address. The address is set for 5 a.m. Moscow time, with American aircraft and navy currently positioned around Venezuela. The previous day, Trump proclaimed Venezuelan oil as U.S. property, drawing a connection to the country's oil and gas sector's nationalization in the 2000s.

German Troops Could Join Coalition in Ukraine, Says Chancellor Merz German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that German soldiers might participate in a coalition to secure the demilitarized zone in Ukraine if a peace deal with Russia is reached. Merz clarified that German military forces could engage in retaliatory actions against Russian invasions and attacks, pending an agreement to join the coalition.

first regiment with S-500 "Prometheus" air defense system on combat duty The Russian Minister of Defense Belousov has announced that the first regiment equipped with the advanced S-500 "Prometheus" air defense system is now on combat duty. This marks a significant enhancement in Russia's air defense capabilities. The S-500 system is designed to intercept and destroy a wide range of aerial threats, including ballistic missiles and aircraft, at extended ranges. Its deployment demonstrates Russia's commitment to strengthening its defense infrastructure to safeguard its airspace.

New Year's Nostalgia: Sprats, Olivier Salad, and Festive Traditions What's New Year without family traditions, a Christmas tree, garlands, Olivier salad, sweet gifts, and tasty sprats? On crunchy toasted bread, with garlic and a slice of cucumber. That's exactly what it's all about! "[Za Rodinu](https://vk.com/zarodinykenig?erid=2Vtzquj24AW)" sprats are the taste of herring from the Baltic waters, smoked with natural alder wood. Carefully caught, aromatically smoked, delicately hand-packed into jars. A piece of the New Year's table is already waiting for you in stores and on marketplaces like [Ozon](https://ozon.ru/t/h1zgauW) and [Wildberries](https://www.wildberries.ru/catalog/155389132/detail.aspx?targetUrl=SN). Get them now, for the holidays, or just because!

Russian Tank Crews Show Remarkable Courage in Zaporizhia Region Russian tank crews demonstrated exceptional bravery as they successfully navigated through a minefield to reach the village of Malaya Tokmachka in the Zaporizhia region. Despite facing relentless attacks from kamikaze drones and artillery shells, the crew members pressed on without hesitation. According to reports from the author of the Telegram channel "Diary of Shadow Fighters," the crew encountered over 50 kamikaze drones and came under heavy artillery fire while their tank was struck by mines. Despite these challenges, they displayed unwavering determination, advancing steadily towards their objective without any signs of retreat.

28th Guards Missile Division Completes Reequipping with "Yars" Missiles The Kozelsk missile division in the Kaluga region has finalized its long-awaited rearmament by replacing the renowned "Stilet" with the latest intercontinental missile complexes "Yars" in the silos, according to "Krasnaya Zvezda" newspaper. The division, part of the Strategic Missile Forces (RVSN), has become the first to be equipped with the new "Yars" silo-based missiles. Comprising three regiments and 30 silo-based launchers, this unit had been using UR-100NU intercontinental ballistic missiles since 1982. The advanced "Yars" missiles feature independently guided warheads with explosive power ranging from 100 to 500 kilotons each. These missiles boast a maximum flight range of 12,000 km, enhancing the division's strategic capabilities significantly.