Russia has agreed to release nearly 100 whales which have been held for months in cramped pens by firms hoping to sell them in China.
A petition signed by nearly 1.5 million people helped to raise awareness of the plight of the whales, which will now be freed with the help of international scientists.
Lucy Taylor reports from Moscow:
At least 18 dead after boat capsizes in northern Cameroon
At least 18 people died when a boat carrying passengers heading to a market in Cameroon's Far North region capsized, a local administrative official said on Friday.
Macron unveils renovated Notre-Dame ahead of reopening
France will unveil the new Notre-Dame Cathedral to the world as President Emmanuel Macron takes tour to celebrate its restoration, five-and-a-half years after the devastating fire of 2019.
Lebanese parliament plans session to elect president
Lebanon's parliament will convene on January 9 to elect a president after a two-year vacuum, Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) said on Thursday.
Opposition disrupts Indian parliament for fourth day
The lower house of India's parliament was suspended temporarily on Friday for a fourth day in a row this week following disruptions as opposition lawmakers sought a discussion on the allegations against Adani Group.
Russia hits Ukrainian energy facilities, causes blackouts
Russia unleashed on Thursday its second big attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure this month, leaving much of the country without power.
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The Rock and Chris Evans: A Christmas Surprise!
Hear Maz & James chatting to the featured artists every month with Flash Entertainment.
It arrived: The UAE's First Mega Music Festival at Expo City Dubai!
The super-star and multi-award-winning singer-songwriter, Jason Derulo is bringing the heat to Dubai.
