Russian gas supplies to Europe through Ukraine cease

Ukraine said the gas was fuelling the Russian war machine and gave the EU a year to prepare for the closure of the pipeline.

Ivory Coast is ending the deployment of French troops in the country, the latest former West African colony to break off military cooperation with Paris.

The New Year has now been welcomed by most countries, with many leaders laying out their hopes and plans.

(Pic: Valves and pipes are seen at a gas compressor station in the village of Boyarka, outside Kiev; Credit: Reuters)