China introduces 13% tax on contraceptives while exempting childcare services as global superpower battles sustained population decline and aging demographics.

The president, wearing a tuxedo, briefly spoke to reporters outside the club’s ballroom, with Melania standing by his side in a stunning silver dress.  

Tehran and Moscow showcase cooperation 'despite all sanctions and threats' while tensions rise with Trump.

Who joins the likes of Barb, Chrissy, and Eddie in the great hall of Hawkins' fallen heroes?

US military announces two separate strikes on boats it claims were transporting drugs in the Pacific

The US Coast Guard was searching for survivors of a US military strike against a convoy of suspected drug vessels in the Pacific Ocean, officials said on Wednesday.

In a statement, the US military’s Southern Command said the military had carried out a strike against three vessels.

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© Composite: U.S. Southern Command X

© Composite: U.S. Southern Command X

© Composite: U.S. Southern Command X

Gunnar and Matthew Nelson share details of their father's last-minute decision in new memoir.

Manufacturers and analysts warn AI data centre build-out is crowding out market for semiconductors

KYIV, Ukraine -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday his country was "10 per cent" away from a peace deal with Russia, but cautioned that the most important issues were still unresolved and that any agreement should not reward Moscow. Read More

TEHRAN -- Iran's prosecutor general said on Wednesday that economic protests that had gripped the country were legitimate, but any attempt to create insecurity would be met with a "decisive response." Read More

"These vessels were operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters."

NASCAR star Denny Hamlin mourned the passing of his dad, who died at age 75 after sustaining injuries from a house fire earlier this week. 

"One last hello from the universe before the calendar flips. Even the Arch showed up for New Year’s Eve."

The country singer was first linked to Leonard in July.

The first time Landry Shamet’s shoulder dislodged from its socket, he said it felt like being shot. The second time?

"I'm telling you, it was like pulling teeth."

How long will fans have to wait until things get back "Rightside Up"?

• Cummins, Hazlewood and David named for India and Sri Lanka event

• Matt Kuhnemann included in spin-heavy 15-player team

Matthew Kuhnemann is in line for a World Cup debut after being included as the biggest surprise selection in Australia’s squad for the T20 World Cup.

As expected, Australia have named superstar pacemen Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, as well as swashbuckling Tim David, despite injury concerns.

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© Photograph: Dave Hunt/EPA

© Photograph: Dave Hunt/EPA

© Photograph: Dave Hunt/EPA

Ring in 2026 with Anderson and Andy!

The retired soccer star showed his eldest son love amid their family feud.

This became a thing quite awhile ago. Now it’s time for the Jets to put an end to it. Intercept a pass on Sunday against the Bills in Buffalo.

Adam Fox returned to the Rangers' lineup Wednesday afternoon, but it did not help the team evade its third loss in a row.

The supermodel was previously spotted ditching her bikini top for a beach outing in St. Barts.

• British boxer is released on New Year’s Eve in Ikeja

• Joshua can ‘recuperate at home’ after treatment

The British boxer Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital, Nigerian authorities said on Wednesday night. The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a car accident near Lagos on Monday which killed two of his close associates and team members.

The 36-year-old had been under observation while recovering from minor injuries, his promoter had said on Monday.

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© Photograph: Sodiq Ayo/Reuters

© Photograph: Sodiq Ayo/Reuters

© Photograph: Sodiq Ayo/Reuters

This year features a football World Cup, a Winter Olympics, a Commonwealth Games and a historic Test match

Jannik Sinner will be aiming to become only the second man in the Open era, after Novak Djokovic, to win three consecutive Australian Open singles titles, while in the women’s draw Madison Keys will be seeking to defend the title she landed via a shock victory over Aryna Sabalenka in last year’s final. Elsewhere, Roger Federer is scheduled to return to Melbourne Park for the first time since retiring from tennis in 2022 as part of a Battle of the World No 1s match, alongside Andre Agassi, Patrick Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt. “It still makes me smile when I think about all the moments I’ve had here,” said the Swiss legend.

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© Composite: Guardian Pictures

© Composite: Guardian Pictures

© Composite: Guardian Pictures