Pope Francis says former pope Benedict 'very sick,' asks for prayers

Pope Francis asked for prayers for retired Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Wednesday, saying he is "very sick."

source https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/former-pope-benedict-1.6698597?cmp=rss

Putin bans Russian oil sales to countries that accept West's price cap

Russia announced on Tuesday it would ban oil sales to countries that abide by a price cap imposed this month by the West, giving its long-awaited response to the most dramatic step taken so far to limit Moscow's ability to raise funds for its war in Ukraine.

source https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/russia-invasion-ukraine-day-307-1.6698327?cmp=rss

Co-leader in plot to kidnap Michigan governor sentenced to 16 years in prison

The co-leader of a plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has been sentenced to 16 years in prison.

source https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/michigan-governor-kidnap-plot-fox-sentenced-1.6698271?cmp=rss

Family of Iranian soccer star who backed anti-government protests kept from leaving country

A prominent former soccer player in Iran who has expressed support for anti-government protests says his wife and daughter were prevented from leaving the country on Monday after their plane made an unannounced stopover en route to Dubai.

source https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/alo-daei-family-kept-from-leaving-iran-dec-26-1.6698024?cmp=rss

China to scrap quarantine for inbound travellers as COVID-19 rules ease further

Chinese people, cut off from the rest of the world for three years by COVID-19 curbs, flocked to travel sites on Tuesday ahead of borders reopening, even as rising infections strained the health system and roiled the economy.

source https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/china-travel-covid-19-1.6698200?cmp=rss