EU's top diplomat rejects Russian claims of Ukrainian attack on government sites
It comes as Russia releases video which it claims shows a downed Ukrainian drone launched at one of Putin's residences.
What are Russians hoping for in 2026, asks Steve Rosenberg
The BBC's Russia editor speaks to people in the country as the war in Ukraine nears a fourth year.
Condom tax and cheaper childcare: China's plan to boost birth rates
Chinese people pay a 13% sales tax on contraceptives from 1 January, while childcare services are exempt.
Disney worker hurt stopping 180-kg fake boulder from hitting audience
The worker is "recovering" after he was seen on video being knocked off his feet by the 400-lb (180kg) rubber Indiana Jones prop.
Bulgaria joins the euro after rocky path to new currency
The move is dividing the nation - some welcome it as a bold leap forwards, but others fear it will lead to economic stagnation.
Iran protesters try to break into government building as unrest continues
Video verified by the BBC shows a crowd breaking the gate of the governor's office in Fasa.
Sydney sends message of peace for New Year's after Bondi attack
The words peace and unity were projected onto the Sydney Harbour Bridge as thousands gathered to watch the annual fireworks.
Teen who died after falling 150 metres from California's Mt Baldy identified
Marcus Alexander Muench Casanova, 19, who fatally fell 500 feet (150m) from a trail, was an "avid sailor and outdoorsman", his family says.
Machu Picchu train crash leaves one dead and dozens injured
A train driver died and at least 40 people were injured in the crash on the single-track line to Machu Picchu.
Israel to bar 37 aid groups as UK and EU warn of severe impact in Gaza
Israel's move is criticised by 10 countries, which say the new registration rules for international NGOs are "restrictive" and "unacceptable".
Finnish police seize ship suspected of sabotaging undersea cable
Police arrested 14 crew members on the ship sailing from St Petersburg, Russia, to the Israeli port of Haifa.
Jailed HK tycoon's 'teeth rotting and fingernails falling off', daughter tells BBC
The daughter of Jimmy Lai tells the BBC that her father's health is deteriorating in prison.
Huge crowds mourn Bangladesh's first female PM at state funeral
A sea of mourners have gathered in Dhaka to pay final respects to Khaleda Zia, who died on Tuesday aged 80.
Eurostar services return to normal after major Channel Tunnel disruption
The high-speed rail firm urged passengers to check before they travel as last-minute delays and cancellations are still possible.
Mali and Burkina Faso impose travel ban on US citizens in tit-for-tat move
The two states say they are taking reciprocal measures after the US announced full-entry restrictions on their citizens.
Thailand releases 18 Cambodian soldiers held since July
The release is part of a new ceasefire deal after weeks of deadly clashes along the Thai-Cambodia border.
Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of John F Kennedy, dies aged 35
She shared her cancer diagnosis in an essay last month, writing that she had less than a year to live.
Heated Rivalry author says TV success led to help with her Parkinson's
Rachel Reid says the publicity from the hit TV adaptation led a Parkinson's specialist to get in touch.
Passenger describes 'chaos' after head-on Machu Picchu train collision
Tourist Niels Honkoop says shattered glass littered the carriage floor and injured people were lying in the aisles.
In pictures: New Year welcomed around the world
From spectacular firework displays to chilly sea dips, nations celebrate the start of 2026.
The 'thorny' issues that threaten to derail a Russia-Ukraine peace deal
Two of the main sticking points involve territory and the fate of Europe's biggest nuclear plant, which is currently occupied by Russia.
Saving South Africa's threatened albatross from lethal fishing lines
A task force is trying to save seabirds from getting caught and killed in fishing boat nets.
Diane Keaton, Pope Francis and Ozzy Osbourne... famous faces who left us in 2025
Pope Francis, Ozzy Osbourne and Diane Keaton are among those who died this year.
Fireworks, drums and light shows: How the world is welcoming 2026
Countries around the world celebrated the new year with colourful shows and long-held traditions.
Watch: Stunning celestial events that lit up the skies in 2025
From meteor showers to supermoons, here are some of the sights that wowed stargazers this year.
Watch: Underwater chess champions compete for world title
Using weighted pieces and magnetic boards, players of the hybrid sport must complete each move in one breath.
Brigitte Bardot: From French cinema to international fame
The French model and actress has died at the age of 91.