Ukraine to Receive $6 Billion in Loans from UK and EU, Repaid from Russian Assets

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The UK has pledged a £2.26 billion ($2.93 billion) loan to Ukraine, while the EU has approved a €35 billion ($37 billion) loan, both to be repaid from frozen Russian assets. The loans will support Ukraine's military spending and reconstruction needs. The UK has sent about 400 pieces of various equipment to Ukraine and will provide 650 lightweight multi-role missile (LMM) systems. The EU loan may be lower depending on other G7 countries' contributions. The US is reportedly prepared to provide Ukraine with up to $20 billion as part of the G7 loan. The loans are a significant show of support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russia's aggression. Will these loans be enough to help Ukraine turn the tide in the conflict?

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Secret Deployments and Older Doctors: Key Revelations in Australian Cabinet Records

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Secret Deployments:** Cabinet records from 2003 and 2004 reveal that the Howard government sent military forces to the Middle East months before officially authorizing Australia's involvement in the Iraq war. The national security committee met to ensure the advance deployment was not disclosed, even as the government remained convinced of the presence and potential of weapons.

Older Doctors' Health Checks:** Almost 10% of Australia's GPs are aged over 70, and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has expressed concerns about a proposal by the national regulator to introduce health checks for doctors aged 70 and older, fearing it may worsen workforce shortages.

Last Pearl Harbor Survivor of USS Utah Passes Away at 105

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Slovakian Prime Minister Set to Meet Putin Amid Gas Talks

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Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico is visiting Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.** This comes after Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić revealed that Fico would meet Putin on Monday, 23 December, to discuss gas supplies after 2024.

Fico's visit is significant as he is the third European leader to visit Moscow since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Slovak prime minister has been pushing for an extension of the gas transit agreement between Ukraine and Russia, which expires in 2024.

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Maximize Your Home Equity: 3 Smart Ways to Use Your Home Equity Loan in 2025

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Russian Drones Wreak Havoc in Odesa, Ukraine

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