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Vladimir Putin apologized for the shooting down of an Azerbaijani passenger plane on Wednesday,

his first public comment on the incident. In a call with his Azerbaijani counterpart,

Russia's president admitted that his forces were deploying anti-aircraft fire against a Ukrainian

drone attack at the time, but did not go as far as accepting responsibility for the strike.

At least 38 passengers were killed.

Gasprom, Russia's state-owned energy giant, said it would halt gas exports to Moldova from

January 1st, citing unpaid debts worth up to $709 million. Moldova, which relies heavily on Russian gas, claims the debt is just $8.6 million.

Dorin Rachan, Moldova's prime minister, condemned the move, accusing Russia of weaponizing energy.

In November, despite Russian interference, the country re-elected a pro-EU president.

Donald Trump asked America's Supreme Court to pause the enforcement of a law requiring that

TikTok be sold to an American firm or be shut down. The deadline for compliance is January 19th.

Joe Biden, who signed the law, cited privacy concerns over TikTok's Chinese owner,

bite dance. The incoming president called for time to pursue a political resolution.

Taliban forces launched strikes on the Durand line. Afghanistan's

disputed border with Pakistan, sparking heavy clashes. The fighting killed 19 Pakistani soldiers

...