The Kremlin branded the expansion of NATO as a fundamental threat to Russia in a revised military doctrine that dramatically reflects deteriorating relations with the West.
Croatia's atypical president Ivo Josipovic is running for re-election with an emphasis on the more conventional promise of restoring economic health to the European Union's newest member.
Dutch scientists are recreating the deaths of some of the world's most famous personalities by reconstructing their last moments using scents and sounds.
Queen Elizabeth II will pay tribute in her annual Christmas Day broadcast to the "selflessness" of medical staff and aid workers fighting the Ebola epidemic.
British scientists said they had discovered 12 genes linked to developmental disorders in children that can cause heart defects, seizures and intellectual disability.
Ukraine took a historic step toward NATO in a parliamentary vote that stoked Russia's anger ahead of talks on ending the ex-Soviet state's separatist war.
French Prime Minister called for "vigilance" after the country was hit by three bizarre attacks in quick succession, sparking fears of possible copycat action.