Apple halts Russia online sales as ruble tumblesApple said it had halted online sales of iPhones, iPads and computers in Russia as the ruble's plunge made it difficult for sellers of imported goods to fix local prices.
Belgium cut off from world by national strikeBelgium ground to a halt in its biggest strike in years Monday as trade unions grounded flights, cut international rail links and shut sea ports to protest the new government's austerity plans.
15 December 2014
Russian arms sales soar on domestic spendingSales by Russian arms manufacturers continue to expand thanks to Moscow's investments despite a downturn in global defence spending.
Kerry, Lavrov meet as tensions soar over UkraineTop US diplomat met his Russian counterpart, amid anger in Moscow over the prospect of new US sanctions and possible lethal military aid for Ukraine.
15 December 2014
Miss South Africa crowned Miss WorldMiss South Africa, 22-year-old Rolene Strauss, was crowned Miss World 2014 at the pageant's final in London.
The year Putin tore up the rule bookPutin upended the global rules with considerable chutzpah, sowing just enough uncertainty to keep the world unsure of his intentions or his next move .