Food Sushi restaurants are thriving in Ukraine, bringing jobs and a 'slice of normal life' Ukraine's economy is battered by Russia's full-scale invasion, but its consumer economy is still running — especially the country's popular sushi restaurants, where cream cheese is a key ingredient. Nathan Rott Claire Harbage
World Russia and Ukraine exchange hundreds of prisoners of war in biggest release so far Ukrainian authorities said 230 Ukrainian prisoners of war returned home in the first exchange in almost five months. Russia's Defense Ministry said 248 Russian servicemen have been freed. The Associated Press
World Russia strikes residences and a supermarket in Ukraine's capital and other cities Russia launched dozens of attack drones and missiles — including its advanced Kinzhal hypersonic missile — according to Ukrainian officials. Elissa Nadworny Claire Harbage Alex Leff
World More Ukrainian children from Russia-held regions arrive in Belarus despite outrage Belarus' authoritarian president attended a government-organized meeting with children brought from Russia-controlled areas of Ukraine, openly defying an international outrage over such deportations. The Associated Press
World Breaking with tradition, Ukrainians celebrate Christmas on Dec. 25 this year In a stark rebuke of Russia, Ukraine joins the West in celebrating Christmas on Dec. 25 instead of Jan. 6-7 as it traditionally has done. Joanna Kakissis Hiba Ahmad
Politics Congress passed so few laws this year that we explained them all in 1,000 words. Lawmakers didn't have a very productive year, but they did manage to pass 27 pieces of legislation. Here's what the laws accomplish. Eric McDaniel
World These are some Christmas traditions around the world, from fistfights to KFC Some of these traditions' origin stories and how they are implemented can vary by region or households, but they nonetheless help bring holiday cheer to those who celebrate. Ayana Archie
World Ukraine is trying to keep its lights on this winter. Russia aims to turn them off Utility workers have raced to repair Ukraine's damaged energy grid. Russia has resumed targeted attacks on Ukraine's energy system — and parts of it may be more vulnerable than ever, experts warn. Nathan Rott Claire Harbage Hanna Palamarenko
World Putin will seek another presidential term, aiming to extend his grip on Russia Vladimir Putin moved to prolong his repressive and unyielding presidency for at least another six years, announcing his candidacy in the election next March that he is all but certain to win. The Associated Press
Politics Biden says Congress must approve Ukraine aid this month: 'We can't let Putin win' The White House has warned it would run out of money for weapons and aid by the end of the month to support Ukraine's fight against Russia's invasion. Lexie Schapitl
