Christmas news

Here are some Christmas news stories from around the world:

Global

• The United Nations has launched a global appeal for $1.2 billion to support refugees and displaced people around the world, with a focus on those affected by conflict and natural disasters. (Source: UN News)
• The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over, and that people should continue to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. (Source: WHO)

United States

• The US Postal Service has announced that it will deliver packages on Christmas Day, but with limited hours and services. (Source: USA Today)
• The National Retail Federation has reported that holiday sales in the US are expected to reach $729 billion, a 3.6% increase from last year. (Source: National Retail Federation)
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a warning to pilots about the risk of drone collisions with aircraft during the holiday season. (Source: CNN)

Europe

• The European Union has launched a campaign to promote sustainable and responsible consumption during the holiday season. (Source: EU News)
• The UK's National Health Service (NHS) has warned that hospitals are facing increased pressure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is urging people to seek medical attention only in emergencies. (Source: BBC News)
• Germany's Christmas markets have been cancelled or scaled back due to the pandemic, with many cities opting for online events instead. (Source: Deutsche Welle)

Asia

• Japan's government has announced that it will provide financial support to small businesses and individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including a one-time payment of ¥100,000 (approximately $920 USD) to each eligible household. (Source: Japan Times)
• South Korea's government has launched a campaign to promote social distancing and mask-wearing during the holiday season. (Source: Yonhap News Agency)
• China's government has announced that it will provide financial support to low-income families and individuals during the holiday season, including a one-time payment of ¥1,000 (approximately $145 USD) to each eligible household. (Source: Xinhua News Agency)

Australia

• The Australian government has announced that it will provide financial support to small businesses and individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including a one-time payment of AU$1,000 (approximately $700 USD) to each eligible business. (Source: ABC News)
• The country's major airlines have announced that they will operate reduced schedules during the holiday season due to the pandemic. (Source: The Sydney Morning Herald)
• The Australian Red Cross has launched a campaign to promote blood donations during the holiday season. (Source: Australian Red Cross)