IMF raises UK growth forecast
The International Monetary Fund raises its growth forecast for the global economy, and the UK economy in particular. BBC News – Business
Craig Taylor
Russia: Ukraine ‘out of control’
Russia’s foreign minister says violent clashes in Ukraine are “getting out of control” and accuses Western politicians of stirring up protests. BBC News – Europe
Fifa threat to World Cup host city
Fifa warns Brazil’s World Cup 2014 host city of Curitiba that it could be excluded from the competition unless preparations speed up. BBC News – Latin America & Caribbean
US east coast pummelled with snow
The US east coast is hit by the second major winter storm of the year, with up to 12in (30cm) of snow, blowing wind and bitter cold forecast. BBC News – US & Canada
Bosses ‘complacent’ over power cuts
Bosses of UK energy distribution firms have been accused of “utter complacency” as they defended their response to the Christmas power cuts. BBC News – UK
South Sudan president hits out at UN
South Sudan President Salva Kiir accuses the UN peacekeeping mission of acting like a “parallel government”, as his forces recapture territory from rebels. BBC News – Africa