Italy ferry deaths rise to seven
Craig TaylorThe death toll following a fire on the Norman Atlantic ferry off Corfu rises to seven, as all remaining passengers and crew are evacuated. BBC News – Europe
European News
Snow strands motorists in Alps
Snow and ice strand 15,000 vehicles in the French Alps, snarling up holiday traffic to and from ski resorts. BBC News – Europe
Ukraine and rebels trade prisoners
The Ukrainian government swaps scores of prisoners with rebels in the east while on the same day freezing vital bus and rail links with Russian-held Crimea. BBC News – Europe
Pope condemns religious persecution
Pope Francis delivers his traditional Christmas Day address, denouncing violence against religious and ethnic minorities – notably in Syria and Iraq. BBC News – Europe
Ukraine votes to drop neutral status
Ukraine’s parliament votes to drop the country’s non-aligned status and work towards Nato membership, a move quickly criticised by Russia. BBC News – Europe
Spanish princess to face fraud trial
The Spanish king’s sister, Princess Cristina, is to face a tax fraud trial over alleged links to her husband’s dealings. BBC News – Europe