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Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

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Russia's Christmas Day Assault on Ukraine: A Grim Reality


On Christmas Day, Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, targeting key facilities and causing widespread power outages. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes as "inhumane," emphasizing the deliberate timing of the attack to coincide with the holiday. 

The assault involved over 70 missiles and more than 100 drones, with significant damage reported in cities like Kharkiv and Dnipro. Despite Ukraine's efforts to intercept many of the missiles and drones, the attack led to severe disruptions in electricity and heating, leaving many Ukrainians without power in freezing temperatures.

This attack marks the 13th major strike on Ukraine's energy sector this year, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the country. Ukrainian officials have described the strikes as "Christmas terror," highlighting the ongoing threat posed by Russian aggression.

The international community continues to watch closely as Ukraine works to restore power and provide relief to its citizens amid the ongoing conflict.

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