The topics range from a ticking time bomb in the Arctic to the art of taking selfies in an ethical way. Here are the stories selected by our contributors.
Despite a moribund economy, Russian President Putin enjoys widespread popularity. His success lies in part in his ability to tap into a deep sense of resentment over the Soviet Union's collapse.
Ukraine and Russia exchanged prisoners Sunday in a deal negotiated by the countries' presidents. It is a tentative step toward resolving the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
On a trip to explore her Jewish-Ukrainian roots, one writer made a stop at a controversial Jewish-themed restaurant, where guests are served matzo at every meal and invited to haggle over the check.
Ukraine's new president still has not made it to the White House. But, Ukrainian officials say they are looking forward to a visit to Kyiv by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
"It is injustice that turns them away from places where they might have hope for a dignified life, but instead find themselves before walls of indifference," the pontiff said in his holiday address.