New York Times

1. On the Prowl for the Perfect Wave, and a Chance to Proselytize

   Christian Surfers, a group of missionaries who surf, have expanded to a remote part of Costa Rica, where people come from afar looking for the “perfect wave.” And maybe a little Jesus?

2. Memes, Jokes and Cats: South Koreans Use Parody for Political Protest

   As South Koreans took to the streets this month demanding the ousting of their president, some found an unexpected outlet to express their fury.

3. ‘Nutcracker’ Is a Casualty of a ‘Quarantine’ of Russian Culture in Lithuania

   Lithuania’s national opera house had stopped showing Tchaikovsky’s 1892 masterpiece in solidarity with Ukraine over the war with Russia. Then a new minister expressed fondness for the Russian composer, igniting a furor.

4. Inside the Final Days of the Assad Regime in Syria

   President Bashar al-Assad, who wielded fear and force over Syria for more than two decades, fled the country under the cover of night — and a fake political address.

5. Niger Buckles Under Relentless Jihadist Fire

   In the West African nation of Niger, killings by insurgents have surged since the military seized power in a coup, expelled U.S. and European troops and stopped negotiations with Islamist groups.

6. U.S. Fighter Jet Shot Down Over Red Sea by Apparent Friendly Fire

   A U.S. Navy ship mistakenly fired at the F/A-18, whose two pilots were safely recovered, the military said.

7. 3-Minute Christmas Market Rampage Shakes Germany

   At least five people, including a 9-year-old child, were killed in the attack, which took place in the eastern city of Magdeburg. The authorities are still seeking a motive.

8. Iran’s Energy Crisis Hits ‘Dire’ Point as Industries Are Forced to Shut Down

   Although Iran has one of the biggest supplies of natural gas and crude oil in the world, it finds itself in a full blown energy emergency, coming just as it also suffers major geopolitical setbacks.

9. How Canada’s Voters Turned on Justin Trudeau

   Canada’s prime minister gained global renown 10 years ago for his unabashedly progressive politics. But at home, voters turned sour on him long ago.

10. A Restaurant Is More Than a Workplace for People Often Shunned by Employers

    A popular restaurant in Buenos Aires is staffed almost entirely by workers with neurological challenges, tapping into often-overlooked talent and harnessing their skills.