The main events by the morning: December 16

• The European Union is discussing the 15th package of sanctions against Russia. Today, the foreign ministers of the EU countries will discuss new sanctions against Russia and Belarus. The first additions to the sanctions lists for «Russia's destabilizing activities» are expected to be approved, as well as additional measures against Belarus for Moscow's support in the conflict with Ukraine.

• The President of South Korea has been summoned for questioning again. Ousted South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol will be questioned by investigators on December 18. The Constitutional Court is considering the legality of his impeachment. If violations of the Constitution are not confirmed, he will return to his duties. This is the second attempt at interrogation, after Yun failed to show up on December 15.

• Bitcoin broke through the $106 thousand mark tonight. The cryptocurrency market continues to grow on expectations that Donald Trump, becoming president, will facilitate the regulation of crypto assets. 

• Elon Musk warns of the risks due to the US budget deficit. Musk said that the US budget deficit could lead to serious problems. On the social network X, he compared the situation to a man in debt. Recall that in fiscal year 2024, the budget deficit amounted to $1.83 trillion, according to the US Treasury Department.

• Serbia is negotiating over possible sanctions against the NIS. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has begun negotiations with the United States and Russia over the threat of sanctions against the «Oil Industry of Serbia» (NIS). The company is partially owned by Gazprom and Gazprom Neft. The sanctions may come into force on January 1, 2025. A reduction in Gazprom's share in the Serbian company is probably being discussed.