The 7 from The Washington Post

PUBLISHED BY

Jamie Ross and Izin Akhabau">

Good morning. It’s Monday, Dec. 29, and these travel snack recommendations from famous chefs are going to revolutionize our future road trips. Now let’s get to the news.

What happened? The leaders took steps toward agreeing on a plan to end Russia’s invasion. But sticking points remain, and it is unclear whether Russia would agree to their proposals.
An unresolved problem: The future of the Donbas region of Ukraine, which is largely occupied by Russian forces. Zelensky has suggested both sides withdraw troops from the area.

What to expect: It will be a test of their friendship and Netanyahu’s powers of persuasion. The leaders have diverging views on practically every Middle East hot spot.
One item on the agenda: The status of Iran’s missile program. Israeli officials say Tehran is bolstering its capabilities, which they fear could pose a growing threat to Israel.

(Illustration by Lucy Naland/The Post; Cornell Watson/For The Post; Graeme Sloan/For The Post; Demetrius Freeman/The Post; Tom Brenner/For The Post)

How? The truce was brokered by Vice President JD Vance, The Post reported. Vance led a months-long effort to mend the relationship, although the reconciliation remains fragile.
Why it matters: With nearly unlimited resources and a digital megaphone, Musk may be a powerful asset to the post-Trump MAGA movement. Vance, in particular, stands to benefit.
In related news: Some former members of Congress want to come back — here’s why.

The case: Brian Cole Jr. is accused of planting bombs outside the Democratic and Republican national committees’ D.C. offices the night before Trump supporters rioted at the Capitol.
New details: Cole told investigators he wanted to take action against both political parties because “they were in charge” of the U.S. political system, a court filing said.

In a new study: Kids who got phones at age 12, compared with 13, had higher risks of poor sleep and obesity. It adds to research showing heavy screen use can harm adolescent minds.
How to reduce your child’s screen time: Follow these five simple tips, such as taking phones away at night and setting a good example. Find out how cut your own device use here.

What is it? An alkaloid called theobromine. It is associated with slower cellular aging, a new study found — see which types of chocolate are recommended by health experts here.
More aging advice: We asked “super agers” and scientists who study them how to live long, healthy lives. Consistent exercise and a positive attitude are among their five top tips.

Click this graphic to find our nudge-word generator. (Illustration by Chelsea Conrad/The Post)

The idea: Choosing a word can help you create a vision for the new year, and research shows intentions can determine how we act. Pick yours using our intention-word finder.
Want to be kinder next year? Try a type of meditation known as metta.
Reasons to be hopeful: We asked readers what they were most proud of achieving in 2025. People from ages 7 to 84 shared their biggest wins.

Before you go … more life lessons: A look back at famous figures who died this year and the wisdom they left behind. Plus: A couples therapist shared 15 tips for a better relationship.

One more good read: Why women on LinkedIn are masquerading as men.

And finally … take a game break: