Most notable quotes of 2023

As this year of war, chaos and beauty comes to a close, here are quotes from people around the world who shared their experiences, thoughts and insights.

US announces new weapons package for Ukraine as funds dwindle

The U.S. is announcing what officials say could be the final package of military aid to Ukraine unless Congress approves supplemental funding legislation that is stalled on Capitol Hill.

NASA spacecraft to converge with Demon of Chaos asteroid as it nears Earth

NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft is on a new adventure to intersect the asteroid Apophis, named after the Egyptian spirit of chaos, as it makes a close approach to Earth.

Japanese Moon lander SLIM successfully reaches lunar orbit on Christmas

Japan's lunar lander began its orbit of the Moon on Monday, setting the nation up for its first Moon landing in the coming weeks.

Human trafficking probe grounds about 300 Indian travelers at French airport

Authorities in France say about 300 Indian citizens heading to Central America are sequestered in a French airport for a third day because of an investigation into suspected human trafficking.

Prague university shooting: Police seek motive after 14 killed, dozens injured

Czech police are investigating why a student went on a dayslong violent rampage culminating in a shooting at the university he attended in Prague that left 14 dead and dozens wounded.

Spain's Christmas lottery 'El Gordo' rolls out millions in prizes

Spain's popular lottery known as “EL Gordo" (the fat one) often prompts street and bar celebrations , with winners uncorking bottles of sparkling wine and singing and dancing.

US, Venezuela swap prisoners: Maduro ally for 10 Americans, plus fugitive contractor ‘Fat Leonard’

The largest release of American prisoners in Venezuela’s history comes weeks after the Biden administration agreed to suspend some sanctions, following a commitment by Maduro and an opposition faction to work toward free and fair conditions for the 2024 presidential election.

Watch: Purse stolen from grieving daughter during mother's funeral

In a disturbing incident, police are on the lookout for a heartless thief who targeted a grieving daughter during her mother's funeral last month.

Iceland volcano erupts near Grindavik after swarm of earthquakes rattle region

The IMO has been warning of the possible eruption ever since a swarm of "intense" earthquakes was detected north of Grindavík at the end of October.

Running for a bonus: Company gives larger cash rewards if workers can run 2 miles a day

The Chinese paper company swapped its year-end bonuses for monthly, exercise-based cash rewards, telling a state-owned newspaper how “a company can last long when its employees are healthy."

Tensions rise after North Korea conducts first long-range missile test in months

North Korea on Monday conducted its first intercontinental ballistic missile test in five months. It also launched a short-range ballistic missile on Sunday.