New Year’s Eve preparations around the world amid terrorism fears

World Today

Across the globe, countries are working to combat terrorism and ramp up security ahead of the New Year.

CCTV’s Roee Ruttenberg reports from Washington.

Two New Year’s terror plots foiled in two days. In Turkey, ISIL militants are under arrest for allegedly planning a suicide attack in Ankara.

Meanwhile, Brussels’ mayor has cancelled celebrations and fireworks in the Belgium. This is just one day after two men were arrested. Authorities say the pair are not directly linked to ISIL, but may have been inspired by the group.

In France, thousands of military and police reinforcements have been deployed across the country, and in the capital. This is less than two months after the Paris attacks that left 130 people dead. 80 percent of Paris police are expected to be working on Thursday night.

At Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, the preparations were continuing on Wednesday. Organizers say Germany has already adapted to a new security reality.

In Russia, the Red Square will be closed during the holiday. Officials deny the closure is linked to any security threats.

Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has issued a global alert for Americans this New Year’s holiday. Authorities are not telling Americans not to travel but are urging them to exercise vigilance in public places around the world.