On the Western Front… Allied forces surrounding the German-held bulge begin counterattacking. The US 4th Armored Division, an element of US 3rd Army, aims at relieving the Americans surrounded in Bastogne. Meanwhile, German attacks are halted by American armor at Celles, about 6 km east of the Meuse River, after having advanced about 80 km since the beginning of the offensive in mid-December.

In Italy… German radio announces a withdrawal of some 2000 yards to the northwest of Faenza after heavy battles.

On the Eastern Front… In Hungary, Soviet forces continue to advance west and southwest of Budapest. To the northwest of Budapest, intensive fighting is reported with Soviet forces now less than 100 miles from Vienna.

In Liberated Greece… Fighting between the Greek government forces and the communist forces begins to die down. British forces have actively assisted the government.

In Athens… British Prime Minister Churchill and Foreign Secretary Eden arrive for talks with Greek leaders, including ELAS representatives.

In the Philippines… On Leyte, part of the US 77th Division makes an amphibious move from Ormoc to San Juan, on the west coast of the island, north of Palompon, where the Japanese forces are concentrated. The landing is unopposed. General MacArthur announces that the Leyte campaign has ended with Japanese losses totalling 113,221.