News in English

8. April 2017, 21:58

Russia denies helping US intelligence fugitive

Russia has denied claims that it’s harbouring fugitive intelligence contractor Edward Snowden, who's wanted by the US for revealing details of a secret government surveillance program. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told a news conference that attempts by the US to blame Moscow for Snowden's disappearance were "groundless and unacceptable”. Snowden left Hong Kong at the weekend en route to Ecuador, where he's seeking political asylum, prompting criticism from US officials, including White House spokesman Jay Carney. “We’re just not buying that this was a technical decision by a Hong Kong immigration official. This was a deliberate choice by the government to release a fugitive, despite a valid arrest warrant, and that decision unquestionably has a negative impact on the US China relationship.”

Presidential palace in Kabul comes under attack

Militants have attacked the presidential palace in the Afghan capital Kabul, one of the most heavily guarded sites in the city. Officials say at least 4 insurgents and 3 security guards were killed in the attack, which began when a suicide bomber blew himself up at the main gate. The Taliban have claimed responsibility, saying they were also targeting a nearby CIA station.

Brazil’s President promises major reforms

Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff has proposed a series of major reforms, in the wake of recent mass protests. At a meeting with regional mayors and governors, Rousseff promised to boost spending on public transport, health and education, tackle corruption and hold a referendum on political reform.

Qatar’s leader hands over of power to son

The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, has handed over power to his son Tamim, after 18 years as the country's ruler. Making the announcement in a television broadcast, the emir said it was time for a new generation to take power. Such a handover is rare in the Gulf, where leaders normally stay in power until they die. Salman Shaikh, the director of the Brookings Doha Centre, says Sheikh Hamad leaves an impressive legacy. “He’s been both crown prince and the emir for nearly 38 years and his achievements have taken Qatar into the super league of diplomacy, politics, as well as other areas such as sports and culture.”

EU to push ahead with Turkish membership talks

The EU has agreed to restart membership negotiations with Turkey, despite concerns from Germany and the Netherlands about the recent crackdown by Ankara against anti-government protestors. EU Commissioner Stefan Füle says a new negotiating chapter will be opened in autumn, if a report on Turkey's progress is positive.

New Obama climate change plan

US President Barak Obama is set to unveil a new set of proposals for tackling climate change today, including imposing limits on carbon emissions by power stations, promoting renewable energy projects and improving energy efficiency.

The Weather

Heavy rain will continue in northern areas of Austria, with showers easing in the east and some sunshine in the south. Top temperatures will range from 9 to 22 degrees.

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