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8. April 2017, 21:58

Ukraine-EU pact ratified

The Ukrainian and European parliaments in simultaneous sessions have ratified a landmark EU association agreement, strengthening economic and political ties. The implementation of key provisions on free trade has been postponed until the end of next year, following talks between the EU, Ukraine and Russia. The delay is seen as a significant concession to Russia, which says it is concerned about how the deal may impact its own economy.

Ukraine grants east special status

Ukraine’s parliament has passed legislation granting special status to eastern regions for a three-year period, as part of efforts to end the conflict with pro-Russian rebels in Donetsk and Luhansk. The law also grants amnesty to most separatists involved in recent fighting with government forces.

US attacks IS in Iraq

The United States military has launched airstrikes against Islamic State militants southwest of Baghdad, the first under its new strategy against the extremists. The airstrikes were in direct support of Iraqi security forces who were under attack by the militants.

UK leaders appeal to Scotland

The leaders of the United Kingdom's three main political parties have signed an agreement which would devolve more powers to Scotland, if voters there reject independence in this Thursday's referendum. The deal promises the Scottish parliament permanent new powers and financial control of the country's health service. The British prime minister David Cameron has made another plea to the Scots not to leave the United Kingdom: “Head, heart and soul, we want you to stay. If you don’t like me, I won’t be here forever. If you don’t like this government, it won’t last forever. But if you leave the United Kingdom, that will be forever.”

US to launch Ebola force

US President Barack Obama is expected today to announce plans to send 3,000 military personnel to Liberia to help combat the worst ever outbreak of Ebola. They are to set up a centre in the capital Monrovia to coordinate the international relief effort and train health workers.

Taliban attack Nato in Kabul

A suicide car bomb attack in the Afghan capital Kabul has killed at least three members of Nato led forces and wounded many others. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for the attack, which occurred a few hundred meters from the US Embassy.

Sinai militants kill police

Egyptian officials say six policemen have been killed in a bomb attack in the Sinai peninsula. Egyptian security forces have been carrying out an offensive against militants in the northern Sinai in recent months.

French government faces confidence vote

France's prime minister Manuel Valls faces a confidence vote in parliament today amid dissatisfaction with President Francois Hollande's handling of the economy. Unemployment has remained around 10 percent in France for more than four years.

The weather

Warm and changeable with scattered showers and sunny spells. Top temps 15 to 25 degrees.

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