News in English

8. April 2017, 21:58

Iraqi troops secure foothold in Mosul

Elite Iraqi troops are reportedly holding their positions along the eastern outskirts of Mosul, a day after entering the city for the first time since it was seized by the Islamic State terror group in 2014. The United Nations has again expressed concern for the one-and-a-half million civilians in Mosul, the last IS stronghold in Iraq.

Russia offers new humanitarian pause in Aleppo

The Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered a new humanitarian pause in eastern Aleppo, urging Syrian rebels to use it to leave opposition-held districts. One of the main Syrian rebel groups has dismissed the offer as a publicity stunt.

Children leave Calais “Jungle” camp

French authorities have begun moving 1,500 children from the "Jungle" migrant camp in Calais, a week after demolition work began. The unaccompanied children, who´d been hoping to reach the UK, will be taken to reception centres around France. Their plight has triggered a diplomatic row between France and the UK.

Pressure grows on South Korean leader

South Korea's President Park Geun-hye has named a new prime minister and finance minister, as she attempts to contain a political scandal involving a long-time friend and confidante. Choi Soon-sil is accused of using her relationship for financial gain and of influencing state affairs. Prosecutors have issued a warrant for her arrest. Jason Strother is a Seoul-based journalist: "This, I believe, was seen as a compromise of sorts, that she would name a new prime minister, which is largely a ceremonial position. But there has been some talk that President Park would hand over many of her own responsibilities to this new prime minister."

Ban fires peacekeeping head in South Sudan

The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has fired the commander of peacekeeping forces in South Sudan, after an independent investigation found they failed to protect civilians during an outbreak of violence in July. The inquiry found that the victims were subjected to and witnessed gross human rights violations. Dozens died in the violence in the capital, Juba.

Symbolic trial of Venezuela´s president delayed

Venezuela's opposition-led parliament has delayed the symbolic trial of President Nicolas Maduro, which was due to take place on Tuesday. Maduro is accused of violating the constitution but claims MPs are attempting a "coup." The decision to delay the trial follows Vatican-sponsored talks.

The weather

Some sun in the south, with rain north of the Alps and in the east. Top tempertaures from 3 to 17.

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