27.02.2017

News in English

Iraqi forces seize Mosul bridge / Abu Sayyaf kills German hostage / US condemns attack on monitors in Ukraine / Millions without water in Chile / Moonlight wins best film / The weather

27.02.2017

Iraqi forces seize Mosul bridge

Officials in Iraq say Iraqi forces have seized control of a key bridge in Mosul amid fierce clashes with Islamic State militants. Once repaired, the bridge would be used to bring in army reinforcements and supplies. Meanwhile, aid workers say they're extremely concerned by the humanitarian situation there. Tom Robinson is a spokesman for the aid agency Oxfam: "there's obviously a lot of physical and psychological trauma for the people coming out of Mosul. They've been living under the Islamic State for nearly two and a half years and their supplies have been cut off for quite a long time. The cost of commodities and access to services is extremely limited. And they're actually having to escape from ISIS across front lines as well so the risk of injury to civilians is very significant as well."

Abu Sayyaf kills German hostage

The Philippines-based militant group Abu Sayyaf says it's beheaded a German hostage who was kidnapped last November. The group is believed to be holding a number of captives.

US condemns attack on monitors in Ukraine

The US state department has condemned an attack on monitoring missions in eastern Ukraine and has called on Russia and the separatist forces it supports to observe the Minsk ceasefire agreements. The OSCE mission said the rebels had pointed guns at the unarmed monitors and fired shots that landed near them.

Millions without water in Chile

Rainstorms and landslides in Chile have contaminated a major river forcing the authorities to cut off drinking water to over four million people in the capital, Santiago. Officials said the water supply from the Maipo River would be cut to most of the city until the problem is resolved.

Moonlight wins best film

"Moonlight" a drama about a gay black youth has won best picture at the Oscars. The accolade was awarded shortly after the musical "La La Land" was mistakenly declared the winner. Warren Beatty, who was presenting the award with Faye Dunaway, explained what happened: "I opened the envelope and it said "Emma Stone, La La Land". That's why I took such a long look - I wasn't trying to be funny. This is Moonlight - the best picture!" La La Land won six Oscars altogether including for best director Damien Chazelle and best actress Emma Stone. Moonlight also won best adapted screenplay and best supporting actor for Mahershala Ali.

The weather

Very mild with frequent sunshine and a lively to strong föhn wind in the east and in the mountains. Highs mainly ranging between 7 and 15 degrees.

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