Russia negotiates union with ex-Soviet states
Russia sought Wednesday to expand its influence over former territories during integration talks that Washington has cast as a bid to "re-Sovietise" the region.
20 December 2012 10:32
US inquiry slams 'grossly inadequate' Benghazi security
A long-awaited inquiry into a deadly militant attack on the US mission in the Libyan city of Benghazi late Tuesday slammed State Department security arrangements there as "grossly inadequate."
Hopes for stronger ties as Hollande visits Algeria
President Francois Hollande arrives in Algeria on Wednesday seeking to end simmering resentment over French colonial rule and bolster ties with the OPEC country.
19 December 2012 18:07
South Koreans vote in presidential election
South Koreans cast their votes Wednesday in a tight and potentially historic presidential election that could result in Asia's fourth-largest economy selecting its first female leader.
'You need me': Berlusconi on new election run
Italy's indefatigable former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi appeared on television Tuesday for the third time in as many days to vow a return to political life.
Signs of evolving US gun debate after school tragedy
New signs emerged Monday of an evolving US gun law debate, with several top lawmakers appearing more open to stiffening controls on firearms after the Connecticut school massacre.
18 December 2012 12:54
China resists moves to sanction N. Korea: diplomats
China is resisting US-led efforts to order new sanctions against North Korea over its rocket launch and the UN Security Council could take weeks to decide a formal move, diplomats said.
18 December 2012 12:33
UN to increase contacts with Syrian opposition
The UN humanitarian chief said Monday she has asked the Syrian government for 10 more aid groups to work in the country and will increase contacts with the opposition to help those in need.
18 December 2012 10:12
Kazakh strongman backs switch to Latin alphabet
Kazakh strongman Nursultan Nazarbayev on Friday called for a modernisation drive to turn the energy-rich Central Asian country into of the world's most developed, including a switch to the Latin alphabet.
17 December 2012 15:16
Kazakhstan adopts law on countering terrorism
Kazakhstan Senators approved a draft law On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Kazakhstan on Countering Terrorism in the second reading.
Divided Egypt votes on new constitution
Egyptians vote Saturday on a new constitution supported by the ruling Islamists but bitterly contested by a secular-leaning opposition that failed to scupper the referendum with mass protests.
16 December 2012 19:16
US gun laws vary widely
The horrific shooting that has left 20 young children and six adults dead in rural Connecticut revived the familiar US gun law debate, where restrictions vary widely between different states.