Ukraine crisis: EU leaders consider response to Russia
EU leaders are to meet in Brussels to consider fresh sanctions against Russia following accusations that its troops are fighting inside Ukraine. Russia denies that its regular forces are backing a rebel offensive in eastern Ukraine. But ahead of the summit, EU officials said a clear message must be sent to Russia to de-escalate the crisis.
Islamic State Terror Threats Put U.K., Australia on Alert
Australia joined the U.K. in heightening warnings against terrorism, with both governments concerned citizens who have joined Islamic State militants may return with plans to attack on their home soil.
Federal judge rules against restriction in Texas abortion law
On Friday, U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel ruled against regulations in the abortion law Gov. Rick Perry signed last July, saying they put "undue burden on women."
Over three million flee Syria since 2011: UN
The number of Syrians forced to flee their country as a result of the civil war that began in 2011 topped three million Friday, UN refugee agency said. Journey out of Syria is becoming tougher as many people are forced to hefty sums ($100 per head or more) at armed checkpoints proliferating along the borders, UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said in a statement.
Ukraine pushes for NATO membership, Western arms
Ukraine is mounting a push for NATO membership as it faces down Russia, a move that comes ahead of a major NATO summit and as the Ukrainian ambassador to Canada renews calls for armaments from the West.
Palestinian leader says Hamas caused prolonged war
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas blamed Hamas on Friday for extending fighting with Israel in the Gaza Strip, casting doubt on the future of the Palestinian unity government that the Islamic militant group backs, while Israel's premier said the end of the war could mark resumption of peace talks with Abbas.
Don't mess with nuclear Russia, Putin says
President Vladimir Putin said on Friday Russia's armed forces, backed by its nuclear arsenal, were ready to meet any aggression, declaring at a pro-Kremlin youth camp that foreign states should understand: "It's best not to mess with us."
A Big Summer Story You Missed: Soaring Oil Debt
Last July the government agency, which has collected mundane statistics on energy matters for decades, quietly revealed that 127 of the world's largest oil and gas companies are running out of cash.