Tuesday, April 19, 2016

World News Briefs -- April 19, 2016


New York Times: Obama Calls on Putin to Help Reduce Violence in Syria After Peace Talks Stall

WASHINGTON — President Obama had “an intense conversation” with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia on Monday in which he expressed concern on the eve of his visit to the Middle East and Europe about the fragile Syrian peace talks and increased violence in Ukraine, White House officials said.

In a strongly worded statement, the White House said that Mr. Obama had urged Mr. Putin to use his influence with President Bashar al-Assad of Syria to press him to stop attacks against opposition forces and abide by his commitment to a partial cease-fire.

The so-called cessation of hostilities, brokered by Russia and the United States in February, has shown signs of crumbling in recent days, with increasing ground clashes and airstrikes. Syrian government forces have been mounting an offensive near the northern city of Aleppo, while rebel groups have reportedly made advances against government positions in the areas of Latakia in the north and Hama in the center of the country.

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MIDDLE EAST

Fighting in Syria intensifies as opposition digs heels.

Obama asks Putin to help halt Assad offensive in Syria.

Syria: 'Assad's future is not up for negotiation'.

Syrian opposition postpones participation in peace talks.

US-led raids have killed an ISIS official responsible for military planning in Iraq.

U.N. envoy struggles to start Yemen talks, truce teeters on collapse.

Kerry vows to continue push for Israeli-Palestinian peace.

U.S. feels 'overwhelming frustration' with Israeli government - Biden.

ASIA

Afghanistan violence: Deadly suicide bomb hits Kabul. Officials: At least 28 dead, over 300 wounded in Kabul attack.

South China Sea controversy: Russia, Beijing call for negotiation, consultation to settle territorial dispute.

China's Xi tells Party to go online to ease public concerns: Xinhua.

North Korea can learn from Iran nuclear deal, U.S. says.

Philippine presidential candidate apologises for rape remark.

Suu Kyi reaffirms pledge to revamp Myanmar's constitution.

Japan quake survivors struggle with shortages, search for missing goes on.

AFRICA

Risk of full-scale war if Western Sahara mission departs: U.N..

Protests against French forces in Mali turn deadly.

South Sudan rebel leader’s trip to Juba again postponed.

Republic of Congo accused of bombing and killing civilians amid post-election unrest.

UK pushes for leading role in Libya.

Libya parliament in two minds over UN-backed government.

Riot erupts in Cairo after policeman kills man over cup of tea.

Somalia seeks Russia's help in fighting Al-Shabab terrorists, strengthening economy.

EUROPE

Putin and Poroshenko discuss possible prisoner swap. Ukraine Poroshenko: Putin 'agreed formula' for prisoner swap. Ukraine's Poroshenko hints at deal with Russia to swap pilot Savchenko.

Polish minister says Russia preparing aggression against NATO: report.

Russia and NATO going through total mistrust period — Kremlin spokesman.

Nagorno-Karabakh says one of its soldiers killed by Azeri gunfire.

Belgium says seen signs that Islamic State has sent more fighters to Europe.

Migration crisis: Italy threatened by national crisis.

Greece and its creditors eye a quick deal after a long delay.

AMERICAS

Ecuador quake death toll rises to over 400. Ecuador quake toll climbs over 400, damage put at billions of dollars. Ecuador earthquake death toll passes 400 with many still trapped.

Obama calls Putin for 'intense' talks on Syria, Ukraine.

Obama heads to Saudi as 9/11 row hangs in the air.

Brazil’s President says she won’t quit after impeachment vote.

Argentina returns to bond market after 15-year isolation.

Venezuela faces oil production disruption.

Panama says will adopt international tax reporting standards by 2018: media.

Houston flooding leaves 5 dead, thousands without power.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

ISIS to target Italian, French & Spanish beach resorts – report.

IS Afghan wing preparing attacks on Central Asia and Russia — diplomat.

AQAP says it wanted to debate the Islamic State.

1 in 10 ISIS recruits willing to become suicide bombers, leaked documents show.

GOP angry about weekend Gitmo transfer.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Global stocks higher as oil prices climb.

EU competition chief set to charge Google with Android abuse: sources.


New report highlights international corruption.