World News Briefs -- May 26, 2009

In this image taken from APTN, North Korean military officials attend a ceremony to celebrate the underground nuclear test, in Pyongyang, North Korea, Tuesday, May 26, 2009. North Korea, facing a storm of international criticism for its nuclear test, blamed Washington on Tuesday for creating tensions in the region and said the United States is preparing an attack. (AP Photo/APTN)

North Korea Test-Fires 2 More Missiles -- Yahoo News/AP

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea reportedly tested two more short-range missiles Tuesday, a day after detonating a nuclear bomb underground, pushing the regime further into a confrontation with world powers despite the threat of U.N. action.

Two missiles — one ground-to-air, the other ground-to-ship — with a range of about 80 miles (130 kilometers) were test-fired from an east coast launchpad, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported, citing an unidentified government official.

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MIDDLE EAST

Iran: No more nuclear talks with world powers.

Jerusalem is not on the table, says Israel. Israel to propose settlement compromise to US.

France opens military base in UAE despite Iranian concerns.

In Lebanon’s patchwork, a focus on Armenians’ political might.

ASIA

Cyclone Aila kills nearly 120 in Bangladesh, India.

Curfew imposed in India's Punjab after riots. More news here and here.

3 soldiers killed in Afghan bombing.

North's test rattles South Koreans mourning Roh.

Pakistan lifts election ban on opposition leader.

Mongolia tallies presidential vote.

AFRICA

Zimbabwe cholera 'to top 100,000'.

Italy to host conference on Somalia’s instability.

Nigerian militants attack oil pipelines.

Deforestation 'faster in Africa'.

Somali president calls for help in battling Islamist militias.

EUROPE

Germany may ban Red Bull after traces of cocaine found.

Dalai Lama likely to be honored by Paris mayor.

Georgia's opposition conducts huge rally.

AMERICAS

Government denies deployment of FARC chiefs in Venezuela.

Chavez: Venezuela could leave OAS, join Cuba.

Bolivia denies supplying Iran with uranium.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Brazil detains suspected al-Qaida member.

Plot renews fears of radical Islam in US prison.

ECONOMIC/FINANCIAL CRISIS

Beijing is caught in 'trap' over dollar.

South Africa goes into recession.

Russian economic slide worsening.

Virgin Atlantic boss warns no airlines will make money this year.

S&P: Home prices fall by record 19.1 percent in 1Q.

Saudi oil minister: OPEC to hold output steady.