World News Briefs -- June 24, 2010

Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai (R) speaks with U.S. And NATO commander General Stanley McChrystal (L) and other NATO officers at the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) headquarters in Kabul April 10, 2010. Credit: Reuters/ Omar Sobhani

Dismay In Kabul At McChrystal Sacking -- AFP

KABUL — The dismissal of NATO commander General Stanley McChrystal met with dismay in Kabul, where Afghans and foreign diplomats praised his bold efforts to change the course of the war.

But the Taliban vowed the change in command would not halt their fight against foreign troops, as NATO passed a grim milestone with June becoming the deadliest month for its soldiers since the war began almost nine years ago.

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MIDDLE EAST

Iran steps up production of enriched uranium.

U.S. urges flotilla backers to deliver Gaza aid by land.

Moscow still hasn't delivered air defense missiles to Iran.

Turkey detains 27 after bombing by rebels.

ASIA

June deadliest month of Afghan war for NATO.

Rudd dumped as Gillard becomes Australia's first female PM.

Tibetans fear a broader crackdown.

Kyrgyz refugees returning home from Uzbekistan camps.

AFRICA

Report optimistic on Africa economies.

Kenya opens special piracy court in Mombasa.

South Africa drops two charges over Rwanda shooting.

EUROPE

French unions stage protests against plans for retirement age hike.

12 killed as train hits festival-goers in Spain.

Russia reopens Belarus gas tap but dispute goes on.

AMERICAS

G8/G20: Police state in, power suits out as Toronto goes into security shock.

Canada earthquake shakes area.

Obama and Medvedev to focus on global economy in Thursday's meeting.

Joy, relief in Latin America over World Cup success.

Napolitano highlights steps to secure border.

Mass grave in Taxco, Mexico, is largest discovered in violent drug wars.

Jamaica appeals for calm after surrender of Christopher 'Dudus' Coke.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Pakistani province funds terrorism-linked charity.

Pakistan: Anti-terror court convicts 5 Americans.

S.Lanka to block UN visits to probe war crimes.

China breaks up Xinjiang terror group.

Armed US 'Bin Laden hunter' is back home.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Deutsche Bank: U.S. financial conditions just collapsed back to crisis levels.

G20 to warn on complacency as fiscal fight looms.

Google's YouTube wins Viacom copyright case.