Monday, December 12, 2016

World News Briefs -- December 12, 2016



ABC News Online: Syrian army claims it is in final stages of taking control of Aleppo as rebels retreat

The Syrian army and its allies are in the "final stages" of recapturing Aleppo after a sudden advance that has pushed rebels to the brink of collapse in an ever-shrinking enclave, according to a Syrian general.

A Reuters journalist in the government-held zone said the bombardment of rebel areas of the city had continued non-stop overnight, and a civilian trapped there described the situation as resembling "Doomsday".

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MIDDLE EAST

Aleppo operation in final stages, Syrian general says. Aleppo battle: Rebels on brink amid rapid losses. Syrian army moves closer to complete recapture of Aleppo. Assad forces close to capturing east Aleppo after 'doomsday' bombardment.

Russia says 728 rebels surrendered in Aleppo over past 24 hours.

Syrian troops say they control 98 percent of eastern Aleppo.

Palmyra: IS retakes ancient Syrian city. Russian Defense Ministry: Attack on Palmyra shows terrorists should not be given break.

Iraqi police say ready to join assault on east Mosul.

Looking ahead to Trump presidency, Netanyahu refocusses on Iran.

Turkish police detain hundreds after bomb attacks, pro-Kurdish party targeted.

Turkish economy contracts amid instability.

ASIA

China 'seriously concerned' over Trump's Taiwan policy. China questions future of US relationship after Trump's Taiwan remarks. China says Trump's Taiwan comments cause 'serious concern'.

Merkel says Germany will stick to one-China policy.

China conducts flyover of waterways near Japan, Taiwan.

Japan protests over China's complaint about fighter jets.

Taliban rejects peace talks, emphasizes alliance with al Qaeda in new video.

South Korea PM briefed on state affairs after Park impeached.

Uzbek party nominates deputy cabinet head Aripov for PM.

Bill English sworn in as New Zealand's Prime Minister after John Key's resignation.

AFRICA

Nigeria Maiduguri: Two 'young girls' used as human bombs.

Suicide bomb kills at least 29 at Somalia's main port - police.

Cairo cathedral bombing: President Sisi names attacker, as funeral held. Egypt’s president says suicide bomber behind Cairo church attack.

Egypt mourns victims of Cairo Coptic cathedral bombing.

The Gambia's president urged to accept defeat by new government.

U.S. sanctions two Congo officials for undermining democracy.

EU to provide funds to Mali in exchange for easier migrant repatriation.

EUROPE

Russia praises possible Trump pick Rex Tillerson's 'highly professional manner'.

Russian hackers 'threaten Germany 2017 election', MPs warn.

Early results in Macedonia elections prove inconclusive.

Transnistria’s president-elect confirms plans to enhance strategic partnership with Russia.

France seeks to extend terror state of emergency.

French police question ten suspects over deadly Nice attack.

IMF's Christine Lagarde goes on trial in France. IMF chief Christine Lagarde in negligence trial in France.

Cologne police to deploy 1,500 on New Year to prevent sex attacks, theft.

AMERICAS

Trump calls CIA’s Russia hacking report ‘a conspiracy theory’.

Trump faces an early test with Republicans over Russia.

Inflation-hit Venezuela pulls largest bill from circulation, residents withdraw 'backpacks full of cash'.

Colombia's president extends ceasefire with FARC through yearend.

Peace deal will help Colombia battle cocaine, President says.

Brazil prosecutor brings new graft charges against Senate head.

EU, Cuba sign accord on political dialogue and cooperation.

Last US Senate seat filled: Louisiana Republican wins.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Weekend brings wave of terror to Istanbul, Cairo, Mogadishu.

Guantanamo board approves release of another Yemeni 'forever prisoner'.

Guantanamo may be too expensive for Trump to keep.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Oil prices surging after agreed output cuts. Oil prices jump on new output deal.

Iran seals $17 billion Boeing deal, close to Airbus order.

Oxfam exposes 'world's worst tax havens'.

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