World News Briefs -- December 30, 2016



Reuters: Russia will not expel anyone in response to U.S. sanctions, Putin says

President Vladimir Putin said Moscow would not expel anyone in response to Washington's decision to throw out 35 suspected Russian spies and sanction intelligence agencies it believes were involved in computer hacking in the 2016 presidential election.

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov earlier proposed expelling 35 U.S. diplomats after outgoing U.S. President Barack Obama ordered the expulsions and sanctions on Thursday.

But Putin said he would wait for the actions of President-elect Donald Trump, who will take office on Jan. 20, before deciding on any further steps in relations with the United States.

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MIDDLE EAST

Syria conflict: Nationwide truce holding despite 'clashes'. Syria's cease-fire holding despite minor violations. Syrian truce holding despite minor clashes.

Russian jets target Islamic State around Syria's al-Bab: Turkish military. Syrian Observatory says warplanes carry out 16 raids in Hama province. Syrian forces and allies clash with rebels near Damascus: monitors, rebel official.

Iraqi forces face Islamic State car bombs, fierce resistance in south Mosul.

Commission clears draft expanding Erdogan's power.

With clock ticking, Palestinians pin hopes on Paris summit.

US-Israeli tensions spill into the open in closing days of Obama administration.

Saudi invites rival Iran for talks on hajj return.

ASIA

Kazakh leader orders foreign ministry to prepare for Syria talks.

Taiwan announces U.S. itinerary for president, upsetting China. China urges U.S. not to allow Taiwan president to stop over.

China Communist Party office attackers shot dead by police after killing two.

China blocks India's request for UN to blacklist militant chief.

India: Deadline for discontinued rupee notes looms. India cash crunch: Rupee deposit deadline looms.

Australia distances itself from Obama administration's stance against Israeli settlements.

Hundreds of North Korea workers in Oman sent home, report says.

AFRICA

Many feared dead as Nigerian troops, Boko Haram battle in Borno.

South Sudan bishop decries media indifference as violence continues.

Congo opposition leader says talks on political deal faltering.

Tunisian foreign fighters to be dealt with under anti-terrorism law: PM.

Somalia: Welcoming new Federal Parliament, Ban urges completion of electoral process.

Economy strained for OPEC-member Angola.

Mali sends back migrants deported by France.

EUROPE

Putin: Russia will not expel anyone in response to US sanctions. Putin says Russia won't expel US diplomats in tit-for-tat measure.

Romanian president designates Grindeanu new prime minister.

Berlin mayor supports German government's call for increased video surveillance.

Downing Street criticises US comments on Israel. Britain, edging towards Trump, scolds Kerry over Israel.

Children from Calais, France, camp sue Britain over denial of asylum.

UN envoy sees 'historic opportunity' for Cyprus reunification in 2017.

Poland buys private art collection with da Vinci painting at bargain price.

Queen Elizabeth II health update: Latest as Queen remains indoors for 10th consecutive day.

AMERICAS

Obama faces difficult choices amid stream of last-minute clemency requests.

Trump’s border wall, deportation plans face pushback from GOP.

Venezuela: President Maduro extends money swap deadline.

Hunger is driving up crime in Venezuela as violence hits new highs, report says.

Brazilian President Michel Temer eyes labor reforms as unemployment hits record high.

Body found in Rio may be missing Greek ambassador: Brazil police.

Cubans surf the web at home in Havana pilot project.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

U.S., Iraqi sources say Islamic State leader Baghdadi alive despite death reports.

US adds Lashkar-e-Taiba student wing to terrorism list.

Terrorism squad arrests man at Sydney Airport over New Year's Eve 'threat'.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Disney wins 'Cars' copyright suit in China.

China takes new step to downgrade the dollar’s prominence.

Texas oil survey reveals OPEC pessimism.

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