Putin signs treaties annexing Ukraine regions, defying international law

The signing represents a sharp escalation in the seven-month conflict in Ukraine, and it comes after a Russian strike killed 25 people in Ukraine.

Russian attack kills 25 as Kremlin seeks to annex Ukraine regions

The attacks come as Moscow prepares Friday to add four occupied regions. The Kremlin paved the way for the land grabs with “votes,” sometimes at gunpoint, that Ukraine and its Western allies consider a sham.

Moscow reportedly sets up draft offices at borders to intercept fleeing Russians amid military call-up

A Russian region that borders Georgia, North Ossetia, restricted many passenger cars from entering Wednesday, according to Interfax Russia. A day earlier, authorities there announced plans for a draft office at a border crossing where cars and pedestrians have lined up for days.

Cuba begins restoring power after Hurricane Ian blacks out island

Thousands of people were evacuated and others left the area ahead of the arrival of Ian, which caused flooding, damaged houses and toppled trees.

Japan’s ex-leader Shinzo Abe honored at controversial state funeral

High-ranking officials, including Vice President Kamala Harris, attended the funeral as protests were held in the streets opposing the late leader.

Officials: 98,000 Russians cross into Kazakhstan to avoid call-up to fight in Ukraine

People with and without military experience are reportedly being recruited to participate in the ongoing war. Last week, President Vladimir Putin announced a mobilization of reservists to join the fight.

Shakira to face trial on charges of tax fraud in Spain

The pop singer is accused of failing to pay 14.5 million euros ($13.9 million) in taxes on income earned between 2012 and 2014. Shakira has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

COVID-19: Canada will no longer require masks on planes, drops vaccine mandate

The Canadian government will no longer require people to wear masks on planes. Government officials also confirmed Canada is dropping the vaccine requirement for people entering the country at the end of the month.

Smoke seen in Paris after fire breaks out at world's biggest produce market

Firefighters urged people to stay away from the area in Paris' southern suburbs, as 100 officers and 30 fire engines battled the blaze at the Rungis International Market.