Russia says captured key town in eastern Ukraine

Moscow (AFP) – Russia said Monday its forces had captured the “important logistics hub” of Kurakhove in eastern Ukraine in what would be a key advance after months of steady gains in the area.

Russia said Monday its forces had captured the 'important logistics hub' of Kurakhove in eastern Ukraine

Japan PM says blocked US Steel deal could hit investments

Tokyo (AFP) – Japan’s prime minister on Monday urged Washington to dispel concerns that a decision by Joe Biden to block Nippon Steel’s takeover of US Steel could impact future investments.

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said concerns over future investments should be taken seriously

Myanmar addicts battle their demons in the 'House of Love'

Yangon (AFP) – More than a hundred shaven-headed men pour out of their Yangon hostel around 6 am for a day of weightlifting, karate drills, dancing and Buddhist prayer — drug rehabilitation, Myanmar style.

More than a hundred shaven-headed men take part in a day of weightlifting, karate drills, dancing and Buddhist prayer -- drug rehabilitation, Myanmar style

Kasatkina rolls into Adelaide second round as Vekic crashes

Adelaide (Australia) (AFP) – World number nine Daria Kasatkina swept into the Adelaide International second round on Monday but Paris Olympic silver medallist Donna Vekic crashed to her third straight defeat of the season.

World number nine Daria Kasatkina made a winning start at the Adelaide International

Indonesia launches ambitious free

Jakarta (AFP) – Indonesia launched an ambitious $4.3 billion free-meal programme on Monday to combat stunted growth due to malnutrition, a key election promise of President Prabowo Subianto.

Indonesia has launched a $4.3 billion free-meal programme for schoolchildren and pregnant mothers to help fight stunted growth due to malnutrition

List of key Golden Globe winners

Beverly Hills (United States) (AFP) – Here are the winners in key categories for the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, which were handed out on Sunday.

The Golden Globes were handed out in Beverly Hills, California

Australia set sights on world domination after taming India

Sydney (AFP) – Cricket’s World Test Championship final is still five months away but it is already playing on the mind of Australia skipper Pat Cummins, saying the defence of their title is “a huge goal” after conquering India.

Australia captain Pat Cummins is already looking ahead to the World Test Championship final