Easing Europe confident of avoiding coronavirus lockdown sequel
Armed with mass testing and tracing capabilities, a growing number of European countries are expressing confidence that they can avoid a return to economically-devastating coronavirus lockdowns.
Montenegro becomes Europe’s first coronavirus-free state, PM says
Montenegro’s prime minister on Monday declared the country coronavirus-free – a move vital for its Adriatic tourism industry coming 69 days after it reported its first case and after 20 without a new one.
Islamic State says it was behind blast in southern town
Islamic State said on Monday it was behind a blast in a small town in southern Libya on Saturday, the militant group’s first attack in the country for at least a year.
Russia seeks 18-year jail term for ex-U.S. Marine in spying trial
Russian prosecutors asked a court on Monday to sentence former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan, who is on trial accused of spying for the United States, to 18 years in a maximum security prison, his lawyer said.
Factbox: EU recovery fund – the battle lines
The European Commission will issue on Wednesday a new proposal for a long-term European Union budget and a coronavirus recovery fund to help economies in the bloc rebound from recession.
Lonely Peruvians learn to say ‘I miss you’ in the language of the Incas
Homesick Peruvians around the world in coronavirus lockdowns have been logging online in rising numbers to learn Quechua, the Andean language spoken by the Inca people.
Italy recruits volunteers to control crowds as lockdown eases
Italy’s government will ask some 60,000 citizens to work as volunteers to enforce social distancing rules as it gradually removes coronavirus restrictions, after scenes of street gatherings over the weekend sparked an outcry.
Israel’s Netanyahu says he won’t miss West Bank annexation opportunity
Israel will not miss a “historic opportunity” to extend its sovereignty to parts of the West Bank, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday, calling the move one of his new government’s top tasks.
Greece reopens cafes, restaurants as summer season nears
Greece allowed cafes and restaurants to reopen on Monday as part of a gradual lifting of its coronavirus restrictions to reboot its tourism-dependent economy and help draw in foreign visitors ahead of the summer season.
Burundi’s ruling party wins presidential election
Burundi’s ruling party candidate, retired general Evariste Ndayishimiye, has won the presidential election with 69% of votes cast, the electoral commission said on Monday, after accusations of rigging by the leading opposition challenger.
