Russia-backed humanitarian 'pause' takes effect in Syria's Eastern Ghouta

DAMASCUS - A humanitarian "pause" announced by Russia in Syria's deadly bombardment of Eastern Ghouta took effect on Tuesday, after the UN Security Council adopted a resolution for a monthlong cease-fire in Syria, amid reluctance from the rebels.

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Sanctions likely to end hopes of dialogue

The presence of Ivanka Trump at the closing ceremony of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics is unlikely to led to dialogue between the United States and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, experts said.

Democrats release counter-memo over Russia probe

WASHINGTON - The US House Intelligence Committee on Saturday released a classified Democratic memo that counters GOP claims that the FBI abused government surveillance powers in its Russia investigation.

In year of #MeToo, women win big in Berlin

BERLIN - An experimental Romanian docudrama exploring sexual intimacy and the fears around it, won the Golden Bear top prize at the Berlin film festival Saturday in a strong year for female filmmakers and women's stories.

Sign of the times as Macedonia begins changes after name row with Greece

SKOPJE, Macedonia - Authorities on Saturday began altering signs at an airport and a highway after a dispute with Greece.

Suspects held in murder of Filipina maid

BEIRUT - The employers of a Filipina maid found dead in a freezer in Kuwait were both arrested in the Syrian capital Damascus, Lebanese and Philippine officials said on Saturday.

Focus turns to UN Syria resolution implementation

UNITED NATIONS - After the adoption of a Security Council resolution which demands a cessation of hostilities of at least 30 days in Syria, all eyes are on its implementation - or non-implementation.

NRA, Florida face backlash after shooting

NEW YORK - The National Rifle Association, and now the State of Florida, faced a growing backlash as companies cut ties to the gun industry following the latest school massacre, and student survivors called for tourism boycotts of their home state until gun control measures are enacted.

EU leaders draw up battle lines for post-Brexit budget

BRUSSELS - European Union leaders have staked out opening positions for a battle over EU budgets that many conceded they are unlikely to resolve before the United Kingdom leaves next year, blowing a hole in Brussels' finances.

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TIANJIN'S ARCHITECTURE TELLS OF LEGENDARY HISTORY

Like an old man of great personal charisma who has many stories to tell, well-preserved buildings that have witnessed the ups and downs of the centuries shine through in a modern city and offer charm for visitors.