World Digest

CHECHNYA

Security Regime Ends

Russia on Thursday lifted tight security restrictions that have been in force in Chechnya for 10 years, in a move expected to bolster the authority of the region's Kremlin-backed leader, Ramzan Kadyrov.

Curfews, roadblocks, spot searches and arbitrary detention were imposed in Chechnya in 1999 when then-President Vladimir Putin sent soldiers into the region to end its short-lived independence, won in an earlier war.

Russian news media reported that 20,000 policemen and Interior Ministry troops would withdraw from Chechnya. Kremlin opponents say the special security regime, which also included restricted access for journalists, allowed numerous violations of human rights in the region.

-- Reuters

U.S. Soldier Given Life Term for Iraq Killings: A soldier convicted of murder in the 2007 killings of four bound and blindfolded Iraqi detainees was sentenced to life in prison by an Army tribunal in Germany, where he is stationed. Master Sgt. John E. Hatley, 40, will also see his rank reduced to private, forfeit all pay and receive a dishonorable discharge.

Gunmen Attack Leader of 'Yellow Shirt' Protests: Thai police say the leader of protests that shut down Bangkok airports last year was shot and wounded by two gunmen. Sondhi Limthongkul, founder of Thailand's "yellow shirt" movement, was shot in the shoulder and grazed near his eyebrow Friday. His supporters did not participate in the latest round of protests in Thailand, which involved their rivals, who back Thaksin Shinawatra, a former premier.

Quakes in Afghanistan Kill at Least 15: A government spokesman said two earthquakes about 50 miles east of Kabul had killed at least 15 people and destroyed about 100 homes. The U.S. Geological Survey said Nangahar province was hit by two quakes Friday -- one a 5.5- magnitude quake about 2 a.m., the other a 5.1-magnitude aftershock two hours later.

Botswana Pledges Aid to Zimbabwe: Botswana pledged a $70 million credit to Zimbabwe on Thursday to boost the country's ailing economy. Botswana's secretary for economic planning said the money would go to shoring up the steel, leather and manufacturing industries.

Some Darfur Aid to Resume, Kerry Says: Some humanitarian aid to Darfur will be resumed after a freeze following Sudan's decision to expel 13 foreign aid groups, Sen. John F. Kerry (D-Mass.) said after talks with the country's vice president, adding: "A partial restoration of capacity is not sufficient."

Israeli Airstrike Targets Gaza House: An Israeli airstrike destroyed a house in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip, the first such attack on the Palestinian enclave since March 12, the Israeli army and residents said. Israel said the target was a booby-trapped building. No one was reported injured.

Georgia, Russia Trade Accusations: Georgia and Russia accused each other of building up troops and armor at their de facto borders and of preparing "provocations." Each side said the other was looking to take advantage of heightened political tensions in Georgia, where the opposition has been protesting in the streets for a week demanding the resignation of President Mikheil Saakashvili.

-- From News Services