Vicente Fernández, beloved Mexican singer, dies at 81

Vicente Fernández,was known for hits such as “El Rey,” “Volver, Volver” and “Lástima que seas ajena,” and his command of the ranchera and mariachi styles of music attracted fans far beyond Mexico’s borders.

Pope Francis addresses nun abuse detailed in investigative expose

During an audience with members of the Vatican’s congregation for religious orders, Pope Francis cited a new investigative expose of the problem written by a reporter for the Holy See’s media, Salvatore Cernuzio.

Omicron variant appearing milder than delta, South African doctors say

In the two weeks since omicron first was reported in Southern Africa, other doctors have shared similar stories. All caution that it will take many more weeks to collect enough data to be sure, their observations and the early evidence offer some clues.

Julian Assange: UK opens door to extradition of WikiLeaks founder to US

A U.K. appellate court has opened the door for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange's extradition to the U.S. to face spying charges, overturning a lower court.

British Court opens door for Julian Assange extradition to United States

A British appellate court has opened the door for Julian Assange to be extradited to the United States by overturning a lower court ruling.

Dozens of camels ejected from annual Saudi Arabia beauty contest over Botox injections

Saudi media says that authorities have conducted their biggest-ever crackdown on camel beauty contestants that received Botox injections and other artificial touch-ups.

WHO warns omicron variant fears may set off hoarding of COVID-19 vaccines

The World Health Organization has expressed concerns that rich countries spooked by the emergence of the omicron variant could step up hoarding of COVID-19 vaccines.

Medicago's plant-based COVID-19 vaccine showing promising trial results, company says

Medicago announced Tuesday that its two-dose vaccine was 71% effective at preventing COVID-19 infection in a large, late-stage study that included several variants including the delta variant.

Biden-Putin square off over Russian troop buildup near Ukraine border

President Biden warned Vladimir Putin that the U.S. would exact “a very real cost” on the Russian economy if it invades neighboring Ukraine.

WHO: Kids in 5-14 age group account for Europe's highest COVID-19 rates

The WHO's office for Europe said children in the 5 to 14 age group now account for the highest rates of reported COVID-19 infections in the region.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: What's behind the recent tensions?

Here’s a look at the roots of the Russia-Ukraine standoff, Russia’s latest military buildup and more background on the tensions.

US to boost COVID-19 vaccine global distribution with $400M investment

“This money will speed efforts both to get shots in arms and to support vaccine manufacturing in low-and-middle-income countries,” USAID administrator Samantha Power announced Monday.

Beijing Winter Olympics: US announces diplomatic boycott of games

White House press secretary Jen Psaki says U.S. athletes will continue to compete and will “have our full support,” but added “we will not be contributing to the fanfare of the games.

Fossils reveal a new dinosaur species that was the size of dogs

The plant-eating critter had a combination of traits from different species that initially sent paleontologists down the wrong path.

Haiti kidnapping: 3 more hostages freed, 12 remain abducted, organization says

The Haitian 400 Mawozo gang kidnapped a group of 17 missionaries in mid-October, made up of 12 adults and five children — including an 8-month-old.

'Significant' human smuggling ring taken down as part of US-Brazil investigation

A “significant” human smuggling ring involving people ultimately bound for the U.S. was taken down and eight people were arrested, U.S. immigration officials said.