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BRUSSELS (AP) — Ukraine's president says this may be the most important day for his country since its independence from the Soviet Union 23 years ago. He signed an economic and political pact today with the European Union, over the protests of Russia -- which is warning of possible trade sanctions. The Ukrainian leader is also deciding today whether to continue a week-long cease-fire in the battle with pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine. Each side has accused the other of violating the truce.
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — The head of the Syrian moderate opposition is asking for more foreign aid. The rebels are now facing two fronts in their civil war -- still trying to oust Syrian President Bashar Assad, while also trying to beat back a bloody insurgency. The appeal from the opposition leader, who met today with Secretary of State John Kerry, comes as the White House seeks to send $500 million to the increasingly beleaguered moderate Sunni rebels who are facing two fronts in the protracted civil war.
HELSINKI, Finland (AP) — A man and a woman in Finland have been convicted of plotting to kill dozens of people at a university. They were each sentenced to at least three years in prison. The court in Helsinki found the two 24-year-olds guilty of possessing weapons, ammunition and chemicals that were meant for "the mass murder of at least 50 people, chosen randomly." The court said the plane was prompted by feelings of hatred toward society.
ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia school officials are turning down a new option of arming teachers, arguing that it doesn't make kids any safer. Officials in least two school districts have decided against arming staff. Education officials say no district is pursuing it so far. The option is part of a law, effective July 1, that expands where Georgians can legally carry guns. Supporters say schools should consider the option to prevent violence. Georgia is among 14 states to propose a law this year allowing teachers to carry guns. Nine more states passed similar laws after the mass school shooting in Newtown, Connecticut.
VATICAN CITY (AP) — A health issue has caused Pope Francis to cancel a planned visit to one of Rome's main hospitals. It's the latest in a string of ailments that have raised questions about the health of the 77-year-old pontiff. The Vatican called it an "unexpected indisposition."
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