A volcano eruption threatens villages in Argentina and Chile, where an orange alert - the second highest - has been issued.

Egyptians await the results of a referendum on a divisive draft constitution, a day after the resignation of the country's vice-president.

The date believed by many to herald the end of the world according to the Mayan calendar arrives, with thousands of people gathered at ancient sites.

Dozens of shops are destroyed as a fire sweeps through a market and money exchange in the Afghan capital, Kabul.

India batsman Sachin Tendulkar announces his retirement from the 50-overs format of the game after a record-breaking career.

Mario Monti, who resigned as Italy's caretaker prime minister, is to reveal whether he plans to run for office in elections in February.

North Korea's has the ability to fire a rocket more than 10,000km, theoretically putting the Western US in range, South Korean officials say.

Venezuela will not call new elections if the recovering President Hugo Chavez is unable to attend his swearing-in ceremony in January, the Congress leader says.