Larry Speakes, former press secretary to President Ronald Reagan, dies at home in his native Mississippi.

The US is "very open" to a new relationship with Cuba, on condition of more political freedom on the communist-run island, a senior official says.

Chile's Supreme Court sides with fishing groups and orders the operator of two coal power plants to ensure they do not pollute or kill marine life.

Police in Brazil say two gunmen have killed an evangelical priest at his church in the city of Belo Horizonte.

Protesters clash with riot police in the Ukrainian capital Kiev, injuring several people, including former Interior Minister Yuriy Lutsenko.

The US Air Force is now investigating 10 officers - including nuclear launch control staff - over alleged drug possession, service officials report.

Colombia suspends the loading of coal by US-based mining company Drummond after it failed to abide by stricter rules aimed at preventing pollution.

The mayor of the Colombia's capital, Bogota, warns he will mobilise his supporters and occupy public squares indefinitely if his recent controversial sacking is confirmed.