It was the first time the Russian leader had visited the Kuril islands, according to state media.

David McBride was jailed after pleading guilty to leaking military secrets about Afghanistan.

An online petition accusing Pete Hoekstra of diplomatic interference in Canadian domestic affairs has garnered more than 60,000 signatures.

Grain exports from both Russia and Ukraine are falling as both countries attack each other's shipping facilities and ports.

Israeli security forces have reportedly withdrawn and about a dozen settlers are said to remain at the site where two families have been besieged since Sunday.

Leavitt will depart from her role to spend time with her young children and family, the president says.