Catalan parliament to respond to Spain’s planned takeover

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Catalonia’s regional parliament will hold a debate this week on Spain’s plan to take direct control of the northeastern region — a session many fear could become a cover for a vote on declaring independence. Catalan president Carles Puigdemont has asked parliament to debate and vote on how to respond to … Continue reading →

Middle East / National

Iraq’s Kurds say 92% voted in favor of independence

Posted on 09/27/17 by danielsmallzblog

IRBIL, Iraq (AP) — The Kurdish referendum on independence from Iraq was approved by more than 92 percent of voters, officials said Wednesday, as Iraq’s prime minister vowed to keep his country united without resorting to the use of force. Even with the strong support, the non-binding vote is unlikely to lead to formal independence, … Continue reading →

Europe

Latvia marks 25th anniversary of resistance to Soviet rule

Posted on 01/20/16 by Jx THX

RIGA, Latvia (AP) — Latvians are marking the 25th anniversary of building barricades across the country to defend against Soviet attempts to quash the small Baltic nation’s quest for independence. Hundreds of people have gathered in the freezing capital, Riga, lighting torches and bonfires at Cathedral Square and outside Parliament, where in 1991 sandbags were … Continue reading →