World powers and the United Nations have condemned fresh fighting in Libya as rebel forces from the east of the country march on the capital.

Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on non-proliferation on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump accused China of attempting to interfere in the November US midterm elections because of Beijing’s opposition to his trade policy.

Rivals Ireland, Norway may have the inside track in the race to reach diplomatic prize

NORTH Korea has vowed to inflict pain on the US unlike any it has experienced in its history after tough new sanctions were imposed against the regime.

President Donald Trump's comments threatening North Korea "with fire and fury" are sparking fears that a conflict with the U.S. could be escalating. (Aug. 9) AP

US envoy to UN also accused Russia of failing to ensure that there were no chemical weapons in the possession of the Syrian government

A deal to evacuate rebel fighters and civilians from eastern Aleppo has stalled, with heavy shelling reported in the Syrian city.

The fighting in eastern Aleppo has stopped and the Syrian government has regained control over the territory after the withdrawal of militants from the city was agreed, Russia’s UN envoy Vitaly Churkin told the UN Security Council meeting in New York.

On Friday, South Korea, Japan and the US unveiled new unilateral sanctions against North Korea.

Russia and Iran have been negotiating the supply of $10 billion worth of weapons and hardware to Tehran following the successful delivery of Russia’s S-300 air defense missile systems to the country in October.

Russia has vetoed a French resolution on Syria at the UN Security Council. The document was submitted by Paris a week ago and is countered by a Russian draft resolution still to be voted on.

Russia has criticised the US and UK for using "unacceptable" tone and rhetoric in speeches on Syria at the UN, after being accused of "barbarism".

Decision comes at meeting in Vienna which also promises more humanitarian aid for the country.