MALTA
EU worried by Trump
European Union leaders on Friday vowed to remain united and defiant in the face of an onslaught of criticism from the new American president that has started to undermine the once-unshakeable trans-Atlantic relationship. And they hit back in an increasing battle of words, underscoring how they fear that Donald Trump’s campaign rhetoric will be turned into policy and further tear apart their troubled bloc. EU chief Donald Tusk earlier this week moved the U.S. into a “threat” category for the EU, following several negative comments about the 28-nation bloc.
Colombia
Teen arrested in murders
Police in Colombia have arrested a 17-year-old accused of carrying out more than 30 murders. Given strict privacy protections for minors in Colombia authorities are identifying the teenage killer only by his nickname of “Frijolito.” Police in Cali on Friday said the highly dangerous criminal was picked up this week after a four-month manhunt. The young man allegedly began killing people around the age of 12 and developed a reputation for ruthlessness as head of a gang of drug traffickers and assassins that terrorized the southern city. His latest criminal act was a double homicide at a shopping center in Cali.
Angola
President won’t run again
Angolan President Jose Eduardo dos Santos, one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, is announcing an end to his 38 years in power, saying Friday he will not run again in this year’s election. The Portuguese news agency Lusa reported dos Santos’ comments during an address to his ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola party, or MPLA. Defense minister Joao Lourenco will be the party’s candidate for president in the election set for August, while dos Santos remains the party leader. Dos Santos, 74, has led Angola, one of Africa’s largest oil producers, since 1979.
Bosnia-Herzegovina
Refugees offered opportunity
An international school in Bosnia has announced it will extend scholarships to refugees and other students affected by President Donald Trump’s travel ban on citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries. The United World College’s branch in the southern city of Mostar announced Friday that it would invite students affected by the ban “to study alongside fellow students from the U.S. and over 50 other countries to foster international understanding.” The school explained the decision was motivated by its belief in equal opportunities and the value of diversity. United Colleges has 17 schools across the globe.
Compiled from wire reports