US adds new $250 visa fee for travellers
NEW YORK - A new $250 “visa integrity fee” imposed on travellers to the United States risks piling more pressure on the struggling travel industry, as overseas arrivals continue to fall due to President Donald Trump’s crackdown on immigration and hostility to many foreign countries.

People’s Party to review options on Monday
The People’s Party, which is being aggressively courted by two competing sides seeking to form Thailand’s next government, will meet on Monday afternoon to discuss its next move, leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut said on Saturday.

Kim Jong Un hails ‘martyrs’ who died for Russia
SEOUL - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un promised “a beautiful life” for the families of “martyrs” who perished fighting for Russia in the war against Ukraine, state media said on Saturday, praising the bereaved for the heroism of their sons and husbands.

Leading political figure shot dead in Ukraine
KYIV - A former Ukrainian speaker of parliament who was a leading figure in the country’s pro-European protest movements in 2004 and 2014 was shot dead on Saturday in western Ukraine, officials said.

Russia strikes across Ukraine as peace prospects dim
KYIV - Russia launched “massive” strikes across Ukraine overnight, rescue services said on Saturday, a new blow to peace efforts that drew a fresh appeal from President Volodymyr Zelensky for US and European help.

Phumtham denies knowledge of Thaksin-Thanathorn talks
Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has denied reports that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was planning to meet Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, a key figure behind the People’s Party, as speculation mounts about the formation of a new government.

Anti-Pheu Thai group to gather at Victory Monument
The United Power of the Land to Protect Sovereignty and its supporters will gather again at Victory Monument in Bangkok on Sunday to oppose the Pheu Thai Party leading the formation of a new government.

At least three dead as Indonesia protests spread
MAKASSAR, Indonesia - Three people died and five were injured in Indonesia after protesters set fire to a regional parliament building, authorities said on Saturday, as demonstrations pose the first major test to President Prabowo Subianto’s government.

Drug-fuelled party raided at Khon Kaen karaoke bar
Police raided a karaoke bar in central Khon Kaen early Saturday and found 23 patrons who tested positive for drugs during a suspected narcotics party. Authorities are now preparing charges against the owner of the venue.

Special cabinet meeting names Phumtham acting PM
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has been appointed as acting prime minister with full authority to carry out the duties of the premiership at a special cabinet meeting on Saturday morning.