Korea Nuclear Test: North Korea says it set off an underground nuclear explosion today (Monday), a powerful blast that drew immediate, worldwide condemnation. Russia says the North Korean device being tested had an explosive force of five thousand to 15 thousand tons of T.N.T. The higher estimate equals the explosive force of the first atomic bomb used in combat, dropped by the United States on (Hiroshima) Japan 61 years ago.
NOKOR REACT: North Korea's claim that it has conducted a successful underground nuclear test has drawn a chorus of condemnation from around the globe. The Chinese government calls today's (Monday's) reported test "brazen," and is calling on Pyongyang to return to stalled six-party nuclear disarmament talks. China is one of North Korea's few allies and has previously responded to its neighbor's nuclear threats in measured tones. South Korea is promising a strong response to its northern neighbor's apparent nuclear test.
IRAQ: Iraqi officials say gunmen have killed a brother of Iraqi's Sunni vice president in northern Baghdad. The attackers stormed into the man's home early today and shot him dead. The victim, Amir al-Hashimi, was a senior official in Iraq's defense ministry and a brother of Vice President Tariq al-Hashimi.
Thailand Pol: Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadeh has approved the interim government's choices for a new Cabinet. The 26 ministers will govern the nation for about one year, until election are held. Thailand's previous government was removed by a peaceful military coup September 19th. Interim Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont needed the Thai king's approval before the new Cabinet could take power.
UN Leadership: The U.N. Security Council is expected to nominate South Korea's Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon today as the the successor to outgoing Secretary-General Kofi Annan, The vote is a virtual formality because Ban is the only remaining candidate.
Listen to our world news for details.