Sides make final push before Scottish vote
EDINBURGH, Scotland – The two sides in Scotland’s independence debate are scrambling to convert undecided voters, with just two days to go until a referendum on separation.
Anti-independence campaigners are pushing home their message that a “No” vote doesn’t mean the status quo. The three main British political parties are promising Scotland greater powers, including tax-raising authority, if it remains part of the United Kingdom.
Labour Party lawmaker Douglas Alexander said Tuesday that a No vote would mean “faster, safer, better change for Scotland.”
The Yes campaign says the promises are vague and reveal the No side’s desperation, with polls suggesting the outcome will be close.
Ukraine increases ties with European Union
KIEV, Ukraine – Ukraine moved to resolve months of crisis Tuesday by strengthening ties to Europe and loosening some controls over the country’s rebellious eastern regions where it has been fighting Russian-backed separatists.
The actions by lawmakers began to flesh out the emerging picture of a new Ukraine, where a determined pivot toward Europe has come at great cost: concessions to Russia and a war with rebels and pushed the West’s relations with Moscow to Cold War-era lows.
The deal lowers trade tariffs between Europe and Ukraine, requires Ukrainian goods to meet European regulatory standards and forces the Kiev government to undertake major political and economic reforms.
Iraqi lawmakers reject nominees for posts
BAGHDAD – Iraqi lawmakers rejected Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi’s nominees Tuesday to lead the defense and interior ministries, leaving the crucial Cabinet posts unfilled as an emerging U.S.-led coalition intensifies its air campaign against Islamic State extremists who have seized a third of the country.
Control over the two powerful security portfolios has long been a source of tension among Iraq’s feuding political factions, and the failure to agree on the candidates marked the latest in a series of delays in forming a unified government that can confront the Islamic State extremist group.
Associated Press
