Russian Pop Stars Pay A Price For Speaking Out On Ukraine
Russian performers who have criticized the country's role in Ukraine have been denounced on TV programs and had concert dates abruptly canceled.
Europe
For The Sophisticated Souse, Fabric Infused With A Whiff Of Whiskey
Johnnie Walker Black Label has teamed up with an Edinburgh university to invent cloth that emits a subtle aroma of liquor, a scent the researchers say some find attractive.
Alan Rusbridger, Editor Of 'Guardian,' To Step Down
He is best known in the U.S. for shepherding the newspaper through its coverage of Edward Snowden's leaks of classified material. He will become the chair of the trust that runs the Guardian.
Alleged Rape Of Passenger Raises Concerns About How Uber Runs Abroad
A passenger in an Uber car in New Delhi reported that the driver raped her. As the company expands into the developing world, questions about the screening of its drivers are being raised.
Lebron Somehow Forgets British Royals' Well-Known 'No Touching' Rule
In a photo op, the Cleveland Cavaliers star put his arm around Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. The press in England immediately went into a huffy Miss Manners mode.
Britain's House Of Lords Still Seems As Elitist As The Name Suggests
The unelected legislative body recently refused to merge its catering services with those of the House of Commons, out of concerns for the quality of the chamber's champagne selection.
After $4.75 Million Auction, Watson Will Get Nobel Medal Back
"In my opinion, a situation in which an outstanding scientist has to sell a medal recognizing his achievements is unacceptable," says Russian business tycoon Alisher Usmanov.
Ireland Softens Under Pressure To Drop Its Corporate 'Duty-Free Zone'
U.S. and European officials are angry about Irish rules that let some firms pay just 2 percent in corporate taxes. Ireland announced some tax code changes, but few think they will change things much.
Santa's Black-Faced Helpers Are Under Fire In The Netherlands
Since the 19th century, Christmas in the Netherlands has always included Santa's helpers, known as Black Pete. He's a Christmas tradition to some and a racist stereotype to others.
U.K. Lawmaker Apologizes For Playing 'Candy Crush Saga' At Hearing
Nigel Mills said his actions "fell short of what is expected of a member of Parliament." But a colleague defended him, saying hearings were "boring" and he himself had had trouble staying awake.