The world briefly 5/25/10

U.S. plans show of force for North Korea

WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration on Monday announced plans for two major military exercises off the Korean peninsula in a show of force aimed at North Korea, which has been blamed by investigators for a deadly torpedo attack on a South Korean warship. The White House called U.S. support for South Korea "unequivocal" and said in a statement that President Obama had directed military commanders to work with the South "to ensure readiness and to deter future aggression." North Korean leaders have denied responsibility and warned against any retaliation.

Smugglers peddle ultrapure heroin

WINFIELD, Mo. -- Mexican drug smugglers are increasingly peddling a form of ultra-potent heroin that sells for as little as $10 a bag and is so pure it can kill unsuspecting users instantly, sometimes before they even remove the syringe from their veins. An Associated Press review of drug overdose data shows that so-called "black tar" heroin -- named for its dark, gooey consistency -- and other forms of the drug are contributing to a spike in overdose deaths across the nation and attracting a new generation of users who are caught off guard by its potency. Authorities are concerned that the potency and price of the heroin from Mexico and Colombia could widen the drug's appeal.

Judge orders Lohan to wear alcohol monitor

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. -- Lindsay Lohan left court Monday with a heavy new piece of jewelry, but it wasn't her favorite kind of bling. Lohan sported an ugly, alcohol-monitoring ankle bracelet that came with tough restrictions on her probation that could cut into her career plans. The measures were ordered after Lohan angered Superior Court Judge Marsha Revel by failing to show up for a hearing last week in Beverly Hills and instead attended the Cannes Film Festival in France.

-- From wire reports