Ukraine's new chief names top ally as prime minister

MOSCOW -- Ukraine President Viktor Yushchenko named his fiery, populist ally as prime minister Monday during a visit to Moscow, a move that upstaged his fence-mending meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Yushchenko and Putin emerged from hours of talks looking more stern and reserved than when they began. During their meeting, Yushchenko's office announced that Yulia Tymoshenko, 44, would be the next prime minister -- a troubling choice for Russia. Russian prosecutors want her for questioning on accusations of bribing Russian defense officials, and have issued an international arrest warrant for her. Tymoshenko says the charges are politically motivated.

Palestinian militants tell Abbas attacks will halt

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip -- Militant groups have agreed to temporarily halt attacks on Israel, a trial period before a formal truce agreement, to give Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas time to appeal to Israel to stop targeting militants, Palestinian officials said Monday. The movement toward a cease-fire has raised hopes that a deal can be reached to end four years of bloody conflict between the two sides.

Taiwan president names new premier in reshuffle

TAIPEI, Taiwan -- President Chen Shui-bian on Tuesday named a skillful negotiator from within his party as the new premier in a government reshuffle. Chen named Frank Hsieh, mayor of Taiwan's second largest city of Kaohsiung. The 58-year-old Hsieh will be Taiwan's No. 3 ranking leader. The premier heads the Cabinet and brings government policy to the legislature.