Roberto Abraham Scaruffi

Tuesday 30 July 2013

SPIEGEL ONLINE INTERNATIONAL NEWSLETTER
Compiled on July 30, 2013, 07:31 PM CET
Troop Withdrawal

Aid Groups Warn of Afghan Security Vacuum

The looming end of NATO operations in Afghanistan is creating a security vacuum that puts the entire purpose of the international mission at risk. Aid groups may have to scale down their operations, and Berlin is alarmed at US threats of total withdrawal.

Endgame for Il Cavaliere?

Berlusconi Awaits the Final Verdict

For the first time, Silvio Berlusconi is threatened with a legally binding conviction. Italy's highest court is due to rule this week on the former premier's tax fraud verdict. It could finally mean an end to the magnate's political career -- and spell serious trouble for the fragile governing coalition.

Interim Profit Down

Deutsche Bank Suffers New Setback

Deutsche Bank reported lower-than-expected profits for the second quarter on Tuesday, underperforming US rivals like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. Earnings suffered because more funds went to covering the costs of lawsuits against the bank.

'Killer Mandate'

NSU Defense Attorney Leaves Firm and Berlin

German attorney Anja Sturm is one of three defense lawyers representing Beate Zschäpe, a suspected member of a murderous neo-Nazi terror cell. She says she has faced hostility from colleagues for taking the case and is now leaving the Berlin firm where she works.

Facing Trial

Bayern Munich President Charged With Tax Evasion

German prosecutors have filed tax evasion charges against Bayern Munich President Uli Hoeness, one of the most prominent figures in German football, after he reported himself to authorities earlier this year over a previously undeclared Swiss bank account.

'Not Afraid of Reality'

Pope Praised for New Stance on Gays

In a departure from the Vatican's traditional view of gays, Pope Francis told reporters on Monday that he doesn't judge priests for their sexual orientation. His words have been welcomed by human rights groups, but critics say he still avoided the issue of sin.

Unrest in Egypt

Closed Tunnels Could Ruin Hamas

The smuggling tunnels in Sinai are essential for the economy of the Gaza Strip. But since the unrest broke out in Egypt, they have been closed off -- plunging the ruling Hamas party into financial crisis.

The Land of Dead Voters

Irregularities As Zimbabwe Goes to Polls

Even before this week's vote in Zimbabwe, it seems clear that President Robert Mugabe will remain in power. Voter lists have been manipulated, critics are being intimidated and the opposition is divided.

Picture This

Prague Downpour