European Union to Review Britain’s Rescue of Bank

The European Commission opened a formal investigation into the bailout of Northern Rock, a process expected to set a precedent on government aid in the European Union.

France Tries to Aid Woman Held by Colombian Rebels

Details of the effort to treat and possibly free the 46-year-old woman, Ingrid Betancourt, who holds dual French and Colombian citizenship, were vague.

Pikin Saron Journal: A Proving Ground for Marines and Dutch Intentions

To toughen up its military for missions abroad, the Netherlands has been sending troops to its former colony of Suriname for training, arousing suspicions.

Ireland’s Prime Minister to Resign Amid Corruption Inquiry

Denying that he received corrupt payments, Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, announced that he would resign next month.

NATO Allies Oppose Bush on Georgia and Ukraine

President Bush’s position on NATO’s ties with Georgia and Ukraine contradicts German and French views.

World Briefing | Europe: Pope Benedict Evokes Saintliness of John Paul on Anniversary of Death

Pope Benedict XVI celebrated a Mass marking the third anniversary of the death of John Paul II, evoking the possibility of his predecessor’s sainthood by praising his “many human and supernatural qualities.”

Front Row: Look Who’s Best-Dressed Now

The ballots for the 2008 International Best-Dressed List have gone out. The tension mounts!

U.S. and Britain at Odds Over Guantánamo Inmate

Over objections from the British government, the Pentagon plans to file terrorism-related charges against the British detainee, against whom they say they have a strong case.

Britain Puts Troop Drawdown on Hold

Plans to withdraw about 1,500 soldiers were frozen pending a review of Iraq’s security situation.

Bush Supports Ukraine’s Bid to Join NATO

President Bush risked a diplomatic confrontation with Russia even as the sides seek a missile defense agreement.

Nikolai K. Baibakov, a Top Soviet Economic Official, Dies at 97

Mr. Baibakov oversaw Russian oil production during World War II and went on to become one of the Soviet Union’s top economic officials.

Before Greeting NATO, Romanians Confront Canines

Special squads of dogcatchers have been stationed in key locations in Bucharest, to prevent the city’s infamous stray dogs from harassing delegates attending the NATO meeting this week.

Coroner Rejects Conspiracy Theories in Diana’s Death

The coroner dismissed the idea of a conspiracy involving the royal family or secret service in the death of Princess Diana.

New Competition and Cancellations at Heathrow Vex British Airways

Disruptions at London’s Heathrow airport could not come at a worse time for British Airways, only a day after an agreement removed trans-Atlantic flight competition restrictions.

Turkey Court Takes Politically Explosive Case

Turkey’s highest court decided to hear a case seeking to disband the governing party and ban its top leaders from politics.

Lucerne Journal: A Push to Stop Swiss Cats From Being Turned Into Coats and Hats

Cat fur is used in garments and blankets in Switzerland, the last western European nation where such a trade is still legal.

In London’s Mayoral Campaign, a Conservative Jokes His Way Into Contention

Boris Johnson bounded through Borough Market the other day like some kind of hyper-articulate Labrador, trawling for votes in the May 1 mayoral election.

French Company Is Said to Buy Maker of Absolut Vodka

Pernod Ricard and Vin & Sprit, the parent company of Absolut Vodka, are expected to announce the transaction, which may be worth more than $7 billion, on Monday.

French Architect Wins Pritzker Prize

Jean Nouvel, known for diverse but distinctive projects, has won architecture’s top honor.

Hugo Claus, 78, Belgian Novelist and Poet, Is Dead

Mr. Claus was one of Belgium’s most renowned authors despite his often caustic portrayals of his nation, particularly its ambiguous role in World War II.