Planes carrying prisoners freed by Russia and Ukraine have landed in the countries' capitals, in an exchange that could be a significant step towards improving relations between Moscow and Kiev.

Businesses and governments around the world are counting the cost of a software epidemic that has disrupted ports, hospitals and banks.

AN Irishman hit the headlines in Kiev yesterday but enough about Sean Quinn — the real story arrives today when Giovanni Trapattoni lands at Boryspil Airport just outside town.

Two ferries carrying foreigners trying to leave strife-torn Libya were waiting to leave Tripoli today, delayed by officialdom and rough seas, while a Russian-chartered ferry arrived at a port further east.

Two ferries evacuating some 4,500 Chinese nationals from Libya are heading for the island of Crete, authorities say.