Former US senator Rick Santorum has confirmed he is running for president, joining a crowded field of Republicans looking to challenge Barack Obama in next year’s election.

THE families of 33 trapped miners are in high spirits after a surge in the drilling of escape tunnels raised hopes that the men’s rescue may come sooner than scheduled.

Thirteen US miners trapped in a coal mine explosion in Tallmansville, West Virginia today are about three miles underground, state officials said.

The US today announced flight restrictions coinciding with public ceremonies at the three September 11 crash sites.