As a result of tensions, no UK minister or diplomat has spoken directly with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin for four years, says the BBC's deputy political editor.

The micro-blogging site Twitter says active users have passed the 100 million mark, but it has no plans for a stock market listing.

Libya's acting PM Mahmoud Jibril calls for national unity to rebuild the country, saying the liberation from Col Gaddafi's regime is not complete.

Turkey's prime minister says his country will in future escort aid ships travelling to the Gaza Strip, amid an escalating row with Israel.

Tickets for the London 2012 Paralympics go on sale later, with people given just over a fortnight to apply.

The Ministry of Justice announces it is to ban referral fees in personal injury claims in an attempt to curb the UK's "compensation culture".

The star of My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding, Paddy Doherty, is crowned the winner of Channel 5's Celebrity Big Brother.

A specific and credible threat against the US is possible during the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attack, the Department of Homeland Security warns.