Around the World

Egypt
Three top leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood, Egypt’s most powerful opposition group, were arrested as a part of the government’s ongoing crackdown against the group following their appointment of new leadership. Read more on Egypt at Freedom in the World 2009: Egypt

China
The Chinese government executed nine people who had been convicted over deadly ethnic riots in Xinjiang region. Read more about China in Freedom in the World 2009: China

Venezuela and Russia
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's says Russia has agreed to lend his country $2 billion to buy weapons. Learn more about Venezuela and Russia

Serbia
The Hague tribunal rejected the argument by former Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic that he should not be prosecuted because of a immunity deal. Read more about Serbia in Nations in Transit 2009: Serbia