Russia Promises Significant Response to US Sanctions

Russia has promised to respond to the expulsion of 35 of its diplomats from Washington, amid a bitter dispute over alleged Russian interference in the recent US presidential election. A spokesman for President Vladimir Putin said the Kremlin's reaction would cause the US "significant discomfort".

In India, more than 20 billion banknotes are being taken out of use today, after the government scrapped high-value denominations. With the clocks ticking, Indians are queuing for hours to exchange their old notes.

A nationwide ceasefire between Syrian government forces and rebel groups has come into effect. The truce, brokered by Russia and Turkey, which will act as guarantors, began at midnight (22:00 GMT).