Syria

Russian-backed government troops have entered the ancient city after days of intense clashes with Islamic State militants. Local activists said ISIS warned civilians via loudspeaker to flee.

Hozaifa Almaleh made his name playing basketball in Syria. The sport also helped provide a road out of his war-ravaged country, taking him to Chicago.

The Russian leader is abruptly pulling back in Syria after a bombing campaign that lasted less than six months. He says he got what he wanted — but he may also be wary of a quagmire.

Ahead of more peace talks, President Vladimir Putin said the objective of the military intervention had "been fulfilled." President Obama spoke with Putin and said he welcomed the move.

The identities of jihadist recruits from more than 50 countries, including European nations, the U.S. and Canada, are reportedly in the data.

"There are snipers shooting at anyone on the road, and landmines in the fields. Checkpoints stop everything coming in– food, medicine, fuel; everything needed for life."

The Free Syrian Army was a key player in the early days of the uprising against President Bashar al-Assad. But many members are now feeling lost in a war that's become a morass of factions.

But the main opposition umbrella groups is accusing the Syrian regime of repeatedly violating the truce. The U.N., meanwhile, is rushing to bring aid into besieged areas.