Critics argue low-yield nuclear warhead may make it easier for president to use nukes.

Opposition activists detained ahead of tournament.

Otago town Ranfurly takes week's record for coldest place at -9.1C.

The terrifying reason Putin doesn't care and has the upper hand.

The Russian Investigative Committee made a DNA search request to New Zealand in 2016.

He was smeared with pig's blood - they even took him to the morgue.

'Murdered' journalist Arkady Babchenko turns up alive after death staged to 'expose plot.'

NZ backs report which says Russian forces shot down Flight MH17, killing 298 people.

Investigators track missile that shot down MH17 to Russia's 53rd anti-aircraft brigade.

Putin suggested the spy would've 'died on the spot' if it had been military-grade toxin.

Transcripts of last year's congressional hearing reveal Trump Jr. couldn't remember much.

Strays dogs and cats are being rounded up as Sochi gets ready to host.

Russia's opposition leader has been arrested during a demonstration against Putin.

With a major Russian naval base nearby, the isolated port city is packed with history.

Ukraine retains a timeless charm for all that its past is filled with grief.

The questions Robert Mueller wants to ask were leaked yesterday, enraging Trump.

Robert Mueller sent a list to the President's lawyers - and now it's been made public.

Bob Dudley had to flee Moscow 'after blood test results indicated he was being poisoned'.

Diplomatic brick wall a big hurdle for UK.

Boris Karpichov claims he had powder thrown in his face by someone in Auckland.

Peters says taking Russia deal off table was right call - but it will be back.

Former FBI director James Comey's memos recount Trump efforts to influence Russia probe.

The Queen need not fear a sudden lurch to a republic under Ardern.

PM would not say if more action over the use of chemical weapons was possible.

US and Britain accuse Russia of campaign for espionage and possibly sabotage purposes.

COMMENT: The strike on Syria ran an unnecessary risk of war with Russia.

The Trump Administration signalled that it will impose new sanctions as soon as this week.

As Donald Trump announced "mission accomplished", Putin issued a bone-chilling warning.

The US-led strikes against Syria prompted defiant celebrations in Damascus.

Huge explosions and the glow of incoming missiles dominated the Damascus sky.