KRGV.com

WASHINGTON (AP) President Barack Obama says he directed U.S. forces to support a French rescue operation in Somalia "in furtherance of U.S. national security interests." He says the U.S. provided limited technical support and had no direct role in the assault on the compound where a French intelligence agent was believed to be held hostage by Islamic militants. The mission failed. French officials say the hostage died. The militants claim he was not killed.

BAMAKO, Mali (AP) The French-led effort to take back Mali's north from Islamic extremists continues. French fighter jets bombed rebel targets in a major city in Mali's north Sunday, pounding the airport as well as training camps, warehouses and buildings used by the al-Qaida-linked Islamists controlling the area.

PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) North Korea is vowing to strengthen its war defenses amid concerns the country may conduct a third nuclear test. Citing U.S. hostility, Pyongyang says without elaborating that the country will "continue to strengthen its deterrence against all forms of war." There are fears North Korea may follow a December rocket launch with a nuclear test.

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) Lance Armstrong says he is "ready to speak candidly" as he prepares to discuss doping allegations against him in his upcoming interview with Oprah Winfrey. The cyclist was out for a morning run Sunday when he spoke briefly with The Associated Press. But he would not divulge what he will tell Winfrey in Monday's interview that is scheduled to air Thursday.

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (AP) The Iran hostage thriller "Argo" is the surprise best-drama winner at Sunday's Golden Globes, beating out the Civil War epic "Lincoln." ''Argo" also claimed the directing prize for Ben Affleck. "Les Miserables" was named best musical or comedy. Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway claimed acting prizes for their performances in the film.