News in Brief (2024-02-08)

Zelensky orders creation of separate military force for drones
KYIV, Feb 07: President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday ordered the creation of a separate branch of Ukraine's armed forces devoted to drones, weapons he and military officials say are crucial to fighting the war against Russia. Zelensky signed a decree calling on the government and general staff of the armed forces to "work out issues on the creation within the Ukrainian armed forces of a separate force for drone systems". "I have just signed a decree which will launch the creation of a separate branch within our armed forces-a drone systems force," Zelensky said in his nightly video address. — Reuters
Cambodian prime minister visits Thailand
BANGKOK, Feb 07: Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet arrived Wednesday in Thailand's capital on his first official visit since becoming his country's leader last year, seeking to renew the close ties the two countries have maintained in recent times. In addition to meeting with his Thai counterpart, Srettha Thavisin, Hun Manet is slated to have a royal audience with King Maha Vajiralongkorn, preside over the signing of several documents on bilateral cooperation and address a Thailand-Cambodia business forum. — AP