VOA慢速英语:Iraq's Kurdish Fighters Head to Kobani

Officials from Iraqi Kurdistan said Tuesday that 80 Iraqi Kurdish fighters are on their way to Turkey. The officials say the fighters are armed with artillery and machine guns.  They are to cross into Syria and help battle Islamic State militants for control of the town of Kobani. Another 72 fighters are expected to arrive Wednesday.

Turkey’s foreign minister said the Iraqi Kurdish fighters would enter Kobani "at any moment."

India and Vietnam strengthen energy, defenses

India and Vietnam have strengthened ties in defense and energy. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an agreement after meeting in New Delhi with Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.

Mr. Modi said India would quickly set up a $100 million line of credit to permit Vietnam to get naval boats from India.

China is closely watching the increased partnership between its two neighbors. Vietnam and China dispute territory in the South China Sea. Vietnam wants to strengthen its coastal defenses.

Ukraine condemns Russian position on rebel vote

Ukraine has condemned Russia’s position on elections organized by pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine. The elections are set for next Sunday, November 2.

Ukraine held national elections last Sunday, October 26. Officials in Kyiv said on Tuesday that Moscow’s recognition of the vote could destroy chances of peace between the two countries.

Kim Jong Un had foot operation

A South Korean spy agency says that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un disappeared from the public for six weeks to have a foot operation.

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) told South Korean legislators that a foreign doctor flew to North Korea. The doctor reportedly operated on Mr. Kim in September or October. He had a cyst on his foot.

The North Korean leader reappeared earlier this month walking with the help of a cane.