The United States is accusing Russia of opening up its entire disinformation playbook to prey on growing fears about the spread of the coronavirus. Moscow’s effort, underway for weeks, according to officials, includes the use of state-run media outlets, fake news websites and “swarms” of fake online personas to churn out fabricated information in at least five languages. 

Reports of the coronavirus infecting members of Iran’s establishment have angered Iranians, with some dismissing the infections as fake, and others accusing elites of monopolizing access to medical testing.

VIDEO: Britain and the European Union began crucial talks this week on their future trade relationship after the Brexit transition period ends Dec. 31, leaving less than ten months for the two sides to negotiate and ratify any deal. On the same day the talks began, Britain published its mandate for a trade agreement with the United States. London hopes the parallel discussions will put pressure on the EU. 

Egyptian Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly and other officials were on hand this week as the Djoser Pyramid was reopened following its restoration. The Saqqara necropolis, with its antiquities and tombs dating to the most ancient periods of Egyptian history, is an open-air museum. The necropolis also includes the Serpeum, where the Apis Bulls were buried. The Djoser Pyramid, located near the city of Memphis, is the oldest large-scale stone building in the world.

Officials in Afghanistan say at least 32 people were killed and around 60 injured Friday when gunmen opened fire on a gathering in Kabul, with high-profile opposition politicians in attendance.