News in brief

By The Associated Press

Senators warn visas are needed for Afghans who aided U.S.

WASHINGTON | Senators from both major political parties are urging congressional leaders to ensure that more visas are made available to Afghans who worked alongside U.S. troops in America’s longest war before a crucial pathway to safety in the United States abruptly closes.

In a letter obtained by The Associated Press, more than a dozen Republican and Democratic senators said Congress needs to raise the limit on the number of special immigrant visas the U.S. can process for Afghans. They said an additional 20,000 are needed before the end of the fiscal year in September.

Plan to find new leadership for Haiti moving forward

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti | Caribbean officials say a plan to create a transitional presidential council is moving forward after a majority of Haitian parties and coalitions submitted the names of those charged with finding new leaders for the country.

Officials said Thursday that the names were provided to a regional trade bloc known as Caricom that is helping lead the transition. The names were submitted a day after Haitian politicians and influential figures bickered publicly about the plan and what names to submit, seemingly putting creation of the council at risk.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry pledged to resign once the council is created.

—From AP reports