RT News - September 16, 2014 (17:00 MSK)

Ukraine's parliament approves special status for the defiant eastern regions - also promising early local elections, and an amnesty for those who took part in the conflict with Kiev; Barack Obama follows the tradition of his predecessors, going on the offensive in Iraq, this time targeting Islamic State fighters operating in the country - and eyeing Syria as the next target; Europe's secession activists keep a keen eye on Scotland, with its independence referendum just days away.