An estimated 20 million Soviet soldiers and civilians died as a result of the fighting in World War II. Some surviving soldiers eventually immigrated to the United States. WNPR reporter Av Harris caught up with a few of the them at a Red Army veterans group in Hartford, Connecticut.

Many Brazilians identify themselves as having either African or European roots. But a new genetic survey of some Brazilian celebrities suggests things might not be that black and white. The World's Alex Gallafent explains.

Supporters and critics of the war in Iraq predict that withdrawing US troops will lead to more violence there. But some say intelligent planning in Washington could avoid the worst, as it did when the U.S. withdrew from Vietnam. Anchor Lisa Mullins discusses the issue with Shibley Telhami, professor of political science at the University of Maryland.

President Bush and Pentagon officials are increasingly blaming al Qaeda in Iraq for attacks against U-S and Iraqi troops. Mister Bush, in particular, has blurred the line between the Iraqi group and Osama bin Laden's al Qaeda. The World's Jason Margolis reports.

The World's Marco Werman tells us about the Japanese girl band, Pistol Valve. The band is composed of ten young Japanese women, and is one of the most popular bands in Japan these days.

Today's answer is Sedona, Arizona, site of a Buddhist prayer monument called a "stupa.” Producer Tony Ganzer sent us an audio postcard.

Chicago Public Radio's Chip Mitchell reports on how the immigrant community in Chicago is bracing for tougher enforcement of immigration laws. Some community leaders are stepping up efforts to train immigrants to avert deportation.

Where in the world will we go today?

Last summer's war between Hezbollah and Israel stranded thousands of Americans in Beirut. The World's Katy Clark looks at an emergency evacuation program that helps get students, and others who sign on, out of sticky situations.