BREAKING NEWS

Thai coup draws swift condemnation; US says reviewing aid

WASHINGTON - The military takeover in Thailand drew swift international condemnation on Thursday, with the United States saying it was reviewing its military aid and other dealings with its closest ally in Southeast Asia.
Thailand's army chief, General Prayuth Chan-ocha, seized control of the government two days after he declared martial law, saying the military had to restore order and push through reforms after six months of turmoil.
The military declared a curfew from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m., suspended the constitution and told outgoing cabinet ministers to report to an army base in the north of the capital, Bangkok, by the end of the day. Rival protest camps were ordered to disperse.
"There is no justification for this military coup," US Secretary of State John Kerry said in a statement.
"While we value our long friendship with the Thai people, this act will have negative implications for the US-Thai relationship, especially for our relationship with the Thai military. We are reviewing our military and other assistance and engagements, consistent with US law."