Alex Salmond's Body to Return to Scotland

The body of Alex Salmond, Scotland's former First Minister, will soon return to Scotland following his sudden death in North Macedonia. The 69-year-old passed away Saturday at Ohrid lake resort, where he was attending a conference. He reportedly suffered a massive heart attack while at a lunch event. Arrangements for his repatriation are almost complete, according to Boris Josifovski, an aide to North Macedonia's former president.

Finalizing the necessary legal procedures and paperwork has been prioritized, and "there will be a special flight in the next few days," Josifovski told the Associated Press. The official coroner's report detailing the causes of Salmond's death will be provided to his family as confirmed by North Macedonia's judiciary. Salmond, a pivotal figure in Scottish politics, led the Scottish National Party to the brink of independence in the 2014 referendum.

Salmond served as Scotland's first minister from 2007 until 2014, resigning after the referendum, which saw 55% of Scots vote against independence. He was succeeded by his close ally, Nicola Sturgeon, though the two later experienced a notable split that significantly influenced subsequent political dynamics in Scotland. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)