Category: World News

Gabriel Attal, who previously served as France’s prime minister, officially announced his presidential campaign on Friday, adding his name to an already packed list of moderate candidates competing in next year’s election.

The contest to replace President Emmanuel Macron — who is constitutionally barred from seeking another term — appears increasingly divided, with polling data showing the far-right National Rally (RN) holding a commanding position while numerous candidates create the possibility of a final round dominated by political extremes.

At 37 years old, Attal became a household name during Macron’s presidency, though some observers suggest his close association with the unpopular incumbent could hurt his chances. He must also persuade fellow moderate candidates that he represents their strongest option against extremist opponents from both sides of the political spectrum.

During remarks delivered in the town square of Mur-de-Barrez, a small community in central France, following conversations with residents, Attal expressed an upbeat vision for the country’s future, vowing to transform France into “the leading European power.”

“I’ve had enough of French politics being about 50 shades of managing decline,” he declared to journalists. “So because I love France with a passion and love the French passionately, I’m a candidate for the presidency.”

Attal’s political ascent was swift, earning widespread recognition as the government’s spokesperson throughout the COVID-19 crisis before being appointed as the nation’s youngest-ever prime minister.

His time in the top government role lasted only seven months, ending suddenly when Macron decided to call an unexpected parliamentary election — a move Attal had advised against — creating tension between the two leaders.

Following his departure from the prime minister’s office, Attal assumed control of Macron’s Renaissance party, positioning himself to leverage the organization’s substantial financial resources and established infrastructure for a nationwide presidential campaign.

His primary challenge within the moderate coalition comes from Edouard Philippe, another former prime minister who has spent months establishing himself as the centrist movement’s leading figure.

Recent polling indicates Attal could capture up to 14% of first-round votes, while Philippe appears capable of securing as much as 25%. Current survey data suggests Philippe, who serves as mayor of Le Havre, holds the strongest position among moderate candidates to challenge the RN.

The central concern for moderate politicians is the risk of vote splitting. A fractured center could create opportunities for far-right and far-left candidates to advance to the decisive second round of next year’s presidential election.

Numerous figures within France’s political establishment worry about a final round featuring far-right leaders Jordan Bardella or Marine Le Pen facing off against hard-left politician Jean-Luc Mélenchon.

Earlier this month, Attal revealed he had discussed this potential scenario with Philippe, and both men have established a process to determine by early 2027 which candidate is better positioned to unify centrist supporters, with the possibility that one might withdraw from the race.

The two candidates present markedly different approaches to campaigning.

Philippe has maintained a reserved, almost severe public presence since announcing his candidacy, keeping his private life away from media attention. Attal has chosen the opposite strategy, embracing a more intimate and highly visible campaign style.

He has traveled extensively throughout France while promoting his autobiography, which explores his childhood experiences, his father’s death, being targeted for bullying due to his sexual orientation, and his romantic relationship with European Commissioner Stéphane Séjourné, his partner.

Although Attal began his political career within the Socialist party, he has developed his public image by supporting stricter approaches to criminal justice and immigration policy.

While serving as education minister, he gained national recognition by prohibiting abayas — loose-fitting, full-length robes worn by some Muslim women — in schools, citing France’s commitment to secularism.

Mexico and the European Union will finalize a comprehensive trade agreement Friday as both regions work to reduce their economic dependence on the United States and shield themselves from tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

The agreement builds upon a 2000 trade deal between Mexico and the EU that only covered industrial products. This expanded version includes services, government procurement, digital commerce, investment opportunities and agricultural goods.

The signing ceremony in Mexico City will bring together Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa for their first summit in more than ten years.

“This summit means more than trade; it’s a geopolitical statement,” said Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, on Thursday in Mexico City before the signing ceremony.

Both regions are working to expand their export markets beyond the United States.

The European Union faced extensive new tariffs through Trump’s “Liberation Day” duties in April 2025 and developed retaliatory measures, though these were suspended while both sides pursued negotiations. Despite a tariff ceasefire and July agreement that reduced some tensions, U.S. duties on EU products remain higher than previous levels.

Mexico has similarly faced significant U.S. tariffs on car manufacturing, steel and aluminum shipments, with trade relationships between the nations remaining unstable during Trump’s second presidency.

Officials from Mexico’s economy ministry project the agreement could boost Mexican shipments to the EU from approximately $24 billion annually to $36 billion by 2030. The EU currently sends roughly $65 billion worth of products to Mexico each year.

Commerce between Mexico and the EU has grown 75% over the past decade, primarily consisting of transportation equipment, machinery, chemicals, energy products and mining materials.

The updated agreement eliminates tariffs on nearly all products, including agricultural items like Mexican poultry and asparagus alongside European dairy powder, cheese and pork, though some quantity restrictions will apply.

Despite being completed, the enhanced trade agreement has taken more than a year to reach the signing stage. The EU focused on completing a trade deal with the Mercosur South American alliance and finished trade negotiations with Indonesia, India and Australia over the past eight months.

Mexico has been careful about actions that might provoke the Trump administration during delicate discussions to renew the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement. More than 80% of Mexico’s current exports are shipped to the United States.

The European Parliament will vote on the trade agreement and is expected to approve it within several months.

BEIJING, May 22 (Reuters) — Chinese authorities announced new policy guidelines Friday designed to broaden access to essential public services for workers who lack official household registration in their employment cities, potentially helping millions of migrant laborers obtain urban services.

These policy shifts could strengthen social protections for families and may boost consumer spending in China’s export-dependent economy.

The new directives urge government departments and municipal officials to deliver public services such as schooling and essential healthcare based on where individuals actually live, rather than their official household registration status, which typically reflects their birthplace.

China’s household registration system, known locally as hukou, ties access to public services primarily to a person’s place of birth. Officials implemented this framework during the 1950s to control internal population movement, particularly migration from countryside to urban centers.

Workers with rural registration from their home regions frequently face barriers when trying to access public services in urban areas where they live and work. Officials have attempted to modify this system for over ten years.

POLICY CHANGES TARGET EDUCATION AND HOUSING ACCESS

“Providing basic public services by the place of residence, gradually eliminating the link between basic public services and household registration, and promoting equal access to basic public services … are conducive to meeting people’s growing needs for a better life,” China’s State Council stated in the guidelines.

The new directives encourage municipal governments to help more children of migrant families — those who relocate to cities with their parents — enroll in public schools and allow qualified students to take entrance examinations where they currently live.

Additional cities should broaden public housing rental programs to include families with steady jobs but lacking local registration, and workers should gain access to social insurance programs at their work locations, according to the guidelines.

The policy recommendations also suggest loosening registration requirements in areas including childcare, senior care and disability services, while encouraging provincial governments to increase financial support for regions experiencing population growth to fund public services.

TEL AVIV, Israel — Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Friday that diplomatic negotiations with Iran have shown “slight progress” as questions linger over whether an agreement can be reached or if military action will restart.

His comments came several days after President Donald Trump announced he was postponing a planned military operation against Iran due to ongoing “serious negotiations.” For weeks, Trump has warned that the ceasefire established in mid-April could collapse if Iran fails to reach an agreement, though the terms for such a deal have continued to shift.

Speaking before a gathering of NATO foreign ministers in Helsingborg, Sweden, Rubio addressed the situation. The military alliance is anticipated to examine what assistance it might provide in monitoring the Strait of Hormuz following the conclusion of hostilities.

Rubio cautioned against overstating the diplomatic advancement, noting there had been “a little bit of movement and that’s good.” He confirmed that discussions remain active. However, despite multiple recent assertions of progress, negotiators have yet to finalize any agreement.

Trump has established multiple deadlines for Tehran before retreating from them. While he has previously suggested delaying military operations to permit continued dialogue, he has also reversed course and authorized attacks. This pattern occurred at the conflict’s beginning when he approved strikes in late February after initially suggesting he would allow negotiations to proceed.

He explained that he canceled this week’s planned attacks on Iran following requests from Middle Eastern allies, including leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, nations that have faced targeting by Iran and its affiliated militias.

However, Trump’s choice to pursue diplomatic channels created friction this week with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

A source speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization revealed Thursday that Trump and Netanyahu engaged in a “dramatic” telephone discussion Tuesday regarding the Iranian negotiations, with Israel expressing frustration over Trump’s pursuit of an agreement with Iran.

Trump subsequently informed reporters that Netanyahu “will do whatever I want him to do.”

These remarks represent the first visible signs of disagreement between the leaders since initiating the conflict in February.

Friday brought news from Pakistan that the interior minister made two trips to Tehran this week for meetings with Iranian officials as part of efforts to reduce tensions between Iran and the United States.

During a weekly press conference in the capital, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi explained that Pakistan’s political and military leadership are working toward peace, with the minister’s dual visits demonstrating this commitment.

He announced that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will depart for Beijing Saturday following China’s invitation for a four-day visit, noting that Pakistan’s peace initiatives are likely to be addressed during the trip.

Nevertheless, significant obstacles persist.

Iran has essentially blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for transporting oil, gas, fertilizer and other petroleum products. The United States is maintaining a blockade of Iranian ports and has redirected 85 commercial ships from mid-April through Monday, according to a U.S. Central Command social media announcement.

Both the United States and Israel have declared that Iran must never possess nuclear weapons. Though Iran reportedly offered some nuclear compromises, Trump has stated his goal of removing highly enriched uranium from the country and preventing nuclear weapons development. Iran maintains its nuclear program serves peaceful purposes.

Two regional officials and a western diplomat informed the Associated Press that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates conducted separate multiple strikes against Iran and Iranian-supported Shiite militias in Iraq throughout the war. An Israeli military officer familiar with the situation also verified that the UAE actively targeted Iran at least once.

All sources requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the information.

The regional officials indicated that strikes on Iran focused on military installations, including missile and drone launch sites, primarily controlled by the Revolutionary Guard Corps.

One regional official reported that Saudi Arabia’s strikes targeted Iraqi militia hideouts, particularly Kataib Hezbollah, after Riyadh determined that most drone attacks on Saudi Arabia originated from neighboring Iraq. He noted that Saudi Arabia repeatedly informed Baghdad about the Iraqi-based attacks before choosing to strike.

The western diplomat and one regional official said the UAE had advocated for coordinated military action from Gulf Arab nations since the war began.

When asked for comment, the United Arab Emirates referenced a May 16 Foreign Ministry statement saying “all measures undertaken by the UAE have been within the framework of defensive actions aimed at protecting its sovereignty, civilians, and vital infrastructure, in line with the country’s legitimate right to safeguard its national security and maintain its stability.” Saudi Arabia did not immediately provide a response to requests for comment.

Iran has also remained silent regarding being targeted by the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

After allegations that attacks on Saudi Arabia and the UAE originated from Iraqi territory, the Iraqi prime minister ordered an investigation. Iraq’s government has not responded to comment requests.

Officials in Taiwan report they have not received any formal communication regarding delays to a massive $14 billion weapons agreement with the United States, despite recent testimony from Pentagon leadership suggesting such sales are on hold.

The clarification came Friday after acting U.S. Navy Secretary Hung Cao informed senators Thursday that foreign military sales are being temporarily suspended to guarantee sufficient ammunition supplies for the Iran conflict, which the current administration has dubbed ‘Epic Fury.’

Speaking to the U.S. Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, Cao explained the reasoning behind the delay. “Right now we’re doing a pause in order to make sure we have the munitions we need for ‘Epic Fury,’” he stated. “Then the foreign military sales will continue when the administration deems necessary.”

Taiwanese presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo acknowledged Friday that officials are aware of the reports but emphasized no official word has arrived. “Currently there is no information regarding any adjustments the U.S. will make to this arms sale,” Kuo said when questioned about Cao’s remarks.

The weapons deals in question include an $11 billion package approved in December that remains stalled, plus a separate $14 billion sale authorized by Congress in January that awaits presidential submission before moving forward.

These developments come as tensions over Taiwan’s status continue to complicate U.S.-China relations. Beijing considers the island a breakaway province that must eventually come under Chinese control, using military force if needed. While Washington maintains no formal diplomatic recognition of Taiwan as an independent nation, America serves as the island’s primary military supporter and weapons provider.

The arms sales have become a contentious issue following recent diplomatic exchanges. In a Fox News interview after his Beijing visit, the president described Taiwan weapons deals as “a very good negotiating chip” in discussions with China.

During his second anniversary in office Wednesday, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te expressed hope for continued American military support, calling such purchases vital for maintaining peace in the region.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated Beijing’s position when asked about the Navy secretary’s comments, stating that “China’s opposition to the U.S. arms sale to China’s Taiwan region is consistent, clear-cut and resolute.”

The weapons issue gained additional prominence during last week’s presidential visit to Beijing, where Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a stern warning about Taiwan policy. Xi told his American counterpart that the “Taiwan question” represents the most critical aspect of bilateral relations and warned that mishandling could lead to “clashes and even conflicts.”

Following those discussions, the president indicated interest in speaking directly with Taiwan’s leader, though he avoided naming Lai specifically. Beijing has labeled Lai a separatist and would likely view any direct communication between the two leaders as a provocative act.

Spokesperson Kuo said Friday that no additional details are available regarding potential talks between Lai and the American president.

A Turkish court in the nation’s capital turned down on Friday a challenge filed by the country’s primary opposition party against a decision to remove their leader, according to reports from the Cumhuriyet newspaper and additional Turkish news outlets.

The Republican People’s Party (CHP) has also filed challenges with a higher court and the Supreme Election Board (YSK), though decisions on those appeals remain pending. The removal of CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel has intensified a political crisis and caused market instability.

The creator of the worldwide Slow Food movement that champions sustainable agriculture and traditional cooking methods has died at age 76 in Italy’s northwestern Piedmont region, according to an announcement from the organization.

Carlo Petrini passed away Friday in his hometown, leaving behind a legacy as what Slow Food described as “a visionary leader and a public intellectual with a profound commitment to the common good, human relationships and the natural world.”

The movement began as Arcigola and emerged from resistance to fast food chains entering Italy. A 1986 demonstration at the Spanish Steps outside a newly opened McDonald’s in Rome marked the beginning of their campaign.

On December 9, 1989, Petrini became president when delegates from more than 20 nations gathered in Paris to sign the Slow Food Manifesto. He served in this role until 2022.

Built on the belief that food should be “good, clean and fair,” the organization expanded rapidly across Italy and eventually reached more than 160 countries. Establishments following these principles display Slow Food stickers featuring the distinctive snail logo, officially known as the Snail of Approval.

Among the movement’s major accomplishments was establishing Terra Madre in 2004, which brought together farmers, fishers, chefs and academics to advance their mission.

Petrini also established the University of Gastronomic Sciences, promoted as the first academic institution focused on comprehensive food and food culture studies. This approach gained official recognition when the Italian government created a Bachelor’s degree in gastronomic sciences in 2017.

The northern Italian university has educated approximately 4,000 food industry professionals from 100 nations, according to Slow Food.

In 2017, Petrini collaborated with the bishop of Verona, Monsignor Domenico Pompili, to create the Laudato Si’ Communities, implementing Pope Francis’ environmental encyclical through approximately 80 local groups.

Among Petrini’s written works are “Slow Food Nation: Why Our Food Should Be Good, Clean and Fair” and “Slow Food: The Case for Taste,” which features a foreword by Alice Waters, a leader in America’s farm-to-table movement.

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — A massive cooking vessel now dominates a small body of water in the heart of the Dutch capital.

The enormous pot, measuring 7 meters (23 feet) in height, floats in front of the renowned Mauritshuis museum, which houses the famous “Girl with a Pearl Earring” painting. This striking installation is one element of a month-long outdoor art showcase called the BlowUp Jubilee, which displays 24 inflatable sculptures throughout the Dutch city’s parks, building facades, and transportation hubs.

Curator Mary Hessing conceived this ambitious project. “What I really wanted to do is show the area and show arts to everybody,” she told The Associated Press.

The Dutch government launched an extensive restoration effort for the Binnenhof complex in 2021, encompassing both the Mauritshuis and the Parliament building. This historic location, with origins tracing back to the 13th century, became off-limits to visitors, prompting city officials to organize artistic programming during the closure period.

The inaugural BlowUp Art showcase in 2022 featured six artists’ creations positioned around the Binnenhof area. Following exhibitions also presented several inflatable pieces, but this 2026 jubilee version brings back all previous installations while introducing additional new works.

“For me it was important to show the real Curacao in this artwork, and that is our parties, our food, and our lifestyle,” artist Eugenie Boon told AP. The 21-year-old creator hails from the former Dutch Caribbean colony, and her piece, Koncha pa dilanti, named after an island board game, depicts imagery from regional daily life.

British artist Steve Messam has gained recognition for his oversized inflatable installations across the United Kingdom, China and The Hague. His creation called Crested, consisting of a cluster of crimson spikes, sits atop a parking structure entrance surrounded by century-old architecture along a tree-covered street.

“The idea was that this piece would hold its own amongst this wonderful architecture that we see around us,” he said.

The BlowUp Jubilee continues through June 21.

GOTEMBA, Japan — Fire erupted from a mobile launcher positioned in the peaceful foothills near Mount Fuji this week as U.S. Marines demonstrated a weapons system that’s becoming central to America’s evolving Pacific defense strategy.

The first missile launched from the truck-mounted system cut through the clear sky, its orange trail visible against the blue backdrop. Five additional rockets launched quickly after, followed by a second HIMARS vehicle that emerged from its hidden spot among the evergreen trees, fired six missiles of its own, then disappeared back into cover.

The brief training exercise at Camp Fuji’s east maneuver area represented more than routine military practice — it showcased American military capabilities to Pacific partners as the U.S. works to prevent potential Chinese military action against Taiwan, the independent democracy that Beijing considers its territory and has threatened to seize by force if necessary.

The demonstration also highlighted Washington’s tactical evolution in the Pacific region, changes driven by China’s rapid military advancement and modernization over recent years.

“The U.S. does not want China to invade Taiwan, but it would not be relying on the traditional aircraft carrier-based attack wings of the past,” said Euan Graham, a senior defense analyst with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.

“In Iran, with the U.S. conflict there, there were over 40 U.S. aircraft, manned and unmanned, either destroyed or damaged against a much less capable adversary, so in the case of conflict with China that vulnerability would be much greater,” he said. “That’s why we’re seeing the U.S. emphasizing … these smaller units.”

The Pentagon’s most recent annual congressional report states the objective is to “deny the ability of any country in the Indo-Pacific to dominate us or our allies.” The document emphasized strengthening deterrence “through strength, not confrontation.”

The HIMARS system’s purpose is clear from its complete designation: “High Mobility Artillery Rocket System.” This truck-based rocket launcher can remain concealed from aerial surveillance, move into position to launch its GPS-guided projectiles, then rapidly relocate using military tactics known as “shoot-and-scoot.”

“It depends on the crew, but it can get as fast as four minutes, (even) two minutes sometimes,” said Sgt. Kevin Alvarez, section chief of one of the two Fox Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division HIMARS involved in the Camp Fuji exercise.

While the HIMARS entered service approximately two decades ago and saw action in Iraq and Afghanistan, it remained relatively obscure to civilians until Ukraine successfully employed it against Russian forces.

Recent conflicts, particularly the widespread use of battlefield drones that can rapidly locate stationary artillery, have highlighted the importance of mobility, according to Lt. Col. Ryan Anness, commander of the 3rd Battalion.

“They’re much quicker, much faster, and much easier to hide than, say, traditional cannon artillery, and obviously having the precision fire weapons and having the ability to hide easier is why so many countries, and why it’s important for us, to have the HIMARS,” he said.

The system can launch various missile types. Ukraine initially received only shorter-range ammunition before the U.S. approved the ATACMS, or Army Tactical Missile System, which can strike targets approximately 300 kilometers (180 miles) away.

During the early stages of the war against Iran following the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Feb. 28, HIMARS fired both ATACMS and the longer-range Precision Strike Missiles in their first combat use, destroying “multiple” Iranian naval vessels and a submarine in port, according to Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The PrSM can engage targets beyond 500 kilometers (310 miles), manufacturer Lockheed Martin reports.

Combined with the Army’s Typhon — another truck-mounted launcher that fires longer-range Tomahawk missiles but offers less mobility than HIMARS — these systems could effectively cover both the Taiwan Strait separating Taiwan and China, and the strategically vital Luzon Strait between the Philippines and Taiwan, if positioned on Taiwan and surrounding Philippine and Japanese islands, Graham explained.

Both waterways would play crucial roles in any Chinese invasion or blockade scenario.

“In advance of a conflict around Taiwan, there would likely be a large-scale outflux of U.S. assets within the envelope of China’s missile capabilities,” Graham said. “All that would be left is submarines, which are more survivable, and small units based on rugged survivability — mobile systems like the HIMARS.”

Wednesday’s Camp Fuji training employed practice rockets — concrete-filled tubes without explosives — and followed rigorous safety protocols while Japanese military officials observed. Local authorities closed a nearby road during the exercise as a precautionary measure in case any projectiles fell short of their targets.

Despite the safety measures that required conducting the live-fire drill more slowly than combat conditions would allow, Lt. Col. Anness emphasized its importance for both Marine training and allied relationships.

“Being able to have long-range precision-fire weapons provides deterrence here in the Pacific, and we train with our Japanese partners as much as we can to make sure we’re ready,” he said.

Spanish officials are rolling out an employment matching system as part of a comprehensive initiative to provide legal status to roughly 500,000 undocumented workers, aiming to boost the nation’s economic growth, according to the country’s leading immigration official.

The initiative, first revealed in January, has drawn criticism from far-right political figures both within Spain and throughout Europe. However, the Socialist-led coalition administration maintains that immigration will help Spain’s economy continue outperforming other European nations by developing a more youthful labor force as the overall population grows older.

Secretary of State for Migration Pilar Cancela revealed that government offices have processed more than 200,000 applications during the program’s initial month as of last week. She noted that many applicants received temporary employment permits after their submissions were accepted for review.

Cancela described the approach as an intelligent immigration strategy that would strengthen public services and pension systems. Official projections indicate Spain requires approximately 2.4 million additional social security contributors over the coming decade to maintain its welfare programs.

Government agencies, working alongside NGOs and specialized offices, have prepared to handle up to one million applications – double the anticipated volume – and have developed a strategy to assist migrants in securing legitimate employment, Cancela explained.

Research organization Funcas estimates roughly 840,000 undocumented migrants currently work in the informal economy, primarily individuals from Latin America.

The employment matching approach seeks to bring thousands of workers from the underground economy into legitimate positions to address labor shortages in critical industries.

“It’s a huge opportunity to harness the potential of all these people who are already helping to build the country alongside us, often working in precarious conditions,” Cancela stated, noting that “real integration” would occur once workers secure formal employment.

The Migration Ministry plans to conduct voluntary surveys of individuals receiving provisional work permits to assess their abilities and employment preferences.

Officials are collaborating with industry organizations in construction, tourism, transportation and care services to evaluate workforce needs and connect with legalized migrants seeking employment opportunities.

A study from Esade Business School cautioned that a similar migrant legalization effort in 2005 resulted in some employment losses within the informal sector. Researchers recommended enhanced labor inspections and support programs to facilitate the transition to legitimate work.

Cancela confirmed the ministry’s strategy will include expanded labor monitoring efforts.

“I think it’s also a major opportunity to bring certain situations to light, because when people come forward in the regularisation process, we will learn about their circumstances,” she explained.

Political tensions escalated in Turkey on Friday as the country’s main opposition movement refused to accept a controversial court decision that removed its current leadership and reversed the results of its 2023 party convention.

An appeals court cited unidentified procedural violations in the Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) 2023 congress and restored former chairman Kemal Kilicdaroglu to his previous position, replacing current leader Ozgur Ozel. Kilicdaroglu, a polarizing political figure, had previously been defeated by President Tayyip Erdogan in elections held earlier that year.

The opposition party denounced the court’s decision as a “judicial coup” and Ozel pledged to challenge the ruling through legal channels while personally staying “day and night” at the main opposition party’s headquarters in Ankara.

Political analysts view this situation as a crucial examination of Turkey’s fragile relationship between democratic governance and authoritarian control. The court’s action could potentially reignite anti-Erdogan demonstrations while also creating internal opposition conflicts that might benefit Erdogan’s efforts to maintain power in Turkey, an important NATO member nation and developing economy.

Financial markets responded negatively to the escalating political turmoil, with Turkish investments declining and the lira reaching a historic low. This prompted the central bank to deploy billions in foreign currency reserves to stabilize the situation.

Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, addressing the situation from Istanbul on Friday, dismissed what he characterized as “daily developments” in financial markets, stating Turkey would maintain its commitment to implementing its economic strategy.

According to Berk Esen, a political scientist at Sabanci University, the court’s action “marks an unprecedented development in our administrative law and political history.” He added, “If upheld, it would open the door for courts to determine party leadership, with no comparable example in Turkey’s electoral system since 1946.”

Other opposition groups condemned the ruling as undemocratic, while Devlet Bahceli, a nationalist leader and important Erdogan supporter, indicated that the judicial system should avoid interfering in party internal affairs.

The CHP, established by modern Turkey’s founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, has also encountered an extraordinary legal offensive in which hundreds of party members and elected representatives have been arrested since 2024 on corruption and various other accusations that the party rejects.

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu is among those imprisoned. He serves as Erdogan’s primary political opponent and the CHP’s presidential nominee for an election scheduled for 2028, though recent court developments suggest it may occur sooner.

Erdogan confronts presidential term restrictions and can only seek reelection if an early election is scheduled or if constitutional changes are made. His administration rejects accusations of using courts against political opponents, maintaining that the judiciary operates independently.

The CHP, which polls show running approximately equal with Erdogan’s governing AK Party (AKP), declared the court ruling invalid and submitted an appeal to the Supreme Election Board (YSK), which they claim is the sole authority authorized to invalidate a party congress.

While the YSK supervises all elections and party conventions with final authority over its decisions, the court issued its ruling based on association laws – an unprecedented action in contemporary Turkey. The YSK met Friday to review the CHP’s appeal.

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Transport operators across Kenya have ended their countrywide work stoppage on Friday following a weeklong suspension that allowed for negotiations regarding escalating fuel costs.

The labor action earlier this week on Monday and Tuesday sparked demonstrations that turned deadly when law enforcement opened fire with live rounds on protesters, resulting in four deaths and injuries to more than 30 people.

Following a Friday meeting between the operators and President William Ruto, the group announced they would not restart their strike after the president committed to lowering diesel costs during June’s scheduled monthly fuel price adjustment.

The president turned down suggestions to cut fuel taxation, maintaining that dropping the VAT on fuel from 16% to 8% had already created substantial revenue shortfalls and that additional reductions would harm the government’s ability to provide services.

Earlier this week, thousands of demonstrators filled the streets, setting tires ablaze on main roadways and preventing private cars from traveling. Schools and businesses stayed shuttered as initial government negotiations with transport operators broke down.

The work stoppage was put on hold Tuesday to enable continued discussions between government officials and fuel industry representatives.

The president, who had been traveling abroad during the strike, came back Thursday and began negotiations that led to the agreement for reduced fuel costs in the next monthly assessment.

Fuel costs in Kenya continue to rank among East Africa’s most expensive, even though the nation functions as a major import center for multiple landlocked countries that depend on Mombasa Port and overland transportation systems.

Opposition leaders have attributed the elevated prices to corruption and what they characterized as unreasonable profit margins by business operators.

KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — An experienced Mount Everest guide who achieved his 32nd successful summit this week, setting a new world record, called on officials Friday to impose restrictions on the number of climbers attempting the ascent.

Climbing numbers on the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) mountain from Nepal’s side have increased this season after China shut down access from Tibet. The world’s tallest peak can be approached from Nepal’s southern route or China’s northern path.

This past Wednesday saw 274 climbers successfully reach the top, marking the highest single-day total from Nepal’s approach. Nepal’s mountaineering officials have granted permits to 494 climbers, with an equal number of Sherpa guides supporting their expeditions.

“It was very crowded this year compared to last year because there was more clients,” Kami Rita Sherpa said to media at Kathmandu airport following his return flight from the mountain. “There is a need for authorities to control this number.”

Weather conditions suitable for summit attempts occur only during brief periods. When large groups wait in the fixed rope system that all climbers must use, the risk of dangerous bottlenecks increases while exposing everyone to prolonged exposure to severe conditions.

Kami Rita’s nearest rival, Pasang Dawa Sherpa, completed his 31st summit Friday, marking his second successful climb this week.

The 56-year-old Kami Rita made his initial Everest ascent in 1994 and has returned almost annually since then. He represents one of numerous Sherpa guides whose knowledge and abilities are essential for the safety and achievement of international climbers seeking to reach the mountain’s summit each year.

His father served as one of the earliest Sherpa guides. Beyond Everest, Kami Rita has conquered additional peaks ranking among the world’s tallest, including K2, Cho Oyu, Manaslu and Lhotse.

A fatal blast at a petrochemical facility in eastern Hungary has claimed one life and left several workers with serious injuries, according to company officials who released details Friday.

The deadly incident took place at MOL’s industrial complex in Tiszaujvaros, where Hungarian oil and gas group MOL operates major chemical production operations.

Prime Minister Peter Magyar announced on Facebook that economy minister Istvan Kapitany and MOL’s executive chairman Zsolt Hernadi were traveling to the facility. Magyar shared an image displaying massive dark smoke pouring from the industrial site.

“An explosion occurred at MOL Petrochemicals’ site in Tiszaújváros during the restart of the Olefin 1 plant. The fire was localised by firefighters, and the intervention is still ongoing,” MOL said.

Company officials stated that investigators are examining what led to the deadly incident, though they declined to provide additional information about the circumstances.

Kapitany wrote on Facebook that preliminary reports indicate a compressor unit exploded while workers were bringing the Olefin 1 facility back online, and emergency crews were still working to extinguish the blaze.

The affected Olefin 1 facility operates as a steam cracker unit within MOL’s larger petrochemical complex in Tiszaujvaros. This particular plant can produce roughly 370,000 metric tons of ethylene annually. The Tiszaujvaros site houses two steam cracking facilities with combined ethylene production capacity of 660,000 metric tons yearly, based on MOL’s corporate website.

The company primarily uses its ethylene production for creating polyethylene plastics, which are then distributed to plastics and packaging manufacturers.

Russian authorities reported Friday that a nighttime drone strike by Ukrainian forces on a student residence hall in Russian-occupied Luhansk resulted in at least four deaths and injuries to 35 children.

Reuters could not independently confirm the incident, and Ukrainian officials had not immediately responded to the allegations. Ukraine continues its efforts to reclaim Luhansk, which Russia declared as its territory in 2022 in what Ukraine condemned as an unlawful seizure.

Russia’s Human Rights Commissioner, Yana Lantratova, stated that 86 students between the ages of 14 and 18 were asleep at the Starobilsk college of Luhansk Pedagogical University when the drone assault occurred.

“The Ukrainian armed forces carried out a targeted strike on sleeping children,” Lantratova said in a statement.

The top Russian-appointed administrator in Luhansk, Leonid Pasechnik, reported that two individuals had been rescued from the wreckage while emergency crews continued searching for children believed to be trapped under the debris.

Images and footage distributed by Russian officials depicted rescue teams carrying a man from the destruction on a stretcher, buildings with extensive damage including what appeared to be a partial collapse, and ongoing fires.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed the importance of mutual benefit within NATO partnerships during remarks made Friday before alliance discussions in Helsingborg, Sweden.

Speaking ahead of the NATO gathering, Rubio indicated the Swedish meeting would help establish the foundation for the upcoming NATO leaders summit planned for Ankara, Turkey later this year.

“Like any alliance, it has to be good for everyone who’s involved. There has to be a clear understanding of what the expectations are,” Rubio said.

The Secretary of State also addressed Middle East tensions, stating that any Iranian tolling system implemented in the Strait of Hormuz would not be acceptable.

The United States has imposed financial penalties on Tanzania’s top police official and blocked his ability to travel to America, accusing him of participating in human rights abuses by law enforcement.

The penalties were revealed Thursday in the aftermath of Tanzania’s October general election, where President Samia Suluhu Hassan secured a complete term with 97% of votes following a campaign marked by suppression of political opposition. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously stated in December that America was reassessing its relationship with Tanzania due to oppression and electoral violence.

Rubio explained that the penalty designation targeting police Senior Assistant Commissioner Faustine Jackson Mafwele was founded on reliable evidence of his participation in rights abuses.

“One year ago, members of the (Tanzanian police) detained, tortured, and sexually assaulted Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire and Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi, who were in Dar es Salaam to observe the trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu,” he said in the statement.

The activists from Uganda and Kenya were taken into custody and held in Tanzania last May. They claimed Mafwele subjected them to torture during their imprisonment before they were left stranded near the border between Kenya and Tanzania.

An investigative panel established by Hassan to examine post-election violence determined that 518 individuals lost their lives and thousands suffered injuries. Opposition groups maintain the death toll was significantly higher during the first major violent demonstrations in the East African country in many years.

The panel’s findings, published in April, called for additional scrutiny of police behavior during the demonstrations, when reports indicated unarmed citizens were shot inside their residences. Online connectivity in the nation was also interrupted for multiple days following the election, and footage of the shootings circulated on social platforms after internet service returned, despite police warnings against sharing such videos online.

NATO partners and military leaders voiced confusion Friday over President Donald Trump’s announcement to deploy 5,000 American troops to Poland, coming just weeks after he directed 5,000 soldiers to be withdrawn from Europe.

“It is confusing indeed, and not always easy to navigate,” Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard told reporters at a meeting she was hosting of her NATO counterparts, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

American military officials also expressed puzzlement. “We just spent the better part of two weeks reacting to the first announcement. We don’t know what this means either,” said one of two officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military matters.

Through a Truth Social post, Trump declared “I am pleased to announce that the United States will be sending an additional 5,000 Troops to Poland.” He attributed this decision to his strong relationship with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, whom Trump endorsed in elections last year.

This reversal followed weeks of contradictory messages from Trump and his team regarding reducing rather than expanding America’s military presence across Europe.

Alliance members found themselves caught off guard, despite American promises to coordinate military deployments. “We’re going to stay well-synchronized with our allies moving forward,” NATO’s top military officer, U.S. Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich, promised on Wednesday.

Earlier this month, The Trump administration has said it was reducing levels in Europe by about 5,000 troops, and U.S. officials confirmed about 4,000 service members were no longer deploying to Poland.

The initial withdrawal announcement followed Trump’s anger over comments by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who said that the U.S. was being “humiliated” by the Iranian leadership and criticized what he called a lack of strategy in the war.

Trump subsequently informed journalists that America would be “cutting a lot further than 5,000.” He simultaneously unveiled new tariffs on European automobiles. Germany is the continent’s biggest auto producer.

Approximately 80,000 American service members are currently positioned across Europe. The Pentagon must maintain no fewer than 76,000 troops and major equipment stationed in Europe unless NATO allies are consulted and there is a determination that such a withdrawal is in U.S. interests.

Removing 5,000 troops could potentially push numbers beneath that threshold.

Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski welcomed Trump’s decision, which ensures that “the presence of American troops in Poland will be maintained more or less at previous levels.”

Carlo Petrini, the visionary behind Italy’s influential Slow Food movement that champions high-quality ingredients, authentic food preparation and locally-sourced products, has passed away at 76 years old.

Petrini died Thursday in his home city of Bra, located in Italy’s northwestern Piedmont region, according to a Friday statement from Slow Food. The organization did not specify what caused his death.

The movement’s former president, who stepped down from that role in 2022, had publicly shared in recent years that he was battling prostate cancer.

The Slow Food organization originated in 1986 as a response to McDonald’s establishment of its first Italian location in Rome’s historic downtown area.

According to the organization’s statement, Petrini “brought to life a global movement rooted in the values of good, clean, and fair food for all, connecting communities, farmers, food artisans, cooks, activists, and young people across the world.”

The movement grew from a small circle of companions in Italy’s rural areas during the 1980s into a worldwide network that now operates in over 160 nations, Slow Food noted.

Petrini developed a personal friendship with Britain’s King Charles through their shared commitment to sustainable farming practices, as both men championed organic agriculture methods.

BEIJING, May 22 (Reuters) — Chinese authorities on Friday expanded their restrictions on chemical exports by placing three additional substances on the banned precursor list for shipments to the United States, Mexico and Canada, according to a commerce ministry announcement.

China’s National Narcotics Control Commission simultaneously released a notice identifying eight chemicals with potential use in synthetic drug manufacturing, directing businesses to “strictly comply with domestic and foreign laws and regulations when engaging in related business and export trade activities.”

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi is scheduled to travel to New York where he will lead a high-level UN Security Council session on May 26, according to an announcement from China’s foreign ministry on Friday.

During his time in New York, Wang is expected to hold discussions with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and will meet with foreign ministers from “relevant countries,” the ministry stated in their official announcement.

Following his UN duties, Wang will make an official trip to Canada scheduled for May 28-30, accepting an invitation extended by his Canadian counterpart, the ministry confirmed.

HAVANA (AP) — The most recent public sighting of former Cuban President Raúl Castro occurred during a government-sponsored International Workers’ Day demonstration along Havana’s renowned waterfront, where he was surrounded by thousands of attendees.

The 94-year-old remained steady and composed beneath the intensifying sun on May 1, while others in his vicinity succumbed to the heat before the ceremony commenced. His security team, headed by his grandson Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, positioned themselves behind him.

Such public appearances have become uncommon for the final Castro brother from Cuba’s revolutionary period. Though he reportedly continues to hold considerable sway over governmental affairs, he keeps a minimal public presence despite his position as general of Cuba’s armed forces.

Castro returned to public attention Wednesday when federal prosecutors announced criminal charges against him related to directing the 1996 destruction of civilian aircraft operated by Miami-based Cuban exiles. The accusations encompass murder and aircraft destruction charges. Castro held the defense minister position during that time.

The criminal charges and subsequent statements Thursday from U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio sparked concerns about potential American military action against Cuba, similar to recent events in Venezuela during early January.

“We expect that he will show up here, by his own will or by another way,” acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said in announcing the charges against the former Cuban president during a press conference in Miami.

Cuba’s socialist government condemned the indictment and prepared to hold a rally Friday to honor Castro, who turns 95 on Jan. 3. Protests were planned Friday morning in front of the U.S. Embassy in Havana.

“The Cuban people reaffirm that neither threats, nor blockade, nor energy embargo, nor false accusations will be able to break the will of an entire people in defense of their Revolution,” read a statement published by state media.

It is not known if Castro will attend Friday’s event.

During July 1953, Castro faced arrest in Cuba on charges of armed insurrection after an unsuccessful attack on military installations. Though sentenced to 13 years imprisonment, he gained freedom after two years through political amnesty. Subsequently, he departed for Mexico to help coordinate revolutionary activities.

Castro wed guerrilla combatant Vilma Espín during the 1960s, and they became parents to four children. Details about Castro’s personal life remain limited: He maintains a reputation as devoted to family and officially lives in an area west of Havana.

Throughout his tenure as defense minister under his deceased brother Fidel Castro, and subsequently as president, his daily operations were notably private: avoiding scheduled appointments, formal events, or public and family celebrations.

Following his departure from office and transition of power to President Miguel Díaz-Canel, Raúl Castro has made few public appearances. He continues wearing his characteristic olive-green military attire when receiving foreign officials.

“He still has influence, and the leadership seeks his opinion on major decisions, but he is not running the government on a day-to-day basis,” said William LeoGrande, a political scientist at American University in Washington.

“If the U.S. were to abduct him, it would not change the operations of government, unlike what happened in Venezuela,” LeoGrande said.

The charges against Raúl Castro have intensified diplomatic friction between the U.S. and Cuba, which recently declared its petroleum supplies exhausted due to continuing American energy restrictions.

The nation’s difficulties have escalated following the Jan. 3 U.S. invasion of Venezuela, which stopped essential oil deliveries from that South American nation. Later in January, Trump issued threats of tariffs against any nation selling or supplying oil to Cuba.

Senior Trump administration officials — including Rubio, CIA chief John Ratcliffe and other prominent national security personnel — have conducted meetings with Cuban representatives in recent months to discuss relationship improvements. However, American officials have expressed dissatisfaction with these discussions, resulting in additional sanctions against Cuba’s government over the past week.

A 27-year-old Moroccan worker who has spent seven years as an undocumented migrant in Spain sees new possibilities ahead as the country’s leftist government rolls out a comprehensive amnesty program.

Abdelmoujoud Erra has survived on temporary jobs and lived in makeshift settlements, but now hopes the amnesty initiative could change his circumstances. “Without documents you work for five euros ($5.80) an hour. With documents, you work legally, with more money — maybe seven or eight euros an hour,” Erra explained from the southern Spanish province of Almería, where undocumented workers congregate at traffic circles seeking employment in the region’s vast greenhouse operations.

The amnesty program, which continues through June, represents a cornerstone of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s strategy to capitalize on migration’s economic advantages for Spain’s aging society, contrasting with border restrictions implemented by other nations.

However, the initiative has sparked fierce criticism from conservative opposition groups. The People’s Party argues it will overwhelm government services, while Vox has claimed the administration seeks to displace Spanish citizens.

For Erra, legal documentation would have opened doors to pursuing his boxing ambitions and visiting relatives in Morocco. “I’ve lost a lot of time. If only I had had papers earlier,” he reflected. Recently, a blaze destroyed the informal camp where he resided, though his amnesty paperwork survived because he had stored it at the local Red Cross facility.

Almería’s agricultural zone spans over 30,000 hectares (74,100 acres) of plastic-covered intensive farming, making it the European Union’s primary winter vegetable source. The region ships tomatoes, cucumbers and other produce valued at 3 billion euros each year while providing work for approximately 80,000 individuals, according to labor organizations and government officials.

Agricultural business associations and worker representatives express optimism that the amnesty will help solve staffing shortages. Andrés Góngora, coordinator of farmers’ union COAG, recognized that the industry relies on some undocumented workers and said the amnesty would create stability. Expanding the legal workforce could enable cultivation of more labor-demanding crops while promoting community harmony, he noted.

Advocacy organizations have consistently condemned living conditions in the Almería area, estimating approximately 10,000 migrants reside in inadequate housing and that at least 70% of agricultural workers lack legal status.

Spain’s population of 50 million has grown recently due to migration flows. Research organization Funcas calculates that roughly 840,000 undocumented migrants currently participate in the labor force.

Michael Aymaga, a 35-year-old from Ghana, represents another hopeful applicant. He lives in a migrant encampment near Nijar, where electrical service is sporadic and water availability is restricted. The amnesty opportunity fills him with excitement as he expresses his desire to give back to his adopted country. “I would definitely use all my skills and everything I have to help Spain (become) a better Spain,” he stated.

Pakistani officials are working to facilitate peace negotiations between the United States and Iran, with diplomatic meetings continuing in Tehran as both nations remain divided over key issues including uranium enrichment and maritime shipping controls.

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi conducted another diplomatic session with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi on Friday, according to the semi-official Tasnim news agency. This meeting occurred two days after Pakistani representatives delivered the most recent American proposal to Iranian officials.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism about the diplomatic progress on Thursday, telling reporters there had been “some good signs” in the negotiations. However, he emphasized that any resolution would be impossible if Iran continues to impose shipping fees in the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely closed to commercial traffic since the conflict began on February 28.

“There’s some good signs,” Rubio stated. “I don’t want to be overly optimistic … So, let’s see what happens over the next few days.”

A senior Iranian source indicated to Reuters on Thursday that negotiators have made progress in narrowing differences, though uranium enrichment activities and Strait of Hormuz control remain significant obstacles.

The conflict has severely impacted global markets, with rising oil costs raising concerns about widespread inflation. Prior to the war, approximately one-fifth of worldwide oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through the Strait of Hormuz.

Financial markets reflected the ongoing uncertainty Friday, with the U.S. dollar reaching near six-week highs and oil prices climbing as investors questioned whether diplomatic efforts would succeed.

“We’re coming to the end of week 12, we’re six weeks in the ceasefire, and I’m just not really that convinced we’re any closer to a resolution between the U.S. and Iran,” said Tony Sycamore, a market analyst at IG, regarding the Middle East conflict.

President Donald Trump declared Thursday that the United States would ultimately secure Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile, which Washington claims is intended for weapons development despite Tehran’s assertions that it serves peaceful purposes.

“We will get it. We don’t need it, we don’t want it. We’ll probably destroy it after we get it, but we’re not going to let them have it,” Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday.

Prior to Trump’s remarks, two senior Iranian sources informed Reuters that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei had ordered that the uranium must not leave the country.

The president also criticized Tehran’s plans to impose charges on vessels using the strait.

“We want it open, we want it free. We don’t want tolls,” Trump declared. “It’s an international waterway.”

Trump is facing political pressure domestically with November midterm elections approaching, as Americans express frustration over rising fuel costs and his approval ratings hover near their lowest point since his return to office last year.

Iran presented its most recent proposal to the United States earlier this week.

According to Tehran’s descriptions, the offer largely repeats conditions Trump has previously rejected, including demands for Strait of Hormuz control, war damage compensation, sanctions relief, asset unfreezing, and U.S. military withdrawal.

The International Energy Agency has characterized the conflict as creating the world’s most severe energy crisis.

The agency warned Thursday that peak summer fuel consumption combined with reduced Middle Eastern supply could push the market into the “red zone” during July and August.

Shipping traffic through the strait has dropped dramatically compared to the 125 to 140 daily transits recorded before the war began.

Iran has indicated it plans to reopen the strait to allied nations that comply with its conditions, which may include fee requirements.

“It would make a diplomatic deal unfeasible if they were to continue to pursue that. So it’s a threat to the world if they were trying to do that, and it’s completely illegal,” Rubio said.

Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have stated their military objectives include reducing Iran’s support for regional militant groups, eliminating its nuclear capabilities, destroying its missile arsenal, and facilitating regime change by Iranian citizens.

However, Iran has maintained its stockpile of weapons-grade enriched uranium and continues to possess the capability to threaten neighboring countries through missiles, drones, and proxy forces.

LONDON — Law enforcement officials in Britain issued a public appeal Friday for witnesses to come forward as part of their ongoing investigation into alleged criminal conduct by former Prince Andrew, with sexual misconduct among the potential charges being examined.

Thames Valley Police confirmed they have established communication with legal representatives of a woman who claims she was brought to a Windsor location in 2010 for sexual activities.

“Should she wish to report this to police it will be taken seriously and handled with care, sensitivity and respect for her privacy,” police said in a statement.

A Florida-based lawyer named Brad Edwards informed the BBC in January that his client had a sexual encounter with the former royal family member, who now goes by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, at his Windsor residence. Edwards stated his client was trafficked there by the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in 2010.

The former prince has consistently rejected any claims of wrongdoing related to the accusations made against him.

Mystery enthusiasts worldwide observed International Sherlock Holmes Day on Friday, paying tribute to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle on his birthday and celebrating the enduring legacy of literature’s most famous detective.

The festivities stretched from the iconic 221B Baker Street in London’s heart to the dramatic Reichenbach Falls nestled in Switzerland’s mountainous landscape, where devoted fans gathered to honor both the author and his legendary creation.

Earlier this month, members of the Sherlock Holmes Society of London made a special journey to Switzerland, donning Victorian-era clothing including traditional capes, deerstalker hats, and period dresses. Their mission: to recreate one of fiction’s most memorable death scenes at the Reichenbach Falls.

This dramatic confrontation between the brilliant detective and his arch-enemy Professor James Moriarty left readers stunned when “The Final Problem” was published, seemingly ending the career of one of literature’s most cherished characters.

Conan Doyle’s 1893 tale depicted Holmes vanishing over the waterfall’s edge alongside Moriarty, with only Dr. John Watson left behind to find a goodbye note near the rushing waters. The author, born May 22, 1859, had planned to eliminate Holmes permanently, believing the detective tales were preventing recognition of his more scholarly historical works.

Public reaction was immediate and intense. Magazine readers cancelled their subscriptions, donned black armbands as symbols of grief, and voiced strong opposition to their beloved detective’s demise. Ten years passed before Conan Doyle changed course, resurrecting Holmes in “The Adventure of the Empty House” with the revelation that the detective had faked his death and escaped the falls.

The Holmes chronicles established numerous foundations of contemporary detective literature. From 1887 through 1927, Conan Doyle produced four novels and 56 short stories featuring Holmes, pioneering methods like forensic reasoning, careful observation, and systematic analysis that became cornerstones of mystery writing.

These tales have inspired countless adaptations across theater, film, and comics globally, featuring performances by Jeremy Brett, Basil Rathbone, Christopher Lee, Robert Downey Jr., and Benedict Cumberbatch in various interpretations.

The newest adaptation features British actor Hero Fiennes Tiffin in Amazon Prime’s recent prequel series “Young Sherlock,” developed by Guy Ritchie and launched this year. Production on a second season is currently underway.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum at 221B Baker Street has welcomed visitors since 1990, displaying fascinating artifacts like Holmes’ violin and chemistry equipment, plus a pistol concealed within a carved-out book.

According to the stories, Holmes resided in this Georgian townhouse from 1881 to 1904, sharing the space with Watson. However, 221B was fictional when Conan Doyle wrote his stories, as Baker Street’s numbering system didn’t extend that far during that period.

The museum, actually situated between numbers 237 and 241, required special authorization from Westminster City Council to display the famous fictional address.

“It has to be the most famous address in the world, I would say,” tour guide Paul Leharne said. “No matter what reincarnation Sherlock Holmes is going to take, he’s always going to be living at 221B Baker Street.”

On May 3, society members delivered dramatic performances at Reichenbach Falls, complete with theatrical gestures, elaborate acting, and dark cloaks flowing in the waterfall’s mist as they portrayed the Holmes-Moriarty battle.

Established in 1951, the society unites readers, collectors, scholars, and admirers of Conan Doyle’s writings. Their Swiss expedition followed portions of the path outlined in “The Final Problem,” with members traveling through Switzerland in classic buses before taking a steep cog railway to reach the waterfall.

Reichenbach Falls gained fame as one of detective fiction’s most significant locations following Conan Doyle’s 1893 visit to the region.

Philip Porter, an author and publisher who portrayed Sherlock Holmes in the society’s recreation, emphasized the location’s continuing importance to the stories’ enduring popularity.

“It’s a pilgrimage,” he said. “It’s a very dramatic setting: The sound, the backdrop, the music behind us of the cascading water.”

Peter Horrocks, who took on Moriarty’s role, described the challenge of returning to everyday life after several days embodying the villain. “It’s a strange feeling, getting out of these clothes,” he said. “You do start to inhabit the character that you’re playing after a while.”

JAKARTA, Indonesia — A sweeping transformation of Indonesia’s commodity trade policies has industry experts comparing the sudden shift to a corporate takeover of major sectors in the resource-abundant nation, with potential worldwide consequences.

The policy change, revealed to parliament Wednesday by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, requires a newly established state-owned company to manage all national exports of coal, palm oil and iron alloys starting in September.

Prabowo explained that boosting tax collections is a primary goal. This would help replenish depleted government coffers that have been drained by energy disruptions from the conflict in Iran. Given Indonesia’s position as a leading commodities supplier, these policy changes are expected to create waves throughout global supply networks.

The Southeast Asian country stands as the world’s top supplier of thermal coal used for power generation and palm oil, an essential component in products ranging from beauty items to alternative fuels. This nation of approximately 287 million residents also possesses the planet’s largest confirmed nickel deposits, a crucial material for electric car batteries and stainless steel production.

Industry analysts predict China, as Indonesia’s primary trading ally, will experience the most significant impact from this policy transformation.

China is monitoring Indonesia’s “initiative to nationalize” while evaluating “how it would impact China’s further cooperation,” according to Lie Xie from the UK-based think tank Third Generation Environmentalism. “The future path that Indonesia is taking is highly important for China.”

The rapid timeline for implementing these new regulations could disrupt China’s access to essential materials for its clean technology sectors, which depend on Indonesian resources to meet expanding renewable energy demands. Chinese corporations represent major stakeholders in numerous Indonesian sectors, including essential minerals.

“Indonesia has become vital to China” as it provides the materials that “underpin China’s dominance in electric vehicles, batteries, and industrial manufacturing,” explained Li Shuo from the Asia Society Policy Institute’s China Climate Hub. “But the relationship is evolving.”

If executed properly, consolidating Indonesia’s trade operations could also create opportunities for increased American investment, experts noted, as the U.S. competes with China for critical resources.

“Such a move is a clear signal that U.S. investment is being attracted to come to Indonesia even more,” stated Bhima Yudhistira from the Jakarta-based Center of Economic and Law Studies. He characterized the new approach as a “hostile takeover” that will require reviewing every agreement in Chinese-controlled industries.

Prabowo informed legislators that Indonesia had forfeited up to $908 billion due to exporters misrepresenting their sales figures to evade taxes and additional charges.

“The primary objective of this policy is to strengthen oversight and monitoring — and to combat under-invoicing, transfer pricing and the diversion of export proceeds,” he stated.

The organization assuming control of Indonesia’s commodity exports — PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia — received official registration one day prior to Prabowo’s declaration. Danantara, the sovereign wealth fund established by the president last year, holds 99% ownership and will enhance government authority in commodity pricing decisions.

This “represents a governance reform, a step toward strengthening our credibility in managing strategic commodity trade in an orderly and accountable manner,” commented Yvonne Mewengkang from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Between June and August, private enterprises must transfer their import and export operations to Danantara, which should oversee all international trade transactions by September.

“There will be an explanation for investors later, so that stakeholders will be informed before June 1,” noted Airlangga Hartarto, the coordinating economic minister in Indonesia. “After all, in the initial phase, we are focusing on transparency in reporting.”

Trade specialists question whether the government can smoothly assume control of commerce across all these sectors in under four months.

China serves as Indonesia’s leading trade partner and represents one of its largest foreign investment sources.

Chinese companies control Indonesia’s nickel sector while China remains a top buyer of resources covered by the trade reorganization.

Additional significant buyers of Indonesian palm oil, coal and nickel include the U.S. and European Union. India, Japan, South Korea and regional neighbors Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines would also face effects.

Under Prabowo’s leadership, the administration has expanded oversight of strategically vital commodities, targeting illegal mining activities, assuming plantation control and promoting domestic refining capabilities for critical minerals.

Prior to Prabowo’s announcement, the China Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia delivered a five-page complaint letter last week expressing investor worries about Indonesia’s unpredictable business environment.

Chinese companies have recently encountered “excessively stringent regulation, over-enforcement, and even corruption and extortion by competent authorities,” the correspondence stated. This has “severely disrupted normal business operations” and “undermined long-term investment confidence.”

“Prabowo didn’t listen to the complaint from these Chinese companies and then did something very, very shocking with this new body to control the export,” Yudhistira observed.

Through establishing state oversight of key sectors, Indonesia aims to diversify its investor base, according to Yudhistira with CELIOS. Diminishing Chinese influence may generate interest from alternative partners, including the U.S.

This will only escalate the resource competition between the two superpowers, he cautioned.

Whether this new approach successfully draws fresh investors will hinge on implementation transparency, noted Syahdiva Moezbar from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air.

Private companies report remaining uninformed about specifics.

Danantara’s effects on small-scale trade, specialty product exports and processing industries require clarification, according to Eddy Martono, chairman of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association.

“Exporters usually already have their own established markets; we must ensure we do not lose these markets if they are not managed properly,” he emphasized.

WARSAW, May 22 – Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki expressed appreciation to President Donald Trump following the US decision to deploy additional American military personnel to Poland.

Nawrocki’s thanks followed Trump’s Thursday announcement that the United States would deploy 5,000 additional troops, with Trump citing his relationship with the conservative nationalist leader as the motivation.

“Good alliances are those based on cooperation, mutual respect, and a commitment to our shared security,” Nawrocki wrote on X.

“I thank U.S. President Donald J. Trump for his friendship toward Poland and for the decisions whose practical dimension we see very clearly today,” Nawrocki added on Thursday night.

The move to deploy more soldiers to Poland demonstrates that Polish-American relations remain “very strong, and Poland is a model ally,” Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz stated, also posting on X.

Earlier this week on Tuesday, US Vice President JD Vance informed reporters that a planned US military deployment to Poland had faced delays, though he clarified it would be incorrect to characterize this as a withdrawal of troops from Europe.

Previously, Polish officials had expressed concern over reports suggesting the Pentagon had scrapped deployment plans for their country, but they later provided assurances to Polish citizens that such reports were inaccurate.

Trade officials from across the Asia-Pacific region have convened in the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou for discussions focused on strengthening economic cooperation amid mounting global tensions.

The two-day conference, which began Friday, brings together representatives from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation nations – a bloc that handles nearly half of worldwide trade. Participants are addressing multilateral partnerships, trade imbalances, and how to build more resilient supply chains during times of international crisis, including the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

During Friday’s opening ceremony, Li Chenggang, China’s international trade representative and vice commerce minister, emphasized the importance of collaboration during uncertain times. “The more turbulent the times, the more we must adhere to seeking common ground while reserving differences, working together to overcome difficulties, striving to reach more consensus, leading the Asia-Pacific economy through the crisis and injecting confidence into the global economy,” Li stated.

The Suzhou meetings serve as preparation for this year’s annual APEC leaders summit scheduled for Shenzhen. Attendees are also examining ways to advance regional free-trade agreements, enhance digital commerce, improve artificial intelligence capabilities, and promote sustainable economic growth.

Li outlined this year’s conference priorities as “optimising institutional arrangements, cultivating momentum in emerging fields, jointly expanding the Asia-Pacific economic pie and ensuring fair distribution of that pie to achieve inclusive, mutually beneficial, and win-win outcomes.”

The gathering occurs against a backdrop of significant trade tensions. China recently reported a record trade surplus approaching $1.2 trillion for the previous year. Meanwhile, Group of Seven finance ministers recently reached consensus on addressing current trade imbalances, describing the situation as unsustainable. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has advocated for increased protections against an influx of low-priced Chinese goods.

The conference follows recent high-profile diplomatic visits to Beijing by U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. All three nations hold APEC membership.

APEC Business Advisory Council chair Li Fanrong addressed the gathering Friday, highlighting the economic pressures facing the global marketplace. Speaking for the business community, he called for a moratorium on additional trade restrictions to avoid creating more uncertainty. “The stakes could not be higher for business confidence, jobs, living standards and long-term prosperity in our region,” he declared.

Notable participants representing APEC’s 21 member economies include Rick Switzer, the deputy U.S. trade representative; Don Farrell, Australia’s trade minister; Kao Kim Hourn, ASEAN’s secretary general; and Taiwan’s top trade negotiator, Yang Jen-ni.

Japanese trade minister Ryosei Akazawa’s attendance marks the highest-ranking Japanese official visit to China since diplomatic relations deteriorated in November. A potential meeting between Akazawa and senior Chinese officials would represent the most significant diplomatic contact since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi sparked controversy by suggesting Japan might respond militarily to a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan.

Following those remarks, Beijing implemented various retaliatory actions, including discouraging Chinese citizens from traveling to Japan and restricting exports of certain rare earth materials essential for manufacturing electric vehicles, weapons, and other products.

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 – Starting June 1, Malaysia will implement fresh regulations designed to shield young people from dangerous online material, according to an announcement Friday from the country’s communications regulator.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission announced that these new regulations will mandate online service companies to establish protective measures that restrict account creation and ownership for individuals younger than 16, while also enforcing enhanced content oversight across their platforms.

According to the commission, these initiatives target providing suitable age-based protections and limitations for high-risk elements found on digital platforms.

The regulatory body stated that online platform companies must establish “effective reporting and response mechanisms, advertiser verification measures and the labelling of manipulated content where appropriate.”

While the commission mentioned that online platforms will receive a grace period to put these measures into effect, officials did not reveal how long this transition period will last.

In recent years, Malaysia has increased its oversight of social media corporations following discoveries of a significant increase in dangerous online material. Malaysian officials classify online gambling, fraudulent schemes, child pornography and grooming, cyberbullying, and material concerning race, religion, and royalty as harmful content.

The administration intends to implement age verification for users within this year, mirroring comparable actions worldwide aimed at restricting social media access for young people.

Turkish officials have permanently shut down Istanbul Bilgi University by canceling its operating permit, according to an announcement in the country’s Official Gazette on Friday. The closure comes after government authorities took control of the institution during a criminal investigation last year.

The private university, which opened its doors in 1996, was purchased by Can Holding in 2019. However, the holding company’s assets were confiscated by the government as part of an ongoing probe into money laundering, tax evasion, and organized crime activities last year.

Following the government seizure, officials placed the university under the management of a state-appointed trustee. The institution currently serves approximately 22,000 students, with about 3,400 new enrollments expected for 2025.

According to Turkish news outlets, affected students will transfer their studies to the Mimar Sinan University of Fine Arts, which serves as Istanbul Bilgi University’s guarantor institution. Under Turkish law, all private foundation universities must designate a state university as their guarantor school.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan gave final approval for the decision to cancel Istanbul Bilgi’s operating license, effectively ending the university’s nearly three-decade operation.

KHARTOUM, Sudan — A routine call from a husband became the last contact a Sudanese family would ever have. He had finished his duties and planned to visit the market on his way home. But this wasn’t an ordinary workday — he was coming back from battle.

Fahmy al-Fateh never returned home that day. His wife, Azaher Abdallah, began reaching out to friends, family members, and eventually his military unit colleagues. Witnesses last spotted her husband departing from a military facility in Khartoum on a motorcycle. That occurred more than 12 months ago.

Today, their young 3-year-old boy yells at every motorcycle that passes by, believing his father might be riding it, Abdallah explained.

“He was the most precious thing in my life,” she expressed through tears, covering her face with her palms. “I would feel more at peace if I knew something. It’s better than not knowing what happened to him, whether he’s alive or dead.”

Al-Fateh represents just one case among more than 8,000 individuals who have disappeared throughout Sudan’s three-year conflict, based on data from the International Committee of the Red Cross. The warfare has shattered families across the nation. Citizens have become separated during evacuation attempts, vanished amid combat operations, or been secretly imprisoned, leaving loved ones desperate for answers about their whereabouts.

Numerous missing persons from Khartoum state are believed to rest in unmarked burial sites where tens of thousands of remains have been discovered since Sudan’s army regained control of the capital from paramilitary forces last year.

During active fighting, burying bodies in traditional cemeteries proved extremely hazardous. Residents created graves wherever possible under the circumstances.

While traveling through the city last month, Associated Press journalists observed sports facilities and burial grounds filled beyond capacity with the deceased. Dirt piles next to an abandoned fuel station displayed improvised markers bearing names and dates, though many lacked any identification.

A military media representative accompanied the AP throughout the visit, including during interview sessions. The AP maintains complete editorial authority over its reporting.

The ICRC reported resolving more than 1,000 missing person cases but declined to specify how many individuals were found alive versus deceased.

Abdallah was asleep when her husband departed their home before dawn last January. Al-Fateh, a 38-year-old farmer and trader, had enlisted with Sudan’s army at the war’s onset. That morning, he was participating in efforts to reclaim Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

Since his disappearance, the 30-year-old Abdallah has searched throughout the city, checked hospital morgues, and requested military assistance. His unit promised to attempt locating him. If no news emerged, they advised, she should assume he was missing.

At their residence on Khartoum’s outskirts, she reviews photographs of him wearing his uniform, maintaining hope for his eventual return.

“That is what my heart tells me,” she stated.

Mental health experts explain that uncertainty regarding missing family members can trigger years of severe emotional distress.

“Families of missing persons experience additional layers of vulnerabilities due to hostilities, displacement and ambiguous loss,” explained Nathalie Nyamukeba, a psychologist with the ICRC.

Several Sudanese families report that continuing the search remains their only coping mechanism.

Sulafa Mustafa’s son disappeared two years ago. The reserved 18-year-old Suleiman Abdalsid visited a friend’s residence near Khartoum and failed to return home.

His mother persistently traveled through neighborhoods, even while artillery sounds echoed nearby, conducting house-to-house inquiries. She has checked medical facilities and detention centers, showing his photograph to countless strangers.

She has even used a rented microphone to call out his name.

“I haven’t lost faith in finding you,” she declared, then covered her face with her hands.

Locating people dead or alive remains extremely difficult in Sudan, particularly as the conflict continues. Laboratories that could have conducted DNA analysis have been destroyed, and few forensic experts remain in the country.

In Khartoum state, officials have relocated nearly 30,000 bodies — from approximately 50,000 total — that had been quickly buried near residences, in athletic fields, or alongside roads when the RSF controlled the territory. Their efforts are ongoing.

Roughly 10% of relocated bodies remain unidentified.

Hisham Zienalabdien, director general of the forensic medicine department for Khartoum state, explained they are preserving DNA from unidentified remains with hopes of eventually matching it with family members.

For families who have located loved ones but cannot provide proper burials, a different type of anguish exists.

Abubakar Alswai waited over a year to transfer his 73-year-old brother, Mohamed, from where he had been interred in front of his residence to a public cemetery.

The RSF had killed Mohamed but waited three weeks before allowing a neighbor to bury his bullet-struck and decomposing body. According to Islamic customs, widely practiced in Sudan, funeral services should occur as rapidly as possible, preferably within 24 hours.

Alswai wiped tears from his face while watching grave diggers exhume his brother’s remains. At least Mohamed would now receive the respectful burial he deserved, he said, and his family could find some closure.

“What happened had left a mark on my heart,” he said.

BELGRADE, Serbia — University students across Serbia are preparing for their largest demonstration of 2025 this weekend, intensifying their campaign for sweeping political reform in the Balkan nation governed by authoritarian President Aleksandar Vucic.

Saturday’s rally in the capital city of Belgrade is expected to draw thousands of participants from across the country.

The student-led movement previously organized massive anti-corruption demonstrations that challenged Vucic’s authority throughout last year. Currently, the activists are focusing their efforts on upcoming elections scheduled for later this year or early next, which they believe could remove Vucic’s right-wing populist administration from power.

“We hope a lot of people will come and spend the day with us, and then continue to support the students because we are preparing for the elections,” youth representative Isidora Jovanovic told The Associated Press. “Serbia needs a change, and students will bring that change.”

Saturday’s demonstration will take place at Belgrade’s Slavija Square, where a massive anti-government gathering occurred last March. That previous rally concluded with an abrupt disturbance that analysts later claimed — though the government disputed — involved authorities deploying a sonic weapon against peaceful demonstrators.

Earlier this week at the square, law enforcement officers intervened to keep Vucic’s supporters separated from students who were creating their “Students win” banners. Several days before that incident, an elderly person sustained injuries when a motorist disrupted a traffic blockade in downtown Belgrade.

Multiple confrontations have occurred in recent months, including violent episodes that disrupted a local election in March.

Jovanovic stated that event organizers are taking every precaution to prevent any confrontations, particularly given the large number of attendees expected from throughout Serbia. The students “don’t want any of them (citizens) to leave with a bad feeling or injuries.”

The student activism began following a railway station disaster that claimed 16 lives in northern Serbia during November 2024. The movement maintained faculty blockades for months in 2025, ultimately forcing then-Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and his administration to step down.

The demonstrators declared that outcome insufficient and have called for early elections, which Vucic has yet to schedule.

The demand for responsibility regarding the concrete canopy collapse at the Novi Sad station struck a chord with the general population, as many citizens attributed the disaster to widespread corruption and carelessness in government infrastructure developments.

Dusan Vucicevic, a professor at the Faculty of Political Sciences, described how the youth movement has evolved into a significant political force with substantial public backing. He believes students can anticipate an “excellent result” in future voting.

“We finally have a political group that can challenge the (ruling) Serbian Progressive Party and Aleksandar Vucic,” Vucicevic told the AP.

Vucic has mounted an aggressive campaign against the demonstrators. Government-aligned media outlets have labeled his opponents as terrorists and foreign operatives seeking to harm the nation — language that has intensified political tensions.

The president’s supporters will probably occupy a park encampment near the presidency building on Saturday, which he established last March, seemingly as protection against protesters. Multiple assaults on demonstrators and media personnel have been documented near the camp previously.

Accounts of law enforcement using disproportionate force and making arbitrary arrests of protesters have drawn international attention. Serbia’s retreat from democratic principles could result in the loss of approximately 1.5 billion euros ($1.8 billion) in European Union funding designated for membership candidate countries.

Branislav Vasic and Filip Novakovic, first-year students at Belgrade’s Faculty of Political Sciences, told the AP they plan to attend Saturday’s demonstration. The 19-year-olds described participating alongside their senior classmates in protests as essential.

“Everyone should go to the rally out of principle because of the situation,” Vasic said. He maintains that “there is the strength for change as long as people want it.”

Novakovic expressed his belief that “we are together in this, one step away from a better future.” He said this generation possesses a unique opportunity to achieve the transformations that earlier generations were unable to accomplish.

“I will keep trying as long as I live,” he said. “This struggle is a long one.”

British law enforcement officials announced Friday that their criminal investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor will require considerable time and resources, following the royal family member’s arrest earlier this year on charges of misconduct in public office.

The younger sibling of King Charles was taken into custody at his Norfolk residence in February and questioned for several hours by investigators. His arrest came after the U.S. Department of Justice released millions of documents connected to deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The detention of the 66-year-old royal, who holds eighth position in the line of succession, marked an extraordinary moment in contemporary British history. International media outlets featured photographs of the former prince departing the police facility.

Mountbatten-Windsor, the second child of the late Queen Elizabeth, has consistently rejected allegations of any improper conduct regarding Epstein, though he has acknowledged regretting their association. He has remained silent publicly since his arrest.

“The investigation is by necessity hugely thorough and will take time,” Oliver Wright, Assistant Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, who are carrying out the inquiry, told reporters. “It’s not going to be a quick investigation by any means.”

Investigators are examining the former prince’s duties as special representative for trade and investment from 2001 to 2011, with correspondence from the DOJ indicating he may have disclosed sensitive information to Epstein.

The misconduct charge, which can result in life imprisonment, encompasses various forms of serious wrongdoing including information breaches, corruption, and sexual impropriety.

“There’s a number of aspects of alleged misconduct that the investigation is examining. So we’re speaking with a range of witnesses,” said Wright, who followed British protocol by not naming Mountbatten-Windsor directly, as is standard practice before formal charges are filed.

Wright reported that authorities have gathered “a significant amount of information” from citizens and various sources, emphasizing the investigation’s complexity.

Officers are also examining claims that a woman was brought to a Windsor location in 2010 for sexual purposes, after legal representation for the alleged victim informed the BBC that Epstein had arranged for her to travel to Britain for a sexual encounter with the former prince.

While investigators have interviewed the attorney, the woman herself has not yet filed a formal complaint. British authorities noted that some potential victims may hesitate to come forward due to intense media scrutiny.

“In terms of Epstein victims and survivors, we hope that anyone with relevant information will come forward and I really want to stress that our door is open whenever a victim survivor is ready to engage with us. We’re ready for you at whatever point that may be,” Wright said.

A specialized team of veteran officers is handling the case, which has been classified as a major crime equivalent to a homicide investigation. They are coordinating with the U.S. Department of Justice but have not yet obtained the Epstein documents.

“That is ongoing, and it’s a fairly complex thing to do, but we’re working very hard on that,” Wright said.

On Thursday, the British government disclosed confidential records regarding Mountbatten-Windsor’s trade envoy appointment, revealing that the late queen had advocated for his selection to the position.

King Charles, who removed his brother’s titles and honors last October, expressed deep concern about the arrest and stated that authorities have the family’s “full and wholehearted support and cooperation.”

Thames Valley is not the sole British police department investigating potential crimes related to the Epstein files.

Surrey police announced Tuesday that they are examining two allegations of child sexual abuse, one reportedly occurring in the 1980s and another from the mid-1990s to 2000. Officials provided no additional information about the individuals involved.

May 15-21, 2026

Federal prosecutors have filed criminal charges against former Cuban President Raúl Castro in connection with civilian aircraft shot down in 1996 that were operated by Miami-based exiles, marking an escalation in the Trump administration’s pressure campaign against Cuba’s socialist government.

In Bolivia, demonstrations and roadblocks organized by mining workers and labor unions brought the country’s political capital to a standstill, intensifying pressure on President Rodrigo Paz merely six months after he took office.

Suspected members of Los Ardillos launched attacks on communities throughout Mexico’s Guerrero region using gunfire, fire-setting and explosive drones, compelling hundreds of residents to evacuate their homes.

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This gallery was assembled by photojournalist Eraldo Peres based in Brasilia, Brazil.

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AP photography: https://apnews.com/photography

AP News on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apnews

WASHINGTON — America’s top diplomat Marco Rubio is working to calm worried European partners about the Trump administration’s plans for NATO, attempting to present a more diplomatic approach amid confusion over U.S. military presence overseas.

On Friday, Rubio will participate in a NATO foreign ministers gathering in Sweden while Pentagon leadership simultaneously briefs the 32-member alliance on America’s military dedication to European security at NATO headquarters in Brussels.

This diplomatic meeting, which comes before a NATO leaders summit scheduled for Turkey in July, occurs during significant uncertainty about the Iran war’s trajectory and whether stalled American efforts to mediate the Russia-Ukraine conflict might restart. European frustration continues over President Donald Trump’s critiques of partner nations and his expressed desire to acquire Greenland, which belongs to NATO member Denmark.

Rubio frequently serves as a more moderate voice from the Trump administration during international gatherings. He has been sent on multiple diplomatic missions this year, including the Munich Security Conference in February and a recent trip to Italy, where he engaged with Italian leadership and Pope Leo XIV following Trump’s criticism of the pontiff regarding his positions on crime and the Iran conflict.

Before departing for the meeting in Helsingborg, Sweden, Rubio refused to address potential modifications to America’s military footprint in Europe, including possible reductions in troop numbers under the NATO Force Model, which serves as a backup plan for European security during serious threats.

The Trump administration had previously decided to halt the deployment of thousands of American troops to Poland and Germany, but the president then announced on social media Thursday that “the United States will be sending an additional 5,000 Troops to Poland.”

Uncertainty remains about whether this means the previously canceled brigade would resume its Poland deployment, if extra troops beyond the rotational assignment would be added, or if troop reductions would still occur in other European nations. Pentagon officials directed inquiries to the White House, which did not immediately provide clarification.

Previously, Rubio confirmed that Trump and other administration officials, including himself, are “very disappointed” with NATO, particularly regarding its Iran war response.

“I don’t think anyone is shocked to know that the United States, and the president in particular, is very disappointed at NATO right now,” he told reporters in Miami before boarding his plane.

While describing himself as a “strong supporter” of the transatlantic military partnership and calling it significant, Rubio echoed criticisms that certain NATO partners, particularly Spain, had blocked U.S. base access for Iran conflict operations. He noted others showed reluctance to join efforts to reopen and secure the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping passage that Iran has largely shut down.

“I know why NATO is good for Europe, but why is NATO good for America?” Rubio asked rhetorically, answering his own question by referring to bases that allow the U.S. and others to project power globally. “So, when that is the key rationale for why you’re in NATO, and then you have countries like Spain denying us the use of these bases, well, then, why are you in NATO?”

Rubio observed that virtually all NATO members oppose Iran developing nuclear capabilities, yet few responded when Trump announced he would act to prevent such development.

“He’s not asking them to commit troops. He’s not asking them to send their fighter jets in. But they refuse to do anything, and so I think the president looks at that and says, ‘Hold on a second,’” Rubio said. “I think we were very upset about that. The president has made that very clear.”

NATO leadership has minimized the significance of American troop level adjustments in Europe, claiming these changes were planned well in advance and are not unexpected.

However, these announcements have caught some partners off guard and occurred despite American commitments to coordinate military decisions to prevent security vulnerabilities. Trump’s apparent reversal on Poland also came as another surprise.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated Wednesday that American allies have been aware for a year that the Trump administration would withdraw some European troops, and the alliance expects “rightly, for Europe and Canada to take a bigger responsibility for the conventional defense of NATO and particularly, of course, the European part of NATO.”

Rutte indicated the U.S. “will stay involved” but might eventually redirect resources to other global regions. U.S. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, who leads both American and NATO forces in Europe, assured this week that European security would remain intact but cautioned that allies should anticipate additional reductions in coming years.

The Trump administration has indicated that Europe must assume greater responsibility for its own security, including Ukraine’s protection, going forward.

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday his plans to hold a conversation with Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, marking an extraordinary step for an American leader that could strain diplomatic ties with China and potentially trigger additional Chinese military exercises near the island.

This marks Trump’s second announcement in a week regarding his intention to contact Lai, eliminating earlier theories that his initial mention following last week’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping was an accidental comment.

Taiwan expressed willingness for Lai and Trump to engage in dialogue, although neither Washington nor Taipei has confirmed specific timing for such a conversation.

Addressing the potential Trump-Lai discussion, China’s foreign ministry stated Thursday that the United States must “handle the Taiwan issue with extreme caution and stop sending wrong signals to the separatist forces of Taiwan independence.”

The following explains why Beijing might strongly oppose such communication.

CHINA’S STANCE ON TAIWAN

Beijing considers Taiwan its most crucial and delicate matter, involving Chinese sovereignty and territorial integrity that outsiders should not question or meddle with.

China regards Taiwan as unfinished business from the Chinese civil war, during which the defeated Republic of China government escaped to the island in 1949 after losing to Mao Zedong’s communist forces, who established the People’s Republic.

Beijing declares Taiwan a Chinese province without legitimate claims to statehood and has not ruled out military action to achieve control, while stating preference for “peaceful reunification.”

China describes Taiwan as its “core of core interests” and an uncrossable red line, consistently condemning high-level interactions between foreign officials and Taipei as meddling in Chinese domestic matters.

Both Chinese and Taiwanese administrations do not officially acknowledge each other, and China declines to address Lai as “president.”

CHINA’S PREVIOUS RESPONSES TO U.S.-TAIWAN ENGAGEMENT

Beijing conducted significant military exercises around Taiwan in 2022 following then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s Taipei visit, and has organized multiple other military drills responding to American engagement with Taiwan.

China’s most recent major military maneuvers near the island occurred in late December. Earlier that month, the Trump administration authorized an $11 billion weapons sales package to Taiwan, representing its largest ever.

TAIWAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Taiwan operates as a flourishing democracy whose leadership firmly dismisses Beijing’s sovereignty assertions. Taiwan maintains it is an independent nation named the Republic of China, the island’s official designation, with rights to international engagement and democratic self-determination.

Lai has consistently proposed discussions with China but faced rejection. Beijing labels him a “separatist.”

AMERICAN POSITION

America ended formal diplomatic relations with Taipei in 1979, choosing Beijing instead, but remains obligated under the Taiwan Relations Act to supply the island with defensive capabilities. America officially maintains neutrality on Taiwan’s sovereignty through Washington’s “One China” policy.

In 2022, the State Department incorporated language regarding the Six Assurances, referencing six Reagan-era security commitments to Taiwan that America declassified in 2020.

These assurances from 1982, previously kept confidential, include statements that America has not established a timeline for ending weapons sales to Taiwan, nor agreed to prior consultation with Beijing regarding such sales, or to modify the Taiwan Relations Act governing American policy toward the island.

China has consistently demanded America cease weapons sales to Taiwan.

TRUMP’S PREVIOUS TAIWAN CONTACT

In late 2016, President-elect Trump conducted a 10-minute conversation with then-President Tsai Ing-wen. China responded with measured criticism, filing a diplomatic protest and accusing Taiwan of pursuing a “petty action.”

A South Korean government minister announced his department will cease providing products from businesses that trivialize the nation’s democratic past, following widespread criticism of a Starbucks Korea promotional campaign that referenced a deadly 1980 military assault on democracy advocates.

The coffee company introduced its “Tank Day” promotion on the anniversary date of the May 18 Gwangju uprising, when military forces deployed troops and armored vehicles to crush mass demonstrations calling for democratic reforms.

“Conduct that makes light of that history or consumes it as commercial material is an issue that can never be taken lightly,” Yun Ho-jung wrote on X late on Thursday, expressing deep regret over what he called Starbucks Korea’s “anti-historical conduct” and saying the Ministry of the Interior and Safety would no longer offer products from companies that made light of the history and value of democracy or used it as commercial material.

This week, Shinsegae Group, which operates Starbucks locations in South Korea under license, terminated the coffee chain’s local chief executive due to the promotional campaign, stating it was unsuitable.

When contacted regarding the voucher decision, Shinsegae pointed to Tuesday’s public statement of remorse issued by Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin.

According to Yun, government departments including the Interior Ministry typically distribute gift certificates such as coffee vouchers to individuals participating in surveys, competitions and civic engagement activities.

He called on other institutions and citizens to adopt his ministry’s approach.

The Interior Ministry handles government operations along with emergency and safety oversight.

Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Kwon Oheul also criticized Starbucks in an X post late on Thursday, saying his ministry would strengthen monitoring to prevent the spread of false information related to the uprising.

Military forces under the dictatorship of Chun Doo-hwan are believed to have killed or caused the disappearance of hundreds during the Gwangju protest suppression. Numerous aspects of the incident remain unclear, including the identity of who authorized troops to fire on demonstrators.

In his statement this week, Shinsegae Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin recognized the suffering the promotional campaign had inflicted.

“I deeply bow in apology as the representative of the group,” Chung said. The marketing “deeply hurt the public, the bereaved families, and the victims of the May 18 demonstration.”

The controversy has sparked consumer boycott movements on social media and prompted police complaints against Chung, according to Seoul law enforcement.

Data from WISEAPP shows Starbucks holds the top position among food and beverage chains in South Korea based on estimated customer numbers during the six-month period ending in February.

A British mountaineer has established a new milestone for foreign climbers by successfully reaching the summit of Mount Everest for the 20th time, according to hiking officials in Nepal.

Kenton Cool, age 52, conquered the 8,849-metre (29,032-foot) summit in the early morning hours on Friday and was making his way down to lower camps, according to Ishwori Poudel from the expedition organizing company Himalayan Guides.

An expedition organizer who has climbed Everest four times described Cool as someone who is “quietly rewriting the record books.” Lukas Furtenbach of the Austria-based Furtenbach Adventures company praised the achievement.

“More Everest summits than any non-Sherpa ever… and still making it look like just another walk in the hills. Absolute legend,” Furtenbach told Reuters from the base camp. Cool climbed with one of Furtenbach’s teams.

Cool, whose initial Everest climb took place in 2004 and who has returned annually except during years when authorities shut down the mountain for various reasons, emphasized that reaching Everest’s peak is never routine.

“It never gets any easier or any less frightening. It’s the tallest mountain in the world and with it comes an incredible sense of majesty,” Cool said in a statement.

“I rely on every bit of experience I have to move safely in this environment. Standing on the summit for the twentieth time is incredibly special.”

A Nepali Sherpa, Kami Rita, holds the overall record for most Everest summits at 32.

More than 8,000 people have successfully climbed Everest, with many completing multiple ascents, since New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay first reached the top in 1953.

ANTIBES, France — Hollywood stars attending the film festival in the French Riviera traveled to a luxury charity event Thursday evening, where an exclusive auction generated substantial funds for AIDS research initiatives.

The elegant gathering took place at the Hotel Du Cap, Eden Roc, featuring dinner entertainment from notable performers including Robbie Williams, Zara Larsson and Lizzo. Actress Geena Davis served as the evening’s host, appearing prominently on this year’s festival promotional materials honoring the film “Thelma & Louise.”

Speaking to reporters before the event, Lizzo shared her enthusiasm for upcoming musical projects. “I’m just so excited. I’m trying to bring back good, clean fun. Like, I just want to have fun again, people need to dance, people need to laugh,” she said.

The guest list included prominent entertainment figures such as Rami Malek, who has a project competing at the current festival, along with Eva Longoria, Heidi Klum, Sofia Carson, Natasha Poly and Bar Refaeli.

The auction featured an impressive collection of valuable items and exclusive opportunities.

Actor William Abadie offered a cameo appearance in the television series “Emily in Paris” while revealing that the sixth season would conclude the show. Following competitive bidding, organizers provided two such opportunities, each selling for 375,000 euros ($435,545).

High-value artwork dominated the evening’s sales, with a complete collection of Andy Warhol screen prints featuring Marylin Monroe commanding 2.8 million euros ($3,252,228).

Luxury accessories also drew significant interest. Festival sponsor Chopard contributed diamond earrings that brought 600,000 euros ($696,906), while an extremely rare Audemars Piguet timepiece — limited to just five pieces worldwide — sold for an impressive 1,450,000 euros ($1,684,160).

Williams delivered a compilation of his popular songs, concluding with “Angels” as a tribute to his daughter. Premium concert tickets became an unexpected auction item, with two bidders each paying 220,000 euros ($255,5278) for separate ticket packages.

Larsson concluded the dinner portion with an energetic set that drew attendees to dance near the performance area. Following the formal program, guests continued celebrating at a poolside reception.

The organization has accumulated nearly 841 million euros ($950 million) for AIDS research and related programs since its founding in 1985, distributing more than 3,800 grants during that period.

A Chinese industrial empire that grew from a failing textile factory into one of the world’s largest petrochemical companies now finds itself caught in an international sanctions battle between Washington and Beijing.

The Hengli Group’s petrochemical division, which operates a massive 400,000 barrel-per-day oil refinery in Dalian, was sanctioned by the United States last month over allegations of purchasing Iranian crude oil. The company has denied these accusations.

The sanctions targeted Hengli along with approximately 40 shipping companies and vessels as the US seeks to pressure China into helping broker a resolution to Middle East conflicts that began when America and Israel launched attacks on Iran in February. This occurred as the presidents of both nations were preparing for diplomatic meetings.

Hengli represents the largest Chinese refining operation to face US sanctions to date.

China, which has consistently opposed such unilateral actions, quickly moved to protect the company by implementing for the first time a 2021 law designed to prevent businesses from complying with foreign sanctions.

In the past, Washington had primarily focused on smaller players, including independent Chinese refiners called “teapots” that were the primary buyers of Iranian crude since sanctions were reimposed in 2018.

“Hengli is no teapot refinery. It is a world-class, world-scale plant that is representative of the large integrated refining and petrochemical facilities in which Beijing increasingly wants to consolidate its refining capacity,” said Erica Downs, senior research scholar at Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy.

“This is probably why Beijing felt compelled to use its anti-sanctions law for the first time,” she said.

The company’s billionaire co-founders, Chen Jianhua and his wife Fan Hongwei, have not responded to requests for comment.

SWIFT CONSEQUENCES

The financial penalties produced immediate results across Hengli’s international operations.

The company’s Singapore trading division, which had employed roughly 100 workers, is scheduled to close this month according to reports. Additionally, China’s Wanhua Chemical has halted a long-standing contract to purchase benzene from Hengli Petrochemical.

Industry experts suggest the sanctions could threaten a tentative 2024 agreement with Saudi Aramco for the oil giant to acquire a 10% ownership stake in Hengli Petrochemical. Aramco has declined to provide comment on the matter.

Despite these setbacks, Hengli’s primary focus on domestic markets and support from Beijing allows the company to maintain most operations. Management has stated they continue purchasing oil using Chinese yuan, avoiding the dollar-based settlement system.

A similar situation occurred last year when competitor Shandong Yulong Petrochemical faced British and European sanctions for Russian oil transactions, ultimately becoming even more dependent on Russian crude supplies.

Industry analysts expect Hengli will likewise increase its reliance on sanctioned oil sources while redirecting petrochemical sales to Chinese customers.

When asked during his Friday flight from Beijing about potentially removing sanctions on Chinese companies buying Iranian oil, the former president said he would consider the option.

“We talked about that and I’m going to make a decision over the next few days,” he said.

As of Thursday, no changes had been announced.

ANTICIPATING CHALLENGES

Nine days before the sanctions took effect, Fan, who leads Hengli’s publicly-traded Shanghai division, expressed caution in a letter to shareholders following Hengli Petrochemical’s 2025 earnings report showing profits of 7.07 billion yuan ($1.04 billion) on revenues of 201 billion yuan.

“Great-power competition continues to evolve and intertwine, and geopolitical turbulence has never ceased,” she wrote. “We are well aware that the road ahead may not be smooth.”

The company has overcome significant obstacles throughout its history.

Chen, now 55, grew up in Suzhou’s Wujiang district, an area where most families traditionally raised silkworms. He left school before age 14 and built his initial wealth through scrap silk trading.

During a speech to the National Young Entrepreneurs Conference last year, Chen Jianhua, whose name translates to “build China,” described purchasing a bankrupt textile facility with 27 workers when he was 23 years old.

This occurred in 1994 as China’s economic transformation was accelerating under Deng Xiaoping’s reforms.

To support China’s efforts to challenge foreign dominance in synthetic fiber manufacturing, Chen expanded Hengli’s operations upstream, eventually entering the state-controlled refining industry to create a fully integrated petrochemical operation.

Hengli established a model for a new generation of large, private petrochemical manufacturers producing materials for plastics and other products serving China’s rapidly expanding industrial sector.

In a bold move, Hengli constructed what became an $11 billion facility on the then-isolated Changxing island near Dalian, directly competing with state-owned China National Petroleum Corp’s nearby refinery.

“There was no electricity, no water, and no mobile signal – just a mountain, a stretch of sea and a small road. For a full four years, I lived and ate on the construction site,” Chen recalled.

CURRENT OPERATIONS

Hengli now holds the position as the world’s top producer of purified terephthalic acid (PTA), a key component in synthetic fiber manufacturing.

In 2022, responding to Beijing’s infrastructure investment initiatives aimed at stimulating the pandemic-affected economy, Hengli acquired an unused shipyard on Changxing island.

“At the start, all the shipowners didn’t trust us and wouldn’t place orders, so we placed our own orders,” building two 300,000-ton very large crude carriers and an 82,000-ton bulk carrier, he said.

Hengli Heavy Industry secured contracts for 115 ships valued at over 100 billion yuan last year, with customers including Greek, Norwegian and Japanese shipping companies.

In February 2025, Chen attended a private sector leadership meeting with Xi, who encouraged participants to support China’s technological independence and supply chain security objectives.

Chen remembered Xi’s message: “Show your talent, the time is now.”

($1 = 6.8012 Chinese yuan renminbi)

The State Department announced Thursday that it has given the green light for a potential $108.1 million equipment sale to Ukraine, according to officials.

The approved sale would provide Ukraine with equipment needed to maintain its Hawk Missile System operations, the department stated on May 21.

Russian air defense systems intercepted drone strikes targeting Moscow and the surrounding Yaroslavl region during the early morning hours on Friday, according to statements from local officials posted on the Telegram messaging platform.

Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported via Telegram that four drones approaching Moscow were successfully shot down, prompting the deployment of emergency response teams to the affected areas. The mayor did not elaborate on additional specifics regarding the incident.

Both Moscow and the Yaroslavl region, located northeast of Russia’s capital city, experienced similar drone strikes earlier in the week. The targeted areas contain significant energy infrastructure facilities.

Independent confirmation of the reported military incidents could not be obtained by Reuters.

A new group of Australian women and children connected to the ISIS terrorist organization have exited a detention facility in northeastern Syria and could be making their way back to Australia, according to Friday reports from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

The news outlet stated that a bus transporting the group departed the Al-Roj facility on Thursday afternoon, accompanied by Syrian government officials in a convoy. While the group is anticipated to arrive in Damascus, the timing of any potential journey to Australia remains uncertain, according to the report.

Australia’s home affairs ministry has not yet provided a response to requests for comment.

The Australian government has previously stated it would not offer direct help for bringing back Australian families connected to ISIS, though officials have recognized “very serious limits” in their ability to block citizens from returning to the country.

Earlier in May, four women and nine children with ISIS ties came back to Australia following seven years in detention facilities. When they arrived, Kawsar Ahmad, 54, and her daughter Zeinab Ahmad, 31, faced slavery-related charges, while 32-year-old Janai Safar was charged with terrorism-related offenses.

The women’s return sparked controversy, with critics claiming Australia’s centre-left government failed to stop their repatriation.

From 2012 to 2016, several Australian women traveled to Syria to reunite with husbands who were reportedly ISIS members. After the caliphate fell in 2019, many ended up detained in camps, though some managed to return home.

In January, the United States started relocating detained ISIS members from Syria following the breakdown of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, which had been overseeing multiple detention centers holding ISIS fighters and associated civilians, including foreign nationals.

Canada’s petroleum-wealthy Alberta province has announced plans for an October public vote regarding potential separation from Canada, though the province’s top official clarified Thursday that the ballot won’t directly address independence.

Danielle Smith explained that citizens would instead decide whether the time has come for a binding referendum on departing Canada.

“I want to be clear. I support Alberta remaining in Canada, and this is how I would vote on separation in a provincial referendum. It is also the position of my government,” Smith stated during broadcast comments.

The ballot measure will ask whether Alberta should continue as part of Canada or pursue constitutional legal measures toward conducting a binding independence referendum.

Even a “yes” result in such a binding vote would not automatically create independence. Federal government negotiations would be required. According to a 1998 Supreme Court decision, provinces lack authority to withdraw from Canada unilaterally.

Daniel Béland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal, observed that Smith has publicly rejected independence, leading some to draw parallels with Britain’s former Prime Minister David Cameron before the Brexit referendum, which he supported as a method to handle a vocal party faction despite opposing U.K. departure from the European Union.

“Politically Smith seems committed to do so to appease supporters of her own party who want a referendum. If she doesn’t follow suit, she might face a potentially perilous mutiny within her partisan ranks,” Béland stated.

Thursday morning saw three United Conservative Party of Alberta caucus members approve a committee motion requesting Smith and her cabinet schedule the referendum for Oct. 19.

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s federal Liberal government had not immediately responded to Smith’s declaration.

Carney has been collaborating with Smith on Pacific coast oil pipeline construction aimed at satisfying many Albertans.

“As part of his emphasis on economic development in the aftermath of the trade war between Canada and the U.S., Mark Carney is clearly more favorable to pipeline building and the energy industry than his predecessor Justin Trudeau,” Béland noted.

Béland predicted referendum failure.

“Support for Alberta independence is slightly below 30% and the percentage of people truly committed to the cause is below 20% according to polling data so the odds of a ‘yes’ vote appear to be very low right now but campaigns matter,” he explained.

Opposition Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre previously stated that he and all Conservative Parliament members would advocate for Alberta’s continued Canadian membership during any referendum campaign.

Four major nations are preparing to hold a high-level diplomatic summit in India’s capital next week, according to an announcement from Japan’s foreign ministry on Friday.

The foreign ministers from the United States, Japan, Australia and India are scheduled to gather in New Delhi on May 26 for what’s known as a ‘Quad’ meeting between the four countries.

Japan’s foreign ministry confirmed that the nation’s chief diplomat, Toshimitsu Motegi, will make a three-day trip to India beginning Monday to participate in the diplomatic session.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to arrive in India on Saturday, following his attendance at NATO foreign ministers’ discussions in Sweden, according to the U.S. State Department.

The United Nations issued sharp criticism Thursday regarding a recently enacted Afghan Taliban regulation concerning marital separation that contains allowances for child marriage, stating the measure deepens bias against women and girls.

Taliban officials dismissed these criticisms, asserting the regulation adheres to Islamic principles and maintaining that forced marriages of girls are already prohibited in the country.

Afghanistan’s justice ministry released Decree No. 18 “on judicial separation of spouses” last week, establishing guidelines for married couples seeking separation.

The regulation’s most disputed elements include language stating that when a girl who has reached puberty remains silent, this can be viewed as marriage approval. The decree also contains sections addressing separation for girls who have reached puberty and are wed, which “implies that child marriage is permitted,” according to a statement from the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

“This undermines the principle of free and full consent and failing to safeguard the best interests of the child,” it said.

The regulation specifies that marriages may be declared void “if a father or grandfather has given a minor girl or boy without any dowry, not enough dowry or obscene embezzlement.” Additionally, it states that a girl married off by her father or grandfather to a man who “has not treated her with kindness or is well-known for his bad choices…has the right to approach the court to cancel the marriage contract upon reaching puberty.”

Yet when a woman requests divorce from her spouse and he refuses, “then in this case, there are no witnesses with the girl, the husband’s word is valid,” according to the new regulation. Witnesses are unnecessary if she presents her request directly to a judge.

Afghan women and girls currently endure extensive discrimination, with regulations controlling their dress and conduct. Educational opportunities beyond elementary school are forbidden, along with most employment and nearly all recreational pursuits, including fitness centers, beauty establishments, and public recreational areas.

“Decree No. 18 is part of a broader and deeply concerning trajectory in which the rights of Afghan women and girls are being eroded,” said Georgette Gagnon, the U.N.’s Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and officer in charge of UNAMA.

Although the regulation permits women to leave their spouses, the process is significantly more difficult for women than men.

The measure “operates in a deeply unequal framework: while men retain the unilateral right to divorce, women must pursue complex and restrictive judicial avenues to separate from a spouse,” UNAMA said. “This situation reinforces structural discrimination and limits women’s autonomy in matters fundamental to their dignity, safety, and well-being.”

Following their takeover of Afghanistan after the disorderly departure of U.S.-supported forces in 2021, the Taliban declared certain limited women’s rights, releasing a decree that granted women inheritance rights and marriage refusal options. Nevertheless, “successive decrees have undermined these protections,” UNAMA stated.

The numerous limitations established by the government “have deprived millions of Afghan women and girls of their right to education, weakened economic participation, and deepened poverty, with long-term consequences for Afghanistan’s development,” it continued.

“The objections from those who contradict the religion of Islam are not new and we should not pay attention to them,” Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Afghan government, told the RTA state broadcaster in an interview.

Mujahid observed that Afghanistan’s supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has previously issued a decree prohibiting forced marriage of girls. Afghan judicial systems and the nation’s ministry of vice and virtue have examined thousands of such instances within the past year, he stated, “which shows the Islamic Emirate’s concern for women’s rights.”

WASHINGTON – The United States imposed financial sanctions Thursday on nine officials accused of blocking peace efforts in Lebanon and preventing the disarmament of the Iran-backed Hezbollah organization.

The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control stated these officials operate throughout Lebanon’s legislative, military, and security agencies, working to maintain Hezbollah’s control over important Lebanese government institutions.

“Hezbollah is a terrorist organization and must be fully disarmed,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated. The group, established in 1982 by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, has been classified as a terrorist organization by the United States and Gulf Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia.

American officials blame the organization for suicide attacks in 1983 that resulted in 241 U.S. military deaths and demolished the U.S. Marine headquarters in Beirut, as well as a French military compound, killing 58 French paratroopers. The U.S. also attributes a 1983 suicide bombing at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut to Hezbollah.

AMERICA FOCUSES ON HEZBOLLAH’S FUNDING

Last week, Israel and Lebanon extended their ceasefire agreement by 45 days, continuing to reduce tensions from a conflict in southern Lebanon that escalated months ago following U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott announced the department will offer up to $10 million for intelligence that helps disrupt the militant organization’s financial operations.

“This is only the beginning. Anyone still shielding or collaborating with this terrorist organization, or otherwise undermining Lebanon’s sovereignty, should understand that they will be held accountable,” Pigott stated.

“A stable, secure, and independent Lebanon requires the full disarmament of Hezbollah and the restoration of the Lebanese government’s exclusive authority over security matters throughout the country.”

The Treasury Department identified the following individuals as targets of Thursday’s sanctions:

– Mohamed Abdel-Mottaleb Fanich, who directs Hezbollah’s executive council.

– Hassan Nizammeddine Fadlallah, a parliamentary member representing Hezbollah since 2005, who collaborated with Al Nour Radio and Al Manar TV, both previously sanctioned by the U.S.

– Ibrahim al-Moussawi, who directs Hezbollah’s media operations and serves as the group’s parliamentary representative.

– Hussein Al-Hajj Hassan, who has served as Hezbollah’s parliamentary representative since 1996.

– Mohammad Reza Sheibani, Iran’s ambassador designate to Lebanon, whom Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry declared persona non grata after withdrawing approval of his appointment and ordering his departure from Beirut.

– Ahmad Asaad Baalbaki and Ali Ahmad Safawi, both security leaders within the Amal Movement, a political partner and security collaborator of Hezbollah. Safawi commands the Lebanese Amal militia in southern Lebanon and directed its forces in combined Hizballah-Amal military operations against Israel.

– Brigadier General Khattar Nasser Eldin, director of the Lebanese General Directorate for General Security, for sharing intelligence with Hezbollah.

– Colonel Samir Hamadi, a high-ranking Lebanese intelligence officer.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi on Thursday, expressing that Beijing values its relationship with the Eastern European nation and wants to strengthen their partnership, according to a Friday statement from China’s foreign ministry.

The diplomatic meeting took place shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin completed a ceremonial 24-hour state visit to Beijing, where he held talks with President Xi Jinping. During Putin’s visit, the two leaders agreed to enhance cooperation and provide greater mutual support.

According to the Chinese foreign ministry’s official summary of Thursday’s discussions, the representatives from both nations also discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This marks the first time a Moldovan foreign minister has visited China in nearly eight years.

China has refrained from criticizing Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and avoids using the term “invasion” when referring to the conflict. Instead, Beijing advocates for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis, a stance Wang repeated during his conversation with Popsoi, the statement indicated.

Moldova shares a border with Ukraine and has publicly denounced Russia’s military offensive. The country has experienced long-standing tensions with Moscow regarding the breakaway region of Transdniestria, which declared independence while Moldova was still part of the Soviet Union and maintains pro-Russian leadership.

Approximately 1,500 Russian military personnel remain stationed in the disputed territory, with Moscow characterizing their role as peacekeeping forces. The region continues to receive significant financial and political support from Russia.

Moldova’s current administration, which has set a goal of joining the European Union by 2030, views both the separatist region and the Russian military deployment as tools Moscow uses to influence the country’s domestic policies.

“Wang said China cherishes the traditional friendship between the two countries, and stands ready to work with Moldova to further cement mutual trust,” according to the ministry’s official statement.

Federal authorities have detained Adys Lastres Morera, whose brother serves as executive president of GAESA, a massive network of military-controlled enterprises in Cuba, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Thursday.

Morera had been living in the United States as a permanent resident since 2023, but is now being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement while facing deportation proceedings, ICE officials confirmed in a separate announcement.

Officials stated that Morera’s continued presence creates a security risk for the United States and works against American foreign policy objectives.

Cuban officials seldom discuss GAESA publicly, an organization whose full name translates to ‘business administration group’ from its Spanish acronym Grupo de Administración Empresarial.

The island nation has maintained that such secrecy is essential to counter American trade and financial restrictions that significantly hinder Cuba’s international business operations.

Attempts to contact Morera’s representatives for a response were unsuccessful.

Brazil’s administration plans to announce Friday that it will broaden spending restrictions across government departments to comply with annual budget limits, according to Finance Minister Dario Durigan, who made the statement Thursday.

Current spending restrictions total 1.6 billion reais ($320 million). Officials have set the release of their twice-monthly revenue and spending report for 3 p.m. local time (1800 GMT) Friday.

During a CNN Brasil interview, Durigan explained that while spending limitations will grow, officials won’t need to implement a complete spending freeze — an action taken when economic officials believe the annual fiscal goal might be missed.

“We are moving toward an increase in the block, so the government is cutting into its own flesh,” the minister said.

Durigan noted that federal income has matched projections, but emphasized the administration should maintain steady progress toward fiscal stability, including measures to control growing expenditures.

Officials aim for a primary surplus of 0.25% of GDP this year, allowing for variation of 0.25% either way. In March, they projected a primary surplus of 3.5 billion reais, approximately 0% of GDP, for the current year.

($1 = 5.0055 reais)

OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) — Major streaming platforms operating in Canada will now be required to dedicate 15% of their earnings from Canadian subscribers to support domestic content production, according to an announcement Thursday from the nation’s federal broadcast regulator.

The new mandate represents a threefold increase from the previous 5% requirement that the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission, CRTC, established in 2024. U.S.-based streaming giants including Apple, Amazon and Spotify are currently fighting that original mandate in court.

The CRTC’s ruling comes as part of implementing the Online Streaming Act, legislation that the United States has flagged as a trade concern in advance of upcoming trade discussions with Canada.

Meanwhile, traditional Canadian broadcasters will see their contribution obligations reduced from the current range of 30% to 45% down to 25%.

“The total contributions are expected to stabilize the funding at more than $2 billion in support of Canadian and Indigenous content, such as French-language content and news,” the regulator said in a press release.

The CRTC has also outlined specific guidelines governing how both streaming services and traditional broadcasters must allocate these funds, including mandatory contributions to production funds and direct investment in Canadian programming.

While streaming platforms can direct most of their required contributions toward content creation, the CRTC has established spending restrictions for the largest operators.

Streaming services earning more than $100 million Canadian ($73 million) annually from Canadian subscribers must allocate 30% of their spending toward collaborative projects with Canadian broadcasters and independent content creators.

These new contribution mandates will affect streaming platforms and broadcasters generating at least $25 million Canadian ($18 million) in yearly Canadian broadcasting income.

The CRTC is additionally creating a specialized fund to support particular television channels, including CPAC, the Canadian service that provides direct coverage of political events.

Iranian authorities are displaying propaganda materials throughout Tehran that emphasize national solidarity and triumph against international powers, coming just months after violently suppressing demonstrations and amid ongoing economic struggles affecting citizens.

The campaign features images of Revolutionary Guardsmen and the blocked Strait of Hormuz, while officials organize military-style group weddings and weapons training in religious buildings to showcase national defiance.

The current messaging differs from previous revolutionary religious content by focusing on nationalist elements designed to appeal beyond core supporters.

“The old ideology of the Islamic Republic no longer really had much traction within the society. And therefore there was a need to draw on other elements of Iranian identity that could mobilize masses,” said Ali Vaez, Iran project director at the International Crisis Group.

Whether this approach will succeed with a deeply disillusioned public remains uncertain, according to Vaez and other experts.

Despite Iran’s ability to resist U.S. and Israeli military strikes and force U.S. President Donald Trump into negotiations by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial international oil passage, the country confronts severe domestic challenges.

The nation’s economy, already struggling before current conflicts, faces potential collapse while increasing government crackdowns reveal officials’ concerns about possible renewed civil unrest.

Against this challenging environment, authorities continue using traditional Iranian propaganda themes of national resistance and Western antagonism while reducing emphasis on some historical revolutionary imagery.

Traditional Shi’ite Muslim martyrdom symbols, prominent for decades, have partially been replaced by Persian national and historical figures previously rejected by the Islamic Republic as representing monarchist history.

Additionally, state television broadcasts of government-organized demonstrations now include interviews with women not wearing headscarves, content previously forbidden in Iranian media.

“It’s an attempt to show that everything is normal in Iran, we’re all united and we don’t butcher our own people,” said Ali Ansari, professor of modern history at the University of St Andrews in Scotland.

“It’ll work to some extent with waverers in the middle but most Iranians don’t believe it really.”

Iran’s achievement in blocking the Strait of Hormuz has become central to both international propaganda efforts targeting Trump and domestic messaging campaigns.

One display shows Revolutionary Guardsmen with a fishing net capturing U.S. vessels and aircraft. Another depicts fabric stretched across Trump’s face in the strait’s distinctive outline.

These images continue Iran’s tradition of celebrating national heroism while condemning the United States, including a famous mural depicting the Statue of Liberty with a skull face.

However, departing from past practices, a large Tehran poster features Rais Ali Delvari, a guerrilla fighter against British occupation of Iran’s Gulf region one hundred years ago, standing with a Revolutionary Guards commander to block the strait with raised hands.

“These banners showing national heroes are for wartime purposes. After that they will come back against us and the repression will begin,” said Narges, 67, a retired government employee in Shiraz who asked not to give her family name.

Iranian political sources report that power has shifted dramatically during wartime from religious leaders to Revolutionary Guards commanders, completing a gradual transition occurring over years.

“The direction of travel when it gets to the narratives that the regime is putting out there is actually indicative of the transformation that the regime is undergoing. It is moving from a theocratic system into a military one,” said Vaez.

Pictures of the Iranian national football team saluting and new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei with an oversized Iranian flag reinforce the patriotic messaging.

Infrastructure attacks and Trump’s threats of “civilisational erasure” have enhanced the effectiveness of these strategies, Vaez explained.

“These have all helped the Iranian regime to portray this war, not as a war against the Islamic Republic, but a war against Iran as a state,” he said.

Officials have organized almost nightly demonstrations during the conflict to maintain street-level support, though both government supporters and critics question their effectiveness.

“It’s all a game, a performance meant to show the world that people are with the system. Instead of these displays they should fix the economic situation,” said Arshia, 23, a recent French-language graduate from Yazd.

For Mohammed, 26, a hardline student in Tabriz, the patriotic sentiment felt genuine, but he expressed anger about unveiled women participating alongside unrelated men in rallies. “This is not what the revolution was for,” he said.

A recent mass wedding featured couples displayed in Revolutionary Guards vehicles decorated with balloons and machine guns, positioned next to ballistic missile replicas painted bright flamingo pink.

State television broadcast weapons training in mosques, where military instructors taught men and women to disassemble and operate assault rifles.

Such imagery might serve the dual purpose of warning Iranian dissidents that authorities maintain heavily armed backing, Ansari suggested.

“It goes to the heart of the fact that the regime is not as secure as it’s pretending to be. They’re presenting to their own people that this is a regime that is tough,” he said.

A Brazilian father whose son died in the 2009 Flight 447 disaster says true justice has not been achieved, even after a Paris appeals court convicted Airbus and Air France of manslaughter on Thursday in France’s deadliest aviation accident.

Both Airbus and Air France announced they will challenge Thursday’s decision, which could extend the legal proceedings for several more years.

Nelson Faria Marinho, a Brazilian citizen who heads a victims’ association and lost his son when the aircraft went down, expressed dissatisfaction with the court’s decision despite the guilty verdicts.

The Paris appeals court determined both companies were guilty of manslaughter in connection with the disaster and imposed the highest possible penalty of 225,000 euros (roughly $260,000) on each firm, according to Daniele Lamy, who leads another victims’ group.

Lamy, whose son Eric perished in the crash, attended both the original proceedings and this appeal trial, and praised Thursday’s outcome.

However, Marinho expressed his desire to see individual executives from both companies face jail time, though the legal case has focused on corporate rather than individual culpability.

“I’ve lost my father, my mothers, brothers. It hurts a lot, but it is impossible to translate into words the pain of losing a child,” Marinho said, speaking from his home office surrounded by newspaper articles and photographs documenting his lengthy fight for accountability.

The A330-200 aircraft vanished from radar during a storm over the Atlantic Ocean on June 1, 2009, carrying 216 passengers and 12 crew members. Recovery teams needed two years to locate the aircraft and its flight data recorders on the ocean bottom, more than 13,000 feet (approximately 4,000 meters) below the surface.

A previous Associated Press investigation revealed that Airbus had been aware of issues with the specific type of pitot tubes installed on the crashed aircraft since at least 2002, yet did not replace them until after the accident occurred.

Prosecutors alleged that Air France failed to provide proper training for situations involving the freezing of external sensors known as pitot tubes, despite known dangers. Airbus faced accusations of inadequately alerting airlines and flight crews about pitot tube malfunctions and failing to ensure adequate training to reduce associated risks.

The tragedy prompted regulatory changes regarding airspeed sensors and modifications to pilot training protocols.

Official investigators determined that several elements contributed to the catastrophe, including crew errors and the freezing of pitot tubes.

A lower court cleared both Airbus and Air France of manslaughter charges in 2023, causing significant distress among families who lost relatives in the accident.

Air France expressed regret over Thursday’s conviction and acknowledged that pursuing an appeal would extend an already protracted legal process, especially for victims’ families and loved ones, while noting that the company’s criminal responsibility had been previously rejected.

Airbus announced plans to file an appeal with France’s supreme court to enable a review of the legal questions presented in this matter.

A French pilots’ union welcomed the decision. The National Union of Airline Pilots stated it would be “unacceptable to place responsibility for the outcome of this accident solely on the pilots, without taking into account all of the systemic failures that led to the disaster.”

Victims’ attorney Alain Jakubowicz became emotional while addressing reporters outside the courthouse.

The verdict demonstrates “there is no fight that it is unwinnable,” he told French television. “Even when we are simply passengers, we can make global giants bend.”

In Rio, Marinho’s spouse Maria Eva explained that the anguish of losing one of her five children continues to feel fresh, though her faith has provided comfort during her mourning.

“This trail of destruction left many hearts wounded,” she said from her living room, which displays a representation of the Eiffel Tower. “But as long as there is life there is hope.”

UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The international official monitoring the Gaza ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States called on the UN Security Council Thursday to utilize all available resources to pressure Hamas into giving up its weapons, cautioning that continued acts of violence threaten to collapse the fragile truce.

Nickolay Mladenov, high representative of the Board of Peace, an international organization created by President Donald Trump, emphasized that Israel must also fulfill its ceasefire commitments, highlighting Palestinian deaths and limitations on humanitarian assistance.

Hamas and Israel face a choice between “a deteriorating status quo” or a fresh start for Palestinians currently enduring “desperate conditions,” he stated. “There is no third option. There never was, and the people of Gaza should not be made to wait while some pretend that there is.”

Mladenov elaborated on the Board of Peace’s initial assessment, which identified the primary barrier to complete ceasefire implementation as “Hamas’ refusal to accept verified decommissioning, relinquish coercive control, and permit a genuine civilian transition in Gaza.”

Hamas issued a statement condemning the assessment and argued it overlooked Israel’s failure to meet ceasefire requirements.

The Palestinian militant organization, responsible for the Oct. 7, 2023, assault on Israel that triggered the Gaza conflict, has attempted to connect any weapons removal to Israeli military withdrawals. Israel’s forces have increased their presence in Gaza following the truce and now occupy approximately 60% of the region.

Mladenov, an experienced Bulgarian diplomat, indicated that should Israel and Hamas reject the implementation plan for Trump’s peace proposal, the Board of Peace would explore methods to deliver humanitarian assistance and support territorial recovery.

Without action, he warned, Gaza would stay fragmented, with Hamas maintaining administrative and military authority over 2 million Palestinians confined to less than half the Gaza Strip, likely remaining surrounded by debris, dependent on aid, and without prospects for rebuilding or their children’s future.

“This is a version of the future that Israelis, Palestinians and the region should all fear and all mobilize to avoid,” Mladenov stated.

He explained that weapons removal “will be gradual, sequenced and time-bound against an agreed timetable” — noting that arms from Hamas and other Palestinian armed factions would go to Gaza’s transitional government rather than Israel.

The implementation plan merits the Security Council’s “clear, consistent and unequivocal support,” he declared.

“I ask the council to use every means at its disposal to urge Hamas to accept the roadmap without further delay, and Israel to uphold its obligations under the ceasefire,” Mladenov stated. “Diplomacy must continue, cannot be used as an excuse for delay while 2 million people wait in desperate conditions.”

Federal prosecutors have brought charges against former Cuban President Raúl Castro and five military pilots for their involvement in shooting down civilian aircraft operated by Miami-based Cuban exiles in 1996.

The charges were announced Wednesday as part of the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to pressure Cuba’s socialist government. Prosecutors allege Castro and the military aviators conspired to terrorize and intimidate Cuban exiles by destroying aircraft operated by the Brothers to the Rescue organization.

Castro, who is now 94 years old, served as defense minister when MiG fighter jets targeted the civilian planes.

According to prosecutors, Castro’s five alleged accomplices, all members of the Cuban Revolutionary Air and Air Defense Force, participated in training exercises around February 1996 designed to “find, track, pursue and intercept” aircraft operating near Cuban waters in preparation for Brothers to the Rescue missions.

The charging document indicates these training operations occurred under Castro’s authority and with guidance from an unindicted co-conspirator.

The five pilots named in the indictment are Lt. Col. Lorenzo Alberto Pérez-Pérez, José Fidel Gual Barzaga, Lt. Col. Luis Raúl González-Pardo Rodríguez, Emilio José Palacio Blanco and Raúl Simanca Cárdenas.

Prosecutors claim Pérez-Pérez and another pilot who was not charged destroyed two aircraft on Feb. 24, 1996, while they were flying in international airspace, resulting in the deaths of four Americans.

In a television interview with Cuban state media shortly after the incident, Pérez-Pérez described intercepting the first plane and issuing warnings based on instructions from air traffic controllers. He claimed the aircraft disregarded his warnings.

“We tried to dissuade their crew members, but they continued to dangerously approach the Cuban coast, and then we received the order to interrupt the flight of the first aircraft,” Pérez-Pérez said at the time. “Afterward, we conducted the same operation with the second plane, which also refused to change its direction.”

The indictment claims Castro approved the use of lethal force following Brothers to the Rescue flights that scattered pro-democracy materials over Cuba in January 1996. Federal prosecutors assert Castro and his older brother, Fidel Castro, who held the presidency then, made the ultimate decisions regarding orders to kill.

Pérez-Pérez had been previously charged in the U.S. in August 2003 with murder, aircraft destruction and conspiracy.

Prosecutors also allege that on the day of the fatal attacks, Gual Barzaga, Simanca Cárdenas and González-Pardo Rodríguez pursued but did not destroy a third aircraft.

González-Pardo Rodríguez, age 65, is the only defendant currently in U.S. custody. He was charged in November for allegedly providing false information on immigration paperwork.

The U.S. Department of Justice stated that he incorrectly claimed he never received weapons or military instruction, never participated in any organization that used or threatened to use weapons, and never served in military or police forces. In fact, prosecutors said, “he received such training and served in the Cuban military as part of the Air Defense Force.”

He is set to receive his sentence later this month after entering a guilty plea in February.

All five pilots and Castro are charged with one count of conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals. Castro and Pérez-Pérez also face additional charges of murder and aircraft destruction.

Limited information is available about Gual Barzaga, Palacio Blanco and Simanca Cárdenas.

The charging document alleges that Pérez-Pérez and Palacio Blanco departed from the San Antonio de los Baños airfield, located near Havana, in separate fighter aircraft. Pérez-Pérez sought permission to shoot down the civilian planes approximately 20 minutes after takeoff.

While Pérez-Pérez engaged the two aircraft, according to the indictment, Gual Barzaga and Simanca Cárdenas shared a third fighter jet, and González-Pardo Rodríguez operated a fourth aircraft on standby. Prosecutors claim the waiting pilots monitored Pérez-Pérez’s radio communications requesting authorization to attack the planes, and they later joined him in pursuing the third civilian aircraft.

The federal charging document contains an undated photograph showing González-Pardo Rodríguez and Pérez-Pérez examining a document beside a fighter jet.

Panama’s president José Raúl Mulino announced Thursday that Ilya Espino de Marotta will take charge of the Panama Canal for seven years beginning October 1, marking the first time a woman has been chosen to lead the vital shipping route.

The selection came after the Panama Canal Board of Directors spent weeks evaluating multiple prominent candidates for the leadership role.

Espino de Marotta, age 64, has held the position of deputy administrator for the waterway since January 1, 2020, prior to receiving this historic appointment.

“I have spoken with the new Administrator of the Panama Canal… to congratulate her and reaffirm the commitment to work in coordination on strategic projects that generate jobs, prosperity and progress for Panamanians,” Mulino posted on X.

Having worked at the Panama Canal for 35 years, Espino de Marotta has gained recognition for wearing her distinctive pink hard hat and overseeing major construction efforts, including the waterway’s massive $5 billion expansion project.

The new administrator faces significant upcoming tasks, including overseeing the creation of two additional ports positioned at opposite ends of the canal, with bidding processes expected to begin in the next few months. These construction efforts, combined with planned contracts for a natural gas pipeline and logistics corridor, represent key elements in the canal’s growth and diversification plans.

The waterway has become a focal point of international tensions, with the U.S. State Department claiming China has violated Panama’s control over port operations in the Central American country.

The latest conflict emerged in early April when Rubio claimed China engaged in “bullying” tactics by temporarily detaining or delaying dozens of Panama-flagged vessels after the Central American nation took control of two important canal ports from a Hong Kong-based company’s subsidiary earlier this year. China has rejected these claims.

The United States has consistently worked to counter China’s expanding influence throughout Latin America. Panama has found itself positioned between these competing superpowers, particularly given the canal’s critical importance to global commerce, especially after Trump claimed last year that Beijing was controlling the international shipping route.

Espino de Marotta holds a bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering from Texas A&M University and completed a master’s degree in Economic Engineering from Universidad Santa María La Antigua.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced Thursday her intention to enhance security cooperation between the two nations during U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin’s upcoming visit to Mexico City. The discussions will focus on fighting drug trafficking, migrant smuggling, weapons trafficking, and improving intelligence cooperation.

The U.S. official’s two-day trip follows recent diplomatic friction stemming from the deaths of two CIA agents near Mexico’s northern border and federal drug trafficking charges filed against 10 Mexican government officials.

Since taking office in October 2024, Sheinbaum’s government has worked to balance cooperation with the Trump administration while protecting Mexico’s national sovereignty against potential U.S. military action threats.

“What we want is for us to continue working within the framework of that (security) understanding,” Sheinbaum stated during her morning press briefing, referencing previous discussions with the Trump administration.

Mullin, who took over the role in March following Kristi Noem’s exit, will also conduct meetings with Mexico’s Security Cabinet during his visit.

The Mexican leader indicated Thursday she plans to address with Mullin the deaths of 15 Mexican migrants in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities since 2025, which sparked formal diplomatic complaints from her administration. Sheinbaum has ordered consular staff to conduct daily inspections of these detention facilities, and Mexico announced in March it would present these cases to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.

However, the Mexican president stated she would not discuss the cases of the 10 indicted officials during her talks with Mullin, noting that some of these individuals are members of the ruling Morena party.

In late April, New York’s Attorney General filed charges against Sinaloa Gov. Rubén Rocha, Culiacan mayor Juan de Dios Gámez, and eight additional current and former officials, alleging drug trafficking and illegal weapons possession.

Both Rocha and Gámez have temporarily left their positions to allow for the investigation launched by Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office, while former Sinaloa administration officials Gerardo Mérida and Enrique Díaz turned themselves in to U.S. authorities last week.

Relations between the countries became tense following the April 19 deaths of two CIA agents and two officials from the Chihuahua Attorney General’s Office when their vehicle crashed into a ravine in mountainous terrain between Chihuahua — which shares a border with Texas — and Sinaloa state, where authorities had recently shut down an illegal synthetic drug laboratory.

This incident led to an official complaint from the Sheinbaum administration to Washington, protesting that it had not been notified about the presence or activities of the two U.S. agents operating in the opposition-controlled state of Chihuahua.

A Cuban military-controlled business empire has become the focal point of escalating tensions between Washington and Havana, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio placing blame squarely on the conglomerate for the island nation’s struggling economy.

The organization in question is GAESA, a military-run business network that Rubio, a Cuban American politician, accuses of being the true power behind Cuba’s economic troubles.

“Cuba is controlled by GAESA,” Rubio declared Wednesday in a Spanish-language video directed at Cuban citizens. “A ‘state within the state’ that is accountable to no one and hoards the profits from its businesses for the benefit of a small elite.”

Cuban leadership seldom discusses GAESA in public forums. Officials have consistently maintained that such privacy is essential when operating under a U.S. trade and financial embargo that significantly hampers the nation’s international business relationships.

Understanding GAESA’s Structure

The acronym represents Grupo de Administración Empresarial, which translates to ‘business administration group.’ This extensive network of military-operated enterprises is widely regarded as the most profitable and well-run business entity on the island.

The organization oversees numerous luxury hotels throughout the Caribbean nation, operates the major Mariel port facility, runs the primary commercial banking institution, and manages extensive networks of grocery stores, fuel stations and money transfer services.

This closely monitored umbrella organization came into existence during the 1990s under then defense minister Raúl Castro’s direction and remains under the authority of the island’s Revolutionary Armed Forces.

Until his passing in 2022, Luis Alberto Rodríguez López-Calleja, who was formerly Raúl Castro’s son-in-law, served as GAESA’s leader. His replacement, Brigadier General Ania Guillermina Lastres, recently faced U.S. sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration earlier this month.

The organization’s influence is perhaps most dramatically illustrated by Torre K, a 42-floor structure housing the luxury Iberostar Selection La Habana hotel, which stands as the island’s tallest building. This GAESA-connected construction project was finished in 2025 during a period of declining tourism, and the tower and hotel currently remain unoccupied.

Washington’s Position on GAESA

During his five-minute address to Cuban citizens, Rubio referenced GAESA eight separate times.

The Trump administration claims GAESA accumulates earnings from the nation’s most lucrative sectors and channels these resources to benefit military leadership and Cuban elites.

“The real reason you don’t have electricity, fuel, or food is because those who control your country have plundered billions of dollars, but nothing has been used to help the people,” Rubio stated.

Washington has consistently targeted GAESA enterprises with sanctions, which effectively bars American tourists from staying at GAESA-operated accommodations.

Cuba’s Response Regarding GAESA

Cuban officials reject claims that GAESA corruption or profit-hoarding has caused the current economic difficulties, instead highlighting recent United Nations expert statements that Trump administration fuel restrictions have created “energy starvation” with serious implications for human rights and development.

Beyond this defense, the government provides minimal information about the business group. A review of the leading Communist Party publication Granma revealed only seven mentions of “GAESA” across two decades, with these references containing little substantive detail.

Cuban government representatives rarely make public statements about GAESA, and the organization’s financial information does not appear in the communist government’s official budget documents.

Multiple government officials have indicated over time that maintaining secrecy is crucial for operating strategic enterprises that generate foreign currency while facing extensive U.S. sanctions.

In 2024, Gladys Bejerano, who served as Cuba’s comptroller general and chief auditor, informed Spanish news agency EFE that GAESA fell outside her oversight responsibilities and characterized the military-led enterprise as having “superior discipline and organization.”

GAESA’s Economic Impact

No official data exists regarding what portion of Cuba’s economy falls under GAESA’s control. External analysts estimate the figure ranges between 40% and 70%.

Rubio claimed GAESA generates income that exceeds Cuba’s national budget by three times.

“Today, while you suffer, these businessmen have $18 billion dollars in assets and control 70% of Cuba’s economy,” he stated.

Recently, Cuba’s embassy in the UK responded on X to a Miami Herald article citing the $18 billion amount, asserting the report had exaggerated GAESA’s wealth by 24 times.

“Basic accounting dismantles this ‘bombshell,’” the embassy posted. “Why the deception? Inventing a secret $18 billion hoard provides a convenient political excuse to tighten the very illegal sanctions that suffocate the Cuban population.”

ISTANBUL (AP) — A Turkish appeals court delivered a significant blow to the nation’s primary opposition movement Thursday by invalidating the 2023 party election that brought its current leader to power.

The decision strikes another damaging blow against the Republican People’s Party, known as CHP, which has been battling numerous legal challenges aimed at its leadership and elected representatives.

The appeals court in Turkey’s capital Ankara invalidated the CHP leadership election that installed Ozgur Ozel as party chairman, mandating his replacement with former leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu.

While a lower court previously rejected allegations of voting irregularities and improper conduct in Ozel’s election last year, Thursday’s appellate ruling reversed that earlier decision.

The court order triggered urgent discussions at CHP headquarters in Ankara, creating additional obstacles for opposition efforts to challenge President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s more than 20-year grip on power. Substantial crowds assembled outside the building while law enforcement set up protective barriers.

Turkey’s next presidential contest is scheduled for 2028, though Erdogan retains the authority to schedule an earlier election. His primary political rival, Istanbul’s CHP mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, has been behind bars since March of last year while facing trial on corruption accusations.

The appellate court’s ruling temporarily removes Ozel and the party’s executive leadership from their positions. Kilicdaroglu and officials who served before the November 2023 party congress will assume their roles on an interim basis.

Speaking to broadcaster TV100, Kilicdaroglu urged party supporters to stay composed. “Our party is a very large party and it will solve its own problems internally,” he said. The 77-year-old leader was ousted after leading the party for 13 years without securing victory in any nationwide elections.

Ozel, for his part, worked to energize his base of support.

“I am not promising you a path to power through a rose garden,” he posted on X following the ruling. “I am promising you the ability to endure suffering but never surrender. I am promising you honor, dignity, courage and struggle!”

The CHP plans to contest Thursday’s decision before the Supreme Court in the near future.

Justice Minister Akin Gurlek, who previously handled multiple CHP cases as Istanbul’s top prosecutor, characterized the court’s decision as one that “reinforces our citizens’ trust in democracy.”

Numerous political analysts have argued that the legal actions targeting the CHP — primarily focused on corruption accusations — are politically driven attempts to weaken the party before upcoming elections. Government officials, however, maintain that Turkey’s judicial system operates independently without political interference.

Erdogan has governed Turkey since 2003, initially as prime minister before assuming the presidency. His winning streak faced a significant setback in 2019 when CHP candidates captured control of multiple major municipalities during local voting. In Istanbul, Imamoglu became a compelling and charismatic leader whom many believed capable of defeating Erdogan.

JERUSALEM (AP) — A controversial video showing Israel’s national security minister mocking detained Gaza flotilla activists has put a spotlight on Itamar Ben-Gvir’s lengthy record of provocative behavior and extreme political positions.

The far-right politician, who was rejected from mandatory military service as a young man due to his radical beliefs, has spent decades working his way from the political margins to become one of Israel’s most influential leaders.

Ben-Gvir faced widespread criticism this week after footage emerged showing his treatment of approximately 430 people detained from the Global Sumud Flotilla. Even coalition partner Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned his actions.

The video clips show Ben-Gvir displaying a large Israeli flag above hunched detainees with bound hands. In another scene, he shouts “Am Israel Chai” — meaning “The nation of Israel lives” in Hebrew — at a kneeling person whose wrists are restrained with zip ties. Additional footage shows detainees with their faces pressed to the ground in an outdoor enclosure while the Israeli national anthem plays and armed officers surround them.

The 50-year-old heads an ultranationalist movement promoting West Bank settlements and has successfully reinvented himself from a political outsider to a major power broker in Israeli politics over several decades.

Ben-Gvir’s criminal record includes eight convictions for charges such as racism and backing a terrorist organization.

Military officials refused to allow him to serve when he reached conscription age, determining his political views were too radical.

As a young man, Ben-Gvir became known as a supporter of deceased extremist rabbi Meir Kahane. He first gained national attention in 1995 when he damaged the hood ornament on then-Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s vehicle.

“We got to his car, and we’ll get to him too,” he declared at the time, making the statement just weeks before a Jewish extremist assassinated Rabin over his Palestinian peace initiatives.

In 1997, Ben-Gvir admitted to organizing protest campaigns, including death threats, that forced Irish performer Sinead O’Connor to cancel a Jerusalem peace concert.

Ben-Gvir’s ascent to political prominence represents years of calculated efforts by the media-savvy politician to achieve mainstream acceptance. His success also mirrors a broader conservative shift among Israeli voters that has elevated his religious, ultranationalist beliefs while reducing prospects for Palestinian statehood.

Professionally trained in law, Ben-Gvir built his reputation defending extremist Jews charged with attacking Palestinians.

His sharp humor and upbeat personality made him a regular media presence, helping launch his political career. He first won a parliamentary seat in 2021.

Ben-Gvir has advocated for exiling his political rivals. In 2022, he displayed a handgun and urged police to shoot Palestinian stone-throwers in a volatile Jerusalem area.

Through his Cabinet position, Ben-Gvir controls the nation’s police forces. He has used this authority to push Netanyahu to continue the Gaza conflict and recently claimed credit for preventing previous ceasefire agreements.

In his role as national security minister, he has directed police to take aggressive action against government critics.

Ben-Gvir, a resident of the West Bank settlement Kiryat Arba, obtained his Cabinet position following 2022 elections that brought Netanyahu and his far-right allies, including Ben-Gvir’s Jewish Power party, to power.

“Over the last year I’ve been on a mission to save Israel,” Ben-Gvir stated to journalists before that election. “Millions of citizens are waiting for a real right-wing government. The time has come to give them one.”

Throughout his time in office, Ben-Gvir has generated constant controversy — promoting widespread gun distribution to Jewish civilians, supporting Netanyahu’s disputed judicial reform plans, and regularly criticizing U.S. officials for perceived anti-Israel positions.

His responsibilities include overseeing the police force, prison system, and border security units operating in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

Following Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack that triggered the Gaza war, Ben-Gvir consistently opposed allowing humanitarian supplies into the territory, despite expert warnings about potential famine conditions.

In July 2025, Britain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Norway imposed sanctions on Ben-Gvir and one other Israeli minister for allegedly “inciting extremist violence” against Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The Netherlands has prohibited Ben-Gvir from entering the country.

He recently expressed satisfaction in Israel’s parliament after lawmakers passed legislation he championed authorizing capital punishment for Palestinians convicted of killing Israelis.

Ben-Gvir stepped down from Netanyahu’s Cabinet temporarily last year to protest the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

The ceasefire lasted from January 19 to March 1. While Ben-Gvir’s departure didn’t prevent the ceasefire, it did undermine Netanyahu’s governing alliance.

Ben-Gvir returned to the Cabinet when Israel terminated the ceasefire and resumed military operations in Gaza in March 2025. He has maintained his Cabinet position throughout the current Gaza ceasefire.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has instructed members of her ruling Morena party to step down from their positions if they have connections to corrupt activities, two party sources revealed to Reuters.

The directive was communicated during a gathering with Morena governors at the National Palace last Thursday, the sources indicated. One week earlier on May 7, she conveyed the same message to party lawmakers during a separate meeting.

Both the presidency and Morena declined to respond to requests for comment.

“The ultimatum was that if they are involved in anything shady, they must resign and face the consequences,” said one of the Morena sources, who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity because the meeting was private. Sheinbaum did not mention names nor say what action would be taken if officials did not step down, the sources said.

This previously unreported communication to party members represents the most recent development following the significant U.S. indictment announced last month. The charges named Sinaloa State Governor Ruben Rocha and additional current and former officials for their suspected connections to the Sinaloa Cartel.

Publicly, Sheinbaum has denounced the U.S. extradition requests that came with the indictment, claiming they contained inadequate evidence for Mexico to authorize arrest warrants. She has demanded “clear” proof from the U.S. and stated that without it, the accusations seem politically driven.

However, the confidential discussions with Morena indicate Sheinbaum is pursuing a different approach within her own political organization.

Rocha holds significant influence within Morena and maintains close ties to former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who served as Sheinbaum’s predecessor and mentor. Rocha, who maintains his innocence, has temporarily withdrawn from his duties while a local investigation moves forward.

Reuters had previously documented that the U.S. indictment created divisions within Morena as different groups debate their response strategy. Some factions support shielding Rocha and others from U.S. interference, while another segment pushes for addressing corruption within the party’s membership.

The two party sources indicated growing worry within Morena that the U.S. might employ anti-terrorism legislation to target officials and that Morena could face implications similar to those imposed on various Mexican cartels.

During a routine press conference when questioned about this possibility, Sheinbaum dismissed the concern, stating she perceived “no risk” of Morena receiving designation as a foreign terrorist organization.

However, in private discussions, the sources revealed Sheinbaum has conveyed a different tone, cautioning party officials about potential dangers to Morena and its supporters if corruption accusations persist.

“We must guarantee the future of Morena,” she told her party members.

Sheinbaum is scheduled to meet with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin on Thursday as diplomatic tensions between the two nations continue rising.

The death of two U.S. officials in a vehicle accident in northern Mexico last month created a diplomatic dispute regarding their presence while traveling with a Mexican security convoy returning from a drug laboratory raid. Sources informed Reuters the U.S. officials were CIA officers.

The involvement of U.S. personnel in anti-cartel activities remains an extremely sensitive issue in Mexico. Sheinbaum has consistently stated her support for intelligence cooperation and security collaboration but refuses to permit U.S. agents or military forces to participate in operations within Mexican borders.

In comparison, U.S. President Donald Trump has consistently advocated for expanded use of U.S. military resources against Mexican cartels and has warned that the U.S. might act independently if Washington determines Mexico’s efforts are insufficient.

As tensions continue, a U.S. Department of State official announced the government has begun reviewing the more than 50 Mexican consulates operating in the United States, a process that could lead to closing some diplomatic facilities.

A Brazilian senator running for president is working to arrange a meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House, according to two sources with knowledge of the situation, as his campaign struggles with fallout from a banking scandal.

Sources indicate that Senator Flavio Bolsonaro may travel to the United States on Monday for a White House meeting with Trump next week. While one source confirmed an invitation from the White House, the exact timing remains unclear.

The right-wing senator, who is the oldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, has not responded through his spokesperson regarding the potential visit.

The Washington trip is being planned while the senator’s presidential campaign deals with a major controversy that has hurt his standing in polls against the current leftist president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, with October elections approaching.

Earlier this month, the senator became connected to a major bank fraud case after acknowledging he had arranged millions in financing for a documentary about his father from Daniel Vorcaro, a banker currently imprisoned on charges of bribing government officials and cheating investors.

The senator has maintained that his discussions with the banker involved only a legitimate private investment deal without any wrongdoing or special treatment. He had earlier stated he had no dealings with the banker.

During this week, the senator visited Sao Paulo to meet with business executives who are becoming more concerned about his ability to defeat Lula in the upcoming election.

He also conducted meetings with top campaign staff members and made changes to his communications leadership.

A court ruling in Turkey’s capital has invalidated the 2023 leadership election of the Republican People’s Party, the nation’s primary opposition group, potentially delivering a significant setback to those challenging President Tayyip Erdogan politically.

The court decision on Thursday declared that former chairman Kemal Kilicdaroglu should take back leadership from current chairman Ozgur Ozel, who was chosen during the now-nullified 2023 party congress.

MOSCOW, May 21 — A drone strike carried out by Ukrainian forces resulted in the deaths of three individuals when it hit a train locomotive in Russia’s Bryansk region on Thursday, according to state company Russian Railways.

The fatalities were all employees of Russian Railways who were struck during the attack at a railway station located in the town of Unecha.

The region’s acting governor, Yegor Kovalchuk, had previously confirmed that Unecha had been subjected to an assault.

The Bryansk region shares a border with Ukraine and has repeatedly been the target of Ukrainian military operations.

International criticism intensified Thursday following the release of a video showing Israel’s far-right security minister mocking activists from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla who were being held on the ground by authorities.

The handling of the activists by law enforcement under National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s oversight prompted criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the United States, Israel’s closest ally.

The aid workers, whose ship was stopped Wednesday in international waters by Israeli naval units while attempting to transport humanitarian supplies to Gaza, were all expelled from Israel Thursday, according to the Israeli foreign ministry.

European nations called in Israeli diplomatic representatives to express disapproval of the video. Italy requested an official apology, Spain declared it would not accept mistreatment of its nationals, and France called for the immediate release of all those detained.

Britain’s foreign ministry stated the video “violates the most basic standards of respect and dignity for people”, while Poland’s foreign minister requested that Ben-Gvir be prohibited from entering the country.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee stated that Ben-Gvir had “betrayed (the) dignity of his nation”.

The widespread condemnation follows the release of campaign-style footage by Ben-Gvir and at least one other minister in Netanyahu’s administration, transport chief Miri Regev, showing them at the port criticizing the demonstrators, publicity-seeking behavior ahead of a possible early election in Israel.

Thameen al-Kheetan, spokesperson for the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, stated the activists’ detention at sea appeared unlawful, and that any mistreatment should be examined with those responsible held accountable.

“It is not a crime to show solidarity and bring humanitarian assistance to the people who are in dire need of it in Gaza,” he told Reuters.

Italian journalist Alessandro Mantovani, among several activists separated from others and transported home earlier, claimed he was attacked upon arrival at Israeli detention in what he described as a container, calling it a “place of terror”.

“‘Beat you up’ means they kicked me in the legs and punched me in the face. These are people who know what they are doing, so I don’t have any major visible marks … They would beat you up and would tell you ‘Welcome to Israel’,” he told reporters upon arriving at Rome’s Fiumicino airport.

Another Italian activist, Dario Carotenuto, a lawmaker from the 5-Star Movement, reported being punched in the eye and kicked during detention.

Israel’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the activists’ claims. Participants in previous flotillas intercepted by Israel also reported abuse by Israeli forces, which Israel denied.

Flotilla organizers state they sought to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza by delivering humanitarian aid, which charitable organizations say remains insufficient despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas effective since October 2025 that includes promises of increased assistance.

The flotilla left southern Turkey this week before being intercepted Wednesday. Previous flotillas — including one carrying Swedish activist Greta Thunberg — were also stopped by Israel, with participants subsequently deported.

Israeli rights organization Adalah reported the estimated 430 activists had been freed from prison in southern Israel.

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced his country was organizing special flights to transport Turkish citizens as well as third-country participants to Turkey. Those aboard the flotilla included citizens of Spain, South Korea and Ireland.

“We will continue to uphold the rights of our citizens and fulfil our humanitarian responsibility toward civilians in Gaza,” Fidan stated.

Ben-Gvir’s video depicts officers pushing an activist to the ground after she chants “Free, free Palestine”.

The footage also displays dozens of detained activists kneeling in lines with their hands zip-tied behind their backs, in what appears to be an outdoor Israeli port facility. In the background, soldiers armed with long guns can be seen patrolling the area from aboard a military vessel.

During Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, launched following the October 2023 Hamas attacks, Israeli forces frequently positioned detained Palestinians on the ground with their hands restrained.

“Look at them now. See how they look now, not heroes and not anything,” Ben-Gvir says in the video as he walks past the activists while carrying a large Israeli flag.

Netanyahu declared Ben-Gvir’s behavior was “not in line with Israel’s values and norms”.

Ben-Gvir’s political support includes some of Israel’s most nationalist voters, a group that Netanyahu’s Likud party has previously attempted to attract before national elections, the next of which is scheduled by October 27.

This week, Israel moved closer to a snap election after lawmakers gave initial approval to dissolve parliament.

Canada and Spain are among countries that have imposed sanctions on Ben-Gvir and far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, citing allegations that they incited violence against Palestinians.

BEIRUT (AP) — Several months after being forced from her home by conflict, Soubhiye Zeiter begins each day with the same ritual: brewing a large cup of coffee and enjoying a few peaceful minutes at a flower-adorned small table outside her tent in Beirut.

However, the tranquility ends quickly once her coffee is ready.

Before the morning progresses far, dozens of people have already formed lines outside Zeiter’s modest bakery operation in a tent camp located in Lebanon’s capital city, eager for her mana’eesh — the beloved Lebanese flatbread served for breakfast with toppings of cheese, meat or za’atar, a seasoning made from thyme and herbs. Kids dart between waiting customers, volunteers hurry trays of dough to and from ovens, and the 63-year-old Zeiter acknowledges almost every passerby, frequently inviting them to sit and share coffee.

Called Om Mohammed by many — an Arabic term meaning Mohammed’s mother — this grandmother evacuated her residence in Beirut’s southern suburbs along with 15 family members when the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah began. She had been residing just south of the capital when Israeli forces issued evacuation orders for the extensive neighborhoods before launching intensive air attacks.

The continuing conflict between Israel and the Hezbollah militant organization has forced more than one million residents to leave their homes in this small nation during months of border clashes. Numerous families abandoned villages in southern Lebanon and Beirut’s southern neighborhoods, finding refuge in schools, government buildings and tent camps throughout Beirut and the wider country.

Upon arriving at the tent camp situated between the Mediterranean Sea and the capital’s upscale downtown area, Zeiter initially visited a nearby location where relief supplies were being given out. However, after learning she would need to wait in line for hours and still might receive nothing, she chose instead to prepare meals for her family and others requiring assistance.

She started using her personal saj — a traditional circular metal cooking surface common throughout Lebanon — preparing approximately 200 mana’eesh daily and distributing them at no cost. As news of her efforts spread, more individuals arrived each morning, with some contributing ingredients. Eventually the waiting lines grew beyond what she could handle by herself.

Today, her small section of the camp resembles a community bakery. Individuals who learned about her work contributed a larger gas-operated oven that operates from early morning through late evening. Dough passes through a rolling machine. Volunteers wrap bread as fast as it emerges hot from ovens. The aroma of thyme and baking dough floats through rows of blue tents.

“We can’t keep up,” Zeiter said, laughing as people continued arriving at the stand. “We bake 3,000 to 3,500 mana’eesh daily and people still come and ask for more.”

What began as one woman preparing food for displaced children has evolved into a community project sustained almost completely by donations. She has gained recognition as somewhat of a local celebrity in her community, with the Beirut governor even stopping by to share coffee with her during an afternoon visit to tour the location.

“People started donating gas, some donated flour or za’atar, some brought oil, cheese, sometimes people brought meat, some brought yeast,” she said. “Whatever I need for this bakery, people are helping me out.”

For Zeiter, the bakery represents more than just providing food. She explains that she wants the tent camp to feel less like a place of grief and more like the communities people were compelled to abandon. During the day, she beckons to people walking by, encourages them to sit together, and attempts to recreate the type of environment she recalls from home.

“We’re all displaced. If I lost my home or got displaced that doesn’t mean that I have to lose my morale,” she said, wishing people even when scarred by war to love and care for each other. “Displacement shouldn’t change us.”

Despite the success of her community project, the sounds of drones flying overhead in the capital and reports of continuing Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon serve as stark reminders that life has been altered. She attempts to engage in activities from happier times, such as playing with her grandchildren and her small white dog, Bella.

Most significantly, she makes sure to prepare an additional pot of coffee — because she dislikes drinking coffee by herself — so she can welcome anyone passing her tent who wants to sit briefly. The flowers are important as well.

“What I love the most, in order to bring back memories, is to have flowers on the table or next to me when I drink coffee,” she said, her eyes filling with tears. “I feel like it makes up for things a little.”

German federal prosecutors announced Thursday they have filed charges against two individuals accused of conducting espionage operations for Iranian intelligence services, with plans to target prominent Jewish figures in Germany.

The primary defendant, identified as Ali S. under German privacy protocols, holds Danish citizenship and was taken into custody in Denmark last June. A second suspect, Afghan national Tawab M., was also apprehended in Denmark during November. Court documents show prosecutors submitted their case against both men to Hamburg state court on May 7.

According to the charges, Ali S. faces multiple counts including intelligence service collaboration, covert sabotage activities, and attempted involvement in murder and arson schemes. Tawab M. has been charged with attempted participation in murder.

Investigators claim Ali S. operated under the direction of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard intelligence division and maintained regular communication with the Guard’s expeditionary Quds Force.

The prosecution alleges that early in 2025, Ali S. received orders to collect detailed information about Josef Schuster, who leads Germany’s Central Council of Jews, and Volker Beck, a notable former German lawmaker who heads the German-Israeli Society. Additionally, he was tasked with surveilling two unidentified Jewish grocery store owners in Berlin.

“All this served for the preparation of assassination and arson attacks in Germany,” prosecutors stated in their official announcement.

Court filings indicate Ali S. conducted reconnaissance missions at multiple Berlin locations throughout last year while actively recruiting potential accomplices for the planned operations. By May 2025, he had established contact with Tawab M., who prosecutors say expressed willingness to obtain weapons for an unnamed third party and coordinate an assassination attempt against Beck.

Following Ali S.’s arrest last year, German Foreign Ministry officials summoned Iran’s ambassador for questioning. The Iranian Embassy responded by dismissing what they characterized as “unfounded and dangerous allegations” regarding any suspected plot against Jewish institutions.

MOSCOW (AP) — Military vehicles transporting long-range ballistic missiles moved through wooded terrain, nuclear submarines departed from northern and Pacific naval bases, and flight crews launched aircraft as Russia and Belarus completed their joint nuclear military exercises on Thursday.

The president of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, examined Russian nuclear-capable Iskander short-range missiles at a military facility participating in the exercises, stating: “I dreamed about this machine a long time ago.”

The exercises, which lasted three days starting Tuesday, occurred during increased Ukrainian aerial attacks, including strikes on Moscow’s outskirts that resulted in three deaths and caused damage to multiple structures and industrial sites. These attacks have made it more challenging for Kremlin leadership to portray the Ukrainian conflict — now in its fifth year — as a remote situation that doesn’t impact ordinary Russian citizens’ daily lives.

According to Russia’s Defense Ministry, the military exercise included 64,000 personnel, more than 200 missile systems, over 140 aircraft, 73 naval vessels, and 13 submarines, with eight submarines equipped with nuclear warheads. The ministry stated the exercises would concentrate on “preparation and use of nuclear forces under the threat of aggression.”

The military exercises also rehearse coordination with Belarus, a partner nation that accommodates Russian nuclear armaments. Russian weapons stationed in Belarus include the newest intermediate-range nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile platform.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has consistently highlighted Moscow’s nuclear capabilities since deploying military forces to Ukraine in February 2022, seeking to prevent Western nations from increasing assistance to Kyiv.

During 2024, Putin approved an updated nuclear policy, stating that any conventional military action against Russia backed by a nuclear-armed nation would be viewed as a coordinated assault on his country. This warning was clearly designed to discourage Western powers from permitting Ukraine to attack Russia with extended-range weaponry and seems to substantially reduce the conditions for potentially deploying Moscow’s nuclear weapons.

The updated policy brought Belarus under Russian nuclear protection. Putin has indicated that Moscow will maintain authority over its nuclear weapons positioned in Belarus while permitting its partner to choose targets during potential conflicts.

LONDON — British officials unveiled a series of tax breaks on everyday items and family entertainment as the government works to address escalating household expenses and regain public support.

On Thursday, Treasury chief Rachel Reeves revealed modest relief measures aimed at countering increased costs linked to the Iran war, including lower import duties on cookies, chocolate and approximately 100 additional grocery store items.

British inflation dropped to 2.8% in April from March’s 3.3% rate, though economists anticipate another surge driven by climbing fuel, heating gas and electricity costs.

In response to these pressures, officials delayed a scheduled fuel duty hike and granted truckers a one-year exemption from road taxes to help counter skyrocketing gasoline prices caused by the practical shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping corridor.

However, Reeves stopped short of promising expanded assistance for home heating expenses.

The Treasury chief outlined initiatives aimed at stimulating summer economic activity, including complimentary bus transportation for children during August. Throughout the summer season, admission taxes for attractions such as zoos, theme parks and museums will drop from 20% to 5%.

Reeves explained the cost-of-living relief would be funded through eliminating tax advantages for oil and gas corporations operating internationally.

“This summer I want every family to be able to enjoy themselves,” Reeves said. “As the war in Iran pushes prices up at home, my economic plan is the right one. I will continue to make the right choices, to protect households and businesses, and build a stronger and more secure Britain.”

These policy announcements arrived as Prime Minister Keir Starmer attempts to maintain stability while facing pressure from Labour Party colleagues seeking his removal following poor local election outcomes.

The past two weeks have proven particularly challenging for Starmer, who guided the party to overwhelming victory fewer than two years earlier. Numerous Labour legislators have demanded his resignation, and political observers widely anticipate a leadership contest. Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham plans to secure a Parliamentary seat in a June 18 special election before potentially challenging Starmer for the top position.

Starmer maintains he will not step down and intends to defend his leadership role. According to British political procedures, any successor to Starmer as party leader would automatically assume the prime minister position without requiring a nationwide vote.

NEW DELHI (AP) — What started as a satirical internet project has transformed into a massive digital movement attracting millions of frustrated young Indians seeking an outlet for their discontent.

The Cockroach Janta Party, a mock political organization using the resilient insect as its emblem, has taken Indian social media by storm through absurdist comedy turned into political protest. Social platforms have been flooded with satirical content and brief videos ridiculing government corruption, unemployment, and political failures, with millions of users adopting the cockroach — celebrated for surviving in tough environments — as a humorous symbol of persistence.

The digital campaign’s growth has been remarkably swift. The Cockroach Janta Party, known as CJP, launched its website and social media presence on Saturday. By Thursday, its Instagram account had gathered over 15 million followers, dramatically exceeding the 8.8 million followers of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governing Bharatiya Janata Party on the same platform.

“Nothing of this was intentional,” CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke told The Associated Press, explaining that the movement’s surge demonstrated growing discontent among India’s youth.

“It is the younger people who were actually very frustrated. They didn’t have any outlet. They were really angry at the government,” said Dipke, a political communications strategist and Boston University student.

The CJP appeared online following comments by Supreme Court Chief Justice Surya Kant that sparked outrage among young Indians frustrated by joblessness, increasing living expenses, and recent government exam paper leaks that have disrupted hiring processes.

During a court session last week, Kant condemned what he called “parasites” undermining institutions and likened some jobless young people and activists to cockroaches.

“There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don’t get any employment or have any place in the profession,” Kant said. He noted that some turned to social media activism, journalism or public interest campaigns and “start attacking everyone.”

The statements rapidly circulated online, where numerous users interpreted them as condescending. Kant subsequently explained that his comments targeted people with fraudulent credentials and stated he didn’t mean to offend India’s youth.

However, the backlash soon resulted in the satirical CJP Instagram account, which embraced the cockroach as its political emblem and started sharing humorous content, fake campaign messages, and satirical criticism of Modi’s administration.

In a matter of days, it attracted tens of thousands of online supporters through Google form submissions, along with backing from some opposition politicians.

“We have to understand that five years ago nobody was ready to speak up against Modi or the government. The times are changing,” said Dipke, who previously collaborated with the Aam Aadmi Party, which grew from India’s anti-corruption movement in 2012.

Dipke emphasized that the CPJ operates independently from any actual political organization. However, its emergence reflects a wider pattern across South Asia, where young people have been central to anti-government protests recently, including revolts in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and disturbances in Nepal.

“The youth are really frustrated and the government is not acknowledging their concerns,” Dipke said.

These challenges are particularly intense in India, where young people comprise more than a quarter of the population, yet many encounter limited employment prospects, ongoing joblessness, and increasing dissatisfaction with established political parties.

Many young voters also express anger toward Modi’s ruling Hindu nationalist party regarding issues such as increasing religious division, expanding inequality, and economic hardships.

The CJP heavily embraces self-deprecating humor.

Its satirical membership requirements include being jobless, lazy, constantly online, and skilled at professional complaining. Its platform uses comedy to tackle various controversial topics in Indian politics, including opposition claims of election fraud, criticism of connections between corporate media and government, and the naming of former judges to government positions.

Some critics, many supporting Modi, have rejected it as an online political stunt connected to the opposition, pointing to Dipke’s previous work with the Aam Aadmi Party. They also suggest the popularity boom will disappear as rapidly as it appeared, claiming it’s a digital campaign rather than a genuine grassroots effort.

But Dipke argued what started online would likely expand beyond social media.

“This is the movement that has arrived in India … it will change the political discourse,” he said. “It will continue online, and if required it will also come on the ground.”

The campaign has already started gradually moving offline, with some young supporters showing up at demonstrations wearing cockroach costumes.

So has the evident resistance.

On Thursday, Dipke posted on X that the CJP’s account on the platform, which had approximately 200,000 followers, had been blocked in India, representing one of the first clear restrictions on the rapidly expanding satirical movement. The explanation wasn’t immediately available.

Shortly after, Dipke revealed a new account for the organization, accompanied by a graphic stating “Cockroach is back.”

The message concluded: “You thought you can get rid of us? Lol.”

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine authorities received orders Thursday from the nation’s top justice official to carry out an International Criminal Court arrest warrant targeting a senator accused of crimes against humanity. Officials warned that anyone assisting the senator in avoiding the nationwide manhunt will face criminal prosecution.

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida declared during a press briefing that Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa “is a fugitive from justice.” Vida stated, “He should be brought to the ICC to face the charges.”

The senator previously served as the country’s top police official and implemented former President Rodrigo Duterte’s violent anti-drug campaign that resulted in thousands of deaths, primarily among low-level suspects. These killings drew condemnation from Western nations and human rights organizations.

Former President Duterte, who held office from 2016 to 2022, was taken into custody last year and transported to The Hague, where he currently faces trial at the ICC on crimes against humanity charges.

The senator had asked the Philippines Supreme Court to invalidate his ICC warrant, claiming the nation is no longer a member of the international tribunal. However, the court rejected his request.

During his press conference, Vida indicated that law enforcement has information about dela Rosa’s location but declined to provide specifics. He emphasized that anyone found helping the senator avoid arrest would face criminal charges.

An ICC warrant made public on May 11 accuses dela Rosa of the crime against humanity of murder involving “no less than 32 persons” during the period from July 2016 through late April 2018, while he commanded the national police under Duterte and carried out the former president’s harsh enforcement policies.

Vida noted, “There were thousands, including minors and toddlers, who were killed.” He added, “It’s the government’s obligation to support and help them achieve justice.”

The senator had stayed away from the Senate for several months due to arrest concerns. Nevertheless, he unexpectedly appeared on May 11 to assist Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano in securing a narrow majority and winning control of the 24-member Senate’s leadership.

Cayetano transported dela Rosa to the Senate in his vehicle. National Bureau of Investigation officers attempted to execute the ICC arrest warrant at that time, but dela Rosa rushed into the Senate chamber and requested protection from Cayetano and supporting senators, who provided him sanctuary.

On May 13, two days afterward, dela Rosa escaped from the Senate following multiple gunshots fired by the building’s security team. Their supervisor explained these were warning shots after spotting armed government officers positioned in a nearby building, according to police sources.

The gunfire created panic among senators, staff members and reporters, including two from The Associated Press, who were inside the Senate facility.

Authorities stated they are examining whether the disturbance was intentionally created to enable dela Rosa’s getaway in an SUV operated by another supportive senator, Robinhood Padilla.

The senator’s legal troubles have emerged amid growing political tensions between the Duterte family and current leadership. Vice President Sara Duterte, daughter of the former president, has accused current officials of orchestrating what she called the “kidnapping” of her father and his transfer to the ICC.

The vice president, who has declared her intention to run for president in 2028, faced impeachment last week in a decisive vote by the House of Representatives, which is controlled by allies of the current administration.

Her Senate trial on criminal accusations including unexplained wealth, misappropriation of government funds and a public threat to assassinate the president is scheduled to begin in July. While she has denied the charges, she has declined to provide detailed responses to them.

Federal prosecutors have filed criminal charges against former Cuban President Raúl Castro for his involvement in shooting down civilian aircraft in 1996, marking a significant escalation in the Trump administration’s pressure campaign against Cuba’s government.

At the same time, Senate Republicans are poised to drop their proposal for $1 billion in security funding for the White House complex and Trump’s ballroom on Thursday. Additionally, Trump’s proposal to construct a triumphal arch in Washington is receiving renewed scrutiny from the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, a federal body that recommended modifications before approving the plan last month.

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Trump has intensified discussions about regime change in Cuba following his deployment of U.S. military forces to apprehend Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January. A federal indictment against former Cuban leader Raúl Castro now sparks speculation about whether Trump might pursue similar action in Havana.

Below is a chronology of U.S. relations with the communist-controlled island, including multiple encounters with Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, Castro’s grandson referred to as “Raúlito.”

“China always firmly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions that lack a basis in international law and have no authorization from the United Nations Security Council and the abuse of judicial measures, and we also oppose external forces exerting pressure on Cuba under any pretext,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiankun said Thursday.

The U.S. should “stop wielding the stick of sanctions and judicial measures” against the country, Guo added. “China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and national dignity and opposes external interference.”

Trump’s proposal to construct a triumphal arch in Washington is receiving renewed examination from a federal body that recommended modifications before approving the plan last month.

The planned 250-foot (76 meter) arch represents one of multiple projects the Republican president is advancing along with a White House ballroom to establish his legacy in Washington. Project opponents, including a vast majority of individuals who provided public feedback in April, argued the arch would exceed the height of every other monument in the capital and overwhelm the skyline.

He has indicated some of his additional projects, including applying a blue coating to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool’s interior, will enhance the city’s appearance ahead of July 4 celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary.

The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, whose members received Trump appointments, endorsed the arch concept during its April monthly session. Commissioners plan to review and potentially vote on revised proposals during Thursday’s meeting.

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More than a dozen young Republicans who assembled with beers and colorful cocktails at a Kentucky establishment called dEcORa this week were critiquing the presidential administration they had welcomed enthusiastically last year.

Their initial excitement for Trump had transformed into disappointment. What emerged at the bar was frustration that the Republican establishment — which they originally praised Trump for challenging, but which some now believe he perpetuates — had abandoned them.

This growing resentment has expanded a generational divide between younger and older conservatives as the party gradually contemplates a post-Trump future.

The Republican primary loss of Rep. Thomas Massie — who had cultivated younger and anti-establishment support while clashing with Trump — eliminated one of their most powerful congressional advocates.

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Senate Republican leadership plans to withdraw their proposal for $1 billion in security funding for the White House complex and Trump’s ballroom on Thursday following criticism from party members regarding the timing and insufficient details in the Secret Service request.

Under White House pressure, Republicans attempted to incorporate the funding into an approximately $70 billion measure restoring money to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Border Patrol. However, the security proposal faced opposition from some GOP legislators questioning the expense and taxpayer fund allocation.

While the bill’s language remains unpublished, the Senate aims to approve it this week and forward it to the House before departing for a weeklong Memorial Day break.

Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., said the effort to add the security package to the bill was a “bad idea” and he does not think there is enough backing to pass it, even if the cost were reduced.

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Federal prosecutors announced Wednesday that they have filed criminal charges against former Cuban President Raúl Castro regarding the 1996 shootdown of civilian aircraft operated by Miami-based exile groups, as the Trump administration intensified pressure on the island’s socialist government.

The indictment alleges Castro directed the attack on two small aircraft operated by the exile organization Brothers to the Rescue. Castro, who will turn 95 next month, served as Cuba’s defense minister during the incident. The charges, secretly filed by a grand jury in April, include murder and aircraft destruction. Five Cuban military pilots also face charges.

When questioned about the extent American authorities would pursue to bring Castro before U.S. courts, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated: “There was a warrant issued for his arrest. So we expect that he will show up here, by his own will or by another way.”

The charges represent a genuine threat, analysts noted, following the January capture by U.S. forces of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to face drug charges in New York.

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BRUSSELS (AP) — The leader of Germany is pushing the European Union to grant Ukraine a special ‘associate membership’ status while working to restart diplomatic efforts to end the conflict with Russia that has stretched beyond four years, according to correspondence obtained Thursday by The Associated Press.

The proposal from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, addressed to top EU leadership, arrives as the 27-member union debates whether to pursue independent negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, given that U.S.-facilitated discussions have stalled amid America’s focus on the Iran conflict.

Merz’s plan would allow Ukraine to participate in EU proceedings without the ability to vote, while also providing non-voting representation within the European Commission and European Parliament.

The German chancellor emphasized this approach “would not be a membership light,” and would “go far beyond” the current Association Agreement between the EU and Ukraine. His proposal includes a “snap-back mechanism” should Ukraine fail to maintain democratic standards.

Last month, European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen restated their position that formal membership discussions with Ukraine should begin “without delay,” a timeline Merz also supports.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed optimism Wednesday about potential advancement in membership talks, stating in remarks that it is “very important for us. Ukraine has fulfilled everything necessary for this progress.”

Nations seeking EU membership must align their legislation across 35 policy areas, from judicial standards to agricultural and maritime regulations. Unanimous approval from all 27 EU members is required to open and close each policy area.

Hungary has previously prevented negotiations from starting, though the recent government change in Budapest this month could shift that position.

However, Merz’s proposal may face resistance from European officials who maintain that EU membership should follow a merit-based process completed only after meeting all requirements.

The German leader suggested extending his approach to other aspiring member nations, particularly those in the Western Balkans, where EU leaders plan to convene for a summit next month.

Regarding the ongoing conflict, Merz stated his proposal “will help facilitate the ongoing peace talks as part of a negotiated peace solution. This is essential not only for Ukraine’s but for the entire continent’s security.”

Ukraine views EU membership as a crucial “security guarantee” for post-war stability. While NATO membership would provide the strongest protection, the Trump administration opposes this option, and others hesitate to admit a nation currently at war.

With U.S.-led mediation efforts struggling, EU countries are exploring whether to establish separate negotiation channels and identify potential mediators should Putin agree to discussions.

Costa stated earlier this month that “we need, in the right moment, to have talks with Russia to address our common issues on security.” He emphasized this shouldn’t “disturb” U.S.-led efforts but acknowledged Europe’s need to address its security interests.

European media has speculated about possible EU negotiators, including former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who speaks Russian and has extensive experience with Putin, and former European Central Bank chief Mario Draghi.

Putin has indicated openness to discussions with Gerhard Schröder, another former German chancellor. However, officials have rejected this possibility, even in Germany, where Schröder’s connections to Russian energy companies and Putin relationship harmed his reputation following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called it unwise to let Putin select a negotiator, especially a “high-level lobbyist for Russian state-owned companies.”

Zelenskyy has endorsed European involvement, saying Sunday that “Europe must be involved in the negotiations. It is important for Europe to have a strong voice and presence in this process, and it is worth determining who will represent Europe specifically.”

Malaysian authorities announced Thursday they have issued a formal demand to TikTok regarding the social media company’s inadequate response to removing harmful fake content directed at the nation’s monarchy.

The Communications and Multimedia Commission stated this action came after the spread of content described as “grossly offensive, false, menacing and insulting,” which featured artificially generated videos and doctored images connected to an account that falsely claimed ties to king Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar.

These issues touch on the delicate topics of race, religion and royalty “which are highly sensitive and may undermine public order, national harmony and respect for constitutional institutions,” the regulatory body explained in its announcement.

Even after previous notifications and discussions, the commission noted TikTok’s content oversight response was inadequate, particularly regarding swift content removal and preventing additional spread of such material.

The regulator revealed that TikTok — which has remained silent publicly about this situation — received a formal legal notice requiring the company to account for its oversight shortcomings and implement immediate corrective actions, including enhanced content monitoring systems and better enforcement against material violating Malaysian regulations and community guidelines.

The commission emphasized that social media companies operating within Malaysia must demonstrate increased accountability in stopping illegal and damaging activities on their platforms.

Officials cautioned they will persist in taking “firm and proportionate action” to guarantee digital platforms fulfill their obligations in creating a secure and respectful online space.

This development occurs as Malaysia intensifies its efforts to strengthen supervision of digital platforms, with government agencies recently increasing enforcement actions against social media corporations regarding dangerous content, fraudulent schemes, online betting and material considered offensive or threatening to public safety.

TikTok has not provided a response to The Associated Press’ request for commentary.

The United States has ordered its Jerusalem diplomatic mission to pressure Palestinian officials to abandon their candidacy for a UN General Assembly vice presidency position, according to a leaked State Department cable reported by The Guardian.

The diplomatic communication, dated May 19, directed the US embassy in Jerusalem to formally protest to Palestinian Authority officials and demand withdrawal of the candidacy by May 22. The message warned that consequences would result if the bid continued.

The report indicates Washington connected this matter to larger conflicts over Palestinian diplomatic efforts and financial disputes. The cable specified that Palestinians would see no advancement in retrieving tax and customs revenues held back by Israel unless they engage in good faith without taking disagreements to international courts.

These revenues represent 60% of the PA’s budget. The money has been mostly held back since the Gaza conflict started in October 2023 under policies put in place by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.

The message also mentioned previous US pressure regarding UN leadership positions. It commended Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour for pulling his candidacy for General Assembly president in February after American lobbying. The cable indicated Mansour had understood the seriousness of the matter and wanted to be constructive.

Palestinians are competing as part of a four-nation Asia-Pacific group for vice-presidential spots at the General Assembly. Though the position carries less authority than the presidency, the cable observed that vice presidents could be asked to chair assembly sessions.

The document stated: “In a worst case scenario, the next PGA [president of the general assembly] might assist the Palestinians in presiding over high-profile sessions related to the Middle East or during UNGA81 high-level week,” referring to September meetings and speeches scheduled in New York.

The communication also claimed the Palestinian candidacy “undermines President Trump’s Comprehensive Plan,” citing the US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal and the Board of Peace.

The cable declared: “To be clear. We will hold the PA responsible if the Palestinian delegation does not withdraw its VPGA candidacy, and consequences will follow.”

The document further mentioned the temporary cancellation of visas for Palestinian officials before last August’s UN summit week, though the restrictions were eventually removed. “It would be unfortunate to have to revisit any available options,” the cable warned.

US officials refused to provide comment on The Guardian’s reporting.

When Israel’s legislative body, the Knesset, decides to dissolve itself, it’s not simply taking a recess or temporary break. Instead, it’s initiating the formal procedure to cut short its current term and force the nation into new elections.

Israel operates under a parliamentary system where citizens don’t vote directly for their prime minister. Instead, they cast ballots for political parties. These parties receive seats in the 120-member Knesset based on their portion of the nationwide vote, and a government forms when one member of the legislature—typically the head of the largest or most politically viable party—can build a coalition with majority backing.

Currently, the Knesset hasn’t completed its dissolution process. The legislature has only moved dissolution measures through preliminary readings, which represents the initial phase for this kind of legislation. Lawmakers initially supported a coalition-sponsored dissolution measure, then hours afterward voted 53-0 to approve a preliminary reading of an opposition measure sponsored by Blue and White MK Pnina Tameno, party chair Benny Gantz, and others. Both proposals must still go through committee review and pass three additional readings in the full Knesset. The final reading needs backing from at least 61 of the 120 legislative members.

A preliminary vote demonstrates political momentum, but it doesn’t terminate the Knesset’s current term. Agreements can still be reached, factions can change direction, and either measure can become stalled. Having both a coalition-supported measure and an opposition-supported measure also shifts the political dynamics. If the coalition withdraws its own proposal, the opposition’s version maintains another pathway to early elections. This creates additional pressure on the government to demonstrate advancement on military draft exemption legislation for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students or face the risk of ultra-Orthodox parties shifting their support to the opposition route.

Should a dissolution law succeed, the legislation will establish the election date. The opposition measure would schedule elections exactly 90 days following the law’s passage. The coalition measure doesn’t specify a date, but states the Knesset House Committee would establish one no sooner than three months after final approval. Elections typically occur at least 90 days after the law passes and no later than five months afterward. In this situation, the election is anticipated to happen in September or October, though the exact date hasn’t been determined yet.

The government doesn’t cease to exist during this timeframe. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his ministers stay in office until a new government forms. Israel follows the principle of governmental continuity: the current government continues governing until another government takes its place. Even if elections result in another stalemate and no new coalition can form, the existing government can remain in position during the interim.

Americans might consider this a caretaker government, and Israelis frequently use terms like “transitional government” in regular political discussion. More accurately, Israeli law refers to an “outgoing government” after a new Knesset is elected or after the government steps down. In practical terms, the previous government continues operating the state until a new one is sworn in.

The government doesn’t automatically forfeit its legal authority after dissolution. The state must still operate. Wars persist, budgets require management, emergencies occur, and government departments can’t post a “Back After Elections” notice on their doors.

However, its operational freedom becomes more constrained in practice. Transitional or outgoing governments are expected to show restraint, particularly regarding major appointments, long-term policy choices, and actions that could unnecessarily bind the next government. Courts and legal advisers have considered restraint especially crucial during election periods, when ministers might be tempted to use state authority, budgets, or appointments for political gain.

There’s no complete prohibition on government action during this time. If there’s an urgent security requirement, a fiscal necessity, or an issue that cannot responsibly be delayed, the government can still take action. A routine appointment or political spending decision may encounter stricter scrutiny than a wartime decision or an urgent measure required to maintain state operations.

The Knesset also remains in existence after dissolution until the new Knesset assembles. It doesn’t disappear immediately when the dissolution law passes. It can still create legislation, though practically its work is usually more restricted during an election period. Emergency provisions and expiring laws may still require attention so the state doesn’t lose legal authority during the transition.

Dissolution differs from a no-confidence vote. In Israel, a no-confidence motion is “constructive.” The Knesset cannot simply remove a government by declaring it no longer has confidence in it. To succeed, a no-confidence motion must receive at least 61 votes and support an alternative government, including its proposed prime minister, ministers, and basic policy framework. The system is structured to prevent a vacuum: if the Knesset removes one government, it must be prepared to install another.

A dissolution measure doesn’t install a new government. It sends the country to elections. A no-confidence vote means a new government is prepared. Dissolution means the voters are being asked to decide once more.

A dissolution vote also doesn’t necessarily indicate the government has formally lost a no-confidence vote. A coalition can break apart politically without being replaced by an alternative government. Coalition partners may refuse to support major legislation, threaten to leave, or support a dissolution measure because they believe elections are better than continuing under the current situation.

The current crisis focuses on the ultra-Orthodox draft dispute. Israel mandates that most Jewish citizens serve in the military, but ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students have historically received exemptions. This arrangement has become much more politically volatile since October 7, 2023, as reservists have served multiple tours and the military’s personnel requirements have increased. Ultra-Orthodox parties want legislation maintaining exemptions; many other Israelis view such exemptions as unacceptable during wartime.

For Netanyahu, the risk goes in both directions. If he accommodates the ultra-Orthodox parties, he risks angering reservists, secular voters, and segments of the right. If he fails to accommodate them, he risks losing the coalition partners that maintain him in power. The opposition measure creates another pressure point: even if the coalition attempts to slow or postpone its own dissolution effort, another parliamentary mechanism for early elections is now advancing.

Blue and White leader Benny Gantz characterized the opposition vote as evidence that the government’s time is limited. “This is the beginning of the end. This failed government will go home sooner or later,” he said.

For now, Israel has not completely entered an election campaign by law. It has entered the corridor leading there, and now there is more than one door. The Knesset still has to walk through one of them.

A diplomatic controversy has erupted after video footage surfaced showing Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir ridiculing detained flotilla activists at Ashdod port, leading seven nations to summon Israeli diplomatic representatives.

Italy, France, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Portugal called in Israeli ambassadors to address the incident, while Spain summoned the Israeli charge d’affaires due to the absence of an ambassador currently stationed there.

The controversial video clips captured numerous international activists forced to kneel at the port facility with their hands apparently bound, as Ben-Gvir conducted a tour of the location. During one segment, the minister displayed a large Israeli flag while calling out in Hebrew, “Welcome to Israel, we are the masters.” Another clip showed restrained demonstrators listening to Israel’s national anthem from speakers, with Ben-Gvir remarking to one individual, “This is how it needs to be.”

These activists had been detained at Ashdod port following the Foreign Ministry’s announcement that the most recent flotilla effort to penetrate Israel’s naval blockade around Gaza had concluded.

According to the activists, their flotilla originated from Turkey with the goal of challenging the blockade, which they hold responsible for Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Israeli officials maintain the blockade serves essential security purposes and claim some flotilla participants have connections to the HHI group, which Israel classifies as a terrorist organization due to suspected Hamas affiliations.

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar strongly criticized Ben-Gvir’s behavior in an official statement: “You knowingly caused harm to our state in this disgraceful display – and not for the first time.” Saar continued, “You have undone tremendous, professional and successful efforts made by so many people — from IDF soldiers to Foreign Ministry staff and many others.”

“You are not the face of Israel,” Saar declared to Ben-Gvir.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged Israel’s authority to intercept “provocative flotillas of Hamas terrorist supporters,” but characterized Ben-Gvir’s treatment of the activists as “not in line with Israel’s values and norms.”

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee also weighed in on the social media platform X, writing: “Flotilla was a stupid stunt, but Ben Gvir betrayed the dignity of his nation. Despicable acts.”

Israel’s parliament faces a preliminary dissolution vote on Wednesday following the failure of coalition parties to come to terms on legislation that would formalize military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox citizens.

Should the measure succeed, Israel may find itself heading to the polls sooner than anticipated, as elections would be required within five months of parliamentary dissolution. However, this would only marginally accelerate the timeline, given that the statutory election deadline was already established for October 27. Ultra-Orthodox political parties have expressed their preference for early September elections.

After the initial reading, the legislation would proceed to committee review before returning to the full parliament for three more readings. Parliamentary officials cleared all other legislation from Monday and Tuesday’s agenda in anticipation of the anticipated vote.

The schedule for finalizing the dissolution remains uncertain, though the bill is anticipated to advance rapidly through the legislative process. Meanwhile, coalition representatives are reportedly working to delay proceedings as much as feasible, despite evaluations suggesting the process could theoretically conclude within two days.

According to Ynet’s reporting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues working to push forward the draft exemption legislation in hopes of persuading ultra-Orthodox parties to abandon their call for early elections. The report indicates Netanyahu aims to maintain the coalition alliance before a national election by securing a deal with the ultra-Orthodox groups.

Concurrent with political discussions, the parliament’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee is set to conduct another Wednesday session regarding the draft exemption bill. The committee will also begin reviewing legislation to extend mandatory military service, which military leadership seeks to promote. Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir cautioned that not extending mandatory service would seriously damage the military’s operational preparedness.

However, the legal adviser to the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee stands against advancing the extension legislation prior to enacting what she characterized as an effective ultra-Orthodox conscription law.

LAGOS, Nigeria — Nigerian drug enforcement officials announced they have dismantled a major international drug operation involving both Nigerian and Mexican nationals operating in the country’s southwestern territory.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency announced Wednesday evening that specialized officers discovered and closed down what they described as an “industrial-scale clandestine laboratory” hidden in an isolated wooded area in the Ijebu region of Ogun state, located near Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub. Officials characterized this as the nation’s largest drug seizure to date.

During the raid, authorities detained seven individuals described as members of the criminal organization, including four Nigerian citizens and three Mexican nationals, with an additional three suspects apprehended in subsequent operations, according to an agency statement.

“This network did not just traffic drugs; they were actively manufacturing industrial-scale quantities of highly lethal illicit substances right on our soil, threatening the national security and public health of Nigeria,” Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa, the agency’s head, said.

The enforcement action led to the confiscation of 2.4 tons of chemical substances, including methamphetamine, valued at 480 billion naira ($363 million), along with two motor vehicles, the statement revealed.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has identified West and Central Africa as increasingly significant centers for international drug trafficking and production operations in recent years, citing weak border security and governmental corruption as contributing factors.

A major international summit between India and the African Union has been called off due to a rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in Congo that health officials say is spiraling out of control.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs announced Thursday that the India-Africa Forum Summit, originally set for next week in the capital, has been postponed because of the “evolving health situation in parts of Africa.”

The cancellation comes as medical teams and humanitarian organizations in eastern Congo report they are overwhelmed by a deadly Ebola outbreak that appears to be expanding faster than authorities can contain it.

“The situation is worrying because this is gaining momentum,” Hama Amado, the field coordinator in the region for Alima, an aid organization, told reporters. “This is spreading in many areas. So everyone must mobilize.”

Amado emphasized the severity of the crisis, stating: “We are still far from saying that the situation is under control.”

The postponement was announced jointly, with officials citing “the importance of ensuring the full participation and engagement of African leaders and stakeholders, and mindful of the emerging public health situation on the continent.” India expressed solidarity with Africa and pledged support for continent-led health response efforts.

Medical personnel and relief organizations in eastern Congo say they urgently require additional equipment and personnel to combat the uncommon Ebola outbreak, while armed militant groups continue to pose security threats in a region already struggling with mass displacement and humanitarian emergencies.

This particular outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which no vaccination or treatment currently exists. The virus went undetected for weeks after the initial known fatality while health authorities tested for a different, more prevalent form of Ebola and received negative results.

Medical teams and aid workers are now attempting to catch up with an outbreak that specialists believe is significantly larger than official numbers indicate. Current reports show 139 suspected fatalities and nearly 600 suspected infections.

The World Health Organization, which has assessed the global risk as low, has stated that “patient zero” remains unidentified.

Despite nearly 20 tons of emergency supplies being flown to the outbreak’s epicenter, physicians using expired protective masks were caring for suspected Ebola patients in regular hospital wards due to insufficient isolation facilities.

Quick identification of the virus is crucial for patient survival, but the area’s already fragile healthcare infrastructure and monitoring capabilities have been further damaged by reductions in international funding, according to experts. More than 920,000 people have been internally displaced in the province that has become the outbreak’s center, according to United Nations data.

“Communities in eastern DRC are already facing immense pressure from conflict, displacement, and a collapsing health system,” said Dr. Lievin Bangali, Senior Health Coordinator for the International Rescue Committee in the region. “Years of underfunding, compounded by recent cuts to front line health and outbreak preparedness programming, have weakened the ability to detect and respond to outbreaks quickly.”

The organization reported it was forced to halt surveillance operations in three of five areas in the province during the past year due to funding shortages.

At a medical facility in Rwampara, healthcare personnel in protective equipment managed the remains of suspected Ebola victims. Family members, who traditionally wash deceased relatives’ bodies themselves, observed as workers sanitized the corpses and placed them in caskets for transport to secure burial locations. Some family members broke down in tears.

Relatives described how the illness struck without warning, with rapid decline after symptoms were initially mistaken for other diseases like malaria.

“He told me his heart was hurting,” said Botwine Swanze, whose son died from the disease. “Then he started crying because of the pain. Then he started bleeding and vomiting a lot.”

The Ebola virus spreads rapidly and transmits through human populations via contact with bodily fluids including vomit, blood or semen. Signs include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches and sometimes internal and external bleeding.

Educational institutions and religious centers continue operating normally in the affected city. Some local residents have begun wearing protective masks, which are becoming increasingly scarce.

“It’s truly sad and painful because we’ve already been through a security crisis, and now Ebola is here too,” said Justin Ndasi, a local resident.

Anxiety is mounting at medical facilities throughout the region. A team from Doctors Without Borders discovered suspected cases over the weekend at the city’s main hospital but could not locate any available isolation ward in the vicinity, according to Trish Newport, an emergency program manager, who posted on social media.

“Every health facility they called said, ‘We’re full of suspect cases. We don’t have any space.’ This gives you a vision of how crazy it is right now,” she explained.

At another hospital elsewhere in the province, suspected Ebola patients were housed in the same ward as other injured or sick individuals.

In the town where the first known victim’s body was transported, the nearby international border remains open and gold mining operations continue, said Chérubin Kuku Ndilawa, a civil society leader, illustrating the challenges of virus containment.

“There’s no panic. People continue with their normal lives, but they’re also starting to spread the word,” Ndilawa observed, noting the absence of public handwashing facilities.

The situation was markedly different at the local general hospital, where Dr. Didier Pay reported treating approximately 30 Ebola patients, and a student from the area’s medical technology institute died on Wednesday.

“The patients are scattered here and there in rather unusual conditions,” Dr. Richard Lokudu, the hospital’s medical director, explained. “We hope for the proper triage and isolation facilities to be installed today, and if that doesn’t happen, we will be completely overwhelmed.”

The facility is understaffed and personnel lack training to handle suspected cases, he noted. If confirmed infections increase, “we have no protection.”

The World Health Organization has classified the outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern. The organization’s Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated Tuesday he was “deeply concerned about the scale and speed of the epidemic,” while the organization’s regional chief predicted the outbreak could continue for at least two months.

Research into the outbreak’s origin continues, but “given the scale, we are thinking that it has started probably a couple of months ago,” said Anaïs Legand, a viral hemorrhagic fevers specialist at the organization.

Thus far, 51 infections have been verified in the country’s northern provinces, plus two cases in neighboring Uganda, Dr. Adhanom Ghebreyesus reported Wednesday. However, “the scale of the epidemic is much larger,” he acknowledged.

The London-based research center estimates that cases have been significantly undercounted and that actual numbers could already surpass 1,000. “The true magnitude remains uncertain,” researchers stated.

The region has long experienced attacks from various armed groups, and this ongoing instability now further hampers crisis response efforts. Local officials reported that militants associated with a terrorist organization killed at least 17 people Tuesday in a village in the affected province.

Fighters with the Allied Democratic Forces, which maintains connections to the terrorist group, killed civilians using machetes and firearms, destroyed homes and businesses, and took several people hostage. Civil society organizations warned that other villages in the area face similar attack threats.

The exact number of these fighters in the country remains unclear, but they maintain a substantial presence in the region and regularly target civilians. Another active armed group in the area consists of a loose association of militia groups primarily from a local ethnic farming community.

Authorities in Morocco report that a deadly building collapse occurred during the nighttime hours in the city of Fez, located approximately 124 miles east of the capital Rabat, claiming four lives and leaving six people injured.

Officials announced Thursday that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the tragic incident. As a safety precaution, authorities ordered the evacuation of neighboring buildings due to concerns about additional potential structural failures, according to an official statement that did not include further specifics about the collapse.

Parliamentary elections taking place Sunday in Cyprus may fundamentally alter the Mediterranean island’s political structure, as public dissatisfaction with corruption issues and escalating living expenses strengthens backing for emerging political groups.

While Cyprus’s executive authority remains with the presidential office, increased success for political outsiders might divide parliament and create obstacles for supporting government proposals.

Polling data indicates that reform-focused movement ALMA and liberal party Volt may secure parliamentary seats for the first time, while far-right ELAM appears positioned to expand its presence, possibly becoming the third-largest force in the 56-member legislative body. This transformation would break the long-standing control held by Communist AKEL and right-wing DISY parties.

These developments might weaken backing for at least two of the three parties that supported President Nikos Christodoulides’ 2023 electoral victory, marking the initial nationwide evaluation of public opinion at his term’s midpoint.

Citizen trust has suffered in recent years due to a cash-for-passports controversy involving wealthy international investors, along with postponements of energy infrastructure developments that have resulted in Cypriots facing some of Europe’s steepest electricity costs.

Political analyst Christoforos Christoforou explained, “It’s going to be a vote of protest towards established parties which will also, to an extent, be directed towards the government.”

An unprecedented 753 candidates representing more than 18 parties are competing for seats. The current parliament includes seven represented parties.

Former auditor general Odysseas Michaelides, who established ALMA following his 2024 removal from office — which he claims resulted from his persistent inquiries about government expenditures — stated that voters have lost faith in the entire political framework.

Surveys place ALMA at approximately 8% to 10% support, as the movement advocates for stronger anti-corruption protections and institutional reforms.

Volt Cyprus, a pro-European organization polling beyond the 3.6% requirement for parliamentary entry, maintains that numerous voters feel disconnected due to corruption and insufficient accountability. Co-chair Andromachi Sophocleous characterized this as the consequence of existing in a “dysfunctional state.”

“We feel that the public is completely fed up with politics not bringing any improvement to their lives,” she told Reuters.

LONDON — Newly released government documents reveal that Queen Elizabeth II strongly advocated for the former Prince Andrew to receive the position of Britain’s trade envoy.

British officials made the confidential records public on Thursday concerning Andrew’s appointment to the role, coming just months after members of parliament criticized the king’s brother for prioritizing his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein over national duties.

“The Queen is very keen that the Duke of York should take on a prominent role in the promotion of national interests,” the head of Britain’s trade body wrote in a letter.

A separate government memo distributed to British trade personnel worldwide indicated that “HRH’s high public profile” would necessitate “careful and sometimes strict media management,” referring to Andrew.

FRANKFURT, Germany — European Union officials have revised downward their economic projections and anticipate elevated inflation rates as energy costs spike amid the Iranian conflict, though they believe the region will steer clear of a full recession.

“As a net energy importer, the EU’s economy is highly susceptible to the energy shock caused by the conflict in the Middle East,” the commission said in a statement Thursday. The rising cost of fuel “means higher household bills and surging business costs that reduce profits for many industries.”

In its spring economic forecast, the commission reduced growth expectations for eurozone nations to 0.9% this year, down from the previous autumn projection of 1.2%, while 2027 growth estimates dropped from 1.4% to 1.2%. Meanwhile, inflation projections for 2026 jumped to 3.0%, a significant increase from the earlier 1.9% estimate.

This updated inflation forecast surpasses the European Central Bank’s 2% target, prompting speculation that the ECB may implement interest rate increases this year to counter rising prices.

Energy markets experienced significant volatility following Iranian drone and speedboat threats that effectively halted most shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway handling approximately one-fifth of global oil and natural gas transport. Additionally, war developments have undermined consumer sentiment, which dropped to its lowest point in 40 months as concerns mount over potential job losses and accelerating inflation.

Despite these challenges, commission officials maintain that the economy will demonstrate continued modest expansion while avoiding a complete recession.

However, they cautioned that extended periods of elevated energy costs could further dampen growth prospects while pushing inflation even higher.

Ukrainian forces launched another deep-strike drone attack on Russian territory Thursday, targeting an oil refinery located more than 500 miles inside Russia and sparking fires that sent massive plumes of black smoke into the sky, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Zelenskyy announced on social media that the attack hit the Syzran oil refinery, situated over 800 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. He shared video footage showing the aftermath of the strike.

Independent verification of the footage and confirmation of the attack was not immediately available. Vyacheslav Fedorishchev, who serves as governor of Russia’s Samara region, confirmed that Ukrainian drones killed two people in Syzran but did not reference the refinery attack. Russia’s Astra news outlet reported that the drones struck the Syzran facility, which is operated by oil and gas company Rosneft.

The attack demonstrates Ukraine’s expanding capabilities for medium and long-distance strikes, utilizing sophisticated drone and missile technology developed within the country as it continues fighting against Russia’s 4-year-old invasion. Other nations are now seeking Ukrainian military technology and expertise, a stark contrast to earlier in the conflict when Ukraine desperately needed foreign military assistance.

Zelenskyy revealed that Ukrainian drones had also struck another refinery the day before, as attacks on Russian oil facilities that help finance the invasion have become routine.

“Overall, our long-range plan for May is being carried out largely in full,” Zelenskyy said in a social media post late Wednesday. “The key targets are Russian oil refineries, storage facilities, and other infrastructure tied to these oil revenues.”

The intensifying campaign has damaged Moscow’s revenue streams while international sanctions continue to squeeze the Russian economy. Some strikes have penetrated over 1,500 kilometers into Russian territory, contributing to growing unease among Russians about the war and increasing pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine’s enhanced striking distance has also enabled its forces to push back Russian troops along certain sections of the front line, with Ukrainian forces achieving their most substantial battlefield progress since 2024, according to the Institute for the Study of War.

“Ukraine’s intensified midrange strike campaign against Russian logistics, military equipment, and manpower since early 2026 has also degraded Russian forces’ ability to conduct offensive operations across the theater and has also likely supported recent Ukrainian advances,” the Washington-based think tank said in an assessment late Wednesday.

Russia’s Defense Ministry reported that air defense systems intercepted 121 Ukrainian drones during the overnight period from Wednesday into Thursday.

In the Belgorod region along Ukraine’s border, eight people sustained injuries from Ukrainian drone attacks, regional governor Alexander Shuvayev reported.

Russia has similarly made substantial investments in drone technology, using them to attack civilian areas throughout Ukraine during the war, resulting in more than 15,000 civilian deaths according to United Nations figures.

Ukraine’s air force announced Thursday that it successfully intercepted 109 of 116 drones launched by Russia during the night.

The Russian strikes killed one civilian and wounded at least six others across Ukraine’s northern, southern and eastern regions, emergency services reported.

BEIJING (AP) — Chinese leader Xi Jinping recently conducted consecutive diplomatic meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which appeared similar on the surface with formal ceremonies at Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, enthusiastic welcomes from children waving flags, and military honor guards with gleaming weapons. However, these visits highlighted the contrasting nature of China’s relationships with both nations.

Trump’s visit focused on stabilizing relations between the United States and China, whereas Putin’s trip aimed at strengthening the strategic alliance between Russia and China.

Xi provided ceremonial treatment during Trump’s stay, featuring an exclusive visit to Zhongnanhai, the former royal gardens that currently house China’s government headquarters. Beijing recognized that Trump appreciated prominent demonstrations of respect, according to George Chen, partner for Greater China practice for The Asia Group. “Xi knows this is what Trump values: being treated like a VIP, respected in front of the cameras.”

Regarding Putin, Chen noted that Xi focused on meaningful discussions. “Reaffirming the friendship treaty, signing new energy deals, and re-emphasizing their ‘no limits’ partnership,” he explained.

The visits differed in duration: the U.S. president remained in China for three days, compared to Putin’s two-day stay.

Both leaders received ceremonial welcomes at Tiananmen Square featuring honor guards, military bands, and children displaying Chinese and respective national flags.

Each leader also conducted private discussions with Xi at the Great Hall of the People, located adjacent to the square.

However, Trump’s visit did not feature a public ceremony for signing agreements, while Putin and Xi observed the formal signing of bilateral accords and memorandums of understanding.

Trump received an exclusive visit to the Temple of Heaven and toured the royal gardens of Zhongnanhai.

Putin alternatively spent considerable time with Xi within the Great Hall of the People, where both leaders viewed a photographic display showcasing China-Russia relations before sharing tea.

This marked Trump’s second presidential visit to China. For Putin, this represented his 25th trip to the nation.

The primary difference between both summits lay in their communication approaches.

During Trump’s visit, Xi emphasized maintaining relatively stable relations following months of conflict and trade disputes between the world’s largest economies. He encouraged the U.S. president to view China as an ally rather than an adversary, with both leaders committing to pursue what they termed “a constructive China-U.S. relationship of strategic stability.”

With Putin, Xi aimed to strengthen and expand a long-established partnership that holds strategic and economic significance for both nations.

While the U.S. and China continue working to stabilize their commercial relationships, Moscow and Beijing confirmed their status as crucial partners. Putin identified the “driving force” of their relationship as the energy industry, especially oil and natural gas.

Both sides executed over 40 cooperation agreements spanning trade, technology, and media collaboration. The leaders also endorsed a joint statement characterizing Russia and China as “important centers of power in a multipolar world.”

Trump and Xi, in comparison, did not endorse a joint statement or witness any agreement signings during the visit. Only after the U.S. president departed Beijing did both countries reveal details of several arrangements, with Washington announcing that China committed to purchasing U.S. agricultural goods at an annual rate of $17 billion and acquiring 200 Boeing aircraft.

“China and Russia reached more agreements, and with China and the U.S., what are the agreements? Even that is not very clear,” stated Claus Soong, an analyst at the Mercator Institute for China Studies in Berlin.

However, Lyle Morris, senior fellow on Chinese national security and foreign policy at Asia Society Policy Institute’s Center for China Analysis, noted the most unexpected outcome from the Xi-Putin meetings was the apparent absence of a formal agreement for the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline project, which would transport gas from Russia to China via Mongolia.

“This is a huge setback for Russia and Putin,” he stated.

Moscow shares Beijing’s position on Taiwan, the island democracy that China considers its territory. Meanwhile, the U.S. maintains a deliberately unclear position on the island while serving as its primary unofficial supporter and weapons supplier.

Xi informed Trump that Taiwan represents the most critical issue in bilateral relations and cautioned that mismanaging U.S. connections with the self-governing island could result in conflict between both countries.

Trump avoided public discussion of Taiwan during his visit. However, while returning to the United States, he characterized weapons sales to Taiwan as a “very good negotiating chip” with China, remarks that created concern on the island that Beijing claims as its territory.

With Putin, no disagreement appeared regarding this matter.

In the joint statement signed by Xi and Putin, Russia restated its opposition to Taiwanese independence “in any form” and expressed support for what it characterized as China’s efforts to protect its sovereignty and achieve “national unification.”

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, both parties also expressed concerns about what they described as “accelerated remilitarization” of Japan, amid tense China-Japan relations regarding Taiwan.

Wealthier nations delivered an unprecedented $136.7 billion in climate assistance to developing countries last year, marking a new milestone in global efforts to combat climate change, according to data released Thursday by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

The funding represents a 3% increase from 2023 levels and supports initiatives such as renewable energy expansion and infrastructure improvements to defend against severe weather events, the OECD reported.

This achievement builds on a commitment made by affluent nations in 2009 to provide $100 billion annually by 2020 to assist vulnerable countries dealing with increasingly destructive climate disasters. That original goal was finally reached in 2022.

However, future funding levels may face uncertainty as the current administration has suspended contributions to global climate financing programs, potentially leading to reduced totals in 2025 data.

At the COP29 climate conference held in 2024, participating nations committed to expanding their financial support to $300 billion annually by 2035. Yet experts warn this amount remains insufficient compared to the trillions economists estimate developing countries require for rapid clean energy transitions and climate adaptation measures.

Developing nations maintain they cannot commit to more stringent emissions reduction agreements without reliable financial backing from the world’s wealthiest economies.

Notably absent from these figures is climate financing from the world’s second-largest economy. Despite its economic status, the nation is classified as “developing” under U.N. frameworks, excluding its international climate contributions from official tallies.

Ukrainian forces carried out a nighttime drone assault on a Russian oil processing facility owned by Rosneft in the Samara region, according to statements from Ukraine’s military leadership and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday.

“Another Ukrainian long-range sanction against Russian oil refining – and we are continuing this line of action,” Zelenskiy wrote on the Telegram messaging platform.

“This time around, it was the Syzran oil refinery – more than 800 kilometers away from our border.”

The Ukrainian president shared video showing flames and thick smoke rising into the air from the targeted facility.

Regional authorities reported that two fatalities resulted from the drone assault on Syzran in the Samara region, though the local governor did not specify whether any infrastructure sustained damage during the operation.

According to Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, the strike ignited a significant blaze at the oil processing plant, which has the capability to refine between 7 and 8.9 million tons of crude oil annually.

Robert Brovdi, who leads Ukraine’s drone operations, stated this marked the 11th Russian petroleum facility that Ukrainian forces have struck during the month of May.

Israeli authorities have freed hundreds of international protesters who tried to break through the country’s naval blockade around Gaza and are now sending them out of the country, a legal advocacy organization reports.

Adalah, the Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel, announced Thursday that the majority of the international protesters are being transported to a civilian airport close to the southern Israeli city of Eilat for removal from the country.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Wednesday that he had ordered the protesters to be removed from Israel “as soon as possible,” following his harsh criticism of Israel’s national security minister for releasing a controversial video that showed the minister mocking handcuffed and kneeling flotilla participants.

Netanyahu stated that while Israel has full authority to intercept “provocative flotillas of Hamas terrorist supporters,” National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s treatment of the protesters was “not in line with Israel’s values and norms.”

Ben-Gvir published videos Wednesday depicting him moving among some of the roughly 430 detained individuals. One video showed protesters with bound hands in a kneeling position, their heads pressed to the floor in what looked like a temporary holding area on a ship’s deck.

The flotilla, consisting of more than 50 vessels, left for Gaza last week from Turkey, close to Cyprus. Organizers stated their goal was to bring fresh focus to the living conditions of nearly 2 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli officials have characterized the flotilla as “a PR stunt at the service of Hamas” without genuine intentions to provide assistance to Gaza. The vessels transported only a small, symbolic quantity of aid.

Israeli military forces started intercepting the vessels approximately 268 kilometers (167 miles) off the Gaza coast, the flotilla’s website reported. Israel had previously halted 20 flotilla boats on April 30 near Crete.

This week, the U.S. Treasury placed sanctions on multiple European protesters aboard the flotilla, which U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent labeled “pro-terror.”

Israel has enforced a maritime blockade around Gaza since Hamas assumed control of the region in 2007. Israeli officials tightened these restrictions following the Hamas-led militant attacks on southern Israel that resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages on Oct. 7, 2023.

Opponents argue the blockade constitutes collective punishment. Israel maintains it’s designed to stop Hamas from obtaining weapons. Egypt, which controls the sole border crossing with Gaza not under Israeli authority, has also severely limited movement into and out of the territory.

Israel’s counter-offensive launched after the Oct. 7 attacks that triggered the war has resulted in more than 72,700 deaths, Gaza’s Health Ministry reports. The ministry, operating under Gaza’s Hamas-controlled government, does not distinguish between civilian and combatant casualties. It employs medical professionals who keep and publish comprehensive records considered generally credible by the international community.

LONDON (AP) — Britain’s government will publish classified documents Wednesday concerning Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s former position as trade envoy, following parliamentary demands for transparency after allegations emerged that the king’s brother prioritized his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein over national interests.

Parliament members passed a resolution in February requiring the documents’ release after the former royal, now called Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, faced arrest on accusations of providing government intelligence to Epstein during his tenure as trade representative.

This action came after the U.S. Justice Department disclosed millions of documents concerning Epstein. These records revealed how the affluent financier leveraged a global network of wealthy, influential associates to build power and sexually abuse young women and girls.

The United Kingdom has experienced the most significant impact from these document revelations, as the controversy has sparked inquiries about how authority is exercised by nobility, high-ranking politicians and prominent business leaders, collectively referred to as “the Establishment.”

Throughout parliamentary discussions regarding Mountbatten-Windsor’s connections to Epstein, government officials and fellow legislators called for greater transparency from the royal family.

Trade Minister Chris Bryant stated that Mountbatten-Windsor pursued a continuous “self-enriching hustle” throughout his period as an active royal family member.

Mountbatten-Windsor was a “rude, arrogant and entitled man who could not distinguish between the public interest, which he said he served, and his own private interest,” Bryant said at the time.

Mountbatten-Windsor lost his royal designation last year when King Charles III attempted to shield the monarchy from increasing consequences of the Epstein controversy. The former prince worked as a special envoy for international trade from 2001 to 2011, when he was compelled to resign due to worries about his associations with dubious individuals in Libya and Azerbaijan.

KATHMANDU, Nepal — Mountain climbers achieved a historic milestone Wednesday when 274 people successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest in one day, marking a new single-day record, according to officials who announced the achievement Thursday.

The mountaineers capitalized on favorable weather conditions Wednesday, according to Rishi Ram Bhandari of the Expedition Operators Association Nepal. This represents the largest number of people to summit the mountain in one day using the well-traveled southern route located in Nepal.

Climbers can approach the summit from two directions: the southern approach in Nepal or the northern route through China’s Tibet region. In comparison, on May 22, 2019, the Nepal route saw 223 successful climbs while the Chinese route recorded 113 summits. However, Chinese officials have kept their route closed this climbing season.

Several individual climbing milestones were also achieved this week. Experienced mountain guide Kami Rita Sherpa reached the summit for his 32nd time, surpassing his previous record. Meanwhile, Pasang Dawa Sherpa, his nearest rival, completed his 30th successful climb this week. Additionally, Lakpa Sherpa made her 11th summit, extending her record as the woman with the most Everest climbs.

The current climbing season started later than usual due to safety concerns about a massive serac threatening the primary summit route. Approximately 494 climbers along with an equal number of Sherpa guides are planning summit attempts before the season concludes at month’s end. The mountain stands 8,850 meters (29,032 feet) tall.

Since New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Sherpa guide Tenzing Norgay first reached the summit on May 29, 1953, thousands of people have successfully climbed the peak.

Myanmar’s army-controlled government announced it has seized two border towns from opposition forces, representing major victories in the nation’s continuing civil conflict as military leaders work to regain territory previously controlled by resistance groups.

State-controlled Myanma Alinn newspaper reported Thursday that government forces took Tonzang, located near the Indian border, on Wednesday following a 10-day military campaign. The publication included photographs showing troops at the town’s government buildings and administrative facilities.

This announcement followed Wednesday’s report in the same newspaper stating that military forces had regained Mawtaung on Tuesday, a border town crucial for commerce with Thailand, after conducting operations for two weeks.

The military’s success in capturing Tonzang in Chin state’s northwest and Mawtaung in the Tanintharyi region’s south occurs as government forces have gained momentum in the nationwide struggle since mid-2025, following China-mediated truces and expanded military personnel through conscription efforts.

These developments follow Min Aung Hlaing’s call one month ago for new peace negotiations with the nation’s armed opposition organizations. Min Aung Hlaing leads the military-controlled government.

Both Chin and Tanintharyi regions have experienced severe fighting since military leaders overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi’s democratically chosen administration in 2021. When peaceful protests were violently suppressed, numerous military opponents armed themselves, plunging large portions of the nation into civil warfare.

Tonzang, positioned approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the Indian frontier, had remained under allied Chin ethnic militia and local opposition control since May 2024.

Mawtaung, located roughly 630 kilometers (390 miles) southeast of Yangon, the nation’s most populous city, was controlled by the Karen National Union alongside other local opposition organizations.

Following over 207 military confrontations, 24 bodies from the KNU and allied forces were found and their weapons seized, according to newspaper accounts, which noted that some government security personnel also died.

The KNU and additional local opposition groups have not yet provided responses to comment requests.

Media limitations make independent verification of the town recaptures nearly impossible, although the military’s assertions remain unchallenged.

Authorities in Taiwan announced Thursday they are pursuing criminal charges against three individuals suspected of orchestrating an illegal scheme to ship advanced artificial intelligence servers to China, defying strict U.S. trade restrictions.

The U.S. Justice Department previously filed charges in March against three individuals connected to Super Micro, including one of the company’s co-founders, alleging they facilitated the smuggling of more than $2.5 billion worth of American AI technology to China in breach of export regulations.

Legal officials from Keelung, a city in northern Taiwan, released a statement indicating the three suspects under investigation were aware that Super Micro’s AI servers fell under stringent U.S. export restrictions and were prohibited from sale to mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau.

According to prosecutors, the defendants allegedly worked together to acquire the servers within Taiwan and then used fraudulent paperwork and false information to export them to China in pursuit of “huge illegal profits.”

Neither Super Micro nor Nvidia provided immediate responses to requests for comment from Reuters. Both corporations have previously stated their commitment to following U.S. export regulations.

Prosecutors revealed that on Wednesday, they instructed Taiwan’s coast guard to conduct searches at 12 different sites, including the homes of the three suspects and associated business locations.

Officials confiscated evidence during the raids and either detained or called in the three defendants along with related witnesses for interrogation.

Taiwan serves as a semiconductor industry leader and is the primary manufacturer of the sophisticated chips that drive artificial intelligence development.

The island nation maintains stringent regulations designed to block the transfer of advanced technology and technical expertise to China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory and has intensified political and military pressure on Taiwan’s democratically elected leadership. Taiwan firmly rejects China’s territorial claims.

Emergency responders in China are conducting water rescues by swimming through dangerous floodwaters and deploying boats to save stranded residents after devastating storms claimed the lives of at least 25 people and forced widespread shutdowns of educational institutions, commercial operations and transportation networks across central and southwestern regions of the country on Wednesday.

Weather officials warn that additional downpours are forecast to continue battering southern and central regions, encompassing Jiangxi, Anhui, Hunan, Hubei, Guizhou, Guangxi, Guangdong and Hainan provinces, creating elevated dangers for mudslides, rapid flooding and serious urban water accumulation, according to government authorities.

Video footage from Chinese social media platform Douyin captured scenes in Dachong, located in southern Guangdong, where motor scooters disappeared beneath the water with only steering components remaining visible above the surface, while emergency teams in inflatable watercraft saved a resident who had sought refuge in a tree to avoid the rising waters.

Within Hubei province in central China, emergency response teams and military units were observed assisting local inhabitants in escaping perilous conditions, with many of those rescued being elderly community members.

Senior residents were transported from their residences using watercraft, while some rescue personnel entered flooded structures by swimming to reach individuals who had become trapped inside, according to video documentation from state television network CCTV.

Broadcasting footage from CCTV depicted one rescue scenario where emergency workers faced difficulties reaching a trapped individual surrounded by chest-deep water behind a doorway. The network reported that rescue teams required a full hour to successfully bring the person to a secure location.

Overhead camera footage revealed extensive flood coverage across large portions of Hubei province and its neighboring southern province of Hunan.

The exceptionally widespread zone of heavy precipitation, extending across more than 1,000 km (621 miles), resulted from the meeting of significant moisture sources originating from the Bay of Bengal, the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The weather pattern’s slow movement also contributed to substantial accumulated rainfall totals, meteorological experts from China explained.

“A new round of rainfall will arrive tomorrow (Thursday), bringing significant precipitation to many areas in both the north and south,” China’s weather bureau said. Government officials indicated that regions such as Shaanxi, Sichuan, Hunan, Guangxi, and Guangdong would face additional torrential downpours.

Syria is set to make history by participating in the G7 summit for the first time since the international forum began nearly five decades ago, according to three sources with knowledge of the situation.

President Ahmed al-Sharaa will represent Syria as a guest nation at the upcoming summit scheduled for June 15-17 in Évian-les-Bains, located in southeastern France. This marks a significant milestone as Syria has never participated in a G7 gathering since the group’s establishment in 1975.

The invitation was personally delivered to Syrian Finance Minister Yisr Barnieh during the group’s financial discussions held in Paris this week, according to one source.

A Syrian official indicated that the nation’s involvement in the discussions will likely center on Syria’s potential role as a “strategic hub for supply chains” in light of the Strait of Hormuz closure.

Maritime traffic through the strait has been significantly disrupted since the Iran war began in late February, creating widespread economic turbulence globally.

As Syria works to emerge from its 14-year civil conflict as a Western ally, the country is focused on reconstructing an economy devastated by years of warfare and international sanctions.

Although many sanctions from the era of former Presidents Hafez and Bashar al-Assad have been relaxed, securing foreign investment and reestablishing standard banking relationships has progressed more slowly than many government officials anticipated.

A spokesperson for Russia’s Foreign Ministry accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday of attempting to intensify the war between the two nations.

Maria Zakharova made the allegation during a standard government briefing held in Moscow on May 21.

Mount Everest witnessed an unprecedented surge of mountaineers on Wednesday, with 274 climbers successfully reaching the summit from Nepal’s side of the mountain, according to hiking officials.

The achievement marks a new milestone for the world’s highest peak at 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), which sits along the Nepal-Tibet border and offers climbing routes from both countries.

This year’s climbing activity was concentrated entirely on Nepal’s side, as expedition operators report that Chinese officials did not grant any permits for the Tibetan route.

Rishi Bhandari, secretary general of the Expedition Operators Association of Nepal, announced Thursday that Wednesday’s total surpassed the former record of 223 successful climbs from Nepal’s side, which occurred on May 22, 2019.

“This is the highest number of climbers in a single day so far,” Bhandari told Reuters, noting that the final count might increase as additional summit teams may not have yet reported their achievements to base camp.

While Chinese climbing statistics remain unavailable, Bhandari indicated that typically around 100 mountaineers attempt the summit from Tibet during the standard April-May climbing window.

Department of Tourism official Himal Gautam confirmed receiving initial reports of more than 250 successful Wednesday climbs.

“We wait for climbers to return, give us photographs and other evidence to prove their ascents and provide them with climbing certificates,” Gautam explained to Reuters. “Only then we will be able to confirm the numbers.”

Nepal distributed 494 Everest climbing permits this season, with each permit carrying a $15,000 fee.

The massive influx of climbers has reignited criticism from mountaineering specialists who argue that Nepal permits excessive numbers on the mountain, creating dangerous bottlenecks and lengthy waiting lines in the “death zone” beneath the summit, where oxygen levels fall critically below human survival requirements.

Nepalese authorities have recognized the hazards posed by overcrowding and inexperienced mountaineers, responding with stricter regulations and increased permit costs.

According to a Thursday CNN report, Iran has begun resuming drone manufacturing operations during a six-week ceasefire that commenced in early April, based on information from two sources with knowledge of US intelligence assessments.

Intelligence from the United States suggests that Iran’s military capabilities are recovering at a pace that exceeds original projections, the report stated, referencing four sources.

The report could not be independently confirmed by Reuters.

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump stated that America was prepared to move forward with additional strikes against Tehran should Iran refuse to accept a peace agreement, while indicating Washington might wait several days to “get the right answers.”

Malaysia’s telecommunications oversight body announced Thursday that it has delivered a formal legal demand to TikTok, accusing the social media giant of inadequate response to offensive material targeting the nation’s royal family.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission stated the controversy stems from content linked to a profile claiming connections to King Sultan Ibrahim of Malaysia.

TikTok has not yet provided a response to requests for comment regarding the allegations.

According to the commission, the problematic material contained content that was “grossly offensive, false, menacing and insulting in nature,” featuring artificially generated videos and doctored photographs that potentially violate domestic regulations.

The regulatory body emphasized its firm stance against misusing digital platforms for distributing such material, especially when targeting Malaysian monarchy members.

“Such matters fall within the broader context of race, religion and royal issues, which are highly sensitive, undermines public order, national harmony and respect for constitutional institution,” the commission stated.

Officials noted that despite previous warnings and discussions, TikTok’s content oversight efforts proved inadequate, particularly regarding swift content removal and preventing continued spread of harmful posts.

The formal demand will compel TikTok, which is controlled by Chinese company ByteDance, to implement immediate corrective actions, including enhanced content oversight systems and more robust enforcement against material violating Malaysian regulations.

The platform must also submit a detailed response explaining its alleged oversight shortcomings, according to the commission.

Malaysian authorities have intensified oversight of social media platforms recently following documented increases in dangerous online material. Officials plan to implement age verification requirements this year, mirroring global efforts to restrict minors’ social media access.