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<p>US President Donald Trump, during his recent trip to Beijing, apparently boasted to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the US is better at spying than China. The POTUS, as per reports, even confessed that American spooks have targeted China in ways which they cannot even fathom. Trump made the revelation while speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One en route to Washington.</p><h2><strong>'We spy like hell on them, too'</strong></h2><p>Aboard Air Force One, Trump was asked if he had questioned Xi about China's alleged cyberattacks on the US. "I did. And he talked about attacks we did in China. You know, what they do, we do too. We spy like hell on them, too," said the US president.</p><p>"I told him, 'We do a lot of stuff to you that you don't know about," he added. When pressed further, Trump said, "I'm talking about spying. The question was asked of me yesterday, I guess, 'What about the fact that China is spying?' I said, ‘Well, it's one of those things because we spy like hell on them, too'."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-thousands-of-bees-invade-trump-s-white-house-spark-biblical-plague-buzz-online-blasphemers-will-be-dealt-with-most-definitely-1778911087678"><strong>Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>A 'double-edged sword'</strong></h2><p>Trump was also asked whether he was worried about China secretly inserting malicious code into critical American infrastructure, a concern US intelligence agencies have repeatedly flagged as a major national security threat. “You don’t know that,” Trump said. “I’d like to see it, but it’s very possible that they do.”</p><p>“I told them, ‘We do a lot of stuff to you that you don’t know about, and you are doing stuff to us that we probably do know about'," he said, adding, "But we do plenty. It’s a double-edged sword."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-there-are-youngsters-like-cockroaches-what-made-cji-surya-kant-compare-youngsters-to-pests-supreme-court-hearing-turns-explosive-1778909973915"><strong>'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Public bravado, private caution</strong></h2><p>While Trump projected relative calm publicly, reports from journalists travelling with him suggested his staff operated under an entirely different level of concern. According to accounts from reporters aboard Air Force One, US officials confiscated all Chinese-issued badges, pins and devices before passengers re-boarded. At the same time, staff reportedly relied on burner phones during the China trip.</p><p>Some were allegedly instructed to leave devices behind or destroy temporary phones rather than risk surveillance vulnerabilities.</p><p>"Nothing from China allowed on the plane," one White House correspondent reported.</p>

Fresh off Beijing, US President Donald Trump is claiming he told Xi Jinping something unusually blunt: America spies on China “like hell,” too. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump, during his recent trip to Beijing, apparently boasted to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the US is better at spying than China. The POTUS, as per reports, even confessed that American spooks have targeted China in ways which they cannot even fathom. Trump made the revelation while speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One en route to Washington. 'We spy like hell on them, too' Aboard Air Force One, Trump was asked if he had questioned Xi about China's alleged cyberattacks on the US. "I did. And he talked about attacks we did in China. You know, what they do, we do too. We spy like hell on them, too," said the US president. "I told him, 'We do a lot of stuff to you that you don't know about," he added. When pressed further, Trump said, "I'm talking about spying. The question was asked of me yesterday, I guess, 'What about the fact that China is spying?' I said, ‘Well, it's one of those things because we spy like hell on them, too'." Also read | Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!' A 'double-edged sword' Trump was also asked whether he was worried about China secretly inserting malicious code into critical American infrastructure, a concern US intelligence agencies have repeatedly flagged as a major national security threat. “You don’t know that,” Trump said. “I’d like to see it, but it’s very possible that they do.” “I told them, ‘We do a lot of stuff to you that you don’t know about, and you are doing stuff to us that we probably do know about'," he said, adding, "But we do plenty. It’s a double-edged sword." Also read | 'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive Public bravado, private caution While Trump projected relative calm publicly, reports from journalists travelling with him suggested his staff operated under an entirely different level of concern. According to accounts from reporters aboard Air Force One, US officials confiscated all Chinese-issued badges, pins and devices before passengers re-boarded. At the same time, staff reportedly relied on burner phones during the China trip. Some were allegedly instructed to leave devices behind or destroy temporary phones rather than risk surveillance vulnerabilities. "Nothing from China allowed on the plane," one White House correspondent reported.

<p>Fresh off Beijing, US President Donald Trump is claiming he told Xi Jinping something unusually blunt: America spies on China “like hell,” too. All you need to know.</p>

Trump in bonkers boast reveals he told Xi 'we spy like hell on China'

<p>For a brief, surreal stretch on Friday (May 15), one of the world’s most heavily guarded addresses on earth found itself facing an unexpected airborne invasion, not from protesters, drones or security threats, but from thousands of bees. A massive bee swarm swept across the White House’s North Lawn, startling reporters, disrupting media positions and triggering scenes that journalists on the ground described as something out of a disaster film. “There is a bee tornado happening here at the White House,” Fox News correspondent Alexandria Hoff said in a video from the scene as the swarm buzzed through the press staging zone known as Pebble Beach. Videos of the moment have gone viral on social media, with netizens questioning if the bees are actually a sign of biblical reckoning for US President Donald Trump and his administration. All you need to know.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-there-are-youngsters-like-cockroaches-what-made-cji-surya-kant-compare-youngsters-to-pests-supreme-court-hearing-turns-explosive-1778909973915"><strong>'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive</strong></a></p><h2><strong>White House driveway briefly blocked</strong></h2><p>Reportedly, the visuals were dramatic enough that some reporters simply turned around. NewsNation’s Kellie Meyer wrote that she encountered the swarm while arriving at the White House and immediately retreated. "Walked into the White House and a swarm of bees was blocking the driveway. Time to turn around," she said.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">So a huge swarm of bees just briefly took over the north lawn driveway at the White House: <a href="https://t.co/tpUdt4CuKc">pic.twitter.com/tpUdt4CuKc</a></p>&mdash; Alexandria Hoff (@AlexandriaHoff) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexandriaHoff/status/2055360992809291976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>While swarming is a natural bee behaviour, often linked to colony division when a new queen emerges, the sheer size and symbolism of the scene quickly pushed the incident beyond biology and straight into a warning of biblical apocalypse.</p><h2><strong>Internet goes full apocalypse mode</strong></h2><p>As videos spread, social media did what it does best: troll. Users compared the swarm to biblical plagues, divine warnings and geopolitical satire.</p><p>Some joked about "spy bees," from Israel or China, others invoked Revelation, while many simply marvelled at the bizarre optics of bees appearing to "storm" the White House.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-fake-jesus-iran-turns-trump-s-deleted-ai-image-into-a-viral-lego-diss-track-amid-pope-row-in-pics-1776326285612"><strong>'Fake Jesus!': Iran turns Trump's deleted AI-image into a viral LEGO diss track amid Pope row | In pics</strong></a></p><p>"Is this a biblical curse 2.0?," commented one. "I was expecting a swarm of locusts," joked another, even as a third user commented, "Revelations just trying to do its job…"</p><p>"Bees storming the White House - maybe the coming lot will be Locusts / or Plagues?" said a user, ominously adding, "BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!"</p><p>Yet another X user quipped: "Honestly kinda understood the plagues as being figurative but I guess we are gonna be that open about it."</p><h2><strong>More spectacle than threat</strong></h2><p>Despite the online frenzy, there was no indication of danger beyond temporary disruption. As one user noted, "As much as I want it to be a deathly plague straight from God to curse Trump &amp; his entire administration… it just means a new 🐝 Queen 👑 was born. And that’s actually pretty cool."</p>

For a surreal stretch on Friday, the White House faced an invasion no security drill could have predicted: thousands of bees swirling across the North Lawn, triggering “bee tornado” comparisons. The internet thinks it is a biblical prophecy. Scroll down to watch the video.

For a brief, surreal stretch on Friday (May 15), one of the world’s most heavily guarded addresses on earth found itself facing an unexpected airborne invasion, not from protesters, drones or security threats, but from thousands of bees. A massive bee swarm swept across the White House’s North Lawn, startling reporters, disrupting media positions and triggering scenes that journalists on the ground described as something out of a disaster film. “There is a bee tornado happening here at the White House,” Fox News correspondent Alexandria Hoff said in a video from the scene as the swarm buzzed through the press staging zone known as Pebble Beach. Videos of the moment have gone viral on social media, with netizens questioning if the bees are actually a sign of biblical reckoning for US President Donald Trump and his administration. All you need to know. Also read | 'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive White House driveway briefly blocked Reportedly, the visuals were dramatic enough that some reporters simply turned around. NewsNation’s Kellie Meyer wrote that she encountered the swarm while arriving at the White House and immediately retreated. "Walked into the White House and a swarm of bees was blocking the driveway. Time to turn around," she said.

<p>For a surreal stretch on Friday, the White House faced an invasion no security drill could have predicted: thousands of bees swirling across the North Lawn, triggering “bee tornado” comparisons. The internet thinks it is a biblical prophecy. Scroll down to watch the video.</p>

Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!'

<p>Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Friday (May 15) delivered one of the judiciary’s sharpest public rebukes yet, using the startling phrase "youngsters like cockroaches" while expressing alarm over what he suggested was a growing ecosystem of fake degree holders, social media attackers and opportunistic activists targeting institutions. The unusually blunt remark came during a Supreme Court hearing on a plea saying the Delhi High Court has failed in implementing the Supreme Court's guidelines on the designation of senior advocates.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/media-house-deletes-story-after-pm-modi-rare-fact-checks-foreign-travel-tax-report-totally-false-cnbc-tv18-shut-down-global-travel-panic-1778899536032"><strong>Media house forced to delete story after PM Modi fact-checks misleading report on X: 'Totally false'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Parasites, cockroaches and more: What did the CJI say?</strong></h2><p>"There are already parasites of society who attack the system, and you want to join hands with them?" the CJI said, before escalating his criticism even further.</p><p>"There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don’t get any employment and don’t have a place in a profession. Some of them become media, some of them become social media, some of them become RTI activists, some of them become other activists, and they start attacking everyone…"</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-padma-jaiswal-why-it-took-nearly-two-decades-to-dismiss-the-ias-officer-for-a-2007-08-offense-wion-explains-1778830736127"><strong>Who is Padma Jaiswal? Why it took nearly two decades to dismiss the IAS officer for a 2007-08 offense | WION Explains</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Fake law degrees under Supreme Court scanner</strong></h2><p>CJI Surya Kant said he harboured "serious doubts" about the genuineness of many law degrees held by some Delhi-based advocates, particularly those active on social media platforms.</p><p>The CJI said he was waiting for an appropriate case to order an investigation into the law degrees of many Delhi lawyers. He also suggested that the Central Bureau of Investigation should probe the issue.</p><p>The bench of CJI Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi also referred to "thousands of fraudulent people wearing black robes". The CJI declined to entertain the plea and also criticised the language used online by a petitioner’s lawyer, warning that professional discipline was being undermined. "Let people understand the kind of language you are using on Facebook. I will show you what discipline in the profession means," the CJI said. The petitioner later chose to withdraw the plea.</p><p>Notably, the lawyer had previously filed a writ petition challenging the Delhi High Court’s decision not to consider him for designation as a senior advocate. He subsequently filed a contempt petition, alleging non-compliance with an earlier Supreme Court order. However, the apex court had dismissed this contempt plea in December last year.</p>

In one of the Supreme Court’s most blistering public remarks in recent memory, CJI Surya Kant warned of “parasites” attacking institutions. He then drew attention with his “cockroaches” comment about certain youngsters. Why prompted the statement?

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Friday (May 15) delivered one of the judiciary’s sharpest public rebukes yet, using the startling phrase "youngsters like cockroaches" while expressing alarm over what he suggested was a growing ecosystem of fake degree holders, social media attackers and opportunistic activists targeting institutions. The unusually blunt remark came during a Supreme Court hearing on a plea saying the Delhi High Court has failed in implementing the Supreme Court's guidelines on the designation of senior advocates. Also read | Media house forced to delete story after PM Modi fact-checks misleading report on X: 'Totally false' Parasites, cockroaches and more: What did the CJI say? "There are already parasites of society who attack the system, and you want to join hands with them?" the CJI said, before escalating his criticism even further. "There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don’t get any employment and don’t have a place in a profession. Some of them become media, some of them become social media, some of them become RTI activists, some of them become other activists, and they start attacking everyone…" Also read | Who is Padma Jaiswal? Why it took nearly two decades to dismiss the IAS officer for a 2007-08 offense | WION Explains Fake law degrees under Supreme Court scanner CJI Surya Kant said he harboured "serious doubts" about the genuineness of many law degrees held by some Delhi-based advocates, particularly those active on social media platforms. The CJI said he was waiting for an appropriate case to order an investigation into the law degrees of many Delhi lawyers. He also suggested that the Central Bureau of Investigation should probe the issue. The bench of CJI Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi also referred to "thousands of fraudulent people wearing black robes". The CJI declined to entertain the plea and also criticised the language used online by a petitioner’s lawyer, warning that professional discipline was being undermined. "Let people understand the kind of language you are using on Facebook. I will show you what discipline in the profession means," the CJI said. The petitioner later chose to withdraw the plea. Notably, the lawyer had previously filed a writ petition challenging the Delhi High Court’s decision not to consider him for designation as a senior advocate. He subsequently filed a contempt petition, alleging non-compliance with an earlier Supreme Court order. However, the apex court had dismissed this contempt plea in December last year.

<p>In one of the Supreme Court’s most blistering public remarks in recent memory, CJI Surya Kant warned of “parasites” attacking institutions. He then drew attention with his “cockroaches” comment about certain youngsters. Why prompted the statement?</p>

'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive

<p>A bhajan singer in Gujarat was buried under piles of cash after devotees emptied sacks and bundles of currency notes onto the stage during a religious programme in Junagadh district, with videos of the spectacle going viral on social media and triggering a heated online debate.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In several clips circulating online, attendees can be seen walking towards the stage carrying bags filled with currency notes before showering the money over performers as devotional singing continued. The videos showed heaps of cash rapidly accumulating around the singer while organisers and volunteers attempted to manage the growing piles on stage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhojshala-temple-verdict-muslim-side-to-appeal-ruling-in-supreme-court-say-flaws-in-asi-survey-1778906706180">Bhojshala temple verdict: Muslim side to appeal ruling in Supreme Court, say ‘flaws in ASI survey’</a></p>

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<p>The incident reportedly took place during a bhajan and dayro programme in Gujarat’s Junagadh district. Dayro events are a popular cultural and devotional tradition in parts of the state, particularly in the Saurashtra region, where music performances are often combined with fundraising activities.</p><h2>How did the internet react?</h2><p>The viral footage drew mixed reactions online, with many social media users criticising the public display of wealth. “This is such an awful practice all over Gujarat, particularly in Saurashtra. Showering money, actual notes, on popular singers looks cheap because, here, one’s materialistic instincts are at work. Why monetise your feelings for the singer? If you like his or her music, pay privately, donate to needy without showing off your wealth. Fund institutions of music. Ahir girls hostel definitely need funds. We understand. Pay them in a decent way. Sanity is needed. Urgently,” one user wrote on X.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Another user commented, “This is not an offering - this is arrogant display of illegal wealth.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-lands-in-netherlands-to-boost-india-europe-strategic-ties-key-talks-on-trade-technology-and-energy-1778887046506">WATCH | PM Modi lands in Netherlands for talks on trade, tech and strategic ties</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“And still people die with hunger in this country!” a third user remarked.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, others defended the practice, arguing that money collected at such events is often channelled towards charitable and community initiatives rather than personal enrichment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“This dayro, and these money is used in jivdaya or other social causes. This is not consumed by any individual nor these comes from individual. These cultural fund raising,” one user wrote online.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

A viral video of devotees showering bags of cash on a Gujarat bhajan singer during a charity dayro event has sparked intense online debate over public wealth displays versus traditional fundraising.

A bhajan singer in Gujarat was buried under piles of cash after devotees emptied sacks and bundles of currency notes onto the stage during a religious programme in Junagadh district, with videos of the spectacle going viral on social media and triggering a heated online debate. In several clips circulating online, attendees can be seen walking towards the stage carrying bags filled with currency notes before showering the money over performers as devotional singing continued. The videos showed heaps of cash rapidly accumulating around the singer while organisers and volunteers attempted to manage the growing piles on stage. Also read: Bhojshala temple verdict: Muslim side to appeal ruling in Supreme Court, say ‘flaws in ASI survey’

<p>A viral video of devotees showering bags of cash on a Gujarat bhajan singer during a charity dayro event has sparked intense online debate over public wealth displays versus traditional fundraising.</p>

WATCH: Devotees rain bundles of notes on Gujarat bhajan singer, leave internet divided

<p>The US Supreme Court on Friday (May 15) rejected an emergency appeal from Virginia Democrats seeking to revive a voter-approved redistricting plan that would have dramatically shifted the state's congressional delegation in their favour ahead of November's midterm elections. But why did the court deny the request? Here's all you need to know.</p><h2><strong>Why did the SCOTUS deny democrats' appeal?</strong></h2><p>The court offered no explanation for its decision, saying only in a written order that the application for a stay "is denied." This means that Virginia's existing congressional map now stands preserved. It also hands Republicans a significant procedural victory in what has become an increasingly aggressive national redistricting battle.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-padma-jaiswal-why-it-took-nearly-two-decades-to-dismiss-the-ias-officer-for-a-2007-08-offense-wion-explains-1778830736127"><strong>Who is Padma Jaiswal? Why it took nearly two decades to dismiss the IAS officer for a 2007-08 offense | WION Explains</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Background: Virginia redistricting</strong></h2><p>The backstory is layered. Virginia voters approved a referendum last month that would have allowed Democrats to redraw the state's congressional districts mid-decade, an unusual move outside the standard post-census redistricting cycle. Had the new maps taken effect, Democrats stood to expand their current 6-5 edge in Virginia's House delegation to as much as 10-1.</p><p>However, the Virginia Supreme Court blocked the plan last week, ruling that Democratic lawmakers had failed to follow proper constitutional procedures in putting the referendum to voters. Now, the latest Supreme Court decision not to intervene lets that ruling stand.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/media-house-deletes-story-after-pm-modi-rare-fact-checks-foreign-travel-tax-report-totally-false-cnbc-tv18-shut-down-global-travel-panic-1778899536032"><strong>Media house deletes story after PM Modi fact-checks report on foreign travel tax: 'Totally false'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Why does it matter?</strong></h2><p>The fight in Virginia is just one front in a rapidly expanding national redistricting war. US President Donald Trump helped trigger the current cycle last year by encouraging Republican-led states, Texas chief among them, to redraw congressional maps mid-decade to maximise Republican seats. Democrats responded in kind in California, Virginia and other states they control.</p><p>The conflict has taken on an additional dimension following a recent Supreme Court ruling barring race as a factor in drawing congressional districts. That decision has opened a new round of map-drawing in several Republican-majority states. Tennessee passed a new map last week that breaks up the state's only majority-Black district. South Carolina, Louisiana and Alabama are expected to pursue similar moves if pending legal challenges resolve in Republicans' favour.</p><p>Notably, with control of the House expected to be decided by a handful of seats in November, each state-level redistricting decision carries national weight.&nbsp;</p>

The US Supreme Court just handed Democrats a blunt setback, rejecting their bid to revive a game-changing Virginia map. Here's all you need to know.

The US Supreme Court on Friday (May 15) rejected an emergency appeal from Virginia Democrats seeking to revive a voter-approved redistricting plan that would have dramatically shifted the state's congressional delegation in their favour ahead of November's midterm elections. But why did the court deny the request? Here's all you need to know. Why did the SCOTUS deny democrats' appeal? The court offered no explanation for its decision, saying only in a written order that the application for a stay "is denied." This means that Virginia's existing congressional map now stands preserved. It also hands Republicans a significant procedural victory in what has become an increasingly aggressive national redistricting battle. Also read | Who is Padma Jaiswal? Why it took nearly two decades to dismiss the IAS officer for a 2007-08 offense | WION Explains Background: Virginia redistricting The backstory is layered. Virginia voters approved a referendum last month that would have allowed Democrats to redraw the state's congressional districts mid-decade, an unusual move outside the standard post-census redistricting cycle. Had the new maps taken effect, Democrats stood to expand their current 6-5 edge in Virginia's House delegation to as much as 10-1. However, the Virginia Supreme Court blocked the plan last week, ruling that Democratic lawmakers had failed to follow proper constitutional procedures in putting the referendum to voters. Now, the latest Supreme Court decision not to intervene lets that ruling stand. Also read | Media house deletes story after PM Modi fact-checks report on foreign travel tax: 'Totally false' Why does it matter? The fight in Virginia is just one front in a rapidly expanding national redistricting war. US President Donald Trump helped trigger the current cycle last year by encouraging Republican-led states, Texas chief among them, to redraw congressional maps mid-decade to maximise Republican seats. Democrats responded in kind in California, Virginia and other states they control. The conflict has taken on an additional dimension following a recent Supreme Court ruling barring race as a factor in drawing congressional districts. That decision has opened a new round of map-drawing in several Republican-majority states. Tennessee passed a new map last week that breaks up the state's only majority-Black district. South Carolina, Louisiana and Alabama are expected to pursue similar moves if pending legal challenges resolve in Republicans' favour. Notably, with control of the House expected to be decided by a handful of seats in November, each state-level redistricting decision carries national weight.

<p>The US Supreme Court just handed Democrats a blunt setback, rejecting their bid to revive a game-changing Virginia map. Here's all you need to know.</p>

Supreme Court blocks Virginia Democrats' redistricting plan, preserving Republican-drawn maps ahead of US midterms

<p>A report claiming the Indian government was considering a tax or cess on foreign travel was retracted by CNBC-TV18 on Friday (May 15) after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a rare move, personally intervened on X to call it "totally false". The rare rebuttal by a sitting prime minister prompted the channel to unambiguously post a correction: "Our story on government considering tax/cess on foreign travel is not accurate. We withdraw the story and regret the error."</p><h2><strong>What was the issue?</strong></h2><p>The original CNBC-TV18 report, citing unnamed sources, claimed that a proposal to levy a cess, tax or surcharge on foreign travel was being discussed "at the highest levels" of the government. It said any such levy would flow directly to the Centre and fall outside the divisible pool shared with states. The report linked the proposal to the fiscal strain caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict, framing it as a temporary, one-year measure to cushion the impact of rising crude oil and import costs. The report was posted without a response from the Finance Ministry.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-did-india-hike-petrol-diesel-prices-after-4-years-of-near-stability-inside-the-sudden-rs-3-fuel-shock-wion-explains-1778817002605"><strong>Why did India hike petrol, diesel prices after 4 years of near-stability? Inside the sudden Rs 3 fuel shock | WION Explains</strong></a></p><p>Modi's response, a fact check, was swift and categorical. "This is totally false. Not an iota of truth in this. There is no question of putting such restrictions on foreign travel," he wrote on X. "We remain committed to improving 'Ease of Doing Business' and 'Ease of Living' for our people."</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is totally false. <br><br>Not an iota of truth in this. <br><br>There is no question of putting such restrictions on foreign travel. <br><br>We remain committed to improving ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and ‘Ease of Living’ for our people. <a href="https://t.co/9lxjbxz0nV">https://t.co/9lxjbxz0nV</a></p>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2055322807769403810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's appeal to Indians</strong></h2><p>This comes at a sensitive time, as the GOI on 15 May 2026 increased the price of Petrol and Diesel across the country by Rs 3/litre. The government has been pushing a broader austerity message in recent weeks, with Modi himself urging citizens to reduce non-essential foreign travel, cut back on gold purchases and conserve foreign exchange reserves amid economic pressure from the global energy crisis triggered by the US-Iran war. He also recommended work from home (WFH), following which multiple states have issued WFH advisories.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-does-india-s-petrol-diesel-price-hike-compare-to-global-rates-bjp-provides-context-pakistan-uae-nepal-us-strait-of-hormuz-iran-war-saudi-trump-1778826519390"><strong>How does India's petrol, diesel price hike compare to global rates? BJP provides 'context' | In Pics</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

A report claiming India was weighing a foreign travel tax has completely collapsed after PM Modi personally fact-checked it, prompting CNBC-TV18 to retract it. In a rare intervention, Modi publicly shut down speculation at a moment when fuel hikes had triggered panic. Scroll down.

A report claiming the Indian government was considering a tax or cess on foreign travel was retracted by CNBC-TV18 on Friday (May 15) after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a rare move, personally intervened on X to call it "totally false". The rare rebuttal by a sitting prime minister prompted the channel to unambiguously post a correction: "Our story on government considering tax/cess on foreign travel is not accurate. We withdraw the story and regret the error." What was the issue? The original CNBC-TV18 report, citing unnamed sources, claimed that a proposal to levy a cess, tax or surcharge on foreign travel was being discussed "at the highest levels" of the government. It said any such levy would flow directly to the Centre and fall outside the divisible pool shared with states. The report linked the proposal to the fiscal strain caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict, framing it as a temporary, one-year measure to cushion the impact of rising crude oil and import costs. The report was posted without a response from the Finance Ministry. Also read | Why did India hike petrol, diesel prices after 4 years of near-stability? Inside the sudden Rs 3 fuel shock | WION Explains Modi's response, a fact check, was swift and categorical. "This is totally false. Not an iota of truth in this. There is no question of putting such restrictions on foreign travel," he wrote on X. "We remain committed to improving 'Ease of Doing Business' and 'Ease of Living' for our people."

<p>A report claiming India was weighing a foreign travel tax has completely collapsed after PM Modi personally fact-checked it, prompting CNBC-TV18 to retract it. In a rare intervention, Modi publicly shut down speculation at a moment when fuel hikes had triggered panic. Scroll down.</p>

Media house forced to delete story after PM Modi fact-checks misleading report on X: 'Totally false'

<p>Padma Jaiswal, a 2003-batch IAS officer, has been dismissed by the Government of India over corruption charges that date back to 2007-08. The stringent action was taken based on a recommendation from the Department of Personnel and Training and final approval from the President of India. While in the upper echelons of Indian bureaucracy, the wheels of justice are notoriously slow, why did it take 18 years for her dismissal? Here's all you need to know about IAS Padma Jaiswal's dismissal.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-does-india-s-petrol-diesel-price-hike-compare-to-global-rates-bjp-provides-context-pakistan-uae-nepal-us-strait-of-hormuz-iran-war-saudi-trump-1778826519390"><strong>How does India's petrol, diesel price hike compare to global rates? BJP provides 'context'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Who is Padma Jaiswal?</strong></h2><p>On paper, Padma Jaiswal was the quintessential high-achiever. A 2003-batch officer, her academic and professional portfolio was formidable:</p><p>According to her LinkedIn profile, she is an alumna of St. Xavier's School and University Business School, Panjab University. She holds an MBA, is a certified Company Secretary (ICSI), and served as a UGC Research Fellow.</p><p>Over two decades, she held key administrative posts across Delhi, Goa, Puducherry, and Arunachal Pradesh. However, the stellar trajectory of the 2003-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre was permanently shadowed by events during her tenure as the Deputy Commissioner of West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh between 2007 and 2008.</p><h2><strong>The charges: What happened in 2007-08?</strong></h2><p>The case centres on allegations of "misutilisation and misappropriation" of significant public funds. In February 2008, local residents filed a complaint accusing Jaiswal of abusing her official position to divert government money.</p><p>The investigation found her in violation of the All India Service (Conduct) Rules, specifically citing a failure to maintain "absolute integrity and devotion to duty." While the specific financial figures remain part of the internal inquiry, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) deemed the breach serious enough to warrant a major penalty.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fuel-prices-hiked-petrol-diesel-prices-jump-by-rs-3-per-litre-as-fuel-costs-surge-1778807845685"><strong>India fuel prices hiked: Petrol, diesel prices jump Rs 3 despite govt’s ‘ample stock’ claim | Check city wise prices HERE</strong></a></p><h2><strong>The glacial timeline: Why the 18-year delay?</strong></h2><p>The most pressing question surrounding Jaiswal’s dismissal is the timeline. How does a "zero tolerance" policy reconcile with a two-decade wait?</p><p>Any action against an AGMUT cadre (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories cadre) officer, involves a complex relay between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), and the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), before reaching the President’s desk.</p><p>Notably, Jaiswal was suspended in April 2008 following the initial complaints. However, in a move that allowed her to continue her career for another 16 years, that suspension was revoked in October 2010. In 2009, an official chargesheet was filed against the IAS officer. Following this, the MHA initiated disciplinary proceedings under Rule 8 of the All India Services (Discipline &amp; Appeal) Rules, 1969.<br>However, it was only in May 2026 that the MHA’s recommendation for "removal from service" was finalised and approved.</p><h2><strong>A rare and stringent penalty</strong></h2><p>Dismissing a serving IAS officer is an administrative death penalty. Unlike "compulsory retirement," where an officer might retain pension benefits, a removal from service is a more severe sanction that terminates current employment immediately.</p><p>While Jaiswal told the Indian Express as recently as this week, "I am not aware of any such development," the official notification marks a significant escalation in the Centre’s crackdown on administrative corruption.</p>

Padma Jaiswal, an IAS officer has been dismissed after nearly two decades, and the delay is raising as many questions as the charges themselves.Why did it take nearly two decades to dismiss her despite substantial corruption charges? WION explains

Padma Jaiswal, a 2003-batch IAS officer, has been dismissed by the Government of India over corruption charges that date back to 2007-08. The stringent action was taken based on a recommendation from the Department of Personnel and Training and final approval from the President of India. While in the upper echelons of Indian bureaucracy, the wheels of justice are notoriously slow, why did it take 18 years for her dismissal? Here's all you need to know about IAS Padma Jaiswal's dismissal. Also read | How does India's petrol, diesel price hike compare to global rates? BJP provides 'context' Who is Padma Jaiswal? On paper, Padma Jaiswal was the quintessential high-achiever. A 2003-batch officer, her academic and professional portfolio was formidable: According to her LinkedIn profile, she is an alumna of St. Xavier's School and University Business School, Panjab University. She holds an MBA, is a certified Company Secretary (ICSI), and served as a UGC Research Fellow. Over two decades, she held key administrative posts across Delhi, Goa, Puducherry, and Arunachal Pradesh. However, the stellar trajectory of the 2003-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre was permanently shadowed by events during her tenure as the Deputy Commissioner of West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh between 2007 and 2008. The charges: What happened in 2007-08? The case centres on allegations of "misutilisation and misappropriation" of significant public funds. In February 2008, local residents filed a complaint accusing Jaiswal of abusing her official position to divert government money. The investigation found her in violation of the All India Service (Conduct) Rules, specifically citing a failure to maintain "absolute integrity and devotion to duty." While the specific financial figures remain part of the internal inquiry, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) deemed the breach serious enough to warrant a major penalty. Also read | India fuel prices hiked: Petrol, diesel prices jump Rs 3 despite govt’s ‘ample stock’ claim | Check city wise prices HERE The glacial timeline: Why the 18-year delay? The most pressing question surrounding Jaiswal’s dismissal is the timeline. How does a "zero tolerance" policy reconcile with a two-decade wait? Any action against an AGMUT cadre (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories cadre) officer, involves a complex relay between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), and the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), before reaching the President’s desk. Notably, Jaiswal was suspended in April 2008 following the initial complaints. However, in a move that allowed her to continue her career for another 16 years, that suspension was revoked in October 2010. In 2009, an official chargesheet was filed against the IAS officer. Following this, the MHA initiated disciplinary proceedings under Rule 8 of the All India Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1969. However, it was only in May 2026 that the MHA’s recommendation for "removal from service" was finalised and approved. A rare and stringent penalty Dismissing a serving IAS officer is an administrative death penalty. Unlike "compulsory retirement," where an officer might retain pension benefits, a removal from service is a more severe sanction that terminates current employment immediately. While Jaiswal told the Indian Express as recently as this week, "I am not aware of any such development," the official notification marks a significant escalation in the Centre’s crackdown on administrative corruption.

<p>Padma Jaiswal, an IAS officer, has been dismissed after nearly two decades, and the delay is raising as many questions as the charges themselves. Why did it take nearly two decades to dismiss her despite substantial corruption charges? WION explains</p>

Who is Padma Jaiswal? Why it took nearly two decades to dismiss the IAS officer for a 2007-08 offense | WION Explains

<p>A TikTok video reportedly shared by Donald Trump’s campaign was deleted after social media users noticed a spelling mistake involving Chinese President Xi Jinping’s name. According to The Mirror US, the clip showed Trump and Xi walking together on a red carpet during Trump’s recent state visit to China, which concluded on Friday (May 15) after meetings between the two leaders. The controversy centered on text added to the TikTok video. While Trump was identified as ‘President Trump’, Xi’s name reportedly appeared as ‘President Zi’, along with a handshake emoji between the two leaders. The video was later removed from TikTok, while screenshots continued circulating online after the X account Headquarters highlighted the typo.</p><h2>Social media reacts to ‘President Zi’ typo</h2><p>The mistake quickly sparked reactions across social media, with critics mocking the campaign over the apparent error. “It’s literally two letters. You had a 50/50 chance,” one user wrote on X after screenshots of the post spread online. Another commenter criticised what they described as repeated diplomatic mistakes, writing: “The incompetence of the ENTIRE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION is staggering.” Neither the Trump campaign nor TikTok publicly commented on the reported deletion or the typo.</p><p>TikTok continues to face scrutiny in the United States over national security and data privacy concerns related to its Chinese ownership. Although Trump’s Republican administration has reportedly approved a potential sale arrangement involving TikTok, the process has not yet been finalised.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-tremendous-success-trump-after-returning-from-china-says-it-was-a-historic-moment-1778891146135"><strong>'Tremendous success': Trump after returning from China; says, 'It was a historic moment'</strong></a></p><h2>Watch the post by White House here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The White House has deleted a TikTok after misspelling Xi Jinping’s name at a high-stakes China visit. <a href="https://t.co/xsSAljR3aM">pic.twitter.com/xsSAljR3aM</a></p>&mdash; Headquarters (@HQNewsNow) <a href="https://twitter.com/HQNewsNow/status/2054940340465852857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump’s China visit focused on key global issues</h2><p>The deleted TikTok video surfaced during Trump’s multi-day visit to China, where he met Xi for talks on Taiwan, Iran, and broader US-China relations. The two leaders held discussions at Zhongnanhai, the Chinese leadership compound in Beijing, before Trump departed aboard Air Force One. Despite the public display of diplomacy during the visit, tensions between Washington and Beijing remain over trade, regional security, and Taiwan. During remarks to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump also addressed ongoing discussions about TikTok’s future ownership structure in the United States. “I will decide,” Trump said when asked about the issue.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-reveals-scale-of-houthi-missile-network-iranian-weapon-parts-found-in-major-houthi-seizure-1778861783934/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-reveals-scale-of-houthi-missile-network-iranian-weapon-parts-found-in-major-houthi-seizure-1778861783934/embed</strong></a></p>

A Trump campaign TikTok video was reportedly deleted after a typo labeled Chinese President Xi Jinping as 'President Zi', sparking online reactions

A TikTok video reportedly shared by Donald Trump’s campaign was deleted after social media users noticed a spelling mistake involving Chinese President Xi Jinping’s name. According to The Mirror US, the clip showed Trump and Xi walking together on a red carpet during Trump’s recent state visit to China, which concluded on Friday (May 15) after meetings between the two leaders. The controversy centered on text added to the TikTok video. While Trump was identified as ‘President Trump’, Xi’s name reportedly appeared as ‘President Zi’, along with a handshake emoji between the two leaders. The video was later removed from TikTok, while screenshots continued circulating online after the X account Headquarters highlighted the typo. Social media reacts to ‘President Zi’ typo The mistake quickly sparked reactions across social media, with critics mocking the campaign over the apparent error. “It’s literally two letters. You had a 50/50 chance,” one user wrote on X after screenshots of the post spread online. Another commenter criticised what they described as repeated diplomatic mistakes, writing: “The incompetence of the ENTIRE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION is staggering.” Neither the Trump campaign nor TikTok publicly commented on the reported deletion or the typo. TikTok continues to face scrutiny in the United States over national security and data privacy concerns related to its Chinese ownership. Although Trump’s Republican administration has reportedly approved a potential sale arrangement involving TikTok, the process has not yet been finalised. Also Read: 'Tremendous success': Trump after returning from China; says, 'It was a historic moment' Watch the post by White House here

<p>The Trump campaign reportedly deleted a TikTok video after mistakenly misspelling Chinese President Xi Jinping as ‘President Zi’</p>

'President Zi' blunder goes viral as Trump campaign mocked over TikTok typo during China visit

<p>A video from a meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump in Beijing has gone viral on social media, sparking debate over whether Trump was intentionally made to appear shorter during the talks. The clip, widely circulated on X and other platforms, shows Xi seated on what users claim appears to be a slightly taller sofa than Trump’s during the bilateral meeting. “The sofa must be custom-made. The sofa Xi Jinping sat on was clearly higher than Trump’s sofa, while Trump is 10 cm taller than Xi Jinping. The CCP spares no effort in scheming over these details,” one X user claimed while sharing the video.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Another viral post suggested a different version of events, claiming Trump removed a cushion from his own seat. “The Chinese president measured it out to the centimeter by placing a small cushion on Trump’s chair so that they would appear to be the same height. Trump ordered the cushion to be removed... which made him look shorter than the Chinese president while sitting,” the post said. Trump was visiting China on a three-day official trip at Xi’s invitation, marking the first visit to China by a sitting US president in nine years. The US president departed China on Friday after highlighting several business agreements reached during the visit, even as Beijing cautioned Washington against mishandling the Taiwan issue and criticised the Iran war.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-on-almost-all-matters-we-found-common-ground-despite-differences-mea-on-brics-1778873840071"><strong>'On almost all matters, we found common ground despite differences': MEA on BRICS</strong></a></p><h2><strong>‘You wouldn’t find a guy like him in Hollywood’: Trump praises Xi</strong></h2><p>“We’ve settled a lot of different problems that other people wouldn’t have been able to solve,” Trump said after meeting Xi in Beijing during the second day of talks.</p><p>Social media platforms have since been flooded with memes, clips, and commentary from Trump’s visit to China. In another widely shared video, Xi pauses briefly while walking beside Trump up the stairs at the Great Hall of the People. “During the walk up to the Great Hall of the People, Xi Jinping noticed Trump appeared tired on the stairs, so he paused and gave a brief explanation of the square, allowing him a moment to catch his breath,” a post accompanying the video claimed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier reports also alleged that Trump, who has repeatedly said he does not consume alcohol, was served wine during a ceremonial toast in China. On Friday, Trump praised Xi’s leadership and stature while speaking about the Chinese president. “You wouldn’t find a guy like him in Hollywood,” Trump said while lauding Xi. “They always criticize me when I say good things about certain leaders, and this one, but... he's led almost 1.5 billion people for a long time, and he's respected,” Trump added. Trump also commented on Xi’s physical appearance, describing him as “very tall” and suggesting Hollywood would struggle to find an actor capable of portraying him convincingly on screen.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/explosions-in-bolivian-capital-as-protesters-and-police-engage-in-clashes-1778865385016/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/explosions-in-bolivian-capital-as-protesters-and-police-engage-in-clashes-1778865385016/embed</strong></a></p>

Viral videos from Donald Trump and Xi Jinping’s Beijing meeting spark online debate over sofa height, body language, diplomacy, and Trump’s praise for Xi

A video from a meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump in Beijing has gone viral on social media, sparking debate over whether Trump was intentionally made to appear shorter during the talks. The clip, widely circulated on X and other platforms, shows Xi seated on what users claim appears to be a slightly taller sofa than Trump’s during the bilateral meeting. “The sofa must be custom-made. The sofa Xi Jinping sat on was clearly higher than Trump’s sofa, while Trump is 10 cm taller than Xi Jinping. The CCP spares no effort in scheming over these details,” one X user claimed while sharing the video. Another viral post suggested a different version of events, claiming Trump removed a cushion from his own seat. “The Chinese president measured it out to the centimeter by placing a small cushion on Trump’s chair so that they would appear to be the same height. Trump ordered the cushion to be removed... which made him look shorter than the Chinese president while sitting,” the post said. Trump was visiting China on a three-day official trip at Xi’s invitation, marking the first visit to China by a sitting US president in nine years. The US president departed China on Friday after highlighting several business agreements reached during the visit, even as Beijing cautioned Washington against mishandling the Taiwan issue and criticised the Iran war. Also Read: 'On almost all matters, we found common ground despite differences': MEA on BRICS ‘You wouldn’t find a guy like him in Hollywood’: Trump praises Xi “We’ve settled a lot of different problems that other people wouldn’t have been able to solve,” Trump said after meeting Xi in Beijing during the second day of talks. Social media platforms have since been flooded with memes, clips, and commentary from Trump’s visit to China. In another widely shared video, Xi pauses briefly while walking beside Trump up the stairs at the Great Hall of the People. “During the walk up to the Great Hall of the People, Xi Jinping noticed Trump appeared tired on the stairs, so he paused and gave a brief explanation of the square, allowing him a moment to catch his breath,” a post accompanying the video claimed. Earlier reports also alleged that Trump, who has repeatedly said he does not consume alcohol, was served wine during a ceremonial toast in China. On Friday, Trump praised Xi’s leadership and stature while speaking about the Chinese president. “You wouldn’t find a guy like him in Hollywood,” Trump said while lauding Xi. “They always criticize me when I say good things about certain leaders, and this one, but... he's led almost 1.5 billion people for a long time, and he's respected,” Trump added. Trump also commented on Xi’s physical appearance, describing him as “very tall” and suggesting Hollywood would struggle to find an actor capable of portraying him convincingly on screen. https://www.wionews.com/videos/explosions-in-bolivian-capital-as-protesters-and-police-engage-in-clashes-1778865385016/embed

<p>Viral videos from Donald Trump’s China visit sparked online debate over Xi Jinping’s sofa height, stairway moments, and diplomatic optics</p>

'The sofa was clearly higher': Here's how social media reacted to Trump-Xi viral video

<p>FBI director Kash Patel has come under fire after another scandal surfaced, which shows that he took a "VIP snorkel" trip at Pearl Harbour. FBI releases show that he took the excursion while on an official visit to Hawaii. According to Associated Press, emails reveal that Patel snorkelled around the USS Arizona, and the outing was coordinated by the military. During this trip to Hawaii, he also visited the local FBI office and law enforcement. His use of a government-funded private jet for a luxury excursion is now under the scanner. He is also being called out for undertaking an excursion to the USS Arizona, which entombs the remains of 900 soldiers who died during World War II. Japan attacked Pearl Harbour on December 7, 1941, and the battleship was taken a brutal hit and sank with 1,177 soldiers on board. The United States built a memorial over it, and the area remains strictly off-limits for snorkelling and diving activities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Marine archaeologists and crews from the National Park Service occasionally dive to assess the condition of the wreckage. The ship is still leaking oil from its fuel tank 84 years later, and the ship's steel hull is corroding and is also at risk of collapsing. Besides, the remains of those who survived the attack have also been placed in the wreckage to let them rest with their former mates who didn't make it. Some military and government officials responsible for the management of the memorial also visit the site.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/longest-man-made-toxic-oil-spill-started-84-years-ago-and-will-continue-for-another-500-years-1778763999690"><strong>Longest man-made toxic oil spill started 84 years ago and still has 500 more years to go</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Pearl Harbor is a historic site, and several former FBI directors have paid a visit over the years. A former government diver who spoke to AP said that none of them, at least since 1993, has gone snorkelling at the memorial. He added it was unusual for someone who was not connected to the memorial and the wreckage in any way to go swimming to the site. Besides, it involved physical risks, and there are security, safety and logistical challenges.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/men-s-hockey-team-bungle-up-by-laughing-on-trump-s-crass-comment-about-women-in-locker-room-call-1771911493639"><strong>Trump mocked female players in locker room call with men's hockey team, and they all laughed</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Kash Patel slammed for ‘tax-funded’ vacation to Italy during Winter Olympics</strong></h2><p>Kash Patel has been facing scrutiny for similar actions in the last year. In February, he was seen celebrating in the locker room with members of the US men's hockey team after their gold medal win at the Winter Olympics in Milan. Viral videos showed Patel drinking beer and spraying it over the players, along with footage of a player draping a gold medal around his neck. He even dialled President Trump from there, who spoke to the players. Critics and Democratic lawmakers questioned the use of a government Gulfstream G550 jet for the trip. The FBI stated that Patel was in Italy for professional meetings with European security officials and the Milan Joint Operations Center.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Kash Patel snorkelled to the wreckage of the USS Arizona, where 900 soldiers lie entombed. He is accused of using taxpayer money to take a luxury trip to Hawaii and then diving to the region where lie the remains of the ship, which is off limits. 

FBI director Kash Patel has come under fire after another scandal surfaced, which shows that he took a "VIP snorkel" trip at Pearl Harbour. FBI releases show that he took the excursion while on an official visit to Hawaii. According to Associated Press, emails reveal that Patel snorkelled around the USS Arizona, and the outing was coordinated by the military. During this trip to Hawaii, he also visited the local FBI office and law enforcement. His use of a government-funded private jet for a luxury excursion is now under the scanner. He is also being called out for undertaking an excursion to the USS Arizona, which entombs the remains of 900 soldiers who died during World War II. Japan attacked Pearl Harbour on December 7, 1941, and the battleship was taken a brutal hit and sank with 1,177 soldiers on board. The United States built a memorial over it, and the area remains strictly off-limits for snorkelling and diving activities. Marine archaeologists and crews from the National Park Service occasionally dive to assess the condition of the wreckage. The ship is still leaking oil from its fuel tank 84 years later, and the ship's steel hull is corroding and is also at risk of collapsing. Besides, the remains of those who survived the attack have also been placed in the wreckage to let them rest with their former mates who didn't make it. Some military and government officials responsible for the management of the memorial also visit the site. Also Read: Longest man-made toxic oil spill started 84 years ago and still has 500 more years to go Pearl Harbor is a historic site, and several former FBI directors have paid a visit over the years. A former government diver who spoke to AP said that none of them, at least since 1993, has gone snorkelling at the memorial. He added it was unusual for someone who was not connected to the memorial and the wreckage in any way to go swimming to the site. Besides, it involved physical risks, and there are security, safety and logistical challenges. Also Read: Trump mocked female players in locker room call with men's hockey team, and they all laughed Kash Patel slammed for ‘tax-funded’ vacation to Italy during Winter Olympics Kash Patel has been facing scrutiny for similar actions in the last year. In February, he was seen celebrating in the locker room with members of the US men's hockey team after their gold medal win at the Winter Olympics in Milan. Viral videos showed Patel drinking beer and spraying it over the players, along with footage of a player draping a gold medal around his neck. He even dialled President Trump from there, who spoke to the players. Critics and Democratic lawmakers questioned the use of a government Gulfstream G550 jet for the trip. The FBI stated that Patel was in Italy for professional meetings with European security officials and the Milan Joint Operations Center.

<p>Kash Patel snorkelled to the wreckage of the USS Arizona, where 900 soldiers lie entombed. He is accused of using taxpayer money to take a luxury trip to Hawaii and then diving to the region where lie the remains of the ship and is off limits.&nbsp;</p>

Kash Patel’s VIP snorkeling trip to US underwater war tomb of 900 soldiers sparks outrage

<p>Elon Musk shared a selfie moment with his electric car rival, Lei Jun, the CEO of Xiaomi, at the state banquet for US President Donald Trump hosted by China's President Xi Jinping. Xiaomi has become a leading name in the field of automobiles and is a major competitor to Tesla and Porsche in the Chinese market. Tesla also has a massive presence in China, and the country is one of the company's largest markets and primary manufacturing hubs. Musk shared a video of himself sitting at a table at the banquet as several people came up to him one after the other for a photo. Meanwhile, Marco Rubio and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang can be seen chatting with other leaders. After some time, Lei goes to Musk and takes a selfie, appearing to be a little charmed and happy to see the Tesla CEO. Meanwhile, Musk looks a little bored at the event, as pointed out by several users.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/QMgqquoGkS">pic.twitter.com/QMgqquoGkS</a></p>&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2055155949242114463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Xiaomi and Tesla are rivals in China's car market</strong></h2><p>The moment between Musk and Lei has become one of the highlights of the banquet since they are both rivals in China's car market. Tesla opened its first wholly overseas vehicle assembly plant in Shanghai in 2019, where it produces the Model 3 and Model Y. It also has showrooms and service centres across major cities in mainland China. Meanwhile, Xiaomi entered the automotive market with the launch of the Xiaomi SU7 (Speed Ultra), a high-performance electric sedan. The car is known for its sleek design and deep integration with Xiaomi’s existing tech ecosystem. It also has the "MX11" SUV in the pipeline, as industry leaks have confirmed that Xiaomi is currently testing its second vehicle. It is a battery-electric SUV, and its design is being compared to the Ferrari Purosangue.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-xi-meet-marred-by-day-of-altercations-us-media-and-chinese-security-officers-clash-at-temple-of-heaven-video-1778817000789"><strong>Trump-Xi meet marred by day of altercations: US media and Chinese security officers clash at Temple of Heaven - VIDEO</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Musk took his son X to China</strong></h2><p>Apple CEO Tim Cook was also present at the banquet and was the next person to take a photo with Musk. The billionaire earlier went viral for acting like a tourist, shooting videos while other leaders in the delegation stood waiting for Trump and Xi. He also took his son X with him to China. Some netizens pointed out how Musk was posting from China even though the social media platform does not operate in the country. "My GOAT using VPN to access his app coz it's banned in China," a user wrote.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun took a photo with each other during the state banquet in Beijing after the latter approached him. They are both rivals in the country's market. Xiaomi's SU7 starts at $30,000, while the Tesla Model 3 starts at $37,000 and goes up to $55,000.

Elon Musk shared a selfie moment with his electric car rival, Lei Jun, the CEO of Xiaomi, at the state banquet for US President Donald Trump hosted by China's President Xi Jinping. Xiaomi has become a leading name in the field of automobiles and is a major competitor to Tesla and Porsche in the Chinese market. Tesla also has a massive presence in China, and the country is one of the company's largest markets and primary manufacturing hubs. Musk shared a video of himself sitting at a table at the banquet as several people came up to him one after the other for a photo. Meanwhile, Marco Rubio and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang can be seen chatting with other leaders. After some time, Lei goes to Musk and takes a selfie, appearing to be a little charmed and happy to see the Tesla CEO. Meanwhile, Musk looks a little bored at the event, as pointed out by several users.

<p>Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun took a photo with each other during the state banquet in Beijing after the latter approached him. They are both rivals in the country's market. Xiaomi's SU7 starts at $30,000, while the Tesla Model 3 starts at $37,000 and goes up to $55,000.</p>

Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun looks smitten as he takes a selfie with his rival Elon Musk - Watch

<p>The Football World Cup 2026 final will feature the first-ever halftime show featuring Shakira, BTS and Madonna. But fans across the world are not happy with this bizarre decision, and are slamming FIFA for the Americanisation of football. Super Bowl, the annual American championship game of the National Football League, has an artist performance at halftime. Since the World Cup this year is being jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, the same concept has been introduced in the final to be held on July 19. But fans are puzzled by this strange development. “Btw i dont think football fans will like halftime show lmao they are not like american football fans. Also i hate that us is trying to make everything americanified," a user wrote on X. Another user mentioned, "Halftime show at the World Cup final feels like FIFA trying to be the Super Bowl. Players just want to focus and recover. Shakira returning for what’s basically her Waka Waka swan song will be a moment though. Madonna and BTS feel forced."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>People are also questioning the logistical issues since the regular football half-time is only 15 minutes, while the Super Bowl halftime show runs for nearly 30 minutes. FIFA and the organisers are trying to pack in performances by three artists in such a short time span, which seems unrealistic. Meanwhile, FIFA is harping on the charity element, as the show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. President Gianni Infantino wrote on Instagram that it would be “bringing together music and football on the biggest stage in sport for a very special cause.”</p><p>Also Read:<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/world-cup-final-half-time-show-madonna-bts-and-shakira-to-perform-during-a-15-min-break-1778739407211"><strong>FIFA World Cup Final Half-Time Show: Madonna, BTS and Shakira to perform during a 15-min break</strong></a></p><h2><strong>BTS fans excited to see K-pop group at Football World Cup</strong></h2><p><br>However, a large group of people are just excited to have BTS perform at the Football World Cup. The Korean boy band returned this year with their new album "Arirang" after serving time in the military. They are currently on tour and held shows in the US before moving to Mexico. A user commented, "ITS JUSY CRAZY THAT MY FAVE SPORT IS SOCCER AND BAND IS BTS… the problem is, how am I going to secure the tickets?! HOW!?" Another said, "This will be a legendary moment for the world I am so excited for the bts," with one adding, "BTS on the first-ever FIFA World Cup Halftime Show in 2026?! This is going to be legendary. Can't wait to see them perform on the biggest stage!"</p>

BTS, Shakira and Madonna will be at the Football World Cup final, but not everyone is happy. Fans are questioning the logic behind having a music show in a 15-minute window, with others slamming the decision as Americanizing the game.

The Football World Cup 2026 final will feature the first-ever halftime show featuring Shakira, BTS and Madonna. But fans across the world are not happy with this bizarre decision, and are slamming FIFA for the Americanisation of football. Super Bowl, the annual American championship game of the National Football League, has an artist performance at halftime. Since the World Cup this year is being jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, the same concept has been introduced in the final to be held on July 19. But fans are puzzled by this strange development. “Btw i dont think football fans will like halftime show lmao they are not like american football fans. Also i hate that us is trying to make everything americanified," a user wrote on X. Another user mentioned, "Halftime show at the World Cup final feels like FIFA trying to be the Super Bowl. Players just want to focus and recover. Shakira returning for what’s basically her Waka Waka swan song will be a moment though. Madonna and BTS feel forced." People are also questioning the logistical issues since the regular football half-time is only 15 minutes, while the Super Bowl halftime show runs for nearly 30 minutes. FIFA and the organisers are trying to pack in performances by three artists in such a short time span, which seems unrealistic. Meanwhile, FIFA is harping on the charity element, as the show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. President Gianni Infantino wrote on Instagram that it would be “bringing together music and football on the biggest stage in sport for a very special cause.” Also Read: FIFA World Cup Final Half-Time Show: Madonna, BTS and Shakira to perform during a 15-min break BTS fans excited to see K-pop group at Football World Cup However, a large group of people are just excited to have BTS perform at the Football World Cup. The Korean boy band returned this year with their new album "Arirang" after serving time in the military. They are currently on tour and held shows in the US before moving to Mexico. A user commented, "ITS JUSY CRAZY THAT MY FAVE SPORT IS SOCCER AND BAND IS BTS… the problem is, how am I going to secure the tickets?! HOW!?" Another said, "This will be a legendary moment for the world I am so excited for the bts," with one adding, "BTS on the first-ever FIFA World Cup Halftime Show in 2026?! This is going to be legendary. Can't wait to see them perform on the biggest stage!"

<p>BTS, Shakira and Madonna will be at the Football World Cup final, but not everyone is happy. Fans are questioning the logic behind having a music show in a 15-minute window, with others slamming the decision as Americanizing the game.</p>

Football World Cup 2026: Fans slam 'Americanified' halftime show featuring BTS, Shakira and Madonna

<p>The US press and staff teams travelling with Donald Trump's motorcade during his China visit were held in a room at the Temple of Heaven for nearly half an hour. A video captured on the Fox News B-roll livestream shows them clashing with the Chinese security team, asking them to let them go as they are with the president and not to be separated. "It's just like you would travel with your president," an American reporter tells the Chinese officers. The clash over security and protocol happened when Trump and Xi Jinping went to the Temple of Heaven after the bilateral meeting. Chinese security refused to allow a US Secret Service agent to enter a specific area because the agent was carrying a firearm. This standoff delayed the movement of the press pool.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Temple of Heaven clash video</strong></h2><p>The most viral clash happened when Chinese officials locked the American press members in a holding room as the leaders were preparing to leave the Temple of Heaven. Footage shows American journalists shouting, "We gotta move!" and "We are missing history!" as they argued with guards. Chinese officers can be seen talking to each other about the situation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A noteworthy moment came after almost two hours of what appeared to be a Fox News B-roll livestream, when footage showed an altercation between American staff &amp; press and Chinese security at the Temple of Heaven. Some of the U.S. staff traveling with Trump claimed they were being… <a href="https://t.co/DRY0dGEhEi">pic.twitter.com/DRY0dGEhEi</a></p>&mdash; Manya Koetse (@manyapan) <a href="https://twitter.com/manyapan/status/2054859884462588159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Language between the two sides became a barrier as the American media persons tried to explain that they were supposed to stay with Trump. "If you were arriving with Xi, and we told you, you couldn't leave with him, that's the issue," one of them said. Another can be heard saying, "We are in the motorcade with the President, do you not understand that?" They then decide to physically push their way out of the room, fearing being left behind as Chinese officials stood. One reporter was heard telling the group to be "gentle but firm" and "not to do what they did to us," referencing an earlier incident where a staffer was trampled.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-high-stakes-xi-meeting-trump-says-china-won-t-arm-iran-war-and-could-help-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-west-asia-crisis-mojtaba-khamenei-argachi-1778809229977"><strong>After high-stakes Xi meeting, Trump says China wants to buy oil from the United States</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-delegation-reportedly-under-digital-lockdown-during-high-stakes-china-visit-1778786568744/embed</p><h2><strong>US staff member fell down after Chinese reporters barged in&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>The first clash of the day between the two sides happened on Thursday morning at the Great Hall of the People before official talks began between Trump and Xi. Reports suggest that a group of Chinese state media reporters barged into the room where President Trump and President Xi were meeting. In the scramble, a White House staff member was knocked to the ground and stepped on. While she was not seriously injured, the incident set a tense tone for the rest of the day. This was followed by the altercation at the Temple of Heaven, where a Secret Security official was stopped from entering the premised because he was carrying a firearm.</p>

Day 2 of Donald Trump's China visit was marked by at least three clashes between US press and staff members and the Chinese security officers. In one incident, an American staff member was injured. Then, at the Temple of Heaven, the press pool was held in a room and not allowed to join Trump.

The US press and staff teams travelling with Donald Trump's motorcade during his China visit were held in a room at the Temple of Heaven for nearly half an hour. A video captured on the Fox News B-roll livestream shows them clashing with the Chinese security team, asking them to let them go as they are with the president and not to be separated. "It's just like you would travel with your president," an American reporter tells the Chinese officers. The clash over security and protocol happened when Trump and Xi Jinping went to the Temple of Heaven after the bilateral meeting. Chinese security refused to allow a US Secret Service agent to enter a specific area because the agent was carrying a firearm. This standoff delayed the movement of the press pool. Temple of Heaven clash video The most viral clash happened when Chinese officials locked the American press members in a holding room as the leaders were preparing to leave the Temple of Heaven. Footage shows American journalists shouting, "We gotta move!" and "We are missing history!" as they argued with guards. Chinese officers can be seen talking to each other about the situation.

<p>Day 2 of Donald Trump's China visit was marked by at least three clashes between US press and staff members and the Chinese security officers. In one incident, an American staff member was injured. Then, at the Temple of Heaven, the press pool was held in a room and not allowed to join Trump.</p>

Trump-Xi meet marred by day of altercations: US media and Chinese security officers clash at Temple of Heaven - VIDEO

<p>The United States Department of Justice on Thursday (May 14) accused Yale School of Medicine of discriminating against white and Asian applicants following a year-long investigation into the university’s diversity-related admissions practices. The allegations mark the latest development in President Donald Trump’s broader campaign against American universities, which he has repeatedly criticized for promoting ‘woke’ ideologies and implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies that his administration views as unfair.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Yale's documents show that its leadership intentionally selected applicants based on their race," the Justice Department said in a statement. The department said it is seeking a voluntary agreement with Yale to ensure the university’s admissions process complies with federal law. According to the Justice Department, admissions data suggested that “Black and Hispanic students have a much higher chance of admission to Yale than White or Asian students with the same test scores.” Responding to the allegations, Yale School of Medicine defended its admissions process and said it remained “confident in the rigorous admissions process.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-could-host-world-s-largest-fireworks-display-this-july-4-what-s-happening-1778803476609"><strong>Washington DC could host world’s largest fireworks display this July 4. What's happening?</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The institution added that admitted students “demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and personal commitment” and noted that its graduates continue to become leaders in healthcare, scientific research, and public service. “We will carefully review the Department of Justice’s letter,” the school said. The Justice Department’s findings referenced the 2023 Supreme Court of the United States ruling that struck down race-based affirmative action policies in university admissions. While the court prohibited race as a direct admissions factor, it allowed universities to consider applicants’ personal experiences related to race.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Federal officials argued Thursday that Yale failed to fully comply with that decision. The move follows a similar action taken last week against the medical school at the University of California, Los Angeles, where the Trump administration alleged that Black and Hispanic applicants with lower qualifications were unfairly favored during admissions. Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump has intensified efforts to pressure universities that he believes lean too far left politically.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tax-relief-for-foreigners-plan-to-boost-india-bond-inflows-1778785701641/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/tax-relief-for-foreigners-plan-to-boost-india-bond-inflows-1778785701641/embed</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His administration has used federal funding and research spending as leverage to push for changes in admissions policies, curriculum standards, and enrollment practices at major universities across the country. The administration has also reduced or frozen portions of federal university research funding as part of broader budget-cutting measures.</p>

The US Justice Department accused Yale School of Medicine of discriminating against white and Asian applicants in admissions practices

The United States Department of Justice on Thursday (May 14) accused Yale School of Medicine of discriminating against white and Asian applicants following a year-long investigation into the university’s diversity-related admissions practices. The allegations mark the latest development in President Donald Trump’s broader campaign against American universities, which he has repeatedly criticized for promoting ‘woke’ ideologies and implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies that his administration views as unfair. "Yale's documents show that its leadership intentionally selected applicants based on their race," the Justice Department said in a statement. The department said it is seeking a voluntary agreement with Yale to ensure the university’s admissions process complies with federal law. According to the Justice Department, admissions data suggested that “Black and Hispanic students have a much higher chance of admission to Yale than White or Asian students with the same test scores.” Responding to the allegations, Yale School of Medicine defended its admissions process and said it remained “confident in the rigorous admissions process.” Also Read: Washington DC could host world’s largest fireworks display this July 4. What's happening? The institution added that admitted students “demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and personal commitment” and noted that its graduates continue to become leaders in healthcare, scientific research, and public service. “We will carefully review the Department of Justice’s letter,” the school said. The Justice Department’s findings referenced the 2023 Supreme Court of the United States ruling that struck down race-based affirmative action policies in university admissions. While the court prohibited race as a direct admissions factor, it allowed universities to consider applicants’ personal experiences related to race. Federal officials argued Thursday that Yale failed to fully comply with that decision. The move follows a similar action taken last week against the medical school at the University of California, Los Angeles, where the Trump administration alleged that Black and Hispanic applicants with lower qualifications were unfairly favored during admissions. Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump has intensified efforts to pressure universities that he believes lean too far left politically. https://www.wionews.com/videos/tax-relief-for-foreigners-plan-to-boost-india-bond-inflows-1778785701641/embed His administration has used federal funding and research spending as leverage to push for changes in admissions policies, curriculum standards, and enrollment practices at major universities across the country. The administration has also reduced or frozen portions of federal university research funding as part of broader budget-cutting measures.

<p>The US Justice Department accused Yale Medical School of racial discrimination in admissions amid Trump’s crackdown on DEI policies</p>

US Justice Department accuses Yale Medical School over admissions discrimination and DEI policies. Here's what it means

<p>Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, arrived in New Delhi for the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting aboard an aircraft carrying a pointed political message from Tehran, “Minab168”, a reference to the 168 schoolchildren that were killed in a US strike on a school in Minab on February 28.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Images from Tehran showed the inscription “#Minab168” displayed prominently on the fuselage of the aircraft before Araghchi departed for India, marking his first visit to the country since the outbreak of the Iran war earlier this year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The reference relates to the strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh primary school in Minab, located in Iran’s southern Hormozgan province near the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian authorities have described the attack as one of the deadliest civilian incidents of the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Araghchi’s visit comes amid heightened tensions across West Asia, with the Iran conflict and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz expected to dominate discussions during the BRICS gathering in Delhi. He is also expected to hold bilateral talks with S. Jaishankar on regional stability, connectivity and energy security.</p><h2>Araghchi targets ‘Western hegemony’ at BRICS meeting</h2><p>Addressing the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on Thursday, Araghchi delivered a sharp criticism of the United States and urged BRICS nations to unite against what he called a Western-dominated global order.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Over the past year, I have had the honour of attending two BRICS summits to express the Iranian government's belief that this mechanism symbolises the emergence of a new world order, one in which the global South is one of the main architects of the world's future,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-permits-30-ships-to-pass-through-strait-of-hormuz-since-wednesday-1778766122069"><strong>Iran permits 30 ships to pass through Strait of Hormuz since Wednesday</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“What was once an ambitious ideal has become a reality, but it is a fragile one. Declining imperialist powers are seeking to turn back the clock and are reacting with desperation and aggression,” Araghchi added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Iranian foreign minister said Iran’s ongoing conflict was part of a larger struggle against “Western hegemony” and called on BRICS members to take a unified stand.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“This is of fundamental importance to the BRICS+ community because the battle in which Iran has stood is in defence of all members and in defence of the new world we are building,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Our brave soldiers have sacrificed their lives to confront Western hegemony and the immunity that America thinks it enjoys,” Araghchi added.</p>

‘Minab168’ inscribed on the Iranian FM’s aircraft is a reference to the 168 schoolchildren killed in a US strike on a school in Minab on February 28.

Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, arrived in New Delhi for the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting aboard an aircraft carrying a pointed political message from Tehran, “Minab168”, a reference to the 168 schoolchildren that were killed in a US strike on a school in Minab on February 28. Images from Tehran showed the inscription “#Minab168” displayed prominently on the fuselage of the aircraft before Araghchi departed for India, marking his first visit to the country since the outbreak of the Iran war earlier this year. The reference relates to the strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh primary school in Minab, located in Iran’s southern Hormozgan province near the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian authorities have described the attack as one of the deadliest civilian incidents of the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel. Araghchi’s visit comes amid heightened tensions across West Asia, with the Iran conflict and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz expected to dominate discussions during the BRICS gathering in Delhi. He is also expected to hold bilateral talks with S. Jaishankar on regional stability, connectivity and energy security. Araghchi targets ‘Western hegemony’ at BRICS meeting Addressing the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on Thursday, Araghchi delivered a sharp criticism of the United States and urged BRICS nations to unite against what he called a Western-dominated global order. “Over the past year, I have had the honour of attending two BRICS summits to express the Iranian government's belief that this mechanism symbolises the emergence of a new world order, one in which the global South is one of the main architects of the world's future,” he said. Also Read: Iran permits 30 ships to pass through Strait of Hormuz since Wednesday “What was once an ambitious ideal has become a reality, but it is a fragile one. Declining imperialist powers are seeking to turn back the clock and are reacting with desperation and aggression,” Araghchi added. The Iranian foreign minister said Iran’s ongoing conflict was part of a larger struggle against “Western hegemony” and called on BRICS members to take a unified stand. “This is of fundamental importance to the BRICS+ community because the battle in which Iran has stood is in defence of all members and in defence of the new world we are building,” he said. “Our brave soldiers have sacrificed their lives to confront Western hegemony and the immunity that America thinks it enjoys,” Araghchi added.

<p>‘Minab168’ inscribed on the Iranian FM’s aircraft is a reference to the 168 schoolchildren killed in a US strike on a school in Minab on February 28.</p>

Iran FM Araghchi brings ‘Minab168’ message to Delhi, slams US 'bullying' at BRICS summit

<p>USS Arizona went down in the Pearl Harbour attack in 1941, carrying nearly 5,000 tonnes of oil in its tanks. This oil has been leaking for more than 80 years, a new study confirmed, and yet the tank is said to be still half full. On December 7, 1941, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor dealt a fatal blow to the USS Arizona. Several armour-piercing bombs were thrown at it, and a catastrophic explosion occurred when a munitions magazine detonated, sinking the ship and claiming the lives of 1,177 officers and crewmen. Of these, 900 remain entombed here. While many other ships damaged that day were eventually repaired for service in World War II, the Arizona was too irreparably damaged to ever fight again. The oil leaking from the USS Arizona is a closely studied aspect of the Pearl Harbor site. Often referred to as the "Black Tears of the Arizona," the leak is both an emotional symbol of the tragedy and a unique challenge for scientists and environmentalists.<br><br>At the time of the attack, the battleship had been just filled with approximately 1.5 million gallons of heavy bunker fuel oil. According to estimates, roughly 500,000 to 600,000 gallons still remain trapped inside the ship's rusted fuel tanks. It leaks roughly 0.5 to 2 gallons of oil per day into Pearl Harbor. Scientists estimate that at this rate, the ship will continue to leak oil for another 500 years, unless the hull collapses first. No efforts have been made to drill into the ship and extract the oil either. This is because of two major reasons.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/a-ticking-time-bomb-200-000-radioactive-barrels-13-000-feet-under-atlantic-ocean-trigger-panic-1756365852337"><strong>European nations dumped 200,000 barrels of radioactive waste in the ocean, and humans might soon pay the price</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Why has the oil not been drilled out of USS Arizona</strong></h2><p>The site of the USS Arizona wreckage is considered a sacred war grave. Pumping the oil out would require intrusive, heavy engineering that could disturb human remains and the integrity of the site. The second reason is that the ship's steel hull has been corroding in saltwater for over 80 years. Drilling into the fuel tanks could compromise the fragile structure, and cause a catastrophic hull collapse, causing all 500,000 gallons of oil to be released into the harbour at once.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/silent-casualty-of-iran-war-oil-spills-set-to-trigger-historic-environmental-collapse-in-the-persian-gulf-1777030095193"><strong>Silent casualty of Iran War: Oil spills set to trigger historic environmental collapse in the Persian Gulf</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Environmental impact of USS Arizona oil leak</strong></h2><p><br>The fuel contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are toxic to marine life. Surprisingly, the minute amount of leakage has had no negative effect on the ecology, and it has adapted to it. In fact, the wreck has become a thriving artificial reef, with corals, sponges, invertebrates, and fish present. Scientists have also discovered unique microbes living on the wreck that actually "eat" the oil. But this biological activity also accelerates the corrosion of the ship's steel hull.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/511-billion-barrels-of-oil-discovered-in-antarctica-can-trigger-world-war-1752036274384"><strong>511 billion barrels of oil discovered in Antarctica can trigger World War. Here's how</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Why this discovery matters</strong></h2><p><br>Recent scientific studies, including a forensic analysis published in the Marine Pollution Bulletin, have changed how the world views the Arizona. Thousands of World War II-era shipwrecks holding millions of gallons of fuel are sitting on ocean floors worldwide/ Because the Arizona is shallow and easily accessible, it serves as a global case study. Analysing and tracking how its oil chemically changes, weathers, and interacts with low-oxygen environments, scientists are learning how to predict and manage potential pollution threats from other ageing shipwrecks across the globe.<br>&nbsp;</p>

USS Arizona has been leaking oil into Pearl Harbor for 84 years. However, surprisingly, it has not affected the marine life in the region despite the presence of toxic chemicals. The discovery is now acting as a case study for other warships at the bottom of the sea.

USS Arizona went down in the Pearl Harbour attack in 1941, carrying nearly 5,000 tonnes of oil in its tanks. This oil has been leaking for more than 80 years, a new study confirmed, and yet the tank is said to be still half full. On December 7, 1941, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor dealt a fatal blow to the USS Arizona. Several armour-piercing bombs were thrown at it, and a catastrophic explosion occurred when a munitions magazine detonated, sinking the ship and claiming the lives of 1,177 officers and crewmen. Of these, 900 remain entombed here. While many other ships damaged that day were eventually repaired for service in World War II, the Arizona was too irreparably damaged to ever fight again. The oil leaking from the USS Arizona is a closely studied aspect of the Pearl Harbor site. Often referred to as the "Black Tears of the Arizona," the leak is both an emotional symbol of the tragedy and a unique challenge for scientists and environmentalists. At the time of the attack, the battleship had been just filled with approximately 1.5 million gallons of heavy bunker fuel oil. According to estimates, roughly 500,000 to 600,000 gallons still remain trapped inside the ship's rusted fuel tanks. It leaks roughly 0.5 to 2 gallons of oil per day into Pearl Harbor. Scientists estimate that at this rate, the ship will continue to leak oil for another 500 years, unless the hull collapses first. No efforts have been made to drill into the ship and extract the oil either. This is because of two major reasons. Also Read: European nations dumped 200,000 barrels of radioactive waste in the ocean, and humans might soon pay the price Why has the oil not been drilled out of USS Arizona The site of the USS Arizona wreckage is considered a sacred war grave. Pumping the oil out would require intrusive, heavy engineering that could disturb human remains and the integrity of the site. The second reason is that the ship's steel hull has been corroding in saltwater for over 80 years. Drilling into the fuel tanks could compromise the fragile structure, and cause a catastrophic hull collapse, causing all 500,000 gallons of oil to be released into the harbour at once. Also Read: Silent casualty of Iran War: Oil spills set to trigger historic environmental collapse in the Persian Gulf Environmental impact of USS Arizona oil leak The fuel contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are toxic to marine life. Surprisingly, the minute amount of leakage has had no negative effect on the ecology, and it has adapted to it. In fact, the wreck has become a thriving artificial reef, with corals, sponges, invertebrates, and fish present. Scientists have also discovered unique microbes living on the wreck that actually "eat" the oil. But this biological activity also accelerates the corrosion of the ship's steel hull. Also Read: 511 billion barrels of oil discovered in Antarctica can trigger World War. Here's how Why this discovery matters Recent scientific studies, including a forensic analysis published in the Marine Pollution Bulletin, have changed how the world views the Arizona. Thousands of World War II-era shipwrecks holding millions of gallons of fuel are sitting on ocean floors worldwide/ Because the Arizona is shallow and easily accessible, it serves as a global case study. Analysing and tracking how its oil chemically changes, weathers, and interacts with low-oxygen environments, scientists are learning how to predict and manage potential pollution threats from other ageing shipwrecks across the globe.

<p>USS Arizona has been leaking oil into Pearl Harbor for 84 years. However, surprisingly, it has not affected the marine life in the region despite the presence of toxic chemicals. The discovery is now acting as a case study for other warships at the bottom of the sea.</p>

Longest man-made toxic oil spill started 84 years ago and still has 500 more years to go

<p>A former CIA psychic spy passed away in March this year, but not before having his final vision, which prophesied a major catastrophe for the world. He warned that a "Killshot" could soon devastate Earth, and it will come from none other than the source of life - The Sun. According to Retired Major Ed Dames, the solar maximum will deal a killer blow to our planet. The Sun will blast so much material with enormous force into space that millions could die instantly on Earth. The 76-year-old was part of secret government experiments to get a peek at the enemy's plans during the Cold War. Dames claimed that this would just be the initial stage of the event, setting in motion a "Killshot sequence" that will begin with the Solar Maximum. The Sun has been extremely active for the past few years, and its activity is expected to continue to remain intense till the end of 2026. Comet C/2023 A3 is also part of the concoction and will contribute to the solar disaster.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sun-unleashes-m-class-solar-flare-auroras-could-light-up-earth-this-week-details-1778572341489"><strong>Sun unleashes M-class solar flare, auroras could light up Earth this week. Details</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dames said in his last interview that communication systems and power grids would fail, causing chaos. This huge infrastructure failure would act as a catalyst for violence and disease, and governments across the world would not do anything to help their people. "You wake up, and there's no power, and there's no water, and there's no gasoline, it's going to be a bad nightmare scenario," Dames said in an October 2025 which was released last month. A mysterious comet would then make an appearance in the inner solar system and would further rile up things.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/armageddon-in-15-years-a-2040-biblical-forecast-about-this-river-is-triggering-end-times-warnings-1778577043457"><strong>Armageddon in 15 years? A 2040 forecast about THIS river is triggering 'end times' warnings</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Dames talked about the solar apocalypse for decades</strong></h2><p>This was not the first time he talked about the Killshot, and claimed that it was imminent on several previous occasions. In fact, he had been predicting it for decades. But the dates came and went, and his predictions failed to materialise. He then talked about it for the last time in this interview, claiming that the warning signs were finally appearing. Dames said that the first had a vision about the solar encounter when he was participating in the classified psychic espionage programs tied to Project Stargate. The US intelligence program ran from the 1970s to 1995 and was based on the idea of "remote viewing" with a psychic base to gather information on hidden targets. He talked about Solar Cycle 25 being the dangerous period for Earth, the one we are currently witnessing.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-website-tracks-private-jets-to-predict-doomsday-on-earth-billionaires-will-know-1778680680419"><strong>THIS website tracks private jets to reveal if Earth is facing an extinction-level event</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Sun unleashed solar flare this week</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Astronomers have recorded large sunspots many times, and one of them unleashed a solar flare on Sunday (May 10). "Right now, we're at the beginning of the solar cycle. 25 Solar Max. Solar Max should last for about two years, and the sun's doing unprecedented stuff. There are more solar spots than there have been in the last 20-something years," Dames said. He added that while it would be the beginning of the kill shot sequence, Comet C/2023 A3 would also play a role in the solar apocalyptic disaster. However, the comet, officially known as C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, has not shown any signs of being a danger to Earth.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dames claims that the solar radiation this time would be unlike anything seen in the past and will actually hit ground level, "resulting in the initial deaths of millions with implications resulting in economic collapse, war…" He said only some places on Earth will remain relatively safe when this happens.&nbsp;</p>

A solar catastrophe could be coming this year, if a former CIA psychic spy is to be believed. Retired Major Ed Dames is no more, but he talked about the impending event for decades, saying that the Sun and a comet could devastate Earth.

A former CIA psychic spy passed away in March this year, but not before having his final vision, which prophesied a major catastrophe for the world. He warned that a "Killshot" could soon devastate Earth, and it will come from none other than the source of life - The Sun. According to Retired Major Ed Dames, the solar maximum will deal a killer blow to our planet. The Sun will blast so much material with enormous force into space that millions could die instantly on Earth. The 76-year-old was part of secret government experiments to get a peek at the enemy's plans during the Cold War. Dames claimed that this would just be the initial stage of the event, setting in motion a "Killshot sequence" that will begin with the Solar Maximum. The Sun has been extremely active for the past few years, and its activity is expected to continue to remain intense till the end of 2026. Comet C/2023 A3 is also part of the concoction and will contribute to the solar disaster. Also Read: Sun unleashes M-class solar flare, auroras could light up Earth this week. Details Dames said in his last interview that communication systems and power grids would fail, causing chaos. This huge infrastructure failure would act as a catalyst for violence and disease, and governments across the world would not do anything to help their people. "You wake up, and there's no power, and there's no water, and there's no gasoline, it's going to be a bad nightmare scenario," Dames said in an October 2025 which was released last month. A mysterious comet would then make an appearance in the inner solar system and would further rile up things. Also Read: Armageddon in 15 years? A 2040 forecast about THIS river is triggering 'end times' warnings Dames talked about the solar apocalypse for decades This was not the first time he talked about the Killshot, and claimed that it was imminent on several previous occasions. In fact, he had been predicting it for decades. But the dates came and went, and his predictions failed to materialise. He then talked about it for the last time in this interview, claiming that the warning signs were finally appearing. Dames said that the first had a vision about the solar encounter when he was participating in the classified psychic espionage programs tied to Project Stargate. The US intelligence program ran from the 1970s to 1995 and was based on the idea of "remote viewing" with a psychic base to gather information on hidden targets. He talked about Solar Cycle 25 being the dangerous period for Earth, the one we are currently witnessing. Also Read: THIS website tracks private jets to reveal if Earth is facing an extinction-level event Sun unleashed solar flare this week Astronomers have recorded large sunspots many times, and one of them unleashed a solar flare on Sunday (May 10). "Right now, we're at the beginning of the solar cycle. 25 Solar Max. Solar Max should last for about two years, and the sun's doing unprecedented stuff. There are more solar spots than there have been in the last 20-something years," Dames said. He added that while it would be the beginning of the kill shot sequence, Comet C/2023 A3 would also play a role in the solar apocalyptic disaster. However, the comet, officially known as C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, has not shown any signs of being a danger to Earth. Dames claims that the solar radiation this time would be unlike anything seen in the past and will actually hit ground level, "resulting in the initial deaths of millions with implications resulting in economic collapse, war…" He said only some places on Earth will remain relatively safe when this happens.

<p>A solar catastrophe could be coming this year, if a former CIA psychic spy is to be believed. Retired Major Ed Dames is no more, but he talked about the impending event for decades, saying that the Sun and a comet could devastate Earth.</p>

2026 space apocalypse: Ex-CIA 'psychic spy' prophesied disaster for Earth linked to Sun and a comet

Mamata Banerjee appeared at the Calcutta High Court in a lawyer’s gown during hearings related to West Bengal post-poll violence, triggering massive reactions online as TMC defended her appearance and social media debated the symbolism of her attire.

In lawyer's robe, Mamata Banerjee appears at Calcutta High Court: Can she wear it legally?

<p>Tulsi Gabbard's office has denied reports that explosive files on the United States' so-called mind control experiment, MKUltra, and the tragic assassination of former president John F Kennedy were seized by the CIA in a raid. In a post on X, Olivia Coleman, the Press Secretary for the Director of National Intelligence, refuted the reports and said that "This is false". She insisted that "the CIA did not raid the DNI’s office." This comes as CIA whistleblower James Erdman III claimed that the agency seized sensitive files tied to both the notorious MKUltra mind-control program and documents related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), Tulsi Gabbard, just as those records were allegedly nearing declassification. Notably, Erdman recently made headlines for explosive allegations about COVID-19 and Dr Anthony Fauci.</p><h2><strong>What did the CIA whistleblower allege?</strong></h2><p>According to Erdman, the files were in the possession of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's office and were being prepared for potential public release on the orders of US President Donald Trump. However, the CIA intervened and seized the much-awaited files.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-block-declassification-whistleblower-claims-cia-swooped-in-to-seize-mkultra-jfk-assassination-files-from-tulsi-gabbard-s-office-trump-order-1778733463976"><strong>To block declassification? Whistleblower claims CIA ‘swooped in’ to seize MKUltra, JFK assassination files from Tulsi Gabbard’s office Trump order</strong></a></p><h2><strong>House Oversight Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets threatens CIA with subpoena</strong></h2><p>James Erdman III's allegation quickly triggered political fallout. Seizing on the explosive testimony, Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, who chairs the House Oversight Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets, accused the CIA of potentially violating executive authority and giving the agency a 24-hour ultimatum to return the documents. In a post on X, she noted that "these documents have been requested by Congress," and warned that the CIA must return the documents within 24 hours "or else I will make a motion to issue a subpoena".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-internet-in-iran-you-ll-have-to-buy-your-way-out-of-longest-nation-scale-blackout-on-record-here-s-how-1778729994279"><strong>Want internet in Iran? You'll have to buy your way out of ‘longest nation-scale blackout on record'; Here's how</strong></a></p><p>Luna also posted what she described as a "preservation notice," arguing that ODNI had explicit presidential authority to declassify records related to JFK, RFK, and MLK. Talking to NewsNation, she said that the allegations were troubling because "there was an executive order that the president directed the full declassification of JFK, but then also to the MK-Ultra files, famously the CIA said that all documents were released and other documents had been destroyed".</p><p>"Given the nature of the docs in question, we are sending a preservation notice. Docs need to be returned to ODNI, given that ODNI was given direction and authority by the President to declass RFK, MLK, &amp; JFK. Regarding MKULTRA, these were documents specifically requested by my Task Force and currently being used for our investigation," she added.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Tulsi Gabbard’s office has directly pushed back on explosive whistleblower claims that the CIA raided ODNI and seized JFK and MKUltra files, calling the allegation ‘false’. Here's all you need to know.

Tulsi Gabbard's office has denied reports that explosive files on the United States' so-called mind control experiment, MKUltra, and the tragic assassination of former president John F Kennedy were seized by the CIA in a raid. In a post on X, Olivia Coleman, the Press Secretary for the Director of National Intelligence, refuted the reports and said that "This is false". She insisted that "the CIA did not raid the DNI’s office." This comes as CIA whistleblower James Erdman III claimed that the agency seized sensitive files tied to both the notorious MKUltra mind-control program and documents related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), Tulsi Gabbard, just as those records were allegedly nearing declassification. Notably, Erdman recently made headlines for explosive allegations about COVID-19 and Dr Anthony Fauci. What did the CIA whistleblower allege? According to Erdman, the files were in the possession of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's office and were being prepared for potential public release on the orders of US President Donald Trump. However, the CIA intervened and seized the much-awaited files. Also read | To block declassification? Whistleblower claims CIA ‘swooped in’ to seize MKUltra, JFK assassination files from Tulsi Gabbard’s office Trump order House Oversight Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets threatens CIA with subpoena James Erdman III's allegation quickly triggered political fallout. Seizing on the explosive testimony, Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, who chairs the House Oversight Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets, accused the CIA of potentially violating executive authority and giving the agency a 24-hour ultimatum to return the documents. In a post on X, she noted that "these documents have been requested by Congress," and warned that the CIA must return the documents within 24 hours "or else I will make a motion to issue a subpoena". Also read | Want internet in Iran? You'll have to buy your way out of ‘longest nation-scale blackout on record'; Here's how Luna also posted what she described as a "preservation notice," arguing that ODNI had explicit presidential authority to declassify records related to JFK, RFK, and MLK. Talking to NewsNation, she said that the allegations were troubling because "there was an executive order that the president directed the full declassification of JFK, but then also to the MK-Ultra files, famously the CIA said that all documents were released and other documents had been destroyed". "Given the nature of the docs in question, we are sending a preservation notice. Docs need to be returned to ODNI, given that ODNI was given direction and authority by the President to declass RFK, MLK, & JFK. Regarding MKULTRA, these were documents specifically requested by my Task Force and currently being used for our investigation," she added.

<p>Tulsi Gabbard’s office has directly pushed back on explosive whistleblower claims that the CIA raided ODNI and seized JFK and MKUltra files, calling the allegation ‘false’. Here's all you need to know.</p>

‘This is false’: Tulsi Gabbard’s office denies whistleblower claims on CIA raid and MKUltra files seizure

<p>What began as whispers about a "guess paper" in Rajasthan has now exploded into one of the biggest exam scandals India has seen in years, a sprawling NEET-UG 2026 leak trail that appears to stretch from Kerala hostels and Sikar coaching hubs to Gurugram, Nashik and now the CBI’s doorstep. At the centre of it all is a PDF. Reports suggest that the PDF has been traced back to a student from Rajasthan's Sikar pursuing MBBS in Kerala.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/law-banning-hijab-wearing-of-religion-based-symbols-in-educational-institutions-revoked-in-karnataka-1778738120060"><strong>Law banning hijab, wearing of religion-based symbols in educational institutions revoked in Karnataka</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What was in the guess paper?</strong></h2><p>According to investigators, the so-called guess paper, initially dismissed by many students as just another pre-exam question bank, contained around 45 chemistry questions and 90 biology questions with answers that allegedly matched the actual NEET-UG 2026 paper held on May 3.</p><p>The trail, Rajasthan’s Special Operations Group says, began with an MBBS student from Sikar studying in Kerala, who allegedly received the material from a friend before forwarding it to contacts back home, including friends and a hostel owner in Sikar. From there, it reportedly spread through coaching circles, hostel groups and password-protected digital networks, including one group named "Private Mafia." Notably, the hostel owner who had circulated the material later alerted the police himself, and that tip-off appears to have cracked open the case.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-files-fir-in-neet-ug-2026-paper-leak-multi-state-syndicate-exposed-1778609461848"><strong>CBI files FIR in NEET-UG 2026 paper leak; multi-state syndicate exposed</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Investigators question over 150 students</strong></h2><p>As investigators dug deeper, more than 150 students, parents and associates were questioned. Investigators found that it may have been bigger than just a local leak, and could potentially be an organised interstate syndicate. Citing CBI sources, ANI reported that students may have paid anywhere between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 5 lakh for access to the NEET paper questions. One accused, Yash Yadav, allegedly helped route the paper into Rajasthan, while another suspect's father is accused of scanning the hard copy into distributable PDFs.</p><p>The police said that they have recovered chats which reveal a clear "money transaction trail". They have identified several medical college students suspected of being part of the syndicate. &nbsp;"...we have seized mobile phones that have chats on them, and laptops. The chats reveal the money transaction trail. It also has information about students of other medical colleges...we have not found any question paper or guess paper on the phones..." Rajgir DSP Sunil Kumar Singh told ANI.</p><h2><strong>NEET 2026 cancelled</strong></h2><p>NEET-UG 2026, taken by nearly 22.8 lakh students across India and abroad on May 3, has been cancelled altogether. The investigation amid massive protests from students has widened beyond Rajasthan.</p>

NEET-UG 2026 may be remembered less as an exam and more as a nationwide scandal. What started as a “guess paper” in Rajasthan now looks like a sprawling leak network stretching across multiple states. Scroll down for the latest.

What began as whispers about a "guess paper" in Rajasthan has now exploded into one of the biggest exam scandals India has seen in years, a sprawling NEET-UG 2026 leak trail that appears to stretch from Kerala hostels and Sikar coaching hubs to Gurugram, Nashik and now the CBI’s doorstep. At the centre of it all is a PDF. Reports suggest that the PDF has been traced back to a student from Rajasthan's Sikar pursuing MBBS in Kerala. Also read | Law banning hijab, wearing of religion-based symbols in educational institutions revoked in Karnataka What was in the guess paper? According to investigators, the so-called guess paper, initially dismissed by many students as just another pre-exam question bank, contained around 45 chemistry questions and 90 biology questions with answers that allegedly matched the actual NEET-UG 2026 paper held on May 3. The trail, Rajasthan’s Special Operations Group says, began with an MBBS student from Sikar studying in Kerala, who allegedly received the material from a friend before forwarding it to contacts back home, including friends and a hostel owner in Sikar. From there, it reportedly spread through coaching circles, hostel groups and password-protected digital networks, including one group named "Private Mafia." Notably, the hostel owner who had circulated the material later alerted the police himself, and that tip-off appears to have cracked open the case. Also read | CBI files FIR in NEET-UG 2026 paper leak; multi-state syndicate exposed Investigators question over 150 students As investigators dug deeper, more than 150 students, parents and associates were questioned. Investigators found that it may have been bigger than just a local leak, and could potentially be an organised interstate syndicate. Citing CBI sources, ANI reported that students may have paid anywhere between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 5 lakh for access to the NEET paper questions. One accused, Yash Yadav, allegedly helped route the paper into Rajasthan, while another suspect's father is accused of scanning the hard copy into distributable PDFs. The police said that they have recovered chats which reveal a clear "money transaction trail". They have identified several medical college students suspected of being part of the syndicate. "...we have seized mobile phones that have chats on them, and laptops. The chats reveal the money transaction trail. It also has information about students of other medical colleges...we have not found any question paper or guess paper on the phones..." Rajgir DSP Sunil Kumar Singh told ANI. NEET 2026 cancelled NEET-UG 2026, taken by nearly 22.8 lakh students across India and abroad on May 3, has been cancelled altogether. The investigation amid massive protests from students has widened beyond Rajasthan.

<p>NEET-UG 2026 may be remembered less as an exam and more as a nationwide scandal. What started as a “guess paper” in Rajasthan now looks like a sprawling leak network stretching across multiple states. Scroll down for the latest.</p>

Did a Kerala student leak NEET-UG paper? CBI probing money trail as reports suggest students paid Rs 2-5 lakh for access

<p>A Japanese company making ferocious-looking "Monster wolf" robots is in high demand to scare off bears in Japan after several fatal bear attacks on humans last year. The designed robot is an animatronic scarecrow with flashing red eyes that howls and growls threateningly to scare away wild animals.</p><p><br>The Hokkaido-based company, Ohta Seiki, that makes the devices, has already received nearly 50 orders in 2026, more than the firm usually receives in an entire year. "We make them by hand. We cannot make them fast enough now. We are asking our customers to wait two to three months," company president Yuji Ohta told AFP.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Awareness of bear safety and measures against wildlife damage (on farm products) improved. There was also a growing recognition that our product is effective in dealing with bears," Ohta said, adding that most orders are coming from farmers, golf course operators and people who work outdoors in rural regions.</p><p><br>Bears were responsible for 13 deaths across Japan during 2025–2026, more than double the previous record, while over 200 others were injured. Last week, authorities confirmed the first fatal bear attack of 2026, along with two other suspected deadly incidents.</p><h3>Terror of bears across the city</h3><p>Official figures show that more than 50,000 bear sightings were reported across the country, more than twice the previous record set two years earlier. Bears were spotted on airport runways, golf courses, near schools, and even around supermarkets and hot spring resorts, triggering near-daily concern. The number of bears captured and subsequently culled also surged, nearly tripling from the previous year to 14,601, setting a new all-time record.</p><p><br>Local media confirmed that several northern regions also reported more than four times as many bear sightings in April compared with the same period last year, as the animals emerge from hibernation. Scientists attribute the rise in attacks to the rapidly growing numbers of bears, combined with a falling human population, particularly in rural areas.</p><p><br>This depopulation has effectively given bears more space to expand into new territories, biologist Koji Yamazaki of Tokyo University of Agriculture told CBS News’ Elizabeth Palmer in 2023.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cheaters-will-cheat-again-and-again-study-shows-infidelity-is-a-pattern-1778678680243">Cheaters will cheat...again, and again: Study shows infidelity is a pattern</a></p>

Bears were spotted on airport runways, golf courses, near schools, and even around supermarkets and hot spring resorts, triggering near-daily concern. The number of bears captured nearly tripled from the previous year to 14,601, setting a new record.

A Japanese company making ferocious-looking "Monster wolf" robots is in high demand to scare off bears in Japan after several fatal bear attacks on humans last year. The designed robot is an animatronic scarecrow with flashing red eyes that howls and growls threateningly to scare away wild animals. The Hokkaido-based company, Ohta Seiki, that makes the devices, has already received nearly 50 orders in 2026, more than the firm usually receives in an entire year. "We make them by hand. We cannot make them fast enough now. We are asking our customers to wait two to three months," company president Yuji Ohta told AFP. "Awareness of bear safety and measures against wildlife damage (on farm products) improved. There was also a growing recognition that our product is effective in dealing with bears," Ohta said, adding that most orders are coming from farmers, golf course operators and people who work outdoors in rural regions. Bears were responsible for 13 deaths across Japan during 2025–2026, more than double the previous record, while over 200 others were injured. Last week, authorities confirmed the first fatal bear attack of 2026, along with two other suspected deadly incidents. Terror of bears across the city Official figures show that more than 50,000 bear sightings were reported across the country, more than twice the previous record set two years earlier. Bears were spotted on airport runways, golf courses, near schools, and even around supermarkets and hot spring resorts, triggering near-daily concern. The number of bears captured and subsequently culled also surged, nearly tripling from the previous year to 14,601, setting a new all-time record. Local media confirmed that several northern regions also reported more than four times as many bear sightings in April compared with the same period last year, as the animals emerge from hibernation. Scientists attribute the rise in attacks to the rapidly growing numbers of bears, combined with a falling human population, particularly in rural areas. This depopulation has effectively given bears more space to expand into new territories, biologist Koji Yamazaki of Tokyo University of Agriculture told CBS News’ Elizabeth Palmer in 2023. Also read: Cheaters will cheat...again, and again: Study shows infidelity is a pattern

<p>Bears were spotted on airport runways, golf courses, near schools, and even around supermarkets and hot spring resorts, triggering near-daily concern. The number of bears captured nearly tripled from the previous year to 14,601, setting a new record.</p>

Flashing eyes, loud howls: Japan’s ‘Monster Wolf’ robots see boom in orders as bear attacks rise

<p>Donald Trump’s late-night Truth Social habit has become one of the defining features of his return to the White House. Between midnight reposts, conspiracy-fueled rants, AI-generated memes and attacks on political rivals, the President’s social media feed has become a nonstop MAGA content machine. Now, a new report has revealed the key figure helping keep that machine running: Natalie Harp.</p><h2>Who is Natalie Harp? What is the process of posting?</h2><p>According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Harp, Trump’s 34-year-old executive assistant and longtime loyalist, has become one of the most influential behind-the-scenes figures shaping the President’s Truth Social activity. Harp reportedly compiles screenshots, memes, praise posts and conspiracy-laden content from MAGA influencers, supporters and accounts across X and Truth Social, then presents them to Trump as stacks of printed drafts for approval. The posts often include attacks on Democrats, insults aimed at Trump’s political enemies and content designed to appeal directly to the President’s online instincts. Once Trump signs off, Harp reportedly logs into his Truth Social account, often late at night and outside regular work hours, to publish waves of posts in rapid succession.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Truth Social has never been hotter, and it’s because President Trump offers his unfiltered and direct thoughts to the American people, without the biased media taking him out of context,” White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said in a statement. “We don’t discuss internal deliberations of how the process works, but no other social-media tool has been more effective than Truth.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-block-declassification-whistleblower-claims-cia-swooped-in-to-seize-mkultra-jfk-assassination-files-from-tulsi-gabbard-s-office-trump-order-1778733463976"><strong>To block declassification? Whistleblower claims CIA ‘swooped in’ to seize MKUltra, JFK assassination files from Tulsi Gabbard’s office</strong></a></p><h2>How many times Trump has posted on Truth Social in one year? And what time does he usually posts?</h2><p>The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump has posted nearly 8,800 times since returning to office. The report also found that the President carried out late-night posting sessions involving at least a dozen posts between 10 pm and 6 am EST on 44 separate occasions since January last year. The President’s online activity has become especially intense in recent months.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to The Daily Beast, Trump remained highly active on Truth Social between 11 pm and 6 am throughout April. On one night alone, Trump reportedly reposted or published 54 separate messages between 10:14 pm and 1:12 am, including posts calling former President Barack Obama a ‘traitor’ and demanding his arrest. The revelations have also renewed scrutiny over controversial content posted from Trump’s account.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier this year, at Trump’s direction, Harp reportedly posted a video containing racist imagery depicting Barack Obama and Michelle Obama as apes, alongside an AI-generated image portraying Trump as a Christ-like figure. Both posts were later deleted following bipartisan backlash. Trump later told reporters he did not notice the offensive imagery involving the Obamas before approving the post. A White House official reportedly blamed the incident on an editing mistake.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-rebuilds-missile-network-despite-us-israeli-strikes-reports-claim-1778723980990/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-rebuilds-missile-network-despite-us-israeli-strikes-reports-claim-1778723980990/embed</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The report also suggests Harp’s growing influence inside Trump’s orbit has frustrated some White House officials. According to people familiar with the matter, Harp frequently bypasses the chief of staff’s office, communications staff and national security officials when handling draft posts. Harp has reportedly told colleagues that she works directly for Trump and answers only to him.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For critics, the revelations raise fresh concerns about how presidential messaging is being curated and amplified in the social media age. For Trump supporters, however, the President’s unfiltered posting style remains a core part of his political appeal, chaotic, constant and always online. And increasingly, Natalie Harp appears to be the person helping keep that feed alive deep into the night.</p>

Who is Natalie Harp? Meet the Trump aide reportedly behind Donald Trump’s late-night Truth Social posts, memes, conspiracy theories and viral online rants

Donald Trump’s late-night Truth Social habit has become one of the defining features of his return to the White House. Between midnight reposts, conspiracy-fueled rants, AI-generated memes and attacks on political rivals, the President’s social media feed has become a nonstop MAGA content machine. Now, a new report has revealed the key figure helping keep that machine running: Natalie Harp. Who is Natalie Harp? What is the process of posting? According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Harp, Trump’s 34-year-old executive assistant and longtime loyalist, has become one of the most influential behind-the-scenes figures shaping the President’s Truth Social activity. Harp reportedly compiles screenshots, memes, praise posts and conspiracy-laden content from MAGA influencers, supporters and accounts across X and Truth Social, then presents them to Trump as stacks of printed drafts for approval. The posts often include attacks on Democrats, insults aimed at Trump’s political enemies and content designed to appeal directly to the President’s online instincts. Once Trump signs off, Harp reportedly logs into his Truth Social account, often late at night and outside regular work hours, to publish waves of posts in rapid succession. “Truth Social has never been hotter, and it’s because President Trump offers his unfiltered and direct thoughts to the American people, without the biased media taking him out of context,” White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said in a statement. “We don’t discuss internal deliberations of how the process works, but no other social-media tool has been more effective than Truth.” Also Read: To block declassification? Whistleblower claims CIA ‘swooped in’ to seize MKUltra, JFK assassination files from Tulsi Gabbard’s office How many times Trump has posted on Truth Social in one year? And what time does he usually posts? The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump has posted nearly 8,800 times since returning to office. The report also found that the President carried out late-night posting sessions involving at least a dozen posts between 10 pm and 6 am EST on 44 separate occasions since January last year. The President’s online activity has become especially intense in recent months. According to The Daily Beast, Trump remained highly active on Truth Social between 11 pm and 6 am throughout April. On one night alone, Trump reportedly reposted or published 54 separate messages between 10:14 pm and 1:12 am, including posts calling former President Barack Obama a ‘traitor’ and demanding his arrest. The revelations have also renewed scrutiny over controversial content posted from Trump’s account. Earlier this year, at Trump’s direction, Harp reportedly posted a video containing racist imagery depicting Barack Obama and Michelle Obama as apes, alongside an AI-generated image portraying Trump as a Christ-like figure. Both posts were later deleted following bipartisan backlash. Trump later told reporters he did not notice the offensive imagery involving the Obamas before approving the post. A White House official reportedly blamed the incident on an editing mistake. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-rebuilds-missile-network-despite-us-israeli-strikes-reports-claim-1778723980990/embed The report also suggests Harp’s growing influence inside Trump’s orbit has frustrated some White House officials. According to people familiar with the matter, Harp frequently bypasses the chief of staff’s office, communications staff and national security officials when handling draft posts. Harp has reportedly told colleagues that she works directly for Trump and answers only to him. For critics, the revelations raise fresh concerns about how presidential messaging is being curated and amplified in the social media age. For Trump supporters, however, the President’s unfiltered posting style remains a core part of his political appeal, chaotic, constant and always online. And increasingly, Natalie Harp appears to be the person helping keep that feed alive deep into the night.

<p>Meet Natalie Harp, the aide reportedly helping fuel US President Donald Trump’s late-night Truth Social posting frenzy</p>

Fascinated by Trump’s late-night Truth Social posts? Meet Natalie Harp, the woman helping run the feed

<p>Brigitte Macron's infamous slap of her husband Emmanuel Macron before descending the plane's steps in Vietnam, went viral. A book now claims that the reason behind this incident was Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani. Brigitte apparently saw a message on her husband's phone from Farahani and then smacked him over it. The video went viral in May last year, leaving people speculating about what could have transpired on the plane to make the French First Lady act in this way. When asked about the push in the face, Macron dismissed it as "nothing", describing it as merely a "bickering, or rather joking" with his wife. However, French journalist Florian Tardif claims there was a valid reason for Brigitte acting this way. He writes in his new book, A (Nearly) Perfect Couple, that the "classic 'couple's scene" happened because of “a well-known figure. An Iranian actress: Golshifteh Farahani.”</p><h2><strong>Macron once reportedly told Farahani that he finds her “very pretty”</strong></h2><p>She saw a message from her on Macron's phone, Tardif claims, adding that Macron had a "platonic" relationship with her for a few months. But then he sent her "messages that went quite far", and even told her, "I find you very pretty." During an interview on RTL radio on Wednesday, the journalist said, "That's what I've been told by those close to him, and that's what I'm saying this morning." He added that he himself confirmed it. Notably, Tardiff has been following Macron since 2017, and his new book, which he asserts is based on facts, promises to reveal the "forbidden zones" of the French couple.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-gives-french-president-emmanuel-macron-marital-advice-after-viral-slap-video-make-sure-1748678984664"><strong>Donald Trump gives French President Emmanuel Macron marital advice after viral slap video: ‘Make sure...’</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The messages caused tension between the couple on the plane, and the arguments ultimately reached the cameras while the presidential plane was on the tarmac at Hanoi airport. "This private scene became public because there was a misunderstanding on the plane. We thought the argument was over. It wasn't," Tardiff said. The Elysee reportedly later regretted hiding it and thought it could have been used to show the world that they were a "real couple" and not a "perfect couple."&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Brigitte Macron's brigade denies claim that purported relationship with an actress led to the slap</strong></h2><p>However, those close to Brigitte Macron have categorically denied the claims made in the book. Her entourage rejected the idea that she checks her husband's phone. A person close to the First Lady told Politico that the incident caught on camera was not because of the alleged affair.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Golshifteh Farahani shot down rumours of an affair with Macron</strong></h2><p>Farahani was born in Tehran but lives in exile after refusing to wear a hijab while acting in international films. The 42-year-old has been linked to the 48-year-old French President in the past. However, the actress dismissed all claims, telling the Gala magazine last year, "I watch, I observe: what can I do? It doesn't even bother me. What's the point?" She added, "The question is why people are interested in this kind of story. I think there's a lack of love in some people, and they need to create such romances to fill that void."<br>&nbsp;</p>

A new book claims that Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani was the reason why Brigitte Macron shoved Emmanuel Macron in the face last year. The visuals went viral, and the French President dismissed the incident as nothing.

Brigitte Macron's infamous slap of her husband Emmanuel Macron before descending the plane's steps in Vietnam, went viral. A book now claims that the reason behind this incident was Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani. Brigitte apparently saw a message on her husband's phone from Farahani and then smacked him over it. The video went viral in May last year, leaving people speculating about what could have transpired on the plane to make the French First Lady act in this way. When asked about the push in the face, Macron dismissed it as "nothing", describing it as merely a "bickering, or rather joking" with his wife. However, French journalist Florian Tardif claims there was a valid reason for Brigitte acting this way. He writes in his new book, A (Nearly) Perfect Couple, that the "classic 'couple's scene" happened because of “a well-known figure. An Iranian actress: Golshifteh Farahani.” Macron once reportedly told Farahani that he finds her “very pretty” She saw a message from her on Macron's phone, Tardif claims, adding that Macron had a "platonic" relationship with her for a few months. But then he sent her "messages that went quite far", and even told her, "I find you very pretty." During an interview on RTL radio on Wednesday, the journalist said, "That's what I've been told by those close to him, and that's what I'm saying this morning." He added that he himself confirmed it. Notably, Tardiff has been following Macron since 2017, and his new book, which he asserts is based on facts, promises to reveal the "forbidden zones" of the French couple. Also Read: Donald Trump gives French President Emmanuel Macron marital advice after viral slap video: ‘Make sure...’ The messages caused tension between the couple on the plane, and the arguments ultimately reached the cameras while the presidential plane was on the tarmac at Hanoi airport. "This private scene became public because there was a misunderstanding on the plane. We thought the argument was over. It wasn't," Tardiff said. The Elysee reportedly later regretted hiding it and thought it could have been used to show the world that they were a "real couple" and not a "perfect couple." Brigitte Macron's brigade denies claim that purported relationship with an actress led to the slap However, those close to Brigitte Macron have categorically denied the claims made in the book. Her entourage rejected the idea that she checks her husband's phone. A person close to the First Lady told Politico that the incident caught on camera was not because of the alleged affair. Golshifteh Farahani shot down rumours of an affair with Macron Farahani was born in Tehran but lives in exile after refusing to wear a hijab while acting in international films. The 42-year-old has been linked to the 48-year-old French President in the past. However, the actress dismissed all claims, telling the Gala magazine last year, "I watch, I observe: what can I do? It doesn't even bother me. What's the point?" She added, "The question is why people are interested in this kind of story. I think there's a lack of love in some people, and they need to create such romances to fill that void."

<p>&nbsp;A new book claims that Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani was the reason why Brigitte Macron shoved Emmanuel Macron in the face last year. The visuals went viral, and the French President dismissed the incident as nothing.&nbsp;</p>

Book claims Brigitte slapped husband Macron after seeing messages from Iranian actress on his phone

<p>James Erdman III, the CIA whistleblower now dominating headlines with a fresh round of explosive allegations about COVID-19 and Dr Anthony Fauci, has directly targeted the CIA itself over some of America's darkest and most controversial secrets. Testifying before the Senate Homeland Security Committee on Wednesday (May 13), Erdman, identified as a senior CIA operations officer, claimed that the agency seized sensitive files tied to both the notorious MKUltra mind-control program and documents related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), Tulsi Gabbard, just as those records were allegedly nearing declassification.</p><p>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-world-at-crossroads-xi-jinping-tells-trump-china-and-united-states-should-be-partners-not-rivals-beijing-talks-musk-rubio-1778726835661">'World at crossroads': Xi Jinping tells Trump China and United States 'should be partners, not rivals'</a></p><h2><strong>Files seized from Tulsi Gabbard's office</strong></h2><p>According to Erdman, the files were in the possession of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard’s office and were being prepared for potential public release. However, the CIA intervened and seized the much-awaited files.</p><p>If true, the claim immediately raises extraordinary questions, not just about classified records, but about whether the intelligence agency actively obstructed presidential or congressional declassification efforts.</p><h2><strong>Luna threatens subpoena showdown</strong></h2><p>James Erdman III's allegation quickly triggered political fallout. Seizing on the explosive testimony, Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna accused the CIA of potentially violating executive authority and giving the agency a 24-hour ultimatum to return the documents. In a post on X, she noted that "these documents have been requested by Congress," and warned that the CIA must return the documents within 24 hours "or else I will make a motion to issue a subpoena".</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Given the nature of docs in question, we are sending a preservation notice. Docs need to be returned to ODNI given that ODNI was given direction and authority by the President to declass RFK, MLK, &amp; JFK. Regarding MKULTRA, these were documents specifically requested by my Task… <a href="https://t.co/uBnt5RqjDD">pic.twitter.com/uBnt5RqjDD</a></p>&mdash; Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (@RepLuna) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepLuna/status/2054693936120164756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Luna also posted what she described as a "preservation notice," arguing that ODNI had explicit presidential authority to declassify records related to JFK, RFK, and MLK.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rfk-jr-claims-modern-us-teens-have-half-the-sperm-count-of-68-year-olds-in-1970-fact-check-1778560549502"><strong>RFK Jr claims modern US teens have half the sperm count of 68-year-olds in 1970 | Fact-check</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The CIA has 24 hours to return the documents to Tulsi Gabbard’s office or else I will make a motion to issue a subpoena. These documents have been requested by Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/DNIGabbard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DNIGabbard</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CIADirector?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CIADirector</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y5lMw8AYK5">https://t.co/Y5lMw8AYK5</a></p>&mdash; Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (@RepLuna) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepLuna/status/2054637198679367875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>What is MKUltra? Why it still matters</strong></h2><p>MKUltra remains one of the CIA’s most infamous historical scandals, involving covert experimentation in the 1950s and 1960s with LSD, psychological manipulation, and behavioural control, often without consent. A set of the MK Ultra files was released in 2018.</p>

CIA whistleblower James Erdman III has claimed the CIA seized MKUltra and JFK-related files from Tulsi Gabbard’s office just as they were nearing possible declassification. If true, this could trigger a major showdown over some of the darkest secrets in US history.

James Erdman III, the CIA whistleblower now dominating headlines with a fresh round of explosive allegations about COVID-19 and Dr Anthony Fauci, has directly targeted the CIA itself over some of America's darkest and most controversial secrets. Testifying before the Senate Homeland Security Committee on Wednesday (May 13), Erdman, identified as a senior CIA operations officer, claimed that the agency seized sensitive files tied to both the notorious MKUltra mind-control program and documents related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), Tulsi Gabbard, just as those records were allegedly nearing declassification. Also read | 'World at crossroads': Xi Jinping tells Trump China and United States 'should be partners, not rivals' Files seized from Tulsi Gabbard's office According to Erdman, the files were in the possession of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard’s office and were being prepared for potential public release. However, the CIA intervened and seized the much-awaited files. If true, the claim immediately raises extraordinary questions, not just about classified records, but about whether the intelligence agency actively obstructed presidential or congressional declassification efforts. Luna threatens subpoena showdown James Erdman III's allegation quickly triggered political fallout. Seizing on the explosive testimony, Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna accused the CIA of potentially violating executive authority and giving the agency a 24-hour ultimatum to return the documents. In a post on X, she noted that "these documents have been requested by Congress," and warned that the CIA must return the documents within 24 hours "or else I will make a motion to issue a subpoena".

<p>CIA whistleblower James Erdman III has claimed the CIA seized MKUltra and JFK-related files from Tulsi Gabbard’s office just as they were nearing possible declassification. If true, this could trigger a major showdown over some of the darkest secrets in US history.</p>

To block declassification? Whistleblower claims CIA ‘swooped in’ to seize MKUltra, JFK assassination files from Tulsi Gabbard’s office Trump order

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping opened his high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 14) by striking a tone of warmth, caution and strategic optimism, telling the US president he was "happy" to welcome him back to Beijing at what he described as a moment when the world stands at a historic "crossroads." Seated at the head of the table inside the Great Hall of the People, Xi framed the meeting as bigger than a routine bilateral engagement, presenting it instead as a defining moment for global stability.</p><p>"A stable China-US relationship is a boon for the world. Cooperation benefits both sides, while confrontation harms both. We should be partners and not rivals," Xi said, adding in a pointed remark that "The world today is at a crossroads," and that China and the United States should choose partnership over confrontation. "China and the United States should be partners, not rivals," the Chinese leader told Trump, in remarks clearly aimed at lowering the temperature after years of trade wars, technology sanctions and mounting geopolitical distrust.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-ultimate-frenemies-from-big-fat-hug-to-bitter-trade-wars-analysing-a-decade-of-trump-xi-rollercoaster-equation-1778571377420"><strong>The ultimate frenemies? From ‘big, fat hug’ to bitter trade wars, analysing a decade of Trump-Xi rollercoaster equation</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Trump touts 'fantastic future together'</strong></h2><p>The POTUS, for his part, responded in characteristically expansive fashion. "We’re going to have a fantastic future together,” the US president declared, praising Xi as a "great leader" and repeatedly highlighting what he called their "fantastic relationship."</p><p>Calling the summit "maybe the biggest summit ever," Trump said the ceremony itself was "an honour like few I’ve ever seen before."</p><p>"It's an honour to be with you. It's an honour to be your friend," Trump added. "The relationship between China and the USA is going to be better than ever before." Trump’s rhetoric leaned heavily on personal chemistry, a familiar hallmark of his diplomacy with Xi dating back to their first Mar-a-Lago meeting in 2017.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-two-timed-trump-report-reveals-islamabad-quietly-sheltered-iranian-military-aircraft-while-brokering-peace-talks-1778551810479"><strong>Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Warm opening remarks amid global tensions</strong></h2><p>The two leaders met on the steps of the Great Hall of the People with a handshake, as opposed to the "big, fat hug" Trump was expecting from the Chinese president. The two leaders shook hands after Trump arrived in a motorcade to the steps, where a US delegation, including State Secretary Marco Rubio, War Secretary Pete Hegseth, and business CEOs, including Elon Musk, awaited him.</p><p>The opening exchange, rich in personal compliments and diplomatic symbolism, offered a carefully choreographed contrast to the deep tensions hanging over the summit, including disputes over Iran, Taiwan, tariffs, technology restrictions and strategic competition in Asia.&nbsp;</p>

Chinese President Xi Jinping opened the Beijing talks by noting that the world was “at a crossroads” and urged the US to be China’s “partner, not rival.” What did Trump say? Scroll down.

Chinese President Xi Jinping opened his high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 14) by striking a tone of warmth, caution and strategic optimism, telling the US president he was "happy" to welcome him back to Beijing at what he described as a moment when the world stands at a historic "crossroads." Seated at the head of the table inside the Great Hall of the People, Xi framed the meeting as bigger than a routine bilateral engagement, presenting it instead as a defining moment for global stability. "A stable China-US relationship is a boon for the world. Cooperation benefits both sides, while confrontation harms both. We should be partners and not rivals," Xi said, adding in a pointed remark that "The world today is at a crossroads," and that China and the United States should choose partnership over confrontation. "China and the United States should be partners, not rivals," the Chinese leader told Trump, in remarks clearly aimed at lowering the temperature after years of trade wars, technology sanctions and mounting geopolitical distrust. Also read | The ultimate frenemies? From ‘big, fat hug’ to bitter trade wars, analysing a decade of Trump-Xi rollercoaster equation Trump touts 'fantastic future together' The POTUS, for his part, responded in characteristically expansive fashion. "We’re going to have a fantastic future together,” the US president declared, praising Xi as a "great leader" and repeatedly highlighting what he called their "fantastic relationship." Calling the summit "maybe the biggest summit ever," Trump said the ceremony itself was "an honour like few I’ve ever seen before." "It's an honour to be with you. It's an honour to be your friend," Trump added. "The relationship between China and the USA is going to be better than ever before." Trump’s rhetoric leaned heavily on personal chemistry, a familiar hallmark of his diplomacy with Xi dating back to their first Mar-a-Lago meeting in 2017. Also read | Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war Warm opening remarks amid global tensions The two leaders met on the steps of the Great Hall of the People with a handshake, as opposed to the "big, fat hug" Trump was expecting from the Chinese president. The two leaders shook hands after Trump arrived in a motorcade to the steps, where a US delegation, including State Secretary Marco Rubio, War Secretary Pete Hegseth, and business CEOs, including Elon Musk, awaited him. The opening exchange, rich in personal compliments and diplomatic symbolism, offered a carefully choreographed contrast to the deep tensions hanging over the summit, including disputes over Iran, Taiwan, tariffs, technology restrictions and strategic competition in Asia.

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping opened the Beijing talks by noting that the world was “at a crossroads” and urged the US to be China’s “partner, not rival.” What did Trump say? Scroll down.</p>

'World at crossroads': Xi Jinping tells Trump China and United States 'should be partners, not rivals'

<p>Kouri Richins, the Utah mother who gained national attention after publishing a children’s book about grief following her husband’s death, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for murdering him. Judge Richard Mrazik delivered the sentence on Wednesday (May 13), the same day that would have marked the 44th birthday of her late husband, Eric Richins. Following a lengthy trial earlier this year, an eight-person jury found Richins guilty of aggravated murder for fatally poisoning her husband in March 2022. She was also convicted of attempted aggravated murder for allegedly trying to kill him weeks earlier on Valentine’s Day, along with insurance fraud and forgery tied to his life insurance policies.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“A person convicted of those things is simply too dangerous to ever be free,” Judge Mrazik said while announcing the sentence. The judge also ordered Richins to serve additional consecutive prison terms related to the other convictions. As the sentence was delivered, Richins reportedly looked toward her defense attorney and raised her eyebrows. Before sentencing, Richins addressed her three young sons in court through an emotional statement. “As much as you’ve been influenced into thinking that dad was murdered, that I took your dad from you, that is completely wrong. An absolute lie,” Richins said. “And the thought of that is still as absurd today as it was four years ago.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Statements written by the couple’s children were later read aloud in court by therapists. All three expressed fear about their mother potentially being released one day.</p><p>“You took away everything from my brothers and me. I don’t want you out of jail because I will not feel safe if you are out,” wrote the couple’s middle child, identified as “A.R.” “You have never said sorry for anything that you have done to my brothers or me. I don’t want you to hurt anyone again.” Members of Eric Richins’ family also urged the court to impose the harshest sentence possible. “Please do not leave those boys to wonder whether Kouri might track them or their children down in the future,” said his sister, Katie Richins-Benson. “Please do not create a possibility for Kouri to endanger Eric’s boys, my daughters, my family, or anybody else ever again.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-website-tracks-private-jets-to-predict-doomsday-on-earth-billionaires-will-know-1778680680419"><strong>THIS website tracks private jets to reveal if Earth is facing an extinction-level event</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Defense attorney Wendy Lewis argued against a life sentence without parole, saying the children could someday want a relationship with their mother. “A life without the possibility of parole, the sentence cannot be changed,” Lewis said. “If Kouri and Eric’s boys someday change their mind and it is too late to say something different than what they’ve said today, this day will become one more day that haunts them.” Some of Richins’ family members defended her character during the hearing, calling her a loving mother and claiming she had been wrongfully convicted.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We don’t with 100% certainty know what happened to Eric, no one does,” her brother Ronney Darden told the court. “But we do know with 100% certainty that it wasn’t caused by you.” Her legal team confirmed plans to appeal the conviction and seek a new trial. Judge Mrazik said that the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole could theoretically release Richins in the future if officials determined “by clear and convincing evidence at some future point that she is permanently incapable of being a threat to the safety of society.”</p><h2>How did the case unfold?</h2><p>Eric Richins was found dead inside the couple’s home in Kamas during the early morning hours of March 4, 2022. According to statements given to investigators, the couple had celebrated a successful real estate transaction that evening with drinks. Richins told police she later slept in one of her son’s rooms because he was having nightmares. When she returned to the master bedroom hours later, she claimed she found her husband dead. An autopsy later determined Eric Richins died from a fentanyl overdose, with prosecutors saying he had nearly five times the lethal amount in his system.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During the 13-day trial, prosecutors presented testimony from more than 40 witnesses, including family members, investigators, associates connected to the drug supply, and people close to Richins. A key witness, house cleaner Carmen Lauber, testified she sold illicit pills to Richins several times in early 2022. Prosecutors also presented cellphone data placing Richins near locations where the drugs were allegedly obtained. The prosecution argued Richins had multiple motives, including financial problems, an extramarital affair, and a desire to escape her marriage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Her alleged lover, Robert Josh Grossmann, became emotional while messages exchanged between the pair were shown in court. “I do want a future together. I do want you. Figure life out together,” Richins texted Grossmann weeks before her husband’s death. “If he could just go away, and you could just be here! Life would be so perfect!!! I love you.” Prosecutors also highlighted testimony from a forensic accountant who said Richins’ real estate business was drowning in debt despite appearances of success.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paraguay-beethoven-s-ode-to-joy-echoes-in-guarani-1778722201630/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/paraguay-beethoven-s-ode-to-joy-echoes-in-guarani-1778722201630/embed</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Eric Richins reportedly carried around $2.2 million in life insurance policies, including one prosecutors said Richins fraudulently secured shortly before his death. “She murdered Eric Richins,” prosecutor Brad Bloodworth told jurors during closing arguments, “and then she submitted a claim to get the money.” The jury also convicted Richins of attempting to murder her husband on Valentine’s Day 2022. Prosecutors said Eric Richins told friends he felt like he was dying after eating a sandwich his wife had prepared for him.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Investigators additionally pointed to internet searches found on Richins’ cellphone, including:</strong></p><ul><li>What is a lethal dose of fentanyl</li><li>If someone is poisoned, what does it go down on the death certificate as?</li><li>Kouri Richins Kamas net worth</li></ul><p>Authorities argued Richins later attempted to redirect suspicion by publishing her children’s book, <i>Are You With Me?</i>, roughly a year after her husband’s death. While promoting the book on local television in April 2023, just weeks before her arrest, Richins said the story was intended to help her children process grief. “Just because he’s not present here with us physically, that doesn’t mean his presence isn’t here with us,” Richins said. “Dad is still here. It’s just in a different way.”</p>

Utah mother Kouri Richins, who wrote a children’s book about grief after her husband’s death, was sentenced to life without parole for his murder. Emotional testimony from family members and her children marked the sentencing hearing

Kouri Richins, the Utah mother who gained national attention after publishing a children’s book about grief following her husband’s death, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for murdering him. Judge Richard Mrazik delivered the sentence on Wednesday (May 13), the same day that would have marked the 44th birthday of her late husband, Eric Richins. Following a lengthy trial earlier this year, an eight-person jury found Richins guilty of aggravated murder for fatally poisoning her husband in March 2022. She was also convicted of attempted aggravated murder for allegedly trying to kill him weeks earlier on Valentine’s Day, along with insurance fraud and forgery tied to his life insurance policies. “A person convicted of those things is simply too dangerous to ever be free,” Judge Mrazik said while announcing the sentence. The judge also ordered Richins to serve additional consecutive prison terms related to the other convictions. As the sentence was delivered, Richins reportedly looked toward her defense attorney and raised her eyebrows. Before sentencing, Richins addressed her three young sons in court through an emotional statement. “As much as you’ve been influenced into thinking that dad was murdered, that I took your dad from you, that is completely wrong. An absolute lie,” Richins said. “And the thought of that is still as absurd today as it was four years ago.” Statements written by the couple’s children were later read aloud in court by therapists. All three expressed fear about their mother potentially being released one day. “You took away everything from my brothers and me. I don’t want you out of jail because I will not feel safe if you are out,” wrote the couple’s middle child, identified as “A.R.” “You have never said sorry for anything that you have done to my brothers or me. I don’t want you to hurt anyone again.” Members of Eric Richins’ family also urged the court to impose the harshest sentence possible. “Please do not leave those boys to wonder whether Kouri might track them or their children down in the future,” said his sister, Katie Richins-Benson. “Please do not create a possibility for Kouri to endanger Eric’s boys, my daughters, my family, or anybody else ever again.” Also Read: THIS website tracks private jets to reveal if Earth is facing an extinction-level event Defense attorney Wendy Lewis argued against a life sentence without parole, saying the children could someday want a relationship with their mother. “A life without the possibility of parole, the sentence cannot be changed,” Lewis said. “If Kouri and Eric’s boys someday change their mind and it is too late to say something different than what they’ve said today, this day will become one more day that haunts them.” Some of Richins’ family members defended her character during the hearing, calling her a loving mother and claiming she had been wrongfully convicted. “We don’t with 100% certainty know what happened to Eric, no one does,” her brother Ronney Darden told the court. “But we do know with 100% certainty that it wasn’t caused by you.” Her legal team confirmed plans to appeal the conviction and seek a new trial. Judge Mrazik said that the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole could theoretically release Richins in the future if officials determined “by clear and convincing evidence at some future point that she is permanently incapable of being a threat to the safety of society.” How did the case unfold? Eric Richins was found dead inside the couple’s home in Kamas during the early morning hours of March 4, 2022. According to statements given to investigators, the couple had celebrated a successful real estate transaction that evening with drinks. Richins told police she later slept in one of her son’s rooms because he was having nightmares. When she returned to the master bedroom hours later, she claimed she found her husband dead. An autopsy later determined Eric Richins died from a fentanyl overdose, with prosecutors saying he had nearly five times the lethal amount in his system. During the 13-day trial, prosecutors presented testimony from more than 40 witnesses, including family members, investigators, associates connected to the drug supply, and people close to Richins. A key witness, house cleaner Carmen Lauber, testified she sold illicit pills to Richins several times in early 2022. Prosecutors also presented cellphone data placing Richins near locations where the drugs were allegedly obtained. The prosecution argued Richins had multiple motives, including financial problems, an extramarital affair, and a desire to escape her marriage. Her alleged lover, Robert Josh Grossmann, became emotional while messages exchanged between the pair were shown in court. “I do want a future together. I do want you. Figure life out together,” Richins texted Grossmann weeks before her husband’s death. “If he could just go away, and you could just be here! Life would be so perfect!!! I love you.” Prosecutors also highlighted testimony from a forensic accountant who said Richins’ real estate business was drowning in debt despite appearances of success. https://www.wionews.com/videos/paraguay-beethoven-s-ode-to-joy-echoes-in-guarani-1778722201630/embed Eric Richins reportedly carried around $2.2 million in life insurance policies, including one prosecutors said Richins fraudulently secured shortly before his death. “She murdered Eric Richins,” prosecutor Brad Bloodworth told jurors during closing arguments, “and then she submitted a claim to get the money.” The jury also convicted Richins of attempting to murder her husband on Valentine’s Day 2022. Prosecutors said Eric Richins told friends he felt like he was dying after eating a sandwich his wife had prepared for him. Investigators additionally pointed to internet searches found on Richins’ cellphone, including: What is a lethal dose of fentanyl If someone is poisoned, what does it go down on the death certificate as? Kouri Richins Kamas net worth Authorities argued Richins later attempted to redirect suspicion by publishing her children’s book, Are You With Me?, roughly a year after her husband’s death. While promoting the book on local television in April 2023, just weeks before her arrest, Richins said the story was intended to help her children process grief. “Just because he’s not present here with us physically, that doesn’t mean his presence isn’t here with us,” Richins said. “Dad is still here. It’s just in a different way.”

<p>Utah mother and children’s author Kouri Richins was sentenced to life without parole for poisoning her husband with fentanyl</p>

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