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Explosions were reported in Iran’s Bandar Abbas and nearby coastal regions close to the strategic Strait of Hormuz on Monday (May 25), according to Iranian media reports. The cause of the blasts was not immediately known. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency reported that three explosions were heard in Bandar Abbas. Meanwhile, Fars News Agency said that similar sounds were detected near the coastal towns of Sirik and Jask, both located near the vital maritime corridor. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, serving as a major route for global oil shipments. Authorities had not released any official explanation regarding the explosions at the time of reporting.&nbsp;Bandar Abbas is located along the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime corridor that handles a large portion of the world’s oil shipments. The city also hosts important Iranian naval bases and functions as one of the country’s primary commercial ports. According to reports, explosions and air defense activity are also being heard in the cities of Kermanshah and Isfahan. There were also reports of 4 IRGC members being eliminated in the Persian Gulf after two fast attack boats were reportedly hit by ‘enemy warplanes’.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-new-snsc-chief-vows-no-retreat-against-us-israel-in-first-public-address-tehran-stronger-than-it-was-in-starting-says-irgc-commander-1779741152823">Iran’s new SNSC chief vows ‘no retreat’ against US, Israel in first public address; 'Tehran stronger than it was in starting', says IRGC commander</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🔴 دقایقی پیش مردم در بندرعباس صدای چند انفجار شنیدند هنوز محل دقیق و منشأ این صداها مشخص نیست. همزمان در خلیج فارس حوالی سیریک و جاسک نیز صداهای مشابه شنیده شده است. سحرگاه امروز نیز یک فروند پهپاد متخاصم در محدوده خلیج فارس توسط نیروهای مسلح ایران منهدم شد.&mdash; خبرگزاری فارس (@FarsNews_Agency) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarsNews_Agency/status/2059009406294217019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, the newly appointed chief of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, issued a strong warning in his first public remarks, saying Tehran would not retreat in its conflict with the United States and Israel. “There will be no retreat” in Iran’s fight against the US and Israel, Zolghadr said, according to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency. “The military field, the diplomatic field, and the people sent forth into the streets demonstrated this through their courageous resistance and brought the enemy to its knees,” he added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/quetta-train-explosion-baloch-crisis-deepens-after-deadly-blast-1779732081530/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/quetta-train-explosion-baloch-crisis-deepens-after-deadly-blast-1779732081530/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Explosions reported in Iran’s Bandar Abbas and near the Strait of Hormuz as Iranian media say the cause remains unknown

Explosions were reported in Iran’s Bandar Abbas and nearby coastal regions close to the strategic Strait of Hormuz on Monday (May 25), according to Iranian media reports. The cause of the blasts was not immediately known. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency reported that three explosions were heard in Bandar Abbas. Meanwhile, Fars News Agency said that similar sounds were detected near the coastal towns of Sirik and Jask, both located near the vital maritime corridor. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, serving as a major route for global oil shipments. Authorities had not released any official explanation regarding the explosions at the time of reporting. Bandar Abbas is located along the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime corridor that handles a large portion of the world’s oil shipments. The city also hosts important Iranian naval bases and functions as one of the country’s primary commercial ports. According to reports, explosions and air defense activity are also being heard in the cities of Kermanshah and Isfahan. There were also reports of 4 IRGC members being eliminated in the Persian Gulf after two fast attack boats were reportedly hit by ‘enemy warplanes’. Also Read: Iran’s new SNSC chief vows ‘no retreat’ against US, Israel in first public address; 'Tehran stronger than it was in starting', says IRGC commander

Explosions were heard near Iran’s Bandar Abbas and the Strait of Hormuz, with authorities yet to confirm the cause amid ongoing US-Iran tensions

Explosions heard in Iran's Bandar Abbas city, coastal areas near Gulf; cause unknown: State media

Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, the newly appointed head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, delivered a hard-line message in his first public address, declaring that Iran would not back down in its confrontation with the United States and Israel. “There will be no retreat” in Iran’s fight against the US and Israel, Zolghadr said, according to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency. “The military field, the diplomatic field, and the people sent forth into the streets demonstrated this through their courageous resistance and brought the enemy to its knees,” he added.&nbsp;Zolghadr, a longtime regime insider, was appointed to lead the National Security Council in March after the death of his predecessor, Ali Larijani, who was reportedly killed in an Israeli strike. Before taking over the role, Zolghadr served as the second-in-command of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). His appointment is widely seen as a sign of the growing influence of the Revolutionary Guard within Iran’s leadership since the conflict escalated. Calling for national solidarity, Zolghadr urged Iranians to maintain ‘unity and cohesion’, saying social unity itself is another battlefield in the struggle. “A collective effort to prevent any divisive words or actions will bring beloved Iran to final victory, God willing,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/if-he-knew-the-history-he-wouldn-t-have-iran-s-dig-at-rubio-s-taj-mahal-visit-goes-viral-1779738103769">'If he knew the history.. he wouldn't have': Iran's dig at Rubio's Taj Mahal visit goes viral</a><h2>Tehran's Revolutionary Guard commander claims Iran is ‘stronger today than at the start of the war’</h2>Meanwhile, the commander of the IRGC in Greater Tehran claimed that Iran is now stronger than it was at the beginning of the war with the US and Israel. According to Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency, Brig. Gen. Hassan Hassanzadeh said US officials know very well that Iran is stronger today than on the first day of the war. He warned that if Washington continued what he described as a strategy of pressure and threats, the United States would again face defeat and ‘heavy, fatal, and regrettable blows’.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-crisis-how-much-foes-fuel-cost-in-your-city-1779732052883/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-crisis-how-much-foes-fuel-cost-in-your-city-1779732052883/embed</a>&nbsp;Hassanzadeh, who oversees the protection of Tehran and key Iranian regime institutions, claimed the country’s armed forces had grown stronger during the conflict. “Iran’s armed forces have not only not been weakened but have become stronger, more prepared and better equipped than at the beginning of the war,” he said, as quoted by Fars. “All of the defense capabilities and strategic equipment of the Islamic Republic have been produced by Iranian youth, and the enemy may be able to cause disruptions at some points but will never be able to stop Iran’s progress in the missile, drone, and other power-building areas,” he added.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran’s new security chief, Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, vows 'no retreat' against the US and Israel as the IRGC claims Tehran is stronger

Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, the newly appointed head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, delivered a hard-line message in his first public address, declaring that Iran would not back down in its confrontation with the United States and Israel. “There will be no retreat” in Iran’s fight against the US and Israel, Zolghadr said, according to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency. “The military field, the diplomatic field, and the people sent forth into the streets demonstrated this through their courageous resistance and brought the enemy to its knees,” he added. Zolghadr, a longtime regime insider, was appointed to lead the National Security Council in March after the death of his predecessor, Ali Larijani, who was reportedly killed in an Israeli strike. Before taking over the role, Zolghadr served as the second-in-command of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). His appointment is widely seen as a sign of the growing influence of the Revolutionary Guard within Iran’s leadership since the conflict escalated. Calling for national solidarity, Zolghadr urged Iranians to maintain ‘unity and cohesion’, saying social unity itself is another battlefield in the struggle. “A collective effort to prevent any divisive words or actions will bring beloved Iran to final victory, God willing,” he added. Also Read: 'If he knew the history.. he wouldn't have': Iran's dig at Rubio's Taj Mahal visit goes viral Tehran's Revolutionary Guard commander claims Iran is ‘stronger today than at the start of the war’ Meanwhile, the commander of the IRGC in Greater Tehran claimed that Iran is now stronger than it was at the beginning of the war with the US and Israel. According to Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency, Brig. Gen. Hassan Hassanzadeh said US officials know very well that Iran is stronger today than on the first day of the war. He warned that if Washington continued what he described as a strategy of pressure and threats, the United States would again face defeat and ‘heavy, fatal, and regrettable blows’. https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-crisis-how-much-foes-fuel-cost-in-your-city-1779732052883/embed Hassanzadeh, who oversees the protection of Tehran and key Iranian regime institutions, claimed the country’s armed forces had grown stronger during the conflict. “Iran’s armed forces have not only not been weakened but have become stronger, more prepared and better equipped than at the beginning of the war,” he said, as quoted by Fars. “All of the defense capabilities and strategic equipment of the Islamic Republic have been produced by Iranian youth, and the enemy may be able to cause disruptions at some points but will never be able to stop Iran’s progress in the missile, drone, and other power-building areas,” he added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran’s new security chief vowed ‘no retreat’ against the United States and Israel as IRGC leaders claim that Tehran is stronger than before

Iran’s new SNSC chief vows ‘no retreat’ against US, Israel in first public address; 'Tehran stronger than it was in starting', says IRGC commander

As US Secretary of State Marco Rubio continued his visit to India, he visited the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. However, the visit quickly sparked reactions online, with Iran taking a swipe at Rubio amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran. The Consulate General of Iran in Hyderabad reacted sharply to photographs shared by Rubio and his wife in front of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Referencing the Persian influence behind the monument, the consulate suggested Rubio lacked understanding of its historical roots.&nbsp;“If Rubio knew the history or architecture, he wouldn't have posed for a picture here. This monument was built out for the love of emperor's Iranian wife, crafted by the genius of Iranian architects, meanwhile his government today threatens to wipe out Iranian civilization, insulting other civilizations,” the Consulate posted on X. The remarks come as delegations from Iran and the United States remain engaged in negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between the two countries.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-fm-to-rubio-ensure-evacuation-of-us-diplomats-citizens-from-kyiv-eu-rejects-moscow-s-warning-says-we-are-not-going-anywhere-1779736046677">Russian FM to Rubio: Ensure evacuation of US diplomats, citizens from Kyiv; EU rejects Moscow's warning, says ‘We are not going anywhere’</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If Rubio knew the history or architecture, he wouldn&#39;t have posed for a picture here. This monument was built out for the love of emperor&#39;s Iranian wife, crafted by the genius of Iranian architects — meanwhile his government today threatens to wipe out Iranian civilization,… <a href="https://t.co/zi4CNU3u7U">pic.twitter.com/zi4CNU3u7U</a>&mdash; Iran In Hyderabad (@IraninHyderabad) <a href="https://twitter.com/IraninHyderabad/status/2058851945788641419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The statement also highlighted Persia’s deep influence on Mughal-era architecture in India. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who was of Persian descent. The monument is considered one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture with strong Persian artistic elements. According to Britannica, thousands of artisans and workers from India, Persia, and several other regions contributed to the construction of the mausoleum, its surrounding structures, and intricate ornamentation.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-india-ties-marco-rubio-clarifies-on-wion-s-racism-question-1779729382487/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-india-ties-marco-rubio-clarifies-on-wion-s-racism-question-1779729382487/embed</a>&nbsp;The official Uttar Pradesh tourism website also says that passages from the Quran have been used throughout the complex as decorative elements. Rubio, who is on a three-day visit to India, described the Taj Mahal as ‘one of the wonders of the world’.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran takes a swipe at Marco Rubio during his Taj Mahal visit in India, highlighting Persian influence on the monument amid rising US-Iran tensions

As US Secretary of State Marco Rubio continued his visit to India, he visited the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. However, the visit quickly sparked reactions online, with Iran taking a swipe at Rubio amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran. The Consulate General of Iran in Hyderabad reacted sharply to photographs shared by Rubio and his wife in front of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Referencing the Persian influence behind the monument, the consulate suggested Rubio lacked understanding of its historical roots. “If Rubio knew the history or architecture, he wouldn't have posed for a picture here. This monument was built out for the love of emperor's Iranian wife, crafted by the genius of Iranian architects, meanwhile his government today threatens to wipe out Iranian civilization, insulting other civilizations,” the Consulate posted on X. The remarks come as delegations from Iran and the United States remain engaged in negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between the two countries. Also Read: Russian FM to Rubio: Ensure evacuation of US diplomats, citizens from Kyiv; EU rejects Moscow's warning, says ‘We are not going anywhere’

Iran took a swipe at Marco Rubio’s Taj Mahal visit, highlighting the monument’s Persian roots amid ongoing US-Iran tensions

'If he knew the history.. he wouldn't have': Iran's dig at Rubio's Taj Mahal visit goes viral

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an order to the Ministry of Communications for restoring internet access in the country after an 87-day blackout that started with the US and Israeli strikes, reported Iranian state media, citing an official. The report cited the head of public relations at Iran’s Communications Ministry. Reports, citing informed sources, said the decision was made at a meeting of the Supreme Council of Cyberspace chaired by Vice President Mohammadreza Aref.&nbsp;However, it was not known when and how Iran would reconnect to the global web following the decision.Most Iranians have been unable to access the worldwide web for 87 days, according to the internet observatory NetBlocks on Monday, with only a few citizens having access to expensive and advanced VPNs that circumvent the restrictions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-push-for-muslim-nations-joining-abraham-accords-puts-pakistan-in-a-fix-1779729876943">Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The Iranian authorities initially imposed an internet blackout from Jan 8 in response to nationwide anti-government protests. The internet connections turned normal in February, before a new blackout was initiated after the start of US and Israeli strikes against Iran on Feb 28.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-immediate-energy-or-fertiliser-crisis-normalcy-in-4-5-days-if-iran-war-ends-govt-1779720018471">‘No immediate energy or fertiliser crisis, normalcy in 4-5 days if Iran war ends’: Govt</a>&nbsp;Even in normal times, access to the global internet remains heavily restricted in Iran via censorship of many websites, while authorities rely on an intranet to provide connected services without relying on the worldwide web, notably for schools which are currently following an online curriculum.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-demands-urgent-release-of-12-billion-frozen-in-qatar-before-advancing-peace-talks-with-us-1779714088498">Iran demands urgent release of $12 billion frozen in Qatar before advancing peace talks with US</a>&nbsp;The move made it difficult for Iranian civilians to receive updates while Israel and the US were bombing the country and caused significant damage to businesses that rely heavily on internet connectivity.&nbsp;The IRGC-affiliated Fars News earlier questioned the government’s authority to issue such an order. It argued that the decision to restrict internet access was made by the Supreme National Security Council and must therefore be reversed by the same body.

Even in normal times, access to global internet remains heavily restricted in Iran via censorship of many websites, while authorities rely on intranet to provide connected services without relying on the worldwide web, notably for schools which are currently following an online curriculum.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an order to the Ministry of Communications for restoring internet access in the country after an 87-day blackout that started with the US and Israeli strikes, reported Iranian state media, citing an official. The report cited the head of public relations at Iran’s Communications Ministry. Reports, citing informed sources, said the decision was made at a meeting of the Supreme Council of Cyberspace chaired by Vice President Mohammadreza Aref. However, it was not known when and how Iran would reconnect to the global web following the decision. Most Iranians have been unable to access the worldwide web for 87 days, according to the internet observatory NetBlocks on Monday, with only a few citizens having access to expensive and advanced VPNs that circumvent the restrictions. Also Read: Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix The Iranian authorities initially imposed an internet blackout from Jan 8 in response to nationwide anti-government protests. The internet connections turned normal in February, before a new blackout was initiated after the start of US and Israeli strikes against Iran on Feb 28. Also Read: ‘No immediate energy or fertiliser crisis, normalcy in 4-5 days if Iran war ends’: Govt Even in normal times, access to the global internet remains heavily restricted in Iran via censorship of many websites, while authorities rely on an intranet to provide connected services without relying on the worldwide web, notably for schools which are currently following an online curriculum. Also Read: Iran demands urgent release of $12 billion frozen in Qatar before advancing peace talks with US The move made it difficult for Iranian civilians to receive updates while Israel and the US were bombing the country and caused significant damage to businesses that rely heavily on internet connectivity. The IRGC-affiliated Fars News earlier questioned the government’s authority to issue such an order. It argued that the decision to restrict internet access was made by the Supreme National Security Council and must therefore be reversed by the same body.

Even in normal times, access to global internet remains heavily restricted in Iran via censorship of many websites, while authorities rely on intranet to provide connected services without relying on the worldwide web, notably for schools which are currently following an online curriculum.

Iran’s president orders restoration of internet access after 87-day blackout: Iranian state media

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov urged the United States to evacuate diplomats from its embassy in Kyiv during a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday (May 25), according to Russia’s foreign ministry. "On May 25, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio," the ministry said in a statement. "Sergei Lavrov drew attention to a Russian Foreign Ministry statement from May 25, which recommended that the United States, along with other states with missions in Kyiv, ensure the evacuation of their diplomatic personnel and other citizens from the Ukrainian capital," it added.&nbsp;Russia said on Monday that it planned to intensify strikes on Kyiv, including attacks targeting its ‘decision-making centres’, while again urging foreign diplomats and civilians to leave the Ukrainian capital. Over the weekend, Russia launched dozens of drones and missiles at Ukraine, killing four people, injuring dozens more, and causing widespread damage across Kyiv. Moscow said one of the weapons used in the barrage was the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, which it claims can travel at 10 times the speed of sound and carry nuclear warheads.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-crush-them-netanyahu-vows-intensified-offensive-action-against-hezbollah-following-drone-attacks-1779734253984">'We will crush them': Netanyahu vows intensified offensive action against Hezbollah following drone attacks</a>&nbsp;The attacks came days after Russia accused Kyiv of striking a vocational school in the Russian-occupied Lugansk region, allegedly killing 21 people. Russian President Vladimir Putin subsequently ordered retaliation. "Under the current circumstances, the Russian Armed Forces are starting to launch systematic strikes against Ukrainian military-industrial facilities in Kyiv," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement. "The strikes will target both decision-making centres and command posts... We are warning foreign citizens, including personnel of diplomatic missions and international organisations, to leave the city as soon as possible," it added.&nbsp;Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov relayed the warning to US counterpart Marco Rubio in a phone call on Monday, urging him to evacuate US diplomats, Russia's foreign ministry said. There was no immediate response from the United States.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-oreshnik-strike-plunges-ukraine-war-into-dangerous-new-phase-1779728466178/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-oreshnik-strike-plunges-ukraine-war-into-dangerous-new-phase-1779728466178/embed</a><h2>'We are not going anywhere'</h2>Russia had previously issued similar warnings earlier this month, threatening major strikes on central Kyiv if Ukraine disrupted a military parade on Moscow’s Red Square. Western diplomatic missions have rejected the evacuation warnings. A spokesperson for France’s foreign ministry said on Monday: "We're used to Putin's threats. It is out of the question to evacuate". The European Union’s ambassador in Kyiv wrote on Facebook: "We are not going anywhere."&nbsp;Ukraine dismissed Russia’s warnings as ‘rhetoric’. "We are now telling our partners that they should not give in to all this Russian blackmail," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga said. Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, triggering Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. Efforts led by the United States to negotiate an end to the war have stalled in recent months amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Russia warns foreign diplomats to evacuate Kyiv as Sergei Lavrov tells Marco Rubio Moscow will intensify strikes on Ukraine

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov urged the United States to evacuate diplomats from its embassy in Kyiv during a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday (May 25), according to Russia’s foreign ministry. "On May 25, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio," the ministry said in a statement. "Sergei Lavrov drew attention to a Russian Foreign Ministry statement from May 25, which recommended that the United States, along with other states with missions in Kyiv, ensure the evacuation of their diplomatic personnel and other citizens from the Ukrainian capital," it added. Russia said on Monday that it planned to intensify strikes on Kyiv, including attacks targeting its ‘decision-making centres’, while again urging foreign diplomats and civilians to leave the Ukrainian capital. Over the weekend, Russia launched dozens of drones and missiles at Ukraine, killing four people, injuring dozens more, and causing widespread damage across Kyiv. Moscow said one of the weapons used in the barrage was the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, which it claims can travel at 10 times the speed of sound and carry nuclear warheads. Also Read: 'We will crush them': Netanyahu vows intensified offensive action against Hezbollah following drone attacks The attacks came days after Russia accused Kyiv of striking a vocational school in the Russian-occupied Lugansk region, allegedly killing 21 people. Russian President Vladimir Putin subsequently ordered retaliation. "Under the current circumstances, the Russian Armed Forces are starting to launch systematic strikes against Ukrainian military-industrial facilities in Kyiv," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement. "The strikes will target both decision-making centres and command posts... We are warning foreign citizens, including personnel of diplomatic missions and international organisations, to leave the city as soon as possible," it added. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov relayed the warning to US counterpart Marco Rubio in a phone call on Monday, urging him to evacuate US diplomats, Russia's foreign ministry said. There was no immediate response from the United States. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-oreshnik-strike-plunges-ukraine-war-into-dangerous-new-phase-1779728466178/embed 'We are not going anywhere' Russia had previously issued similar warnings earlier this month, threatening major strikes on central Kyiv if Ukraine disrupted a military parade on Moscow’s Red Square. Western diplomatic missions have rejected the evacuation warnings. A spokesperson for France’s foreign ministry said on Monday: "We're used to Putin's threats. It is out of the question to evacuate". The European Union’s ambassador in Kyiv wrote on Facebook: "We are not going anywhere." Ukraine dismissed Russia’s warnings as ‘rhetoric’. "We are now telling our partners that they should not give in to all this Russian blackmail," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga said. Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, triggering Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. Efforts led by the United States to negotiate an end to the war have stalled in recent months amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Russia urges US diplomats to leave Kyiv as Moscow threatens intensified strikes on Ukraine’s ‘decision-making centres’

Russian FM to Rubio: Ensure evacuation of US diplomats, citizens from Kyiv; EU rejects Moscow's warning, says 'We are not going anywhere'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (May 25) that he had instructed the military to step up its offensive in Lebanon in a bid to ‘crush’ Hezbollah, accusing the militant group of launching drone attacks against Israeli forces. “I have ordered an even greater acceleration of our operations,” Netanyahu said in a video statement shared on his Telegram channel. “It is true that they are attacking us with drones, including fibre-optic drones, but we have teams working on countermeasures, and we will solve this issue. We will intensify our blows, increase our firepower, and we will crush them.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epidemic-is-outpacing-us-who-chief-says-countries-neighbouring-dr-congo-at-high-risk-from-ebola-1779726210566">'Epidemic is outpacing us': WHO chief says countries neighbouring DR Congo at 'high risk' from Ebola</a>&nbsp;Despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 17, 2026, Israel and Hezbollah have continued exchanging fire almost daily. In the early hours of Monday, dozens of Israeli strikes hit multiple towns and villages across southern Lebanon, killing three people travelling in two cars and on a motorcycle, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA). Later in the day, Israeli airstrikes targeted several areas near the ancient city of Tyre, the NNA reported.&nbsp;The attacks followed evacuation orders issued by Israel for 10 villages, with Israeli authorities accusing Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire agreement. Lebanese officials say Israeli strikes since early March have killed more than 3,100 people. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said on Monday that one soldier was killed in southern Lebanon a day earlier. The latest death brings the number of Israeli soldiers killed since fighting with Hezbollah began to 23. One civilian contractor has also been reported dead.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-rubio-tours-iconic-monuments-in-agra-jaipur-1779719456993/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-rubio-tours-iconic-monuments-in-agra-jaipur-1779719456993/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will intensify military operations in Lebanon to “crush” Hezbollah after alleged drone attacks on Israeli forces

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (May 25) that he had instructed the military to step up its offensive in Lebanon in a bid to ‘crush’ Hezbollah, accusing the militant group of launching drone attacks against Israeli forces. “I have ordered an even greater acceleration of our operations,” Netanyahu said in a video statement shared on his Telegram channel. “It is true that they are attacking us with drones, including fibre-optic drones, but we have teams working on countermeasures, and we will solve this issue. We will intensify our blows, increase our firepower, and we will crush them.” Also Read: 'Epidemic is outpacing us': WHO chief says countries neighbouring DR Congo at 'high risk' from Ebola Despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 17, 2026, Israel and Hezbollah have continued exchanging fire almost daily. In the early hours of Monday, dozens of Israeli strikes hit multiple towns and villages across southern Lebanon, killing three people travelling in two cars and on a motorcycle, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA). Later in the day, Israeli airstrikes targeted several areas near the ancient city of Tyre, the NNA reported. The attacks followed evacuation orders issued by Israel for 10 villages, with Israeli authorities accusing Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire agreement. Lebanese officials say Israeli strikes since early March have killed more than 3,100 people. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said on Monday that one soldier was killed in southern Lebanon a day earlier. The latest death brings the number of Israeli soldiers killed since fighting with Hezbollah began to 23. One civilian contractor has also been reported dead. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-rubio-tours-iconic-monuments-in-agra-jaipur-1779719456993/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Israeli PM Netanyahu vows to intensify Israel’s Lebanon offensive, accusing Hezbollah of drone attacks and promising stronger military action

'We will crush them': Netanyahu vows intensified offensive action against Hezbollah following drone attacks

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clarified its new Green Card policy introduced during the Trump administration, easing concerns that many applicants may be required to apply for permanent residency from outside the United States.&nbsp;The agency said the updated approach mainly reaffirms its interpretation of existing immigration laws. It added that some applicants, particularly those considered to be in the national interest, may still be allowed to continue their Green Card process while staying inside the US.&nbsp;"People who present applications that provide an economic benefit or otherwise are in the national interest will likely be able to continue on their current path," USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler told Newsweek in an email. He added that others "may be asked to apply abroad depending on individualised circumstances."&nbsp;The clarification comes after the earlier announcement triggered concern in the technology sector and among skilled foreign workers over possible delays and disruptions in immigration processing.&nbsp;Earlier, the Trump administration directed that Green Card applicants must complete the process outside the United States instead of adjusting their status while living in the country. The rule stated that only “extraordinary circumstances” would allow exceptions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epidemic-is-outpacing-us-who-chief-says-countries-neighbouring-dr-congo-at-high-risk-from-ebola-1779726210566">'Epidemic is outpacing us': WHO chief says countries neighbouring DR Congo at 'high risk' from Ebola</a>&nbsp;The proposal sparked concern, especially among Indian professionals working in the US on H-1B visas, who feared they might have to leave the country to complete their permanent residency process.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is on a four-day visit to India, rejected claims that the immigration changes target Indian nationals. He said the reforms are part of a global overhaul of the US migration system.&nbsp;“The changes that are happening now, or the modernisation of our migration system into the United States, are not India-specific; it is global, it’s being applied across the world,” Rubio said at a press conference in New Delhi.

The agency said the updated approach reaffirms its interpretation of immigration laws and allows certain applicants in the national interest to continue their Green Card process while staying in the US.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clarified its new Green Card policy introduced during the Trump administration, easing concerns that many applicants may be required to apply for permanent residency from outside the United States. The agency said the updated approach mainly reaffirms its interpretation of existing immigration laws. It added that some applicants, particularly those considered to be in the national interest, may still be allowed to continue their Green Card process while staying inside the US. "People who present applications that provide an economic benefit or otherwise are in the national interest will likely be able to continue on their current path," USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler told Newsweek in an email. He added that others "may be asked to apply abroad depending on individualised circumstances." The clarification comes after the earlier announcement triggered concern in the technology sector and among skilled foreign workers over possible delays and disruptions in immigration processing. Earlier, the Trump administration directed that Green Card applicants must complete the process outside the United States instead of adjusting their status while living in the country. The rule stated that only “extraordinary circumstances” would allow exceptions. Also Read: 'Epidemic is outpacing us': WHO chief says countries neighbouring DR Congo at 'high risk' from Ebola The proposal sparked concern, especially among Indian professionals working in the US on H-1B visas, who feared they might have to leave the country to complete their permanent residency process. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is on a four-day visit to India, rejected claims that the immigration changes target Indian nationals. He said the reforms are part of a global overhaul of the US migration system. “The changes that are happening now, or the modernisation of our migration system into the United States, are not India-specific; it is global, it’s being applied across the world,” Rubio said at a press conference in New Delhi.

The agency said the updated approach reaffirms its interpretation of immigration laws and allows certain applicants in the national interest to continue their Green Card process while staying in the US.

Likely relief for H-1B holders as US immigration clarifies Trump administration green card rules

Iran has claimed to have shot down a "hostile drone" over the Persian Gulf near Qeshm Island, deploying a newly unveiled indigenous interceptor system and issuing a stark warning to adversaries operating in the strategically vital waterway. Iranian media on Monday (May 25) claimed that a "hostile drone" was downed by air defence systems over maritime areas near Qeshm Island, situated close to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. According to reports by the Fars news agency, the unmanned aerial vehicle was neutralised over the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-has-fingers-on-trigger-for-battle-as-trump-threatens-tehran-again-1779731160298/emebed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-has-fingers-on-trigger-for-battle-as-trump-threatens-tehran-again-1779731160298/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Iranian forces reportedly deployed advanced indigenous defence systems to destroy the craft, utilising the country's Arash-e Kamangir interceptor drone system, which was described as a freshly integrated defence mechanism equipped with "hidden capabilities."&nbsp;An unnamed Iranian official issued a pointed warning through Fars news agency: "This is our warning; no radar-evading drone shall ever again breach the skies of the Persian Gulf."&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-don-t-rush-into-deal-trump-says-iran-blockade-to-remain-until-agreement-is-signed-1779633417703">‘Don’t rush into deal’: Trump says Iran blockade to remain until agreement is signed</a>&nbsp;While Iranian media specified that the aerial craft was intercepted over regional waters, official sources refrained from identifying the origin or ownership of the drone. In a separate report, Mehr News Agency noted that local inhabitants on Qeshm Island reported hearing loud noises associated with active air defence operations as the situation unfolded. Despite the military action in the sensitive corridor, Fars reported that maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continued during the incident under what officials described as close coordination.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-us-peace-deal-soon-but-where-is-mojtaba-khamenei-us-officials-claim-he-s-in-secret-bunker-communicates-via-messengers-1779680721638">Iran-US peace deal soon but where is Mojtaba Khamenei? US officials claim he's in 'secret bunker', 'communicates via messengers'</a>&nbsp;This is not the first such incident near Qeshm Island in recent weeks. On May 6, Iran announced that its air defense systems intercepted what it described as "small drones and reconnaissance drones" near Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iranian authorities saying at the time there were no injuries. The latest interception comes amid a prolonged and volatile standoff in the region.&nbsp;

Iranian forces claim to have shot down a "hostile drone" near the strategic Strait of Hormuz using its newly integrated Arash-e Kamangir interceptor system.

Iran has claimed to have shot down a "hostile drone" over the Persian Gulf near Qeshm Island, deploying a newly unveiled indigenous interceptor system and issuing a stark warning to adversaries operating in the strategically vital waterway. Iranian media on Monday (May 25) claimed that a "hostile drone" was downed by air defence systems over maritime areas near Qeshm Island, situated close to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. According to reports by the Fars news agency, the unmanned aerial vehicle was neutralised over the Persian Gulf. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-has-fingers-on-trigger-for-battle-as-trump-threatens-tehran-again-1779731160298/embed Iranian forces reportedly deployed advanced indigenous defence systems to destroy the craft, utilising the country's Arash-e Kamangir interceptor drone system, which was described as a freshly integrated defence mechanism equipped with "hidden capabilities." An unnamed Iranian official issued a pointed warning through Fars news agency: "This is our warning; no radar-evading drone shall ever again breach the skies of the Persian Gulf." Also read: ‘Don’t rush into deal’: Trump says Iran blockade to remain until agreement is signed While Iranian media specified that the aerial craft was intercepted over regional waters, official sources refrained from identifying the origin or ownership of the drone. In a separate report, Mehr News Agency noted that local inhabitants on Qeshm Island reported hearing loud noises associated with active air defence operations as the situation unfolded. Despite the military action in the sensitive corridor, Fars reported that maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continued during the incident under what officials described as close coordination. Also read: Iran-US peace deal soon but where is Mojtaba Khamenei? US officials claim he's in 'secret bunker', 'communicates via messengers' This is not the first such incident near Qeshm Island in recent weeks. On May 6, Iran announced that its air defense systems intercepted what it described as "small drones and reconnaissance drones" near Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iranian authorities saying at the time there were no injuries. The latest interception comes amid a prolonged and volatile standoff in the region.

Iranian forces claim to have shot down a "hostile drone" near the strategic Strait of Hormuz using its newly integrated Arash-e Kamangir interceptor system.

Iran claims 'hostile drone' shot down near Strait of Hormuz using new indigenous interceptor

US President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Muslim-majority nations, including Pakistan, to join the Abraham Accords, linking the future of a potential peace agreement with Tehran to a big diplomatic reshaping across the Middle East.&nbsp;In a lengthy Truth Social post on Monday, Trump said that the ongoing negotiations with Iran were “proceeding nicely” but warned that failure to reach a deal could send the region back to the “battlefront and shooting, but bigger and stronger than ever before.”&nbsp;Trump’s push came during a phone call with leaders from Muslim countries, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-immediate-energy-or-fertiliser-crisis-normalcy-in-4-5-days-if-iran-war-ends-govt-1779720018471">‘No immediate energy or fertiliser crisis, normalcy in 4-5 days if Iran war ends’: Govt</a><h2>Nations involved in peace talks should be ‘mandatory signatories,’ says Trump</h2>&nbsp;Trump told the leaders that countries involved in the discussions “should be mandatory” signatories to the Abraham Accords if a peace settlement with Iran is achieved. He added that the Abraham Accords had delivered a “Financial, Economic, and Social BOOM” for countries already involved, including the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, Sudan and Kazakhstan.&nbsp;Trump said that the agreements could bring “true Power, Strength, and Peace to the Middle East for the first time in 5,000 years”.“It should start with the immediate signing by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and everybody else should follow suit,” Trump wrote.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-demands-urgent-release-of-12-billion-frozen-in-qatar-before-advancing-peace-talks-with-us-1779714088498">Iran demands urgent release of $12 billion frozen in Qatar before advancing peace talks with US</a>&nbsp;He said Iran should also become part of the agreement if it finalises a peace deal with Washington.&nbsp;The Abraham Accords, signed in 2020, normalised diplomatic ties between Israel and several Arab nations, but Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Pakistan avoided formal recognition of Israel.Trump’s push is aimed at turning Iran peace deal into a Middle East realignment, one that could pull regional powers into a new US-backed order highly beneficial to Israel.&nbsp;<h2>Trump catches all leaders off guard</h2>&nbsp;Trump’s proposal was met with silence from several leaders, reported Axios. Leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Pakistan who do not have formal diplomatic relations with Israel were caught off guard.“One of the US officials said Trump joked and asked if they were still there,” Axios reported.Iran’s inclusion in any such framework, though highly unlikely, would mark an even more dramatic shift given Tehran’s long-running conflict with Israel.&nbsp;Read Also: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-deal-signing-in-a-few-days-terms-of-agreement-being-finalised-reports-1779655943195">US-Iran deal signing in a few days, terms of agreement being finalised: Reports</a><h2>Why Pakistan finds itself in a tight spot</h2>&nbsp;Trump’s push creates a huge challenge for Pakistan, since it is wilfully playing the mediator and is basking in the glory of its new role.Moreover, Pakistan also maintains deep economic, military and political ties with Gulf monarchies that are increasingly engaging with Israel under US pressure. Pakistan has also been wary of domestic backlash on joining the accords and hence this paradox puts Islamabad in an uncomfortable position.Furthermore, Pakistan’s dependence on Gulf financial assistance, remittances and security cooperation will only intensify the pressure on it if they join.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-iran-agree-in-principle-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-says-senior-official-1779651528322">US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;However, any recognition of Israel risks provoking strong opposition from religious groups at home.In 2025, Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar firmly rejected speculation that Islamabad could join the accords. “We are not ready to recognise Israel until the two-state solution to the Palestine conflict is accepted,” Dar said.“There is no change in our stated policy on the Palestine issue.”&nbsp;Trump’s push puts Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in a difficult spot as they will have to balance growing US pressure with the deeply sensitive public stance on Palestine at home.&nbsp;Trump’s demand is not something Pakistan had hoped for as payback after playing peacemaker between Iran and the US.

President Donald Trump said that countries involved in the discussions should be mandatory signatories to the Abraham Accords if a peace settlement with Iran is achieved. Trump said it should start with the immediate signing by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and everybody else should follow suit.

US President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Muslim-majority nations, including Pakistan, to join the Abraham Accords, linking the future of a potential peace agreement with Tehran to a big diplomatic reshaping across the Middle East. In a lengthy Truth Social post on Monday, Trump said that the ongoing negotiations with Iran were “proceeding nicely” but warned that failure to reach a deal could send the region back to the “battlefront and shooting, but bigger and stronger than ever before.” Trump’s push came during a phone call with leaders from Muslim countries, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Also Read: ‘No immediate energy or fertiliser crisis, normalcy in 4-5 days if Iran war ends’: Govt Nations involved in peace talks should be ‘mandatory signatories,’ says Trump Trump told the leaders that countries involved in the discussions “should be mandatory” signatories to the Abraham Accords if a peace settlement with Iran is achieved. He added that the Abraham Accords had delivered a “Financial, Economic, and Social BOOM” for countries already involved, including the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, Sudan and Kazakhstan. Trump said that the agreements could bring “true Power, Strength, and Peace to the Middle East for the first time in 5,000 years”. “It should start with the immediate signing by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and everybody else should follow suit,” Trump wrote.

President Donald Trump said that countries involved in the discussions should be mandatory signatories to the Abraham Accords if a peace settlement with Iran is achieved. Trump said it should start with the immediate signing by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and everybody else should follow suit.

Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix

Countries surrounding the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) face a serious threat from the rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak and must take urgent preventive measures, World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Monday.&nbsp;Addressing a virtual ministerial meeting on the outbreak, Tedros warned that the virus was spreading faster than containment efforts and said he would travel to the DRC on Tuesday as the country remained the centre of the crisis.&nbsp;“Countries bordering DRC are at especially high risk and should take immediate action,” Tedros said.&nbsp;Health officials said the disease, which spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, can trigger severe bleeding, organ failure and death in serious cases.&nbsp;Tedros described the situation as particularly difficult due to delays in detecting the outbreak and worsening security conditions in eastern Congo.&nbsp;“First, the delay in detecting the outbreak means that we are now playing catch-up with a very fast-moving epidemic. We are urgently scaling up operations, but at the moment, the epidemic is outpacing us,” he said.&nbsp;“Secondly, the eastern provinces of the DRC, where the outbreak was first detected in mid-May, are highly insecure, with intensified fighting in recent months, and there is also significant distrust of outside authorities among the local population,” Tedros added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-threatens-new-attacks-on-kyiv-urges-diplomats-and-foreigners-to-evacuate-1779724835582">Russia threatens new attacks on Kyiv, urges diplomats and foreigners to evacuate</a><h2>WHO says no approved vaccine exists for current Ebola strain</h2>The WHO chief further warned that there were currently no approved vaccines or treatments available for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola responsible for the latest outbreak.&nbsp;According to WHO figures, at least 10 confirmed deaths and 220 suspected deaths have been recorded in the DRC since mid-May. Authorities have also identified nearly 900 suspected infections since the outbreak was officially declared on May 15.&nbsp;The United Nations health agency said the actual spread of the virus could be significantly wider, with experts suspecting the outbreak may have circulated undetected for some time.&nbsp;Neighbouring Uganda has already reported one confirmed Ebola death and six confirmed infections, including two new cases announced on Monday.&nbsp;The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has also warned that 10 additional African countries, including Angola, Rwanda and Tanzania, remain at risk from the outbreak.&nbsp;Tedros said WHO was deploying financial aid, medical supplies and health workers to support Congolese authorities while accelerating clinical trials for potential treatments.“It will get worse before it gets better,” he said. “But we know this virus, and we know how to stop it.”

According to the WHO, since the Ebola outbreak was declared in the DRC on May 15, at least 10 confirmed deaths, 220 suspected fatalities and nearly 900 suspected infections have been reported.

Countries surrounding the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) face a serious threat from the rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak and must take urgent preventive measures, World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Monday. Addressing a virtual ministerial meeting on the outbreak, Tedros warned that the virus was spreading faster than containment efforts and said he would travel to the DRC on Tuesday as the country remained the centre of the crisis. “Countries bordering DRC are at especially high risk and should take immediate action,” Tedros said. Health officials said the disease, which spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, can trigger severe bleeding, organ failure and death in serious cases. Tedros described the situation as particularly difficult due to delays in detecting the outbreak and worsening security conditions in eastern Congo. “First, the delay in detecting the outbreak means that we are now playing catch-up with a very fast-moving epidemic. We are urgently scaling up operations, but at the moment, the epidemic is outpacing us,” he said. “Secondly, the eastern provinces of the DRC, where the outbreak was first detected in mid-May, are highly insecure, with intensified fighting in recent months, and there is also significant distrust of outside authorities among the local population,” Tedros added. Also Read: Russia threatens new attacks on Kyiv, urges diplomats and foreigners to evacuate WHO says no approved vaccine exists for current Ebola strain The WHO chief further warned that there were currently no approved vaccines or treatments available for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola responsible for the latest outbreak. According to WHO figures, at least 10 confirmed deaths and 220 suspected deaths have been recorded in the DRC since mid-May. Authorities have also identified nearly 900 suspected infections since the outbreak was officially declared on May 15. The United Nations health agency said the actual spread of the virus could be significantly wider, with experts suspecting the outbreak may have circulated undetected for some time. Neighbouring Uganda has already reported one confirmed Ebola death and six confirmed infections, including two new cases announced on Monday. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has also warned that 10 additional African countries, including Angola, Rwanda and Tanzania, remain at risk from the outbreak. Tedros said WHO was deploying financial aid, medical supplies and health workers to support Congolese authorities while accelerating clinical trials for potential treatments. “It will get worse before it gets better,” he said. “But we know this virus, and we know how to stop it.”

According to the WHO, since the Ebola outbreak was declared in the DRC on May 15, at least 10 confirmed deaths, 220 suspected fatalities and nearly 900 suspected infections have been reported.

'Epidemic is outpacing us': WHO chief says countries neighbouring DR Congo at 'high risk' from Ebola

Russia on Monday (May 25) announced plans to intensify strikes on Kyiv, including attacks targeting what it described as Ukraine’s “decision-making centres”, while urging foreign nationals and diplomatic staff to leave the Ukrainian capital immediately.&nbsp;The warning came as fresh Russian attacks killed at least four people and injured several others across eastern Ukraine, according to local authorities.&nbsp;In Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region, officials said Russian shelling struck the town of Dergachi, killing two civilians, aged 68 and 25 and injuring nearly two dozen others. Kharkiv Governor Oleg Synegubov said emergency teams were deployed to the area following the attack.&nbsp;Separate strikes were also reported in Kramatorsk in the Donetsk region, where two people were killed, according to city mayor Oleksandr Goncharenko.<h2>Russia says Kyiv military sites will be targeted</h2>The latest escalation follows a massive Russian aerial assault over the weekend involving dozens of drones and missiles that caused damage across Kyiv and left multiple people dead and injured.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirmala-sitharaman-flags-3fs-as-key-challenge-after-pm-modi-s-austerity-appeal-amid-west-asia-crisis-1779708878146">Nirmala Sitharaman flags ‘3Fs’ as key challenge after PM Modi’s austerity appeal amid West Asia crisis</a>&nbsp;Among the weapons reportedly used by Moscow was the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, which Russian authorities claim can travel at speeds exceeding ten times the speed of sound and is capable of carrying nuclear warheads.&nbsp;The renewed offensive comes days after Moscow accused Ukraine of attacking a vocational school in the Russian-controlled Lugansk region, an incident that Russia claimed killed 21 people. Russian President Vladimir Putin had subsequently instructed the military to retaliate.&nbsp;In a statement, Russia’s foreign ministry said, “Under the current circumstances, the Russian Armed Forces are starting to launch systematic strikes against Ukrainian military-industrial facilities in Kyiv.”&nbsp;“The strikes will target both decision-making centres and command posts... We are warning foreign citizens, including personnel of diplomatic missions and international organisations, to leave the city as soon as possible,” the ministry added.&nbsp;The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has intensified in recent weeks as diplomatic efforts led by the United States to negotiate a ceasefire have stalled, with Washington’s focus increasingly shifting towards the Middle East crisis.

The warning came as fresh Russian strikes across eastern Ukraine killed at least four people, including two civilians in Kharkiv region’s Dergachi town, while nearly two dozen others were injured, according to local officials.

Russia on Monday (May 25) announced plans to intensify strikes on Kyiv, including attacks targeting what it described as Ukraine’s “decision-making centres”, while urging foreign nationals and diplomatic staff to leave the Ukrainian capital immediately. The warning came as fresh Russian attacks killed at least four people and injured several others across eastern Ukraine, according to local authorities. In Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region, officials said Russian shelling struck the town of Dergachi, killing two civilians, aged 68 and 25 and injuring nearly two dozen others. Kharkiv Governor Oleg Synegubov said emergency teams were deployed to the area following the attack. Separate strikes were also reported in Kramatorsk in the Donetsk region, where two people were killed, according to city mayor Oleksandr Goncharenko. Russia says Kyiv military sites will be targeted The latest escalation follows a massive Russian aerial assault over the weekend involving dozens of drones and missiles that caused damage across Kyiv and left multiple people dead and injured. Also Read: Nirmala Sitharaman flags ‘3Fs’ as key challenge after PM Modi’s austerity appeal amid West Asia crisis Among the weapons reportedly used by Moscow was the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, which Russian authorities claim can travel at speeds exceeding ten times the speed of sound and is capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The renewed offensive comes days after Moscow accused Ukraine of attacking a vocational school in the Russian-controlled Lugansk region, an incident that Russia claimed killed 21 people. Russian President Vladimir Putin had subsequently instructed the military to retaliate. In a statement, Russia’s foreign ministry said, “Under the current circumstances, the Russian Armed Forces are starting to launch systematic strikes against Ukrainian military-industrial facilities in Kyiv.” “The strikes will target both decision-making centres and command posts... We are warning foreign citizens, including personnel of diplomatic missions and international organisations, to leave the city as soon as possible,” the ministry added. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has intensified in recent weeks as diplomatic efforts led by the United States to negotiate a ceasefire have stalled, with Washington’s focus increasingly shifting towards the Middle East crisis.

The warning came as fresh Russian strikes across eastern Ukraine killed at least four people, including two civilians in Kharkiv region’s Dergachi town, while nearly two dozen others were injured, according to local officials.

Russia threatens new attacks on Kyiv, urges diplomats and foreigners to evacuate

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has diagnosed with early-stage skin cancer and has begun preventive radiation treatment. The news was confirmed by doctors at the Sirio-Libanes Hospital and his office on Monday (May 25).&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bombshell-leak-threatens-bolsonaro-s-presidential-bid-polls-now-show-lula-leading-comfortably-1779391861626/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bombshell-leak-threatens-bolsonaro-s-presidential-bid-polls-now-show-lula-leading-comfortably-1779391861626/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The 80-year-old leader had a basal cell lesion removed on April 24, after which his medical team decided to pursue additional treatment. "It was decided to proceed with complementary treatment with preventive, superficial radiotherapy on the scalp," doctors stated in a medical note, adding that Lula would maintain his daily activities without restrictions.&nbsp; A spokesperson for Brazil's presidency told news agency Reuters the "small" lesion was diagnosed as early-stage cancer, and Lula would undergo 15 radiotherapy sessions to prevent further lesions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-president-lula-accuses-trump-of-seeking-to-create-new-un-with-board-of-peace-1769242552399">Brazilian President Lula accuses Trump of seeking to create ‘new UN’ with ‘Board of Peace’</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Doctors previously stated the procedure to remove the lesion would have no impact on the president's reelection campaign. Lula is expected to run for a fourth non-consecutive term in October and currently leads the right-wing challenger Flavio Bolsonaro in several opinion polls for a potential second-round runoff.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-and-brazil-president-lula-hold-delegation-talks-in-new-delhi-1771662969251">Indian PM Modi and Brazil President Lula hold delegation talks in New Delhi</a>&nbsp;This is not Lula's first battle with cancer. The president previously fought throat cancer, for which he underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy, before being given the all-clear. The diagnosis adds an unusual political dimension: former President Jair Bolsonaro, recently convicted of leading an attempted coup and sentenced to 27 years in prison, was also separately diagnosed with skin cancer. The two rival leaders had faced each other in the bitterly contested 2022 presidential election.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has started preventive radiation treatment following an early-stage skin cancer diagnosis.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has diagnosed with early-stage skin cancer and has begun preventive radiation treatment. The news was confirmed by doctors at the Sirio-Libanes Hospital and his office on Monday (May 25). https://www.wionews.com/videos/bombshell-leak-threatens-bolsonaro-s-presidential-bid-polls-now-show-lula-leading-comfortably-1779391861626/embed The 80-year-old leader had a basal cell lesion removed on April 24, after which his medical team decided to pursue additional treatment. "It was decided to proceed with complementary treatment with preventive, superficial radiotherapy on the scalp," doctors stated in a medical note, adding that Lula would maintain his daily activities without restrictions. A spokesperson for Brazil's presidency told news agency Reuters the "small" lesion was diagnosed as early-stage cancer, and Lula would undergo 15 radiotherapy sessions to prevent further lesions. Also read: Brazilian President Lula accuses Trump of seeking to create ‘new UN’ with ‘Board of Peace’ Doctors previously stated the procedure to remove the lesion would have no impact on the president's reelection campaign. Lula is expected to run for a fourth non-consecutive term in October and currently leads the right-wing challenger Flavio Bolsonaro in several opinion polls for a potential second-round runoff. Also read: Indian PM Modi and Brazil President Lula hold delegation talks in New Delhi This is not Lula's first battle with cancer. The president previously fought throat cancer, for which he underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy, before being given the all-clear. The diagnosis adds an unusual political dimension: former President Jair Bolsonaro, recently convicted of leading an attempted coup and sentenced to 27 years in prison, was also separately diagnosed with skin cancer. The two rival leaders had faced each other in the bitterly contested 2022 presidential election.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has started preventive radiation treatment following an early-stage skin cancer diagnosis.

Brazil’s President Lula faces health battle, starts radiation for early-stage skin cancer

Iran, on Monday (May 25), denied imposing transit tolls on ships passing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, saying the charges being collected were instead linked to “navigational services” and environmental protection measures in the region. Speaking during a weekly press briefing, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said the fees were related to maritime support services provided in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.&nbsp;“The services that are provided — navigational services in addition to the measures necessary to protect the environment of the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman — require the collection of certain fees,” Baqaei said. His remarks came after reports suggested that Iran had begun seeking payments from some commercial vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions and growing disruptions to maritime trade.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strait-of-hormuz-control-map-by-iran-creates-a-major-sovereignty-dispute-1779680555661">Strait of Hormuz 'control map' by Iran creates a major sovereignty dispute</a>&nbsp;A Reuters investigation published earlier this month claimed that Iran had tightened control over the crucial waterway through island checkpoints, increased military screening and regulated shipping routes. The report also alleged that some vessels were being asked to pay charges tied to security and navigation-related services. The developments have raised alarm in global energy markets because the Strait of Hormuz handles nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Analysts warn that any disruption, restriction or increase in transit-related costs along the route could push up fuel prices and strain global supply chains.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-iran-agree-in-principle-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-says-senior-official-1779651528322">US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official</a>&nbsp;Shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz has remained under pressure since tensions involving Iran escalated earlier this year. According to Reuters, vessel traffic through the corridor has fallen sharply after Iran stepped up military monitoring and introduced stricter transit controls. Before the tensions intensified, nearly 125 to 140 ships reportedly crossed the strait daily, but the number has dropped significantly in recent months.

Iran denied imposing transit tolls in the Strait of Hormuz, clarifying that recent vessel fees cover essential navigational services and environmental protection amid dropping traffic and rising regional maritime tensions.

Iran, on Monday (May 25), denied imposing transit tolls on ships passing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, saying the charges being collected were instead linked to “navigational services” and environmental protection measures in the region. Speaking during a weekly press briefing, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said the fees were related to maritime support services provided in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. “The services that are provided — navigational services in addition to the measures necessary to protect the environment of the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman — require the collection of certain fees,” Baqaei said. His remarks came after reports suggested that Iran had begun seeking payments from some commercial vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions and growing disruptions to maritime trade. Also read: Strait of Hormuz 'control map' by Iran creates a major sovereignty dispute A Reuters investigation published earlier this month claimed that Iran had tightened control over the crucial waterway through island checkpoints, increased military screening and regulated shipping routes. The report also alleged that some vessels were being asked to pay charges tied to security and navigation-related services. The developments have raised alarm in global energy markets because the Strait of Hormuz handles nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Analysts warn that any disruption, restriction or increase in transit-related costs along the route could push up fuel prices and strain global supply chains. Also read: US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official Shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz has remained under pressure since tensions involving Iran escalated earlier this year. According to Reuters, vessel traffic through the corridor has fallen sharply after Iran stepped up military monitoring and introduced stricter transit controls. Before the tensions intensified, nearly 125 to 140 ships reportedly crossed the strait daily, but the number has dropped significantly in recent months.

Iran denied imposing transit tolls in the Strait of Hormuz, clarifying that recent vessel fees cover essential navigational services and environmental protection amid dropping traffic and rising regional maritime tensions.

Iran rejects claims of Hormuz transit toll, says ships are paying for navigation and environmental protection services

New Delhi: Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing, who is scheduled to visit India next month, is expected to make a key stop at Bodh Gaya in Bihar, the site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree more than 2,500 years ago. The trip, which will include high-level talks in New Delhi, is Hlaing’s first visit foreign visit after becoming the president of his country earlier this year.&nbsp;Bodh Gaya, home to the UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Temple, has long served as a spiritual magnet for global Buddhist leaders. Visits here blend personal devotion with subtle diplomacy, allowing nations with Buddhist majorities or significant communities to signal cultural affinity with India, the faith’s birthplace.&nbsp;Just weeks ago, in early May, Vietnamese President To Lam began his state visit to India with a three-day stay in Bodh Gaya. He offered prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple, and visited the Vietnamese Monastery, reinforcing historical and people-to-people links between the two countries.&nbsp;Such pilgrimages are now an established feature of India’s diplomatic playbook. In 2017, Min Aung Hlaing himself started a previous India visit with an extended stay in Bodh Gaya, where he was personally received by then Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. The gesture was widely seen as a warm welcome, combining spiritual resonance with strategic engagement as part of India’s Act East Policy.&nbsp;Other leaders have followed suit. Japanese prime ministers and Mongolian presidents have made the journey, as have leading figures from Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. These visits often coincide with broader discussions on connectivity, security, and economic cooperation.&nbsp;India has invested in the Buddhist Circuit, encompassing Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar, through improved infrastructure, international monasteries, and global events like Buddha Purnima celebrations.&nbsp;This is seen as part of India’s ‘Buddhist diplomacy’. By facilitating access to sacred sites and promoting shared heritage, New Delhi strengthens bonds with Asia’s Buddhist nations. For Myanmar, facing internal challenges and Western sanctions, the visit offers valuable international engagement and practical cooperation in areas like border security and counter-insurgency.&nbsp;For Min Aung Hlaing, the Bodh Gaya leg is likely to be more than symbolic. Myanmar maintains deep Theravada Buddhist traditions, and a visible pilgrimage can resonate domestically while signalling alignment with India’s Neighbourhood First approach.&nbsp;

The Bodh Gaya leg is likely to be more than symbolic for Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing. Myanmar maintains deep Theravada Buddhist traditions, and a visible pilgrimage can resonate domestically while signalling alignment with India’s Neighbourhood First approach.

New Delhi: Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing, who is scheduled to visit India next month, is expected to make a key stop at Bodh Gaya in Bihar, the site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree more than 2,500 years ago. The trip, which will include high-level talks in New Delhi, is Hlaing’s first visit foreign visit after becoming the president of his country earlier this year. Bodh Gaya, home to the UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Temple, has long served as a spiritual magnet for global Buddhist leaders. Visits here blend personal devotion with subtle diplomacy, allowing nations with Buddhist majorities or significant communities to signal cultural affinity with India, the faith’s birthplace. Just weeks ago, in early May, Vietnamese President To Lam began his state visit to India with a three-day stay in Bodh Gaya. He offered prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple, and visited the Vietnamese Monastery, reinforcing historical and people-to-people links between the two countries. Such pilgrimages are now an established feature of India’s diplomatic playbook. In 2017, Min Aung Hlaing himself started a previous India visit with an extended stay in Bodh Gaya, where he was personally received by then Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. The gesture was widely seen as a warm welcome, combining spiritual resonance with strategic engagement as part of India’s Act East Policy. Other leaders have followed suit. Japanese prime ministers and Mongolian presidents have made the journey, as have leading figures from Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. These visits often coincide with broader discussions on connectivity, security, and economic cooperation. India has invested in the Buddhist Circuit, encompassing Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar, through improved infrastructure, international monasteries, and global events like Buddha Purnima celebrations. This is seen as part of India’s ‘Buddhist diplomacy’. By facilitating access to sacred sites and promoting shared heritage, New Delhi strengthens bonds with Asia’s Buddhist nations. For Myanmar, facing internal challenges and Western sanctions, the visit offers valuable international engagement and practical cooperation in areas like border security and counter-insurgency. For Min Aung Hlaing, the Bodh Gaya leg is likely to be more than symbolic. Myanmar maintains deep Theravada Buddhist traditions, and a visible pilgrimage can resonate domestically while signalling alignment with India’s Neighbourhood First approach.

The Bodh Gaya leg is likely to be more than symbolic for Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing. Myanmar maintains deep Theravada Buddhist traditions, and a visible pilgrimage can resonate domestically while signalling alignment with India’s Neighbourhood First approach.

Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing to visit Bodh Gaya

China launched the crewed Shenzhou-23 mission to the Tiangong space station, marking another major step in Beijing’s plan to land astronauts on the Moon before 2030 and expand long-term space exploration.

PICS | China launches crewed Shenzhou-23 mission to Tiangong as Beijing eyes Moon landing by 2030

Ukrainian strikes have claimed the lives of six people, including two children, in Russia-occupied areas of Ukraine as well as in Russia's border regions of Belgorod and Bryansk, local officials have confirmed. Ukraine attacks followed a day after Russia launched an attack on Kyiv using a powerful hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile for a third time, killing at least four people and injuring about 100. The local Moscow-installed administration stated that four people, including two children, were killed in the frontline town of Gorlivka in the occupied Donetsk region. "As a result of Ukrainian armed aggression in the Kalininsky district of Gorlovka, four civilians have been killed, including two children born in 2012 and 2013," Mayor Ivan Prikhodko said. Earlier in the day, during the early morning hours, two people also died after Ukraine launched drones around the western Russian border regions of Bryansk and Belgorod, local authorities said. Ukraine has frequently launched strikes on Russian territory and occupied regions in response to the ongoing bombardments it has faced since Russia began its large-scale military offensive in February 2022.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/remains-of-17-year-old-us-sailor-killed-in-pearl-harbor-attack-return-home-after-84-years-1779690437086">Remains of 17-year-old US sailor killed in Pearl Harbor attack return home after 84 years</a><h3>Russia hits Kyiv with hypersonic ballistic missile</h3>Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, claimed on Sunday that Russia hit the city of Bila Tserkva in the Kyiv region with the Oreshnik missile. He described the attack as a Russian assault that also hit a water supply facility, destroyed a market and damaged several residential buildings and schools. “They are genuinely deranged,” Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Adding further details on Sunday, Zelenskyy wrote on X that about 100 people had been injured across the country and four had died as a result of the Russian attack, which he said had hit Kyiv the hardest.&nbsp;In response, Russia stated that the raid was in retaliation for a Ukrainian drone attack on educational buildings in the Russian-occupied Lugansk region that claimed the lives of 21 people and injured over 40.

Ukraine has frequently launched strikes on Russian territory and occupied regions in response to the ongoing bombardments it has faced since Russia began its large-scale military offensive in February 2022.

Ukrainian strikes have claimed the lives of six people, including two children, in Russia-occupied areas of Ukraine as well as in Russia's border regions of Belgorod and Bryansk, local officials have confirmed. Ukraine attacks followed a day after Russia launched an attack on Kyiv using a powerful hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile for a third time, killing at least four people and injuring about 100. The local Moscow-installed administration stated that four people, including two children, were killed in the frontline town of Gorlivka in the occupied Donetsk region. "As a result of Ukrainian armed aggression in the Kalininsky district of Gorlovka, four civilians have been killed, including two children born in 2012 and 2013," Mayor Ivan Prikhodko said. Earlier in the day, during the early morning hours, two people also died after Ukraine launched drones around the western Russian border regions of Bryansk and Belgorod, local authorities said. Ukraine has frequently launched strikes on Russian territory and occupied regions in response to the ongoing bombardments it has faced since Russia began its large-scale military offensive in February 2022. Also read: Remains of 17-year-old US sailor killed in Pearl Harbor attack return home after 84 years Russia hits Kyiv with hypersonic ballistic missile Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, claimed on Sunday that Russia hit the city of Bila Tserkva in the Kyiv region with the Oreshnik missile. He described the attack as a Russian assault that also hit a water supply facility, destroyed a market and damaged several residential buildings and schools. “They are genuinely deranged,” Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Adding further details on Sunday, Zelenskyy wrote on X that about 100 people had been injured across the country and four had died as a result of the Russian attack, which he said had hit Kyiv the hardest. In response, Russia stated that the raid was in retaliation for a Ukrainian drone attack on educational buildings in the Russian-occupied Lugansk region that claimed the lives of 21 people and injured over 40.

Ukraine has frequently launched strikes on Russian territory and occupied regions in response to the ongoing bombardments it has faced since Russia began its large-scale military offensive in February 2022.

Ukraine strikes kill 6 in Russia a day after Moscow launches Oreshnik Missile on Kyiv

In a rare achievement, 23-year-old Tushar Kumar and his mother Parveen Rani, an Indian-origin family from Haryana’s Rohtak, have been elected as mayors in the United Kingdom, PTI reported.In an incredible achievement for an Indian-origin family in the United Kingdom, a mother-son duo from Haryana were elected as mayors in the UK at the same time. Twenty-three-year-old Tushar Kumar and his mother Parveen Rani, originally from Rohtak, assumed their mayoral positions within a span of one week.Tushar, who became the youngest Indian-origin mayor in the UK, was elected as the Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council on May 13. A week later, his mother was elected as the Mayor of Hertsmere Borough Council on May 20, marking a rare civic milestone for the family.Speaking to PTI, Dahiya described the development as a matter of immense pride, saying it was special that both mother and son now hold mayoral offices simultaneously in the UK.<h2>From Rohtak to UK</h2>The family traces its roots to Rohna village in Haryana’s Sonipat district and had lived in Rohtak for several years before moving to the UK in 2013. According to Tushar’s father, businessman Sunil Dahiya, the family relocated without a concrete plan for the future when Tushar was around 10 years old.Speaking to PTI, Dahiya described the development as a matter of immense pride, saying it was special that both mother and son now hold mayoral offices simultaneously in the UK.<h2>Who are the Indian-origin mother-son duo mayors?</h2>Over the years, both Tushar and Parveen have remained actively involved in community service and local civic activities. Tushar entered public life at a young age and became a councillor at just 20 while studying in London. He joined the Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council in 2023 and later served as deputy mayor before taking over as mayor this year.Tushar, who graduated from King’s College London, is expected to pursue a master’s degree later this year. Despite settling in the UK, the family continues to maintain close ties with Haryana and regularly visits their home in Rohtak.Parveen Rani has also held several important civic roles, including Cabinet Member for Streetscene, Parks, Leisure and Culture, deputy mayor of Hertsmere, and Global Envoy for Film and Television.Dahiya said both Tushar and Parveen have contributed to community initiatives, including teaching Hindi free of cost to UK-born children through organisations such as the Hindi Shiksha Parishad. Tushar also believes that age should never be a barrier to public service and encourages young people to stay connected to their roots while contributing to society.

An Indian-origin mother-son duo in the UK created history after 23-year-old Tushar Kumar became the youngest Indian-origin mayor, while his mother Parveen Rani was elected mayor days later.

In a rare achievement, 23-year-old Tushar Kumar and his mother Parveen Rani, an Indian-origin family from Haryana’s Rohtak, have been elected as mayors in the United Kingdom, PTI reported. In an incredible achievement for an Indian-origin family in the United Kingdom, a mother-son duo from Haryana were elected as mayors in the UK at the same time. Twenty-three-year-old Tushar Kumar and his mother Parveen Rani, originally from Rohtak, assumed their mayoral positions within a span of one week. Tushar, who became the youngest Indian-origin mayor in the UK, was elected as the Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council on May 13. A week later, his mother was elected as the Mayor of Hertsmere Borough Council on May 20, marking a rare civic milestone for the family. Speaking to PTI, Dahiya described the development as a matter of immense pride, saying it was special that both mother and son now hold mayoral offices simultaneously in the UK. From Rohtak to UK The family traces its roots to Rohna village in Haryana’s Sonipat district and had lived in Rohtak for several years before moving to the UK in 2013. According to Tushar’s father, businessman Sunil Dahiya, the family relocated without a concrete plan for the future when Tushar was around 10 years old. Speaking to PTI, Dahiya described the development as a matter of immense pride, saying it was special that both mother and son now hold mayoral offices simultaneously in the UK. Who are the Indian-origin mother-son duo mayors? Over the years, both Tushar and Parveen have remained actively involved in community service and local civic activities. Tushar entered public life at a young age and became a councillor at just 20 while studying in London. He joined the Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council in 2023 and later served as deputy mayor before taking over as mayor this year. Tushar, who graduated from King’s College London, is expected to pursue a master’s degree later this year. Despite settling in the UK, the family continues to maintain close ties with Haryana and regularly visits their home in Rohtak. Parveen Rani has also held several important civic roles, including Cabinet Member for Streetscene, Parks, Leisure and Culture, deputy mayor of Hertsmere, and Global Envoy for Film and Television. Dahiya said both Tushar and Parveen have contributed to community initiatives, including teaching Hindi free of cost to UK-born children through organisations such as the Hindi Shiksha Parishad. Tushar also believes that age should never be a barrier to public service and encourages young people to stay connected to their roots while contributing to society.

An Indian-origin mother-son duo in the UK created history after 23-year-old Tushar Kumar became the youngest Indian-origin mayor, while his mother Parveen Rani was elected mayor days later.

From Rohtak to UK: Indian-origin mother-son duo elected as mayors in British councils

Iran is demanding the immediate release of $12 billion in frozen assets held in Qatar as a prerequisite for advancing negotiations with the United States, reported Iran International, citing sources in the know. The source with direct knowledge of the negotiations further said that the $12 billion is only the immediate tranche required to begin the diplomatic roadmap and is not the full amount Iran is seeking.&nbsp;Tehran has been insisting that all of its frozen assets worldwide must be unfrozen and fully released as part of any comprehensive agreement, the source added.&nbsp;IRGC-linked Tasnim News Agency had reported on Sunday that differences between Iran and the US over one or two clauses of a possible memorandum of understanding remained unresolved. Tasnim said Iran has demanded that any initial memorandum of understanding with the US should include the release of at least part of its frozen assets and that the released funds are made accessible to Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read Also: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-deal-signing-in-a-few-days-terms-of-agreement-being-finalised-reports-1779655943195">US-Iran deal signing in a few days, terms of agreement being finalised: Reports</a><h2>‘US sought to link frozen assets’s release with nuclear deal’</h2>&nbsp;Tasnim also reported that Washington sought to link the release of frozen assets to a possible final nuclear agreement, but Iran wants part of the funds released before any MoU besides setting up a mechanism for releasing the remaining assets during negotiations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tasnim later reported that the US obstruction of some Iranian clauses in a potential agreement, including the release of Tehran’s blocked assets, was still continuing. The report added that there remains a possibility of the agreement not fructifying.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-iran-agree-in-principle-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-says-senior-official-1779651528322">US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official</a>&nbsp;In April, a senior Iranian source told Reuters that the US had agreed to release Iranian frozen assets held in Qatar, a claim which was swiftly denied by a US official. A second Iranian source said the US had agreed to release $6 billion of frozen Iranian funds held by Qatar.&nbsp;The funds, linked to Iranian oil sales to South Korea, were transferred to Qatari accounts but remained restricted to humanitarian use under US oversight, the report added.&nbsp;The final negotiations regarding a peace deal will begin only after both parties sign the MoU and agree to the 60-day ceasefire.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-agreed-final-agreement-with-iran-must-remove-nuclear-danger-says-netanyahu-1779638705604">‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;One important element of the deal is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. An Axios report said that the MoU draft specifies that the Strait would be open without tolls, and Iran would clear the mines it had deployed there.In exchange, the US would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and waive some sanctions it had imposed, allowing the country to sell oil freely.&nbsp;<h2>No discussion on Iran’s nuclear programme, enriched uranium before MoU</h2>&nbsp;Discussion on Iran’s nuclear capabilities and enriched uranium stockpile would be held only during final negotiations, but the MoU would call for Iran to cease any pursuit of nuclear weapons.Iranian media claimed that the initial peace deal would include Washington waiving sanctions on Iranian oil, and both sides agreeing not to attack each other or their allies.&nbsp;Iran’s state media reported on Monday that the country’s Central Bank chief Abdolnaser Hemmati travelled to Qatar following talks with a Qatari delegation in Tehran regarding Iran’s frozen funds.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-india-can-count-on-me-100-i-am-a-big-fan-of-pm-modi-says-trump-in-phone-call-at-delhi-event-1779642795192">‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran’s chief negotiator and Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Doha to meet the Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.The Iranians are meeting with the Qatari PM to discuss the terms of a potential ceasefire deal with the US, an official said.

The funds, linked to Iranian oil sales to South Korea, were transferred to Qatari accounts but remained restricted to humanitarian use under US oversight. The final negotiations regarding a peace deal will begin only after both parties sign the MoU and agree to the 60-day ceasefire.

Iran is demanding the immediate release of $12 billion in frozen assets held in Qatar as a prerequisite for advancing negotiations with the United States, reported Iran International, citing sources in the know. The source with direct knowledge of the negotiations further said that the $12 billion is only the immediate tranche required to begin the diplomatic roadmap and is not the full amount Iran is seeking. Tehran has been insisting that all of its frozen assets worldwide must be unfrozen and fully released as part of any comprehensive agreement, the source added. IRGC-linked Tasnim News Agency had reported on Sunday that differences between Iran and the US over one or two clauses of a possible memorandum of understanding remained unresolved. Tasnim said Iran has demanded that any initial memorandum of understanding with the US should include the release of at least part of its frozen assets and that the released funds are made accessible to Iran. Read Also: US-Iran deal signing in a few days, terms of agreement being finalised: Reports ‘US sought to link frozen assets’s release with nuclear deal’ Tasnim also reported that Washington sought to link the release of frozen assets to a possible final nuclear agreement, but Iran wants part of the funds released before any MoU besides setting up a mechanism for releasing the remaining assets during negotiations. Tasnim later reported that the US obstruction of some Iranian clauses in a potential agreement, including the release of Tehran’s blocked assets, was still continuing. The report added that there remains a possibility of the agreement not fructifying. Also Read: US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official In April, a senior Iranian source told Reuters that the US had agreed to release Iranian frozen assets held in Qatar, a claim which was swiftly denied by a US official. A second Iranian source said the US had agreed to release $6 billion of frozen Iranian funds held by Qatar. The funds, linked to Iranian oil sales to South Korea, were transferred to Qatari accounts but remained restricted to humanitarian use under US oversight, the report added. The final negotiations regarding a peace deal will begin only after both parties sign the MoU and agree to the 60-day ceasefire. Also Read: ‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu One important element of the deal is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. An Axios report said that the MoU draft specifies that the Strait would be open without tolls, and Iran would clear the mines it had deployed there. In exchange, the US would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and waive some sanctions it had imposed, allowing the country to sell oil freely. No discussion on Iran’s nuclear programme, enriched uranium before MoU Discussion on Iran’s nuclear capabilities and enriched uranium stockpile would be held only during final negotiations, but the MoU would call for Iran to cease any pursuit of nuclear weapons. Iranian media claimed that the initial peace deal would include Washington waiving sanctions on Iranian oil, and both sides agreeing not to attack each other or their allies. Iran’s state media reported on Monday that the country’s Central Bank chief Abdolnaser Hemmati travelled to Qatar following talks with a Qatari delegation in Tehran regarding Iran’s frozen funds. Also Read: ‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event Meanwhile, Iran’s chief negotiator and Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Doha to meet the Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. The Iranians are meeting with the Qatari PM to discuss the terms of a potential ceasefire deal with the US, an official said.

The funds, linked to Iranian oil sales to South Korea, were transferred to Qatari accounts but remained restricted to humanitarian use under US oversight. The final negotiations regarding a peace deal will begin only after both parties sign the MoU and agree to the 60-day ceasefire.

Iran demands urgent release of $12 billion frozen in Qatar before advancing peace talks with US

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (May 25) that peace negotiations with Iran were "proceeding nicely". In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, the American president wrote, "It will only be a Great Deal for all or, no Deal at all — Back to the Battlefront and shooting, but bigger and stronger than ever before — And nobody wants that! During my discussions on Saturday with President Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, of The United Arab Emirates, Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, and Minister Ali al-Thawadi, of Qatar, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Ahmed Shah, of Pakistan, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, of Türkiye, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, of Egypt, King Abdullah II, of Jordan, and King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, of Bahrain, I stated that, after all the work done by the United States to try and pull this very complex puzzle together, &nbsp;it should be mandatory that all of these Countries, at a minimum, simultaneously, sign onto the Abraham Accords."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-suspended-nuclear-programme-deal-to-end-war-mostly-complete-says-trump-1776450628924">Iran has suspended nuclear programme, deal to end war ‘mostly complete,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;"Those Countries discussed are Saudi Arabia, The United Arab Emirates (already a Member!), Qatar, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain (already a Member!). It may be possible that one or two have a reason for not doing so, and that will be accepted, but most should be ready, willing, and able to make this Settlement with Iran a far more Historic Event than it would, otherwise, be,” he added.&nbsp;Trump has repeatedly said he wants to expand the accords that he brokered during his first term in the White House. The United Arab Emirates and Bahrain signed during Trump’s first term in 2020, breaking a longstanding taboo to become the first Arab states to recognise Israel in a quarter century. Morocco and Sudan followed suit.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-holds-key-to-u-s-iran-deal-tehran-demands-war-reparations-from-gulf-1776192260826">Putin Holds Key To U.S-Iran Deal, Tehran Demands War Reparations From Gulf</a>&nbsp;Trump had been upbeat about prospects that regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia would finally join the accords after a ceasefire went into effect in Gaza last year, but Riyadh has shown no willingness to move ahead. Egypt and Jordan have already established relations with Israel.&nbsp; &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump stated peace talks with Iran are progressing, asserting that a final deal should require several Middle Eastern nations and Pakistan to simultaneously sign the Abraham Accords.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (May 25) that peace negotiations with Iran were "proceeding nicely". In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, the American president wrote, "It will only be a Great Deal for all or, no Deal at all — Back to the Battlefront and shooting, but bigger and stronger than ever before — And nobody wants that! During my discussions on Saturday with President Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, of The United Arab Emirates, Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, and Minister Ali al-Thawadi, of Qatar, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Ahmed Shah, of Pakistan, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, of Türkiye, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, of Egypt, King Abdullah II, of Jordan, and King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, of Bahrain, I stated that, after all the work done by the United States to try and pull this very complex puzzle together, it should be mandatory that all of these Countries, at a minimum, simultaneously, sign onto the Abraham Accords." Also read: Iran has suspended nuclear programme, deal to end war ‘mostly complete,’ says Trump "Those Countries discussed are Saudi Arabia, The United Arab Emirates (already a Member!), Qatar, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain (already a Member!). It may be possible that one or two have a reason for not doing so, and that will be accepted, but most should be ready, willing, and able to make this Settlement with Iran a far more Historic Event than it would, otherwise, be,” he added. Trump has repeatedly said he wants to expand the accords that he brokered during his first term in the White House. The United Arab Emirates and Bahrain signed during Trump’s first term in 2020, breaking a longstanding taboo to become the first Arab states to recognise Israel in a quarter century. Morocco and Sudan followed suit. Also read: Putin Holds Key To U.S-Iran Deal, Tehran Demands War Reparations From Gulf Trump had been upbeat about prospects that regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia would finally join the accords after a ceasefire went into effect in Gaza last year, but Riyadh has shown no willingness to move ahead. Egypt and Jordan have already established relations with Israel.

US President Donald Trump stated peace talks with Iran are progressing, asserting that a final deal should require several Middle Eastern nations and Pakistan to simultaneously sign the Abraham Accords.

'Negotiations with Iran proceeding nicely,' says Trump, links Abraham Accords to negotiations

Pope Leo XIV on Monday called for the "disarming" of artificial intelligence and warned of "new forms of slavery" fuelling the technological revolution in his long-awaited manifesto on the rapidly developing technology. Leo, the first American pope, presented his first encyclical, "Magnifica Humanitas" (Magnificent Humanity), in person at the Vatican alongside AI experts, including Christopher Olah, co-founder of the US firm Anthropic.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-leo-draws-thousands-on-last-day-of-africa-tour-1776912283372/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-leo-draws-thousands-on-last-day-of-africa-tour-1776912283372/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The head of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics warned against "a race for ever more powerful algorithms and larger datasets, driven by the desire to secure geopolitical or commercial dominance", and sounded the alarm over AI-directed weaponry, saying it was "not permissible to entrust lethal" decisions to technology. "No algorithm can make war morally acceptable," he wrote, describing the "just war" theory recently espoused by the Trump administration as "outdated". Leo has repeatedly clashed with the White House over the Iran war and its use of religion to justify conflict.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-has-a-iran-nuclear-bomb-message-for-pope-leo-days-after-branding-him-weak-will-someone-please-tell-him-1776226457808">'Will someone please tell him...': Trump has a 'Iran nuclear bomb' message for Pope Leo days after branding him ‘weak’</a>&nbsp;"Disarming AI means freeing it from the mentality of 'armed' competition," the pope wrote. "To disarm does not mean rejecting technology, but preventing it from dominating humanity." AI should be "human-friendly", accessible to all and open to debate, he added. Leo warned that "nothing in the world of AI is immaterial or magical", noting that every response “relies on the silent work of millions of people”, from content moderators forced to view disturbing material to children extracting rare earth elements. They were "scarred, injured and worn down so that computational flow may continue uninterruptedly", he wrote.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-hegseth-invokes-jesus-in-war-pope-leo-xiv-says-that-s-not-christ-s-way-1775247441408">Pete Hegseth invokes Jesus in war. Pope Leo XIV says that’s not Christ’s way</a>&nbsp;Greater efficiency or innovation did not excuse "a chain of exploitation that remains deliberately hidden", Leo added, while calling for more action to reduce AI's environmental impact. In an unprecedented move, the pope also apologised for the Vatican's role in the slave trade, saying: "For this, in the name of the Church, I sincerely ask for pardon."&nbsp;The encyclical was signed on May 15, the 135th anniversary of an 1891 encyclical that laid the foundations of the Church's social doctrine during the Industrial Revolution. Experts say it could prove as influential as Pope Francis's 2015 climate manifesto, "Laudato Si".

In a historic manifesto, the Pope calls for the "disarming" of AI, warning that autonomous weapons and an algorithmic arms race threaten global peace.

Pope Leo XIV on Monday called for the "disarming" of artificial intelligence and warned of "new forms of slavery" fuelling the technological revolution in his long-awaited manifesto on the rapidly developing technology. Leo, the first American pope, presented his first encyclical, "Magnifica Humanitas" (Magnificent Humanity), in person at the Vatican alongside AI experts, including Christopher Olah, co-founder of the US firm Anthropic. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-leo-draws-thousands-on-last-day-of-africa-tour-1776912283372/embed The head of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics warned against "a race for ever more powerful algorithms and larger datasets, driven by the desire to secure geopolitical or commercial dominance", and sounded the alarm over AI-directed weaponry, saying it was "not permissible to entrust lethal" decisions to technology. "No algorithm can make war morally acceptable," he wrote, describing the "just war" theory recently espoused by the Trump administration as "outdated". Leo has repeatedly clashed with the White House over the Iran war and its use of religion to justify conflict. Also read: 'Will someone please tell him...': Trump has a 'Iran nuclear bomb' message for Pope Leo days after branding him ‘weak’ "Disarming AI means freeing it from the mentality of 'armed' competition," the pope wrote. "To disarm does not mean rejecting technology, but preventing it from dominating humanity." AI should be "human-friendly", accessible to all and open to debate, he added. Leo warned that "nothing in the world of AI is immaterial or magical", noting that every response “relies on the silent work of millions of people”, from content moderators forced to view disturbing material to children extracting rare earth elements. They were "scarred, injured and worn down so that computational flow may continue uninterruptedly", he wrote. Also read: Pete Hegseth invokes Jesus in war. Pope Leo XIV says that’s not Christ’s way Greater efficiency or innovation did not excuse "a chain of exploitation that remains deliberately hidden", Leo added, while calling for more action to reduce AI's environmental impact. In an unprecedented move, the pope also apologised for the Vatican's role in the slave trade, saying: "For this, in the name of the Church, I sincerely ask for pardon." The encyclical was signed on May 15, the 135th anniversary of an 1891 encyclical that laid the foundations of the Church's social doctrine during the Industrial Revolution. Experts say it could prove as influential as Pope Francis's 2015 climate manifesto, "Laudato Si".

In a historic manifesto, the Pope calls for the "disarming" of AI, warning that autonomous weapons and an algorithmic arms race threaten global peace.

Church vs AI: Pope Leo issues sweeping manifesto blasting artificial intelligence race

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir are in Beijing, China, on Monday (May 25) for talks with Chinese leaders as part of ongoing mediation efforts to formally end the Iran war. On Friday and Saturday, Munir was also in Iran alongside Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to mediate to formally end the war. China has said it is willing to work with Pakistan to make positive contributions to the early return of peace and stability in the Middle East. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif began his four-day official visit to China on Saturday in Hangzhou, located in Zhejiang province. Pakistan has recently taken on a key mediating role between the United States and Iran, hosting direct talks between the two sides last month. However, the discussions did not result in a long-term agreement. Meanwhile, China has largely stayed in the background, facilitating phone conversations and meetings with officials from Gulf nations affected by the conflict. Speaking to Chinese leaders in Beijing, Sharif said "the world is passing through a critical moment", Pakistan television showed. "Pakistan has played a sincere role in mediating between the US and Iran. Field Marshal was in Tehran and did not want to miss this great visit," the images carried by Pakistan's state channel PTV showed. "Things are moving in the right direction. I would like to thank China's support in promoting peace."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-foreign-ministers-meet-takes-place-in-delhi-after-trump-xi-summit-what-will-be-different-1779696321808">Quad foreign ministers' meet takes place in Delhi after Trump-Xi summit. What will be different?</a><h3>China hails Beijing’s “unbreakable” friendship with Pakistan</h3>Xi Jinping, China’s President, hailed the “unbreakable” friendship of Beijing with Pakistan during their meeting in Beijing, seeking to deepen the “all-weather” partnership between the two countries, according to Reuters. In April, Pakistan hosted the only face-to-face negotiations between American and Iranian officials since the conflict began. Asim Munir played a prominent role during the talks, welcoming both delegations and sharing a cordial interaction with JD Vance. The negotiations later collapsed after Iran accused the United States of placing “excessive demands” during the discussions.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing to mediate an end to the Iran war. Pakistan previously hosted US-Iran talks, and China expressed willingness to work with Islamabad to restore long-term peace and stability in the Middle East.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir are in Beijing, China, on Monday (May 25) for talks with Chinese leaders as part of ongoing mediation efforts to formally end the Iran war. On Friday and Saturday, Munir was also in Iran alongside Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to mediate to formally end the war. China has said it is willing to work with Pakistan to make positive contributions to the early return of peace and stability in the Middle East. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif began his four-day official visit to China on Saturday in Hangzhou, located in Zhejiang province. Pakistan has recently taken on a key mediating role between the United States and Iran, hosting direct talks between the two sides last month. However, the discussions did not result in a long-term agreement. Meanwhile, China has largely stayed in the background, facilitating phone conversations and meetings with officials from Gulf nations affected by the conflict. Speaking to Chinese leaders in Beijing, Sharif said "the world is passing through a critical moment", Pakistan television showed. "Pakistan has played a sincere role in mediating between the US and Iran. Field Marshal was in Tehran and did not want to miss this great visit," the images carried by Pakistan's state channel PTV showed. "Things are moving in the right direction. I would like to thank China's support in promoting peace." Also read: Quad foreign ministers' meet takes place in Delhi after Trump-Xi summit. What will be different? China hails Beijing’s “unbreakable” friendship with Pakistan Xi Jinping, China’s President, hailed the “unbreakable” friendship of Beijing with Pakistan during their meeting in Beijing, seeking to deepen the “all-weather” partnership between the two countries, according to Reuters. In April, Pakistan hosted the only face-to-face negotiations between American and Iranian officials since the conflict began. Asim Munir played a prominent role during the talks, welcoming both delegations and sharing a cordial interaction with JD Vance. The negotiations later collapsed after Iran accused the United States of placing “excessive demands” during the discussions.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing to mediate an end to the Iran war. Pakistan previously hosted US-Iran talks, and China expressed willingness to work with Islamabad to restore long-term peace and stability in the Middle East.

Shehbaz Sharif, Asim Munir in China as Pak pushes Iran war mediation; Xi calls ties with Islamabad ‘unbreakable’

In yet another major step in the expansion of artificial intelligence into everyday industries, US-based startup Merlin Labs this week has shown that an AI-powered flight system is capable of handling several piloting tasks during an experimental aircraft test. The demonstration comes as the global aviation industry grapples with pilot shortages, rising pressure on air traffic systems and growing interest in AI-assisted air travel technologies. During the demonstration flight, test pilot Matt Diamond did not manually control the aircraft as the AI system executed commands such as changing course after verbal authorisation. The aircraft itself was officially marked “experimental.” However, Merlin executives acknowledged that completely pilotless passenger aircraft are not imminent. The company said the current focus is on building trust in AI systems by using them alongside human pilots rather than removing pilots altogether.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/-ai-layoffs-trend-what-cloudflare-s-move-signals-for-industry-1779699152938">‘AI layoffs trend’: What Cloudflare’s move signals for industry</a><h3>Inside Merlin Labs’ AI aviation technology</h3>The Merlin Pilot system uses natural language processing to interpret air traffic control communications and automate piloting tasks. The test aimed to showcase how artificial intelligence could support pilots in future air travel operations and potentially pave the way for more autonomous aircraft systems.Despite the advanced automation, Merlin Labs stressed that the technology is designed to assist human pilots rather than replace them entirely.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/-future-of-work-how-openai-s-self-improving-ai-model-is-preparing-to-replace-research-jobs-1779698299269">‘Future of work’: How OpenAI’s self-improving AI model is preparing to replace research jobs</a><h3>Trump administration backs AI modernisation</h3>US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has supported the use of artificial intelligence tools as part of efforts to modernize America’s aging air traffic control infrastructure. Duffy emphasized that AI would not replace human air traffic controllers but could help reduce workload and improve efficiency within the system. Capt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association representing over 79,000 pilots in the US and Canada, said technological advancements may improve aviation safety but should never replace trained pilots in the cockpit. The pilots’ union maintained that the presence of two well-trained and well-rested pilots remains the most important safety feature on commercial flights.&nbsp;

In yet another AI-related development, Merlin Labs successfully demonstrated an AI-powered flight system aboard a Cessna Caravan, showcasing how artificial intelligence can assist pilots and automate key aviation tasks amid growing pilot shortages and pressure on air traffic systems.

In yet another major step in the expansion of artificial intelligence into everyday industries, US-based startup Merlin Labs this week has shown that an AI-powered flight system is capable of handling several piloting tasks during an experimental aircraft test. The demonstration comes as the global aviation industry grapples with pilot shortages, rising pressure on air traffic systems and growing interest in AI-assisted air travel technologies. During the demonstration flight, test pilot Matt Diamond did not manually control the aircraft as the AI system executed commands such as changing course after verbal authorisation. The aircraft itself was officially marked “experimental.” However, Merlin executives acknowledged that completely pilotless passenger aircraft are not imminent. The company said the current focus is on building trust in AI systems by using them alongside human pilots rather than removing pilots altogether. Also Read: ‘AI layoffs trend’: What Cloudflare’s move signals for industry Inside Merlin Labs’ AI aviation technology The Merlin Pilot system uses natural language processing to interpret air traffic control communications and automate piloting tasks. The test aimed to showcase how artificial intelligence could support pilots in future air travel operations and potentially pave the way for more autonomous aircraft systems. Despite the advanced automation, Merlin Labs stressed that the technology is designed to assist human pilots rather than replace them entirely. Also Read: ‘Future of work’: How OpenAI’s self-improving AI model is preparing to replace research jobs Trump administration backs AI modernisation US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has supported the use of artificial intelligence tools as part of efforts to modernize America’s aging air traffic control infrastructure. Duffy emphasized that AI would not replace human air traffic controllers but could help reduce workload and improve efficiency within the system. Capt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association representing over 79,000 pilots in the US and Canada, said technological advancements may improve aviation safety but should never replace trained pilots in the cockpit. The pilots’ union maintained that the presence of two well-trained and well-rested pilots remains the most important safety feature on commercial flights.

In yet another AI-related development, Merlin Labs successfully demonstrated an AI-powered flight system aboard a Cessna Caravan, showcasing how artificial intelligence can assist pilots and automate key aviation tasks amid growing pilot shortages and pressure on air traffic systems.

Can AI replace pilots? Experimental test sparks debate over future of pilots

California governor has declared a state of emergency in the state, and thousands of residents are being evacuated as the risk of a dangerous explosion of a chemical tank brews. The situation is reportedly escalating every day despite stabilising efforts. 

California declares emergency as massive chemical tank threatens to explode, forces mass evacuation

Turkish riot police stormed the headquarters of the opposition CHP party in Ankara after a court ousted leader Ozgur Ozel and reinstated Kemal Kilicdaroglu, deepening concerns over democracy and political freedom in Turkey.

Tear gas by riot police and Opposition eviction: Dramatic scenes emerge from Turkey — What's happening | WION Decodes

India is hosting the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting on Tuesday (May 26) in New Delhi. Chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the meeting - first in India since 2023- will be attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. One of the Quad's key focuses has been the Indo-Pacific, where China was seen as a key player and focus of deliberations of the group formally called the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue. But this year, the meeting is happening against two backdrops that affect all Quad members in some manner: the Iran war and the US-China rapprochement. The meeting takes place days after the summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. This might possibly change the strategic context of the Quad meeting, according to several analyses.<h2>Trump downplayed frictions with China. How will Quad view this?</h2>One aspect being reported is that Rubio, who arrived in New Delhi after accompanying Trump to Beijing, would seek to reassure India, Japan and Australia that the US continues to be committed to the Indo-Pacific despite Trump's clear push to downplay security friction with China. The Trump-Xi summit, in reality, did not yield much despite the talk of the emergence of a "G2" — China and the US. This so-far imagined alignment is a situation where China and the US would partition spheres of influence and sideline India, but no major development happened at the summit to point in that direction. This means the status quo in the region is more or less intact, as the summit was mostly transactional, with some trade deals signed or promised.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marco-rubio-lands-in-india-s-kolkata-for-first-official-visit-quad-talks-and-trade-high-on-agenda-1779502037666">Marco Rubio lands in India's Kolkata for first official visit; QUAD talks and trade high on agenda</a><h2>Quad is not dead, but…</h2>India's concerns about a possible US-China rapprochement have subsided as the undercurrents of US-China competition across various sectors remain intact. Observers from think tanks like the Eurasia Review provided the 'Quad is not dead' argument. However, they noted that the grouping has lost some of its initial political bite. The formulations about a "free and open Indo-Pacific" — emphasising freedom of navigation and undisrupted trade flows — might remain unchanged, but whether the Quad will reassert it in strong language remains to be seen.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-host-quad-foreign-minister-s-meeting-amid-west-asia-tension-1779469266200/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-host-quad-foreign-minister-s-meeting-amid-west-asia-tension-1779469266200/embed</a><h2>China's diplomatic moves can't go unnoticed in Quad meetings</h2>The Quad meeting is happening in the wake of intense diplomatic activity involving Xi, which essentially saw US adversaries visiting China. This included Russian President Vladimir Putin (amid the Ukraine war), senior Iranian officials (amid the Iran-US war), and Pakistani leaders (amid continuing India-Pakistan tensions). China, in essence, is hosting several leaders seen as adversarial to the US and some members of the Quad.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rubio-meets-pm-modi-in-delhi-as-india-us-talks-focus-on-energy-quad-and-trade-1779530790043">Rubio meets PM Modi in Delhi as India-US talks focus on energy, QUAD and trade</a><h2>Quad countries are feeling the pinch of Hormuz disruptions caused by Iran war</h2>It is not clear if the Iran war and the ongoing economic strain caused by global maritime disruptions like the Strait of Hormuz tensions would be part of the language of negotiations or the communiqué of the Quad foreign ministers. While its focus is mainly on the Indo-Pacific, the Quad had explicitly discussed supply chains and maritime security in the past. Those aspects remain highly relevant for the current meeting.<h2>Quad language will be watched closely</h2>The Delhi Quad meeting will be watched for the language that emerges from deliberations in the context of the above factors. This is going to be the first test of how the US can channel regional allies to adapt to the second Trump administration's off-again, on-again approach to Beijing.The main deliberations are likely to be on maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, maritime security, and addressing the ongoing crisis in West Asia. Beyond the multilateral session, the visiting foreign ministers are holding bilateral talks with Indian officials and calling on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting will lay the groundwork and roadmap for the upcoming Quad Leaders' Summit later this year.It will likely discuss critical minerals and supply chain resilience, maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, infrastructure, and connectivity. Emerging technologies, cyber, health security, and counter-terrorism are also likely topics for discussion.The meeting will also review past work on vaccines, infrastructure, and maritime domain awareness.

India is hosting the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Delhi just days after the Trump-Xi summit. Quad members might be having concerns around US-China rapprochement. Iran war and Hormuz disruptions have affected most of them. How will Indo-Pacific security focus of Quad play out?

India is hosting the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting on Tuesday (May 26) in New Delhi. Chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the meeting - first in India since 2023- will be attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. One of the Quad's key focuses has been the Indo-Pacific, where China was seen as a key player and focus of deliberations of the group formally called the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue. But this year, the meeting is happening against two backdrops that affect all Quad members in some manner: the Iran war and the US-China rapprochement. The meeting takes place days after the summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. This might possibly change the strategic context of the Quad meeting, according to several analyses. Trump downplayed frictions with China. How will Quad view this? One aspect being reported is that Rubio, who arrived in New Delhi after accompanying Trump to Beijing, would seek to reassure India, Japan and Australia that the US continues to be committed to the Indo-Pacific despite Trump's clear push to downplay security friction with China. The Trump-Xi summit, in reality, did not yield much despite the talk of the emergence of a "G2" — China and the US. This so-far imagined alignment is a situation where China and the US would partition spheres of influence and sideline India, but no major development happened at the summit to point in that direction. This means the status quo in the region is more or less intact, as the summit was mostly transactional, with some trade deals signed or promised. Also read: Marco Rubio lands in India's Kolkata for first official visit; QUAD talks and trade high on agenda Quad is not dead, but… India's concerns about a possible US-China rapprochement have subsided as the undercurrents of US-China competition across various sectors remain intact. Observers from think tanks like the Eurasia Review provided the 'Quad is not dead' argument. However, they noted that the grouping has lost some of its initial political bite. The formulations about a "free and open Indo-Pacific" — emphasising freedom of navigation and undisrupted trade flows — might remain unchanged, but whether the Quad will reassert it in strong language remains to be seen. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-host-quad-foreign-minister-s-meeting-amid-west-asia-tension-1779469266200/embed China's diplomatic moves can't go unnoticed in Quad meetings The Quad meeting is happening in the wake of intense diplomatic activity involving Xi, which essentially saw US adversaries visiting China. This included Russian President Vladimir Putin (amid the Ukraine war), senior Iranian officials (amid the Iran-US war), and Pakistani leaders (amid continuing India-Pakistan tensions). China, in essence, is hosting several leaders seen as adversarial to the US and some members of the Quad. Also read: Rubio meets PM Modi in Delhi as India-US talks focus on energy, QUAD and trade Quad countries are feeling the pinch of Hormuz disruptions caused by Iran war It is not clear if the Iran war and the ongoing economic strain caused by global maritime disruptions like the Strait of Hormuz tensions would be part of the language of negotiations or the communiqué of the Quad foreign ministers. While its focus is mainly on the Indo-Pacific, the Quad had explicitly discussed supply chains and maritime security in the past. Those aspects remain highly relevant for the current meeting. Quad language will be watched closely The Delhi Quad meeting will be watched for the language that emerges from deliberations in the context of the above factors. This is going to be the first test of how the US can channel regional allies to adapt to the second Trump administration's off-again, on-again approach to Beijing. The main deliberations are likely to be on maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, maritime security, and addressing the ongoing crisis in West Asia. Beyond the multilateral session, the visiting foreign ministers are holding bilateral talks with Indian officials and calling on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting will lay the groundwork and roadmap for the upcoming Quad Leaders' Summit later this year. It will likely discuss critical minerals and supply chain resilience, maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, infrastructure, and connectivity. Emerging technologies, cyber, health security, and counter-terrorism are also likely topics for discussion. The meeting will also review past work on vaccines, infrastructure, and maritime domain awareness.

India is hosting the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Delhi just days after the Trump-Xi summit. Quad members might be having concerns around US-China rapprochement. Iran war and Hormuz disruptions have affected most of them. How will Indo-Pacific security focus of Quad play out?

Quad foreign ministers' meet takes place in Delhi after Trump-Xi summit. What will be different?

Spanish capital Madrid was rocked by protests over the weekend as people demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Saturday's march was called by a group of more than 150 civic associations called Sociedad Civil Espanola, over a series of corruption scandals, as one leader said that "Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia." Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied in central Madrid on Sunday against the rising housing costs in the country. Saturday's march was largely peaceful, but a masked contingent that broke off from the main group tried to breach police barriers to storm the Moncloa Palace, Sánchez's official residence. Three people were arrested, and seven officers were injured. Organisers said at least 120,000 people attended the protests, while the central government’s delegate to the region estimated 40,000 people were present.<h2>Saturday protests in Spain against corruption</h2>“There is no one left in Pedro Sanchez’s circle who has not been accused of very serious crimes. Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia,” far-right Vox leader Santiago Abascal said before the march. Sanchez has dismissed calls to step down and is resolute on continuing as the country's leader. He came to power in 2018, and his family has been embroiled in corruption allegations. His brother, David, will soon be tried for influence peddling, while his wife, Begona Gomez, is being investigated in another corruption case. His ex-Transport Minister, Jose Luis Abalos, a close aide, will also soon hear the verdict on his own corruption trial that ended recently.<h2>Sunday protests in Spain against housing crisis</h2>Meanwhile, the Sunday protests were about the housing crisis, as many Spaniards find themselves out of the market due to rising costs and rents. Spain has a strong tradition of homeownership and very few houses available for rent. The increasing demand linked to tourism and immigration has led to housing rents shooting upwards. "We want neighbours, not tourists," one banner read. In April, Spain' s government passed a plan to build more public housing over the next four years. Worth 7 billion euros ($8.23 billion), it is aimed at particularly helping young renters and homebuyers.&nbsp;"The government may say it is taking measures, but the reality for those of us who rent is that we are receiving notices from our landlords who want to evict us," a protester, Fernando de los Santos, said. "The only thing they offer us are abusive price increases."

Spain witnessed dual protest marches in Madrid over the weekend. Day one was targeted against the growing corruption in Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's entourage, while the Sunday protest was against the rising housing costs.

Spanish capital Madrid was rocked by protests over the weekend as people demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Saturday's march was called by a group of more than 150 civic associations called Sociedad Civil Espanola, over a series of corruption scandals, as one leader said that "Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia." Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied in central Madrid on Sunday against the rising housing costs in the country. Saturday's march was largely peaceful, but a masked contingent that broke off from the main group tried to breach police barriers to storm the Moncloa Palace, Sánchez's official residence. Three people were arrested, and seven officers were injured. Organisers said at least 120,000 people attended the protests, while the central government’s delegate to the region estimated 40,000 people were present. Saturday protests in Spain against corruption “There is no one left in Pedro Sanchez’s circle who has not been accused of very serious crimes. Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia,” far-right Vox leader Santiago Abascal said before the march. Sanchez has dismissed calls to step down and is resolute on continuing as the country's leader. He came to power in 2018, and his family has been embroiled in corruption allegations. His brother, David, will soon be tried for influence peddling, while his wife, Begona Gomez, is being investigated in another corruption case. His ex-Transport Minister, Jose Luis Abalos, a close aide, will also soon hear the verdict on his own corruption trial that ended recently. Sunday protests in Spain against housing crisis Meanwhile, the Sunday protests were about the housing crisis, as many Spaniards find themselves out of the market due to rising costs and rents. Spain has a strong tradition of homeownership and very few houses available for rent. The increasing demand linked to tourism and immigration has led to housing rents shooting upwards. "We want neighbours, not tourists," one banner read. In April, Spain' s government passed a plan to build more public housing over the next four years. Worth 7 billion euros ($8.23 billion), it is aimed at particularly helping young renters and homebuyers. "The government may say it is taking measures, but the reality for those of us who rent is that we are receiving notices from our landlords who want to evict us," a protester, Fernando de los Santos, said. "The only thing they offer us are abusive price increases."

Spain witnessed dual protest marches in Madrid over the weekend. Day one was targeted against the growing corruption in Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's entourage, while the Sunday protest was against the rising housing costs.

Double protests in Spain: Why did people take to the streets over the weekend?

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Double protests in Spain: Why did people take to the streets over the weekend?