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The British government said on Thursday it found no evidence that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor underwent any vetting before being appointed as a trade envoy in 2001. The disclosure came alongside the release of official documents showing that his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, had supported his appointment to the role. The papers were released after opposition MPs sought all records connected to the establishment of the post of “Special Representative for Trade and Investment” and Prince Andrew’s controversial selection for the position. He was appointed trade envoy in 2001 but resigned ten years later following scrutiny over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The embattled royal was briefly arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office after the US Department of Justice (DOJ) published documents in connection with the investigation into Epstein, raising questions about his relationship with the financier while he was a trade envoy.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-vanessa-trump-breast-cancer-diagnosis-donald-trump-jr-1779365736602"> Who Is Vanessa Trump? Former model and Donald Trump Jr ex-wife diagnosed with breast cancer</a> Following his arrest, the Liberal Democrats of Britain, an opposition party, made a “humble address” and requested the ministers to publish all available documents on the appointment of Mountbatten-Windsor. Chris Bryant, a trade minister, said on Thursday: “We have found no evidence that a formal due diligence or vetting process was undertaken. There is also no evidence that this was considered.” Chris Bryant said the decision was “understandable”, arguing that Prince Andrew’s appointment was effectively a continuation of the royal family’s longstanding role in promoting Britain’s trade and investment interests. A 41-page dossier released by the British government also revealed that the late Queen Elizabeth II had actively backed her son’s appointment as trade envoy.<h3>Trade envoy role</h3>In a February 2000 memo addressed to then Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, David Wright, who headed British Trade International at the time, wrote that it was “the Queen’s wish” for Prince Andrew to take up the trade envoy role, adding that the position would “fit well” with the conclusion of his career in the British Navy. “The Queen is very keen that the Duke of York should take on a prominent role in the promotion of national interests,” Wright wrote at the time. While serving as trade envoy, Mountbatten-Windsor travelled the world and met senior personalities in business and government. In the released documents on Thursday, a British diplomat wrote that Mountbatten-Windsor had a preference for visiting “more sophisticated countries” and “should not be offered golfing functions abroad.” Later, Prince Andrew was stripped of his royal title last year as his brother, King Charles III, sought to protect the royal family from the backlash surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.&nbsp;

The UK government found no evidence that Prince Andrew underwent vetting before his 2001 trade envoy appointment, which released papers show was backed by Queen Elizabeth II. He resigned in 2011 and was recently arrested in February 2026 amid ties to the Epstein scandal.

The British government said on Thursday it found no evidence that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor underwent any vetting before being appointed as a trade envoy in 2001. The disclosure came alongside the release of official documents showing that his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, had supported his appointment to the role. The papers were released after opposition MPs sought all records connected to the establishment of the post of “Special Representative for Trade and Investment” and Prince Andrew’s controversial selection for the position. He was appointed trade envoy in 2001 but resigned ten years later following scrutiny over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The embattled royal was briefly arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office after the US Department of Justice (DOJ) published documents in connection with the investigation into Epstein, raising questions about his relationship with the financier while he was a trade envoy. Also read: Who Is Vanessa Trump? Former model and Donald Trump Jr ex-wife diagnosed with breast cancer Following his arrest, the Liberal Democrats of Britain, an opposition party, made a “humble address” and requested the ministers to publish all available documents on the appointment of Mountbatten-Windsor. Chris Bryant, a trade minister, said on Thursday: “We have found no evidence that a formal due diligence or vetting process was undertaken. There is also no evidence that this was considered.” Chris Bryant said the decision was “understandable”, arguing that Prince Andrew’s appointment was effectively a continuation of the royal family’s longstanding role in promoting Britain’s trade and investment interests. A 41-page dossier released by the British government also revealed that the late Queen Elizabeth II had actively backed her son’s appointment as trade envoy. Trade envoy role In a February 2000 memo addressed to then Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, David Wright, who headed British Trade International at the time, wrote that it was “the Queen’s wish” for Prince Andrew to take up the trade envoy role, adding that the position would “fit well” with the conclusion of his career in the British Navy. “The Queen is very keen that the Duke of York should take on a prominent role in the promotion of national interests,” Wright wrote at the time. While serving as trade envoy, Mountbatten-Windsor travelled the world and met senior personalities in business and government. In the released documents on Thursday, a British diplomat wrote that Mountbatten-Windsor had a preference for visiting “more sophisticated countries” and “should not be offered golfing functions abroad.” Later, Prince Andrew was stripped of his royal title last year as his brother, King Charles III, sought to protect the royal family from the backlash surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

The UK government found no evidence that Prince Andrew underwent vetting before his 2001 trade envoy appointment, which released papers show was backed by Queen Elizabeth II. He resigned in 2011 and was recently arrested in February 2026 amid ties to the Epstein scandal.

No vetting for former Prince Andrew before trade envoy role, UK govt documents reveal

The United States government is set to invest $2 billion in quantum computing companies, including IBM, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its position in advanced technologies.According to reports, the investment will be made through grants in exchange for equity stakes in selected companies. The move reflects a growing focus on building domestic capabilities in critical sectors such as quantum computing and semiconductor manufacturing.&nbsp;<h2>How the $2 billion investment is being distributed</h2>The funding will be allocated across nine companies working in quantum computing.Key allocations include:Around $1 billion to IBMAbout $375 million to GlobalFoundriesNearly $100 million each to companies such as D-Wave Quantum, Rigetti Computing and InfleqtionSmaller investments, including $38 million, to emerging startupsIn return, the US government will take equity stakes in some of these companies, marking a shift from traditional funding models.<h2>Why the US is investing in quantum computing</h2>Quantum computing is considered a key future technology. Unlike traditional computers, quantum systems use the principles of quantum mechanics to process information.This allows them to:Solve complex problems fasterHandle large datasetsSupport advanced research in areas such as medicine and materialsHowever, current systems still face challenges, including high error rates, which limit their performance.<h2>Part of a broader strategic push</h2>The investment is part of a wider effort by the US government to secure supply chains and maintain technological leadership.Officials have previously taken stakes in companies such as Intel and MP Materials, focusing on sectors critical to national security and industrial growth.The current move also aims to counter growing competition from countries like China in advanced technologies.<h2>New projects and industry developments</h2>As part of the initiative:IBM plans to launch a new quantum chip manufacturing facility in New YorkGlobalFoundries is expanding its work in quantum hardware through a dedicated business unitThese developments are expected to support the production and scaling of quantum computing systems.<h2>Market reaction and industry impact</h2>Following the announcement, shares of companies involved in the deal rose between 7 per cent and 21 per cent in premarket trading, indicating positive market sentiment.Experts say the investment could accelerate innovation in quantum computing and attract further private investment into the sector.<h2>What this means for the future</h2>The US government’s decision to invest directly in quantum companies highlights the importance of infrastructure and technology leadership in the coming years.As quantum computing continues to develop, such investments may play a key role in shaping global competition, research and industrial growth.For now, the focus remains on improving the technology and reducing existing limitations, while building a strong foundation for future applications.

The United States government is set to invest $2 billion in quantum computing companies, including IBM, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its position in advanced technologies.

The United States government is set to invest $2 billion in quantum computing companies, including IBM, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its position in advanced technologies. According to reports, the investment will be made through grants in exchange for equity stakes in selected companies. The move reflects a growing focus on building domestic capabilities in critical sectors such as quantum computing and semiconductor manufacturing. How the $2 billion investment is being distributed The funding will be allocated across nine companies working in quantum computing. Key allocations include: Around $1 billion to IBM About $375 million to GlobalFoundries Nearly $100 million each to companies such as D-Wave Quantum, Rigetti Computing and Infleqtion Smaller investments, including $38 million, to emerging startups In return, the US government will take equity stakes in some of these companies, marking a shift from traditional funding models. Why the US is investing in quantum computing Quantum computing is considered a key future technology. Unlike traditional computers, quantum systems use the principles of quantum mechanics to process information. This allows them to: Solve complex problems faster Handle large datasets Support advanced research in areas such as medicine and materials However, current systems still face challenges, including high error rates, which limit their performance. Part of a broader strategic push The investment is part of a wider effort by the US government to secure supply chains and maintain technological leadership. Officials have previously taken stakes in companies such as Intel and MP Materials, focusing on sectors critical to national security and industrial growth. The current move also aims to counter growing competition from countries like China in advanced technologies. New projects and industry developments As part of the initiative: IBM plans to launch a new quantum chip manufacturing facility in New York GlobalFoundries is expanding its work in quantum hardware through a dedicated business unit These developments are expected to support the production and scaling of quantum computing systems. Market reaction and industry impact Following the announcement, shares of companies involved in the deal rose between 7 per cent and 21 per cent in premarket trading, indicating positive market sentiment. Experts say the investment could accelerate innovation in quantum computing and attract further private investment into the sector. What this means for the future The US government’s decision to invest directly in quantum companies highlights the importance of infrastructure and technology leadership in the coming years. As quantum computing continues to develop, such investments may play a key role in shaping global competition, research and industrial growth. For now, the focus remains on improving the technology and reducing existing limitations, while building a strong foundation for future applications.

The United States government is set to invest $2 billion in quantum computing companies, including IBM, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its position in advanced technologies.

'US to invest $2 billion in quantum firms': What it means for tech and global competition

A New York woman who drowned her three children in the ocean and left their bodies along the shoreline near their home in Coney Island was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Wednesday (May 20). Erin Merdy committed the gruesome crime on September 12, 2022. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said in a statement that the 34-year-old pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree murder in the killings of her children – Zachary Merdy, 7; Liliana Stephens Merdy, 4; and Oliver Bondarev, 3 months old. “We sought the strongest possible accountability in this devastating case, and while nothing can bring these children back, this sentence ensures the defendant will be held responsible for taking their lives," Gonzalez said.<h2>What happened on September 12, 2022</h2>According to prosecutors, on the fateful day, Erin Merdy brought her three children to the beach around 12:37 am and drowned them. Less than an hour later, at roughly 1:25 am, she left the beach and went towards the apartment of her youngest child's father, more than two miles away. She made distraught phone calls to family members, but refused to answer questions about the children. Alarmed, the father and other relatives launched a search and called 911. When officers knocked at the door, no one answered, but it was unlocked. A man was in the building who said that he was the father of one of the children.&nbsp;He told NYPD officials that he thinks the mother and children were on the boardwalk in Coney Island. A full-scale search commenced. Family members eventually located Merdy in nearby Brighton Beach. She was wet and barefoot, and remorsefully told them that the children were gone. At approximately 4:30 am, the police discovered the unresponsive, wet bodies of the three children on the Coney Island shoreline. They were rushed to Coney Island Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.

The woman took her three children to Coney Island on the night of September 12, 2022 and drowned them. She started walking around as the family called 911 and police officials launched a search operation. The kids were discovered unresponsive on the Coney Island shoreline. 

A New York woman who drowned her three children in the ocean and left their bodies along the shoreline near their home in Coney Island was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Wednesday (May 20). Erin Merdy committed the gruesome crime on September 12, 2022. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said in a statement that the 34-year-old pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree murder in the killings of her children – Zachary Merdy, 7; Liliana Stephens Merdy, 4; and Oliver Bondarev, 3 months old. “We sought the strongest possible accountability in this devastating case, and while nothing can bring these children back, this sentence ensures the defendant will be held responsible for taking their lives," Gonzalez said. What happened on September 12, 2022 According to prosecutors, on the fateful day, Erin Merdy brought her three children to the beach around 12:37 am and drowned them. Less than an hour later, at roughly 1:25 am, she left the beach and went towards the apartment of her youngest child's father, more than two miles away. She made distraught phone calls to family members, but refused to answer questions about the children. Alarmed, the father and other relatives launched a search and called 911. When officers knocked at the door, no one answered, but it was unlocked. A man was in the building who said that he was the father of one of the children. He told NYPD officials that he thinks the mother and children were on the boardwalk in Coney Island. A full-scale search commenced. Family members eventually located Merdy in nearby Brighton Beach. She was wet and barefoot, and remorsefully told them that the children were gone. At approximately 4:30 am, the police discovered the unresponsive, wet bodies of the three children on the Coney Island shoreline. They were rushed to Coney Island Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.

The woman took her three children to Coney Island on the night of September 12, 2022 and drowned them. She started walking around as the family called 911 and police officials launched a search operation. The kids were discovered unresponsive on the Coney Island shoreline.&nbsp;

The Coney Island murders: What happened on the night of Sep 12, 2022?

Vanessa Trump, ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr, has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She shared the personal update on her social media account on Wednesday, May 20. She recently underwent a procedure and is now working with her doctors on a treatment plan. 48-year-old Vanessa was married to Trump Jr for more than a decade until 2018.“I am staying focused and hopeful while surrounded by the love and support of my family, my kids and those closest to me,” she wrote. Former sister-in-law Ivanka Trump responded to the post, urging a swift recovery.“While this isn’t news anyone expects, I’m working closely with my medical team on a treatment plan,” she said. “I would like to thank my doctors for performing a procedure earlier this week.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-one-nation-under-god-christian-nationalism-debate-1779189316728">‘Make America Christian’: How Trump’s Christian nationalist messaging challenges America’s civic identity</a><h2>Who is Vanessa Trump?</h2>Vanessa Haydon was born in New York City and grew up on Manhattan's Upper East Side, and established a career as a model. She appeared in a brief cameo in the 2003 film Something's Gotta Give. Her father, Charles Haydon, was a well-known Manhattan entertainment lawyer, and her mother, Bonnie Haydon, ran the Kay Models agencyShe was introduced to Donald Trump Jr by Trump himself at a party. The two married in 2005 at the Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. After 12 years of marriage, Vanessa filed for divorce in 2018. They have five children together. Even after her divorce, she reportedly stayed close to the Trump family. Kai, 19; Donald, 17; Tristan, 14; Spencer, 13; and Chloe, 11.She has been in a relationship with legendary professional golfer, 50-year-old Tiger Woods. The couple made their relationship public on social media.&nbsp;

Vanessa Trump has revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently undergoing treatment. The former wife of Donald Trump Jr shared the update on social media, receiving support from family members including Ivanka Trump.

Vanessa Trump, ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr, has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She shared the personal update on her social media account on Wednesday, May 20. She recently underwent a procedure and is now working with her doctors on a treatment plan. 48-year-old Vanessa was married to Trump Jr for more than a decade until 2018. “I am staying focused and hopeful while surrounded by the love and support of my family, my kids and those closest to me,” she wrote. Former sister-in-law Ivanka Trump responded to the post, urging a swift recovery. “While this isn’t news anyone expects, I’m working closely with my medical team on a treatment plan,” she said. “I would like to thank my doctors for performing a procedure earlier this week.” Also Read: ‘Make America Christian’: How Trump’s Christian nationalist messaging challenges America’s civic identity Who is Vanessa Trump? Vanessa Haydon was born in New York City and grew up on Manhattan's Upper East Side, and established a career as a model. She appeared in a brief cameo in the 2003 film Something's Gotta Give. Her father, Charles Haydon, was a well-known Manhattan entertainment lawyer, and her mother, Bonnie Haydon, ran the Kay Models agency She was introduced to Donald Trump Jr by Trump himself at a party. The two married in 2005 at the Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. After 12 years of marriage, Vanessa filed for divorce in 2018. They have five children together. Even after her divorce, she reportedly stayed close to the Trump family. Kai, 19; Donald, 17; Tristan, 14; Spencer, 13; and Chloe, 11. She has been in a relationship with legendary professional golfer, 50-year-old Tiger Woods. The couple made their relationship public on social media.

Vanessa Trump has revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently undergoing treatment. The former wife of Donald Trump Jr shared the update on social media, receiving support from family members including Ivanka Trump.

Who Is Vanessa Trump? Former model and Donald Trump Jr ex-wife diagnosed with breast cancer

The Paris Appeals Court found Air France and Airbus guilty of manslaughter on Thursday (May 21) over a 2009 plane crash which claimed 228 lives. Flight AF447 between Rio de Janeiro and Paris crashed into the Atlantic Ocean. The court ruled that the French flag carrier and Europe's leading aerospace manufacturer were "solely and entirely responsible," ordering each to pay 225,000 euros ($261,000), the maximum fine for corporate manslaughter.&nbsp;&nbsp;On June 1, 2009, Flight AF447, travelling from Rio de Janeiro to Paris, was cruising over the Atlantic when the pilots lost control of the aircraft, causing it to plunge into the ocean. There were no survivors among the 216 passengers and 12 crew on board the Airbus A330 aircraft, the dead including 72 French nationals and 58 Brazilians.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-air-force-training-jet-crashes-in-punjab-report-claims-video-1779271878928">Pakistan Air Force training jet crashes in Punjab, report claims | VIDEO</a>&nbsp;The court heard how a malfunction with pitot tubes used to measure flight speed, which became blocked with ice crystals during a mid-Atlantic storm, caused alarms to sound in the cockpit and the autopilot system to switch off. Lawyers for the families argued that both companies were aware of the problem with the tubes and that pilots had not been adequately trained to handle such a high-altitude emergency.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-did-all-four-us-navy-pilots-survive-horrific-midair-fighter-jet-crash-what-led-to-the-collision-1779069829802">How did all four US Navy pilots survive horrific midair fighter jet crash? What led to the collision?</a>&nbsp;The ruling overturns a previous acquittal. In 2023, a lower court had cleared both companies, which repeatedly denied the charges. Under the French system, the appeals proceedings involved a completely new trial with evidence reviewed from scratch.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/atlanta-floods-roads-submerged-on-rainstorms-hit-parts-of-us-state-georgia-1779350478083/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/atlanta-floods-roads-submerged-on-rainstorms-hit-parts-of-us-state-georgia-1779350478083/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum fines, amounting to just a few minutes of either company's revenue, have been widely dismissed as a token penalty. But family groups said a conviction would represent a recognition of their plight. French lawyers have predicted further appeals to the country's highest court, potentially dragging the process out for years more and prolonging the ordeal for relatives.&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

In a landmark reversal, a Paris appeals court finds Air France and Airbus guilty of corporate manslaughter over the 2009 Flight AF447 crash that killed 228 people.

The Paris Appeals Court found Air France and Airbus guilty of manslaughter on Thursday (May 21) over a 2009 plane crash which claimed 228 lives. Flight AF447 between Rio de Janeiro and Paris crashed into the Atlantic Ocean. The court ruled that the French flag carrier and Europe's leading aerospace manufacturer were "solely and entirely responsible," ordering each to pay 225,000 euros ($261,000), the maximum fine for corporate manslaughter. On June 1, 2009, Flight AF447, travelling from Rio de Janeiro to Paris, was cruising over the Atlantic when the pilots lost control of the aircraft, causing it to plunge into the ocean. There were no survivors among the 216 passengers and 12 crew on board the Airbus A330 aircraft, the dead including 72 French nationals and 58 Brazilians. Also read: Pakistan Air Force training jet crashes in Punjab, report claims | VIDEO The court heard how a malfunction with pitot tubes used to measure flight speed, which became blocked with ice crystals during a mid-Atlantic storm, caused alarms to sound in the cockpit and the autopilot system to switch off. Lawyers for the families argued that both companies were aware of the problem with the tubes and that pilots had not been adequately trained to handle such a high-altitude emergency. Also read: How did all four US Navy pilots survive horrific midair fighter jet crash? What led to the collision? The ruling overturns a previous acquittal. In 2023, a lower court had cleared both companies, which repeatedly denied the charges. Under the French system, the appeals proceedings involved a completely new trial with evidence reviewed from scratch. https://www.wionews.com/videos/atlanta-floods-roads-submerged-on-rainstorms-hit-parts-of-us-state-georgia-1779350478083/embed The maximum fines, amounting to just a few minutes of either company's revenue, have been widely dismissed as a token penalty. But family groups said a conviction would represent a recognition of their plight. French lawyers have predicted further appeals to the country's highest court, potentially dragging the process out for years more and prolonging the ordeal for relatives.

In a landmark reversal, a Paris appeals court finds Air France and Airbus guilty of corporate manslaughter over the 2009 Flight AF447 crash that killed 228 people.

Air France, Airbus found guilty of manslaughter 17 years after flight 447 crash

India’s relationship with Western media has often been uneasy. The latest controversy involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a Norwegian journalist once again exposed how quickly debates around democracy, press freedom and political perception can dominate international headlines. During PM Modi’s visit to Norway, journalist Helle Lyng publicly asked why he does not take questions “from the freest press in the world.” The moment instantly went viral. Opposition leaders in India cited it as evidence of discomfort with scrutiny, while supporters of the government saw it as another example of Western media arrogance toward India. But the incident was never just about one question or one press interaction.&nbsp;India, as the world’s largest democracy, naturally attracts global attention. Every major democracy faces criticism, media scrutiny, and political debate. That is neither unusual nor unhealthy. Democracies are strengthened by disagreement and public accountability. However, the way some Western institutions frame India creates the impression that democratic values are measured differently depending on geography. For many Indians, this frustration is not entirely without basis.&nbsp;Countries in Europe and North America frequently position themselves as global referees of democracy and free speech. Yet their own records are far from perfect. In recent years, Western nations have witnessed growing debates around surveillance laws, censorship on digital platforms, crackdowns on protests, media monopolies, and the treatment of whistleblowers. &nbsp;This does not mean India should reject criticism simply because the West is imperfect.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Primeminister of India, Narendra Modi, would not take my question, I was not expecting him to. Norway has the number one spot on the World Press Freedom Index, India is at 157th, competing with Palestine, Emirates &amp; Cuba. It is our job to question the powers we cooperate… <a href="https://t.co/vZHYZnAvev">pic.twitter.com/vZHYZnAvev</a>&mdash; Helle Lyng (@HelleLyngSvends) <a href="https://twitter.com/HelleLyngSvends/status/2056349011213181063?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-that-would-be-breaking-news-starmer-s-slip-of-the-tongue-on-north-korea-goes-viral-leaves-commons-in-stitches-1779328646159">WATCH | 'That would be breaking news': Starmer's 'slip of the tongue' on North Korea goes viral, leaves Commons in stitches</a>&nbsp;No democracy is flawless, including India. Concerns around media concentration, online hostility, political polarisation, and institutional independence deserve discussion in any democratic society. Mature democracies do not become weaker by addressing criticism; they become stronger. At the same time, there is a difference between scrutiny and moral superiority. Too often, Western commentary on India carries an undertone that suggests democratic legitimacy flows primarily through Western approval. India’s political and social reality, however, is far more layered than the simplistic binaries often presented in global discourse.&nbsp;A confident democracy should not appear uncomfortable with difficult questions. Prime Minister Modi is among the most influential political leaders globally, and global influence naturally comes with intense scrutiny. International journalists asking tough questions is not extraordinary; it is part of modern political life. In that sense, the conversation should not become about whether journalists are allowed&nbsp;to ask questions. They are. Nor should criticism automatically be dismissed as anti-India. Democracies benefit when governments, media institutions, and citizens engage each other with confidence instead of suspicion.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Oslo, Norway | MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George responds to question by reporters from Norway - &quot;Why should we trust you?&quot; &quot; Will the PM take critical questions from the Indian Press?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/iaEGIlVG08">pic.twitter.com/iaEGIlVG08</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2056498005424078977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-ties-how-did-xi-treat-trump-putin-in-a-week-1779299153138/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-ties-how-did-xi-treat-trump-putin-in-a-week-1779299153138/embed</a>&nbsp;That balance is important. The Modi-Norway controversy will eventually fade from public attention, like most viral political moments do. But the broader questions it raised will remain relevant. Who defines democratic values globally? Why are some nations judged more harshly than others? Can the West still claim moral authority on free speech while facing its own internal contradictions? And how should India respond to criticism without becoming defensive?&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The PM Modi-Norway journalist controversy has reignited debate over democracy, free speech, media scrutiny and Western double standards toward India

India’s relationship with Western media has often been uneasy. The latest controversy involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a Norwegian journalist once again exposed how quickly debates around democracy, press freedom and political perception can dominate international headlines. During PM Modi’s visit to Norway, journalist Helle Lyng publicly asked why he does not take questions “from the freest press in the world.” The moment instantly went viral. Opposition leaders in India cited it as evidence of discomfort with scrutiny, while supporters of the government saw it as another example of Western media arrogance toward India. But the incident was never just about one question or one press interaction. India, as the world’s largest democracy, naturally attracts global attention. Every major democracy faces criticism, media scrutiny, and political debate. That is neither unusual nor unhealthy. Democracies are strengthened by disagreement and public accountability. However, the way some Western institutions frame India creates the impression that democratic values are measured differently depending on geography. For many Indians, this frustration is not entirely without basis. Countries in Europe and North America frequently position themselves as global referees of democracy and free speech. Yet their own records are far from perfect. In recent years, Western nations have witnessed growing debates around surveillance laws, censorship on digital platforms, crackdowns on protests, media monopolies, and the treatment of whistleblowers. This does not mean India should reject criticism simply because the West is imperfect.

The Modi-Norway journalist ‘controversy’ revealed a deeper global debate about democracy, media scrutiny and the West’s selective view of free speech

The Norwegian journalist asked a question. The West missed the bigger one

Israel could be heading toward an early national election after lawmakers took the first formal step to dissolve parliament, a move that threatens &nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government. The development comes at a highly sensitive time for Israel, which remains involved in conflicts across Gaza, Lebanon and Iran, while also facing growing international criticism over the conduct of the war and the influence of far-right ministers in Netanyahu’s cabinet.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jealous-trump-tries-to-downplay-xi-putin-private-tea-meeting-insists-his-beijing-welcome-was-more-brilliant-1779340945856">Jealous? Trump tries to downplay Xi-Putin private tea meeting, insists his Beijing welcome was ‘more brilliant’</a><h2>What exactly happened?</h2>On Wednesday (May 20), Israeli lawmakers voted in favour of a bill to dissolve the 120-seat Knesset, Israel's parliament. The proposal passed its preliminary reading with 110 votes in support and none against.The bill still needs to clear multiple parliamentary stages before becoming law. If it ultimately passes, Israel would likely hold elections within about 90 days, potentially before the current parliamentary term ends in October.As per reports, the trigger for the crisis came from Netanyahu’s own allies. Ultra-Orthodox parties, which are crucial to keeping his coalition alive, accused the prime minister of failing to deliver on a long-promised law that would exempt religious students from mandatory military service. Angered by delays, some coalition partners backed the move to dissolve parliament.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-m-for-melody-not-mehengai-congress-mocks-modi-obver-meloni-video-claims-viral-reel-insult-to-indians-suffering-1779332013625">‘M for Melody, not Mehengai’: Congress mocks Modi over Meloni video, claims viral reel ‘insult to Indians suffering’</a><h2>Why is Netanyahu under pressure?</h2>Netanyahu is already facing multiple political and personal challenges at once. Opinion polls since the October 7 Hamas attacks have consistently shown his coalition losing support. Many Israelis blame his government for security failures surrounding the attack, while public frustration over the prolonged war continues to grow.He is also still fighting a long-running corruption trial. Israeli President Isaac Herzog is reportedly involved in efforts to broker a possible plea deal that could eventually lead to Netanyahu stepping away from politics.Questions around Netanyahu’s health have also resurfaced after recent disclosures about prostate cancer treatment and his earlier pacemaker surgery.<h2>What happens next?</h2>The bill now moves to committee discussions, where lawmakers will debate the timing of a possible snap election before sending it back for final approval. Notably, polls currently suggest Netanyahu could lose his majority, but Israel’s fragmented political system often makes coalition-building difficult.That means the country could once again face political deadlock, with Netanyahu potentially remaining as caretaker prime minister until a new coalition is formed.

Israel could be heading toward another snap election after lawmakers took the first formal step toward dissolving the country’s parliament, a move that threatens the survival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government at a time of war. WION Decodes.

Israel could be heading toward an early national election after lawmakers took the first formal step to dissolve parliament, a move that threatens Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government. The development comes at a highly sensitive time for Israel, which remains involved in conflicts across Gaza, Lebanon and Iran, while also facing growing international criticism over the conduct of the war and the influence of far-right ministers in Netanyahu’s cabinet. Also read | Jealous? Trump tries to downplay Xi-Putin private tea meeting, insists his Beijing welcome was ‘more brilliant’ What exactly happened? On Wednesday (May 20), Israeli lawmakers voted in favour of a bill to dissolve the 120-seat Knesset, Israel's parliament. The proposal passed its preliminary reading with 110 votes in support and none against. The bill still needs to clear multiple parliamentary stages before becoming law. If it ultimately passes, Israel would likely hold elections within about 90 days, potentially before the current parliamentary term ends in October. As per reports, the trigger for the crisis came from Netanyahu’s own allies. Ultra-Orthodox parties, which are crucial to keeping his coalition alive, accused the prime minister of failing to deliver on a long-promised law that would exempt religious students from mandatory military service. Angered by delays, some coalition partners backed the move to dissolve parliament. Also read | ‘M for Melody, not Mehengai’: Congress mocks Modi over Meloni video, claims viral reel ‘insult to Indians suffering’ Why is Netanyahu under pressure? Netanyahu is already facing multiple political and personal challenges at once. Opinion polls since the October 7 Hamas attacks have consistently shown his coalition losing support. Many Israelis blame his government for security failures surrounding the attack, while public frustration over the prolonged war continues to grow. He is also still fighting a long-running corruption trial. Israeli President Isaac Herzog is reportedly involved in efforts to broker a possible plea deal that could eventually lead to Netanyahu stepping away from politics. Questions around Netanyahu’s health have also resurfaced after recent disclosures about prostate cancer treatment and his earlier pacemaker surgery. What happens next? The bill now moves to committee discussions, where lawmakers will debate the timing of a possible snap election before sending it back for final approval. Notably, polls currently suggest Netanyahu could lose his majority, but Israel’s fragmented political system often makes coalition-building difficult. That means the country could once again face political deadlock, with Netanyahu potentially remaining as caretaker prime minister until a new coalition is formed.

Israel could be heading toward another snap election after lawmakers took the first formal step toward dissolving the country’s parliament, a move that threatens the survival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government at a time of war. WION Decodes.

Sun setting on Netanyahu government? Israel may be heading for snap elections as Knesset dissolves Parliament | WION Decodes

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented an array of thoughtful gifts to world leaders during his five-nation tour. The gifts showcased Indian heritage, ranging from ancient art, rare textile and fine produce of fruits and millets. 

From Shirui Lily silk stole to GI-tagged mangoes: What PM Modi gifted leaders during 5-nation tour

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is aiming to conduct 10,000 launches a year within the next five years, according to US Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Bryan Bedford, who revealed details of a recent meeting with SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell. The target would represent a dramatic increase from the company’s current launch pace and further expand SpaceX’s dominance in the commercial space industry. Speaking after an aviation forum on Wednesday, Bedford said Shotwell discussed “the SpaceX five-year vision to get to 10,000 launches a year”. Reuters reported that SpaceX carried out 170 launches in 2025 and deployed roughly 2,500 satellites during the year.&nbsp;In a separate Forbes interview released this week, Musk said SpaceX already has around 10,000 satellites in orbit and eventually plans to launch 10,000 communications satellites annually, though he did not specify a timeline.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-administration-plans-to-cut-us-forces-available-to-nato-during-crises-yet-retain-nuclear-shield-1779282133187">Trump administration plans to cut US forces available to NATO during crises, yet retain nuclear shield</a>&nbsp;<h2>FAA raises reliability and safety concerns</h2>&nbsp;Despite the company’s expansion plans, the FAA signalled that regulatory approval would depend heavily on improved operational reliability. “We need to see a lot more reliability,” Bedford told Reuters reporters, adding that SpaceX and regulators had held ‘a very frank conversation’ about future launch demands.&nbsp;The FAA licenses all commercial space launches in the United States and is responsible for ensuring launches do not interfere with passenger air traffic or create public safety risks. Bedford said the agency is currently reviewing data from previous launches to better assess potential hazards. He also noted that launch operations often require temporary flight restrictions, which ‘can be very disruptive’ to commercial aviation. According to Bedford, the FAA is not currently the main obstacle to launch growth, though he warned that insufficient funding for the agency’s space division could eventually become a limiting factor.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wion-decodes-what-is-trump-s-1-7b-weaponization-fund-proposal-outlines-compensation-for-alleged-political-targeting-1779350111085">WION Decodes| What is Trump’s $1.7B ‘weaponization’ fund? Proposal outlines compensation for alleged 'political targeting'</a>&nbsp;<h2>SpaceX’s broader ambitions</h2>&nbsp;Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has grown into the world’s largest private space company through reusable rocket technology and its Starlink satellite internet business. In January, the company said it hopes to eventually deploy a constellation of one million satellites capable of powering AI-focused infrastructure in space. SpaceX recently disclosed IPO-related financial details showing that Starlink remains its only profitable division, while investments linked to artificial intelligence continue to drive significant spending. Starlink network of ​about 10,000 satellites offers broadband internet to consumers, governments and enterprise customers.&nbsp;Bedford added that the US government’s broader space ambitions, including plans backed by US President Donald Trump to return astronauts to the Moon before 2028, would require closer coordination between regulators and private industry.

Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has grown into the world’s largest private space company through reusable rocket technology and its Starlink satellite internet business. 

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is aiming to conduct 10,000 launches a year within the next five years, according to US Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Bryan Bedford, who revealed details of a recent meeting with SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell. The target would represent a dramatic increase from the company’s current launch pace and further expand SpaceX’s dominance in the commercial space industry. Speaking after an aviation forum on Wednesday, Bedford said Shotwell discussed “the SpaceX five-year vision to get to 10,000 launches a year”. Reuters reported that SpaceX carried out 170 launches in 2025 and deployed roughly 2,500 satellites during the year. In a separate Forbes interview released this week, Musk said SpaceX already has around 10,000 satellites in orbit and eventually plans to launch 10,000 communications satellites annually, though he did not specify a timeline. ALSO READ: Trump administration plans to cut US forces available to NATO during crises, yet retain nuclear shield FAA raises reliability and safety concerns Despite the company’s expansion plans, the FAA signalled that regulatory approval would depend heavily on improved operational reliability. “We need to see a lot more reliability,” Bedford told Reuters reporters, adding that SpaceX and regulators had held ‘a very frank conversation’ about future launch demands. The FAA licenses all commercial space launches in the United States and is responsible for ensuring launches do not interfere with passenger air traffic or create public safety risks. Bedford said the agency is currently reviewing data from previous launches to better assess potential hazards. He also noted that launch operations often require temporary flight restrictions, which ‘can be very disruptive’ to commercial aviation. According to Bedford, the FAA is not currently the main obstacle to launch growth, though he warned that insufficient funding for the agency’s space division could eventually become a limiting factor. ALSO READ: WION Decodes| What is Trump’s $1.7B ‘weaponization’ fund? Proposal outlines compensation for alleged 'political targeting' SpaceX’s broader ambitions Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has grown into the world’s largest private space company through reusable rocket technology and its Starlink satellite internet business. In January, the company said it hopes to eventually deploy a constellation of one million satellites capable of powering AI-focused infrastructure in space. SpaceX recently disclosed IPO-related financial details showing that Starlink remains its only profitable division, while investments linked to artificial intelligence continue to drive significant spending. Starlink network of about 10,000 satellites offers broadband internet to consumers, governments and enterprise customers. Bedford added that the US government’s broader space ambitions, including plans backed by US President Donald Trump to return astronauts to the Moon before 2028, would require closer coordination between regulators and private industry.

Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has grown into the world’s largest private space company through reusable rocket technology and its Starlink satellite internet business.&nbsp;

Elon Musk’s SpaceX plans 10,000 launches annually in 5 years; FAA says more reliability is required!

The Trump administration has been ordered to comply with the Presidential Records Act by a federal judge. The emergency ruling means that Trump's top advisers are required to preserve certain presidential records. The DOJ's Office of Legal Counsel claimed in April that the act was unconstitutional, arguing that it unfairly restricted “the constitutional independence and autonomy of the Executive.” Responding to the body, the nonprofit watchdog group American Oversight and the American Historical Association filed a lawsuit in federal court to prevent the potential loss or destruction of historical presidential records. On Wednesday, US District Judge John Bates ruled that the act is likely constitutional, and his order will go into effect on May 26. “The original public meaning of the text of the Constitution, canons of interpretation, Supreme Court precedent, general principles of property law, and almost 50 years of practice confirm that Congress has the enumerated power to regulate presidential records under the [Constitution’s] Property Clause,” the ruling read.&nbsp;"To adopt the government's position that the Act is unconstitutional would disable Congress and future Presidents from reflecting on experience, in defiance of the very words engraved on the National Archives Building in Washington: 'What is past is prologue,'" Bates wrote.<h2>What is the Presidential Records Act?</h2>The White House is expected to appeal the ruling in a higher court. The 1978 law was enacted in the wake of the Watergate scandal and established that presidential records are public property. Judge Bates also pointed out that Trump had no problems with the law during his first term and complied with it. The order blocks the administration's staff from discarding records, but the President and Vice President themselves are not directly covered by the directive. White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, the National Security Council, Council of Economic Advisers and employees working within the Executive Office of the President are required to comply with it.&nbsp;The judge further noted that there has not been another Watergate-level scandal, which "suggests that the sunshine disinfectant of the Records Act is working as intended." "Today's ruling is an important victory for presidential accountability and for affirming what decades of law and practice already established — the constitutionality of the Presidential Records Act," Chioma Chukwu, executive director of American Oversight, said in a statement. The Presidential Records Act states that the records belong to the US government, and not the president personally, and hence they must be preserved.&nbsp;In their lawsuit, the two bodies warned that they had "strong reason" to believe that Trump could try to keep presidential records when his term ends in January 2029. They said that at the end of his first term in early 2021, he tried to hold onto 15 boxes of records. They carried thousands of documents, including those marked classified, and the Archives fought for months to get them back.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Nonprofit watchdog group American Oversight and the American Historical Association had filed a lawsuit to prevent loss or destruction of historical presidential records. A federal court judge ruled that the Presidential Records Act is likely constitutional.

The Trump administration has been ordered to comply with the Presidential Records Act by a federal judge. The emergency ruling means that Trump's top advisers are required to preserve certain presidential records. The DOJ's Office of Legal Counsel claimed in April that the act was unconstitutional, arguing that it unfairly restricted “the constitutional independence and autonomy of the Executive.” Responding to the body, the nonprofit watchdog group American Oversight and the American Historical Association filed a lawsuit in federal court to prevent the potential loss or destruction of historical presidential records. On Wednesday, US District Judge John Bates ruled that the act is likely constitutional, and his order will go into effect on May 26. “The original public meaning of the text of the Constitution, canons of interpretation, Supreme Court precedent, general principles of property law, and almost 50 years of practice confirm that Congress has the enumerated power to regulate presidential records under the [Constitution’s] Property Clause,” the ruling read. "To adopt the government's position that the Act is unconstitutional would disable Congress and future Presidents from reflecting on experience, in defiance of the very words engraved on the National Archives Building in Washington: 'What is past is prologue,'" Bates wrote. What is the Presidential Records Act? The White House is expected to appeal the ruling in a higher court. The 1978 law was enacted in the wake of the Watergate scandal and established that presidential records are public property. Judge Bates also pointed out that Trump had no problems with the law during his first term and complied with it. The order blocks the administration's staff from discarding records, but the President and Vice President themselves are not directly covered by the directive. White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, the National Security Council, Council of Economic Advisers and employees working within the Executive Office of the President are required to comply with it. The judge further noted that there has not been another Watergate-level scandal, which "suggests that the sunshine disinfectant of the Records Act is working as intended." "Today's ruling is an important victory for presidential accountability and for affirming what decades of law and practice already established — the constitutionality of the Presidential Records Act," Chioma Chukwu, executive director of American Oversight, said in a statement. The Presidential Records Act states that the records belong to the US government, and not the president personally, and hence they must be preserved. In their lawsuit, the two bodies warned that they had "strong reason" to believe that Trump could try to keep presidential records when his term ends in January 2029. They said that at the end of his first term in early 2021, he tried to hold onto 15 boxes of records. They carried thousands of documents, including those marked classified, and the Archives fought for months to get them back.

Nonprofit watchdog group American Oversight and the American Historical Association had filed a lawsuit to prevent loss or destruction of historical presidential records. A federal court judge ruled that the Presidential Records Act is likely constitutional.

Judge blocks Trump from destroying records, orders White House staff to comply with Presidential Records Act

“His Majesty King Charles III has passed away”. That's the message Radio Caroline, a radio station in the United Kingdom, flashed on May 19. Soon after realising the blunder, the radio station issued a public apology. Their flash message had triggered the national "Death of a Monarch" broadcast protocol, The Guardian reported. Radio Caroline blamed the blunder on a “computer error.” It also noted it has broadcast the monarch's Christmas message for years, under Queen Elizabeth II and now under King Charles, and hopes to continue doing so.&nbsp;"Due to a computer error at our main studio, the Death of a Monarch procedure, which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require, was accidentally activated on Tuesday afternoon (19 May), mistakenly announcing that HM the King had passed away," Station manager Peter Moore wrote in a Facebook post. an reported. The computer error happened at the radio station's main studio in Maldon, Essex.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/burning-of-white-house-to-speaking-french-king-charles-iii-roasts-americans-during-us-visit-trump-claps-1777445977668">Burning of White House to 'speaking French': King Charles III ROASTS Americans during US visit, Trump claps</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260521/image-1779353328677.png"></figure>In a the same post, Moore explained that a computer malfunction set off the procedure "which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require." He said the station apologises "to HM the King and to our listeners for any distress caused."&nbsp;Radio Caroline further stated that the station automatically went silent after the accidental activation of the UK’s “Death of a Monarch” protocol, which alerted staff to restore normal programming and issue an on-air apology. The station said it had long broadcast Christmas messages from Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III, adding that it hoped to continue doing so “for many years to come.” It apologised to King Charles and listeners for any distress caused by the false announcement. While station manager Moore did not specify how long the mistaken broadcast remained on air, The Guardian reported that playback for the station’s Tuesday broadcast between 1:58 pm and 5:00 pm local time was unavailable on its website.

Radio Caroline accidentally announced the death of King Charles III after a computer error triggered the UK’s “Death of a Monarch” protocol. The station later apologised, calling it an accidental activation of the emergency system.

“His Majesty King Charles III has passed away”. That's the message Radio Caroline, a radio station in the United Kingdom, flashed on May 19. Soon after realising the blunder, the radio station issued a public apology. Their flash message had triggered the national "Death of a Monarch" broadcast protocol, The Guardian reported. Radio Caroline blamed the blunder on a “computer error.” It also noted it has broadcast the monarch's Christmas message for years, under Queen Elizabeth II and now under King Charles, and hopes to continue doing so. "Due to a computer error at our main studio, the Death of a Monarch procedure, which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require, was accidentally activated on Tuesday afternoon (19 May), mistakenly announcing that HM the King had passed away," Station manager Peter Moore wrote in a Facebook post. an reported. The computer error happened at the radio station's main studio in Maldon, Essex. Also Read: Burning of White House to 'speaking French': King Charles III ROASTS Americans during US visit, Trump claps In a the same post, Moore explained that a computer malfunction set off the procedure "which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require." He said the station apologises "to HM the King and to our listeners for any distress caused." Radio Caroline further stated that the station automatically went silent after the accidental activation of the UK’s “Death of a Monarch” protocol, which alerted staff to restore normal programming and issue an on-air apology. The station said it had long broadcast Christmas messages from Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III, adding that it hoped to continue doing so “for many years to come.” It apologised to King Charles and listeners for any distress caused by the false announcement. While station manager Moore did not specify how long the mistaken broadcast remained on air, The Guardian reported that playback for the station’s Tuesday broadcast between 1:58 pm and 5:00 pm local time was unavailable on its website.

Radio Caroline accidentally announced the death of King Charles III after a computer error triggered the UK’s “Death of a Monarch” protocol. The station later apologised, calling it an accidental activation of the emergency system.

'King Charles III passed away': UK radio station’s ‘technical error’ message goes viral, apology follows

India refused to vote on a UN General Assembly resolution calling on nations to comply with their obligations on climate change, raising concern over the draft, which "undermines" the "sacrosanct architecture" of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The resolution was passed in the 193-member UN General Assembly on Wednesday with 141 countries voting in favour, eight against it and 28 abstaining, including India. New Delhi stated that it had engaged constructively during negotiations on the resolution and consistently articulated its concerns and positions during the process.&nbsp;"We are therefore disappointed that our concerns were not addressed, despite our best efforts to find common ground," it said. Explanation India's vote, First Secretary at India's Permanent Mission to the UN, Petal Gahlot, said adoption of the resolution by the General Assembly does not impose any legally binding obligations on India. b"Our obligations arise only from outcomes adopted under the UNFCCC process. Hence, in line with our stated position on climate change-related issues, India was not in a position to vote in favour of this resolution," she said.&nbsp;The resolution, titled ‘Advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the obligations of States in respect of climate change’, welcomed the unanimous advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice in July 2025 on countries’ responsibilities regarding climate change. It also recognised the opinion as an authoritative interpretation of existing international law.<h3>Why does India abstains to vote?</h3>India has consistently raised concerns in the past that climate obligations must be negotiated through the UN climate framework, as it recognises the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities". Under this principle, developed countries, which are the largest historical emitters, are supposed to take the lead on emissions cuts initiatives and provide finance and technology support to developing nations.&nbsp;Introduced by Vanuatu, the resolution urged all nations to fulfil their obligations under international law to safeguard the climate system and environment from human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. It also called on countries to take steps, consistent with the Paris Agreement and their respective national circumstances, to limit the increase in global average temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. India, however, maintained that the draft resolution does not adequately emphasise the advisory and non-binding character of the ICJ opinion.&nbsp;"We are therefore seriously concerned that the resolution undermines the sacrosanct architecture of the UNFCCC process, by elevating an Advisory Opinion to a binding or quasi-binding status, attempting to impose obligations on developing countries that have not been multilaterally agreed upon. This is a dangerous precedent that we must all be wary of," Gahlot said.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-issues-health-advisory-amid-ebola-outbreak-passengers-from-these-countries-warned-1779344734077"> 'Those with direct contact...': India's DGHS issues health advisory amid Ebola outbreak; Passengers from THESE countries warned</a>&nbsp;India found that the resolution directs a specific mitigation roadmap, imposes external benchmarks for ambition, and setup environment that may invite judicial or quasi-judicial scrutiny of nationally determined contributions. "This seriously undermines national policy space and disrupts the bottom-up architecture of the Paris Agreement," Gahlot said.&nbsp;India, along with several developing nations, has previously voiced concerns that efforts to assign greater legal significance to the International Court of Justice opinion could subject national climate commitments and domestic policy decisions to international legal scrutiny beyond the framework of the negotiated UN climate process.India also raised objections over the omission of the term “climate finance” from the resolution. Calling it a “serious omission”, Petal Gahlot said the climate finance target agreed upon in 2024 is widely acknowledged to be insufficient for the requirements of developing nations and therefore warranted greater emphasis in a resolution dealing with states’ obligations on climate change.&nbsp;She further said India considers the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement to be balanced and internationally agreed frameworks for addressing climate challenges. Gahlot also underlined that sustainable development and poverty alleviation continue to be the foremost priorities for developing countries.&nbsp;"Any transition in energy systems must therefore be just, orderly, and equitable, taking into account the need for energy access, economic growth, and social development. The resolution does not adequately recognise these imperatives and constrains policy space for developing countries.&nbsp;"It is further a case of insult to injury that there is absolutely no reference to the necessity of developed countries continuing to take the lead in mitigation and providing adequate and predictable financing, technology transfer and capacity building to developing countries in order for them to undertake such transitions," Gahlot said.

The resolution urged all nations to take steps, consistent with the Paris Agreement and their respective national circumstances, to limit the increase in global average temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. 

India refused to vote on a UN General Assembly resolution calling on nations to comply with their obligations on climate change, raising concern over the draft, which "undermines" the "sacrosanct architecture" of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The resolution was passed in the 193-member UN General Assembly on Wednesday with 141 countries voting in favour, eight against it and 28 abstaining, including India. New Delhi stated that it had engaged constructively during negotiations on the resolution and consistently articulated its concerns and positions during the process. "We are therefore disappointed that our concerns were not addressed, despite our best efforts to find common ground," it said. Explanation India's vote, First Secretary at India's Permanent Mission to the UN, Petal Gahlot, said adoption of the resolution by the General Assembly does not impose any legally binding obligations on India. b"Our obligations arise only from outcomes adopted under the UNFCCC process. Hence, in line with our stated position on climate change-related issues, India was not in a position to vote in favour of this resolution," she said. The resolution, titled ‘Advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the obligations of States in respect of climate change’, welcomed the unanimous advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice in July 2025 on countries’ responsibilities regarding climate change. It also recognised the opinion as an authoritative interpretation of existing international law. Why does India abstains to vote? India has consistently raised concerns in the past that climate obligations must be negotiated through the UN climate framework, as it recognises the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities". Under this principle, developed countries, which are the largest historical emitters, are supposed to take the lead on emissions cuts initiatives and provide finance and technology support to developing nations. Introduced by Vanuatu, the resolution urged all nations to fulfil their obligations under international law to safeguard the climate system and environment from human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. It also called on countries to take steps, consistent with the Paris Agreement and their respective national circumstances, to limit the increase in global average temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. India, however, maintained that the draft resolution does not adequately emphasise the advisory and non-binding character of the ICJ opinion. "We are therefore seriously concerned that the resolution undermines the sacrosanct architecture of the UNFCCC process, by elevating an Advisory Opinion to a binding or quasi-binding status, attempting to impose obligations on developing countries that have not been multilaterally agreed upon. This is a dangerous precedent that we must all be wary of," Gahlot said. Also read: 'Those with direct contact...': India's DGHS issues health advisory amid Ebola outbreak; Passengers from THESE countries warned India found that the resolution directs a specific mitigation roadmap, imposes external benchmarks for ambition, and setup environment that may invite judicial or quasi-judicial scrutiny of nationally determined contributions. "This seriously undermines national policy space and disrupts the bottom-up architecture of the Paris Agreement," Gahlot said. India, along with several developing nations, has previously voiced concerns that efforts to assign greater legal significance to the International Court of Justice opinion could subject national climate commitments and domestic policy decisions to international legal scrutiny beyond the framework of the negotiated UN climate process. India also raised objections over the omission of the term “climate finance” from the resolution. Calling it a “serious omission”, Petal Gahlot said the climate finance target agreed upon in 2024 is widely acknowledged to be insufficient for the requirements of developing nations and therefore warranted greater emphasis in a resolution dealing with states’ obligations on climate change. She further said India considers the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement to be balanced and internationally agreed frameworks for addressing climate challenges. Gahlot also underlined that sustainable development and poverty alleviation continue to be the foremost priorities for developing countries. "Any transition in energy systems must therefore be just, orderly, and equitable, taking into account the need for energy access, economic growth, and social development. The resolution does not adequately recognise these imperatives and constrains policy space for developing countries. "It is further a case of insult to injury that there is absolutely no reference to the necessity of developed countries continuing to take the lead in mitigation and providing adequate and predictable financing, technology transfer and capacity building to developing countries in order for them to undertake such transitions," Gahlot said.

The resolution urged all nations to take steps, consistent with the Paris Agreement and their respective national circumstances, to limit the increase in global average temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;

Why did India abstain from voting on the UN climate change resolution?

Pakistan army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir will visit Tehran on Thursday (May 21), as Iran examines the latest proposal by US to end the West Asia conflict, reported Iranian media. Without providing any details, Iran's ISNA news agency said Munir's visit was aimed at "talks and consultations" with Iranian authorities.&nbsp;The visit by Pakistan's army chief comes a day after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (May 20).&nbsp;Pakistan is trying to mediate and broker a peace deal between US and Iran after the war broke out on February 28 with airstrike on Iran by US and Israeli military.&nbsp;Meanwhile Trump on Wednesday (May 20) warned that ceasefire agreement that is in effect since April 8 could end soon as diplomacy has failed to yield any results so far.&nbsp;Talking to reporters, he said, "If we don't get the right answers, it goes very quickly. We're all ready to go."&nbsp;Soon after the statement by Trump, Tehran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of threatening to start the war.<h2>"Conflict this time will spread beyond West Asia"</h2>&nbsp;While making the accusation, Ghalibaf warned of a "forceful response" from Iran and the Iran Revolutionary Guards said that the conflict if started this time would spread far beyond West Asia.&nbsp;Tehran as it examined latest proposal by US to end the West Asia conflict &nbsp;repeated Iran's demands for the release of its assets frozen abroad and an end to a US naval blockade of Strait of Hormuz and Iranian ports.&nbsp;

The visit by Pakistans army chief comes a day after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Pakistan army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir will visit Tehran on Thursday (May 21), as Iran examines the latest proposal by US to end the West Asia conflict, reported Iranian media. Without providing any details, Iran's ISNA news agency said Munir's visit was aimed at "talks and consultations" with Iranian authorities. The visit by Pakistan's army chief comes a day after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (May 20). Pakistan is trying to mediate and broker a peace deal between US and Iran after the war broke out on February 28 with airstrike on Iran by US and Israeli military. Meanwhile Trump on Wednesday (May 20) warned that ceasefire agreement that is in effect since April 8 could end soon as diplomacy has failed to yield any results so far. Talking to reporters, he said, "If we don't get the right answers, it goes very quickly. We're all ready to go." Soon after the statement by Trump, Tehran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of threatening to start the war. "Conflict this time will spread beyond West Asia" While making the accusation, Ghalibaf warned of a "forceful response" from Iran and the Iran Revolutionary Guards said that the conflict if started this time would spread far beyond West Asia. Tehran as it examined latest proposal by US to end the West Asia conflict repeated Iran's demands for the release of its assets frozen abroad and an end to a US naval blockade of Strait of Hormuz and Iranian ports.

The visit by Pakistan's army chief comes a day after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Pakistan army chief Asim Munir to visit Iran as Tehran examines latest US proposal

A former senior federal prosecutor has found herself at the centre of a striking new Justice Department scandal after prosecutors accused her of secretly emailing herself confidential records tied to the Jack Smith investigation into Donald Trump, allegedly disguising the files as cake recipes. Carmen Lineberger, once a top official in the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida, was indicted this week on multiple criminal charges, including theft of government property, concealing public records and altering official documents.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jealous-trump-tries-to-downplay-xi-putin-private-tea-meeting-insists-his-beijing-welcome-was-more-brilliant-1779340945856">Jealous? Trump tries to downplay Xi-Putin private tea meeting, insists his Beijing welcome was ‘more brilliant’</a><h2>Charges against Lineberger</h2>At the heart of the case is a highly sensitive section of former US Special Counsel Jack Smith's final Trump investigation report. Specifically, a portion that a federal judge had blocked from public release.According to the newly unsealed indictment, Lineberger allegedly downloaded the classified-documents section of Smith’s report, known internally as "Volume II," in December 2025 and saved it under the filename "Bundt_Cake_Recipe.pdf" before emailing it from her government account to her personal email.Prosecutors say she used a similar tactic months later with portions of another internal Justice Department memo, allegedly storing those files as "Chocolate_cake_recipe.pdf."The indictment does not explain what prosecutors believe her ultimate motive was, nor whether the documents were ever shared further. Lineberger pleaded not guilty during her arraignment on Wednesday.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-m-for-melody-not-mehengai-congress-mocks-modi-obver-meloni-video-claims-viral-reel-insult-to-indians-suffering-1779332013625">‘M for Melody, not Mehengai’: Congress mocks Modi over Meloni video, claims viral reel ‘insult to Indians suffering’</a><h2>Why the report matters: Hint - these might be the most politically sensitive unreleased documents</h2>The document at the centre of the controversy comes from Jack Smith’s investigation into Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents after leaving office back in 2020.Trump had been accused of retaining sensitive government records at Mar-a-Lago and obstructing efforts to recover them, charges he repeatedly dismissed as politically motivated. The case collapsed later after Judge Aileen Cannon ruled Smith's appointment was unlawful.Since then, Trump’s return to the White House has further complicated matters, as longstanding Justice Department policy bars prosecution of a sitting president.Notably, even after the criminal case was dismissed, Cannon blocked the release of Volume II, arguing that public disclosure could prejudice ongoing cases involving Trump associates. This makes the report one of the most politically sensitive unreleased documents in Washington.

A former federal prosecutor is now accused of smuggling some of Washington’s most politically explosive Donald Trump investigation files by Jack Smith out of the Justice Department by disguising them as cake recipes. All you need to know.

A former senior federal prosecutor has found herself at the centre of a striking new Justice Department scandal after prosecutors accused her of secretly emailing herself confidential records tied to the Jack Smith investigation into Donald Trump, allegedly disguising the files as cake recipes. Carmen Lineberger, once a top official in the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida, was indicted this week on multiple criminal charges, including theft of government property, concealing public records and altering official documents. Also read | Jealous? Trump tries to downplay Xi-Putin private tea meeting, insists his Beijing welcome was ‘more brilliant’ Charges against Lineberger At the heart of the case is a highly sensitive section of former US Special Counsel Jack Smith's final Trump investigation report. Specifically, a portion that a federal judge had blocked from public release. According to the newly unsealed indictment, Lineberger allegedly downloaded the classified-documents section of Smith’s report, known internally as "Volume II," in December 2025 and saved it under the filename "Bundt_Cake_Recipe.pdf" before emailing it from her government account to her personal email. Prosecutors say she used a similar tactic months later with portions of another internal Justice Department memo, allegedly storing those files as "Chocolate_cake_recipe.pdf." The indictment does not explain what prosecutors believe her ultimate motive was, nor whether the documents were ever shared further. Lineberger pleaded not guilty during her arraignment on Wednesday. Also read | ‘M for Melody, not Mehengai’: Congress mocks Modi over Meloni video, claims viral reel ‘insult to Indians suffering’ Why the report matters: Hint - these might be the most politically sensitive unreleased documents The document at the centre of the controversy comes from Jack Smith’s investigation into Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents after leaving office back in 2020. Trump had been accused of retaining sensitive government records at Mar-a-Lago and obstructing efforts to recover them, charges he repeatedly dismissed as politically motivated. The case collapsed later after Judge Aileen Cannon ruled Smith's appointment was unlawful. Since then, Trump’s return to the White House has further complicated matters, as longstanding Justice Department policy bars prosecution of a sitting president. Notably, even after the criminal case was dismissed, Cannon blocked the release of Volume II, arguing that public disclosure could prejudice ongoing cases involving Trump associates. This makes the report one of the most politically sensitive unreleased documents in Washington.

A former federal prosecutor is now accused of smuggling some of Washington’s most politically explosive Donald Trump investigation files by Jack Smith out of the Justice Department by disguising them as cake recipes. All you need to know.

'Bundt_Cake_Recipe.pdf': Prosecutor charged with smuggling SECRET Jack Smith report on Trump

Amid the Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa, India on Thursday (May 20) has issued a health advisory for passengers arriving from or transiting through high-risk countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has urged travellers showing symptoms linked to Ebola disease to immediately report to airport health authorities before immigration clearance. In the advisory, the DGHS said that travellers showing symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, bleeding, or those who had direct contact with infected persons have been “advised to immediately report to airport health authorities and seek medical care within 21 days of arrival.” Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has also issued a health advisory for passengers arriving from or travelling through Ebola-affected countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ebola-outbreak-passenger-from-drc-boards-air-france-flight-in-error-removed-after-ebola-scare-diversion-what-happened-1779340605135">DRC man boards flight ‘in error’ amid Ebola outbreak: What happened next</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HI0gftkagAAToGN?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" alt="Image"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ebola-outbreak-declared-international-health-emergency-by-who-is-it-a-pandemic-wion-decodes-1778992302702">Ebola outbreak declared 'international health emergency' by WHO: Is it a pandemic? WION Decodes</a><h2>What India listed as symptoms?</h2>Mentioning the symptoms of Ebola, India's Health Ministry asked passengers to watch for symptoms including fever, weakness or fatigue, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding and sore throat. Authorities also warned that travellers who develop any of these symptoms within 21 days of arrival should immediately seek medical care and inform healthcare officials about their travel history.<h2>WHO declares Ebola an ‘international health emergency’</h2>Last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Ebola outbreak an ‘international health emergency.’ The WHO has also warned that there was no vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain that is spreading. The latest outbreak has killed over 139 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo till May 19. &nbsp;The global health body stopped short of declaring a pandemic emergency, the highest alert level introduced in 2024. There are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral drugs specifically for the Bundibugyo strain.

Amid the Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa, Delhi airport issued a health advisory for passengers arriving from DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. Travellers showing symptoms such as fever, fatigue, vomiting or unexplained bleeding have been asked to report to health authorities immediately.

Amid the Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa, India on Thursday (May 20) has issued a health advisory for passengers arriving from or transiting through high-risk countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has urged travellers showing symptoms linked to Ebola disease to immediately report to airport health authorities before immigration clearance. In the advisory, the DGHS said that travellers showing symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, bleeding, or those who had direct contact with infected persons have been “advised to immediately report to airport health authorities and seek medical care within 21 days of arrival.” Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has also issued a health advisory for passengers arriving from or travelling through Ebola-affected countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. Also Read: DRC man boards flight ‘in error’ amid Ebola outbreak: What happened next Also Read: Ebola outbreak declared 'international health emergency' by WHO: Is it a pandemic? WION Decodes What India listed as symptoms? Mentioning the symptoms of Ebola, India's Health Ministry asked passengers to watch for symptoms including fever, weakness or fatigue, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding and sore throat. Authorities also warned that travellers who develop any of these symptoms within 21 days of arrival should immediately seek medical care and inform healthcare officials about their travel history. WHO declares Ebola an ‘international health emergency’ Last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Ebola outbreak an ‘international health emergency.’ The WHO has also warned that there was no vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain that is spreading. The latest outbreak has killed over 139 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo till May 19. The global health body stopped short of declaring a pandemic emergency, the highest alert level introduced in 2024. There are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral drugs specifically for the Bundibugyo strain.

Amid the Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa, Delhi airport issued a health advisory for passengers arriving from DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. Travellers showing symptoms such as fever, fatigue, vomiting or unexplained bleeding have been asked to report to health authorities immediately.

'Those with direct contact...': India's DGHS issues health advisory amid Ebola outbreak; Passengers from THESE countries warned

The US Southern Command which oversees US military action in the Caribbean and Latin America, on Wednesday (May 20) said that the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier and its strike group have arrived in the Caribbean as Washington continues to put pressure on the island's communist leadership.&nbsp;This comes after Washington imposed an effective oil blockade on the Caribbean nation and reports of Cuba acquiring drones capable of attacking the US mainland came to light.&nbsp;In fact, the US intelligence community has been pondering over how Cuba might respond if American took up any military action against the country, according to a CBS report.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mark-carney-mocks-trump-teleprompter-conspiracy-theory-joke-1779336734625">Canada PM Mark Carney mocks Donald Trump over teleprompter glitch, jokes about ‘conspiracy theory’</a>&nbsp;Two US officials who had knowledge of the matter spoke to CBS on condition of anonymity and said "Work on developing military options for President Trump has begun."&nbsp;They also said, "US military planners frequently incorporate such analysis into developing options for a president to consider."&nbsp;The detail of US preparing for any retaliation from Cuba if it is attacked is not clear, but the process is ongoing as tensions between Havana and Washington rise.<h2>Cuba warns US of "bloodbath"</h2>&nbsp;Cuba’s leadership warned on Monday (May 18) that a US attack would trigger a ‘bloodbath’, as tensions with the United States escalated sharply following new sanctions targeting Havana’s intelligence apparatus and senior officials. President Miguel Diaz-Canel said Cuba would defend itself after a report by Axios alleged the country had acquired more than 300 military drones from Russia and Iran and was considering potential strikes on US targets.&nbsp;Taking to X &nbsp;Diaz-Canel warned &nbsp;“Cuba poses no threat” to the United States or any other country, but an attack would “trigger a bloodbath with incalculable consequences.”&nbsp;He also stressed that Cuba retains the absolute and legitimate right to defend itself against a military onslaught. Cuba’s ambassador to the United Nations, Ernesto Soberon Guzman, echoed the warning, saying the country would resist any invasion. “If someone tried to invade Cuba, Cuba will fight back, no doubt about it,” he said.&nbsp;

The detail of US preparing for any retaliation from Cuba if it is attacked is not clear, but the process is ongoing as tensions between Havana and Washington rise.

The US Southern Command which oversees US military action in the Caribbean and Latin America, on Wednesday (May 20) said that the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier and its strike group have arrived in the Caribbean as Washington continues to put pressure on the island's communist leadership. This comes after Washington imposed an effective oil blockade on the Caribbean nation and reports of Cuba acquiring drones capable of attacking the US mainland came to light. In fact, the US intelligence community has been pondering over how Cuba might respond if American took up any military action against the country, according to a CBS report. ALSO READ: Canada PM Mark Carney mocks Donald Trump over teleprompter glitch, jokes about ‘conspiracy theory’ Two US officials who had knowledge of the matter spoke to CBS on condition of anonymity and said "Work on developing military options for President Trump has begun." They also said, "US military planners frequently incorporate such analysis into developing options for a president to consider." The detail of US preparing for any retaliation from Cuba if it is attacked is not clear, but the process is ongoing as tensions between Havana and Washington rise. Cuba warns US of "bloodbath" Cuba’s leadership warned on Monday (May 18) that a US attack would trigger a ‘bloodbath’, as tensions with the United States escalated sharply following new sanctions targeting Havana’s intelligence apparatus and senior officials. President Miguel Diaz-Canel said Cuba would defend itself after a report by Axios alleged the country had acquired more than 300 military drones from Russia and Iran and was considering potential strikes on US targets. Taking to X Diaz-Canel warned “Cuba poses no threat” to the United States or any other country, but an attack would “trigger a bloodbath with incalculable consequences.” He also stressed that Cuba retains the absolute and legitimate right to defend itself against a military onslaught. Cuba’s ambassador to the United Nations, Ernesto Soberon Guzman, echoed the warning, saying the country would resist any invasion. “If someone tried to invade Cuba, Cuba will fight back, no doubt about it,” he said.

The detail of US preparing for any retaliation from Cuba if it is attacked is not clear, but the process is ongoing as tensions between Havana and Washington rise.

US preparing for conflict with Cuba? American intelligence analysing prospects of Cuba retaliation if military action initiated: Report

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 20) tried to save face as Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his China visit, got what the POTUS didn't: tea time with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The US President, during his recent trip to Beijing, was met with special military honour, marching bands and more. He even touted the meeting with Xi as something his predecessor could never get: "I don't think Biden would even get a meeting with President Xi". Xi "told me he was going to; I think it's good," Trump told reporters Wednesday, as he was forced to wave off any jealousy amid reports of Xi-Putin's private tea meeting. "I get along with both of them, but I think it’s good."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-corruption-in-plain-sight-trump-and-family-get-forever-shield-from-irs-audits-after-hush-hush-settlement-all-you-need-to-know-1779253991583">'Corruption in plain sight': Trump and family get ‘FOREVER’ shield from IRS audits after hush-hush settlement. All you need to know</a><h2>Trump claims his reception was superior to Putin's</h2>The US President also claimed that his reception in Beijing was far superior to that of the Russian president. "I don’t know if the ceremony was quite as brilliant as mine," he told reporters, adding, "I watched; we topped them".Notably, both Trump and Putin received similar welcomes that consisted of military honour guard marching bands, cheering children, and more.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fact-check-trump-caught-on-video-taking-a-sneak-a-peek-at-xi-jinping-s-private-notebook-clip-goes-viral-watch-1778922228125">Fact check: Trump caught on video taking a sneak peek at Xi Jinping’s private notebook? Clip goes viral | WATCH</a><h2>Xi, Putin hit out at Trump</h2>According to reports, Xi and Putin, during their recent meet issued quite a few veiled references to Trump, and even condemned the "assassination" and "abduction" of world leaders, an apparent reference to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Venezuela's former president Nicolas Maduro.Xi also referred to China and Russia as forces of "calm amid chaos" on the world stage. This is being seen as a veiled jab at the turbulence Trump's presidency has caused so far.In their joint statement, the two nations warned of the dangers of "fragmentation" of the international community and a return to the "law of the jungle.""Attempts by a number of states to unilaterally manage global affairs, impose their interests on the entire world, and limit the sovereign development of other countries, in the spirit of the colonial era, have failed," read the statement.&nbsp;

Days after Donald Trump boasted about his grand Beijing welcome, Vladimir Putin arrived in China and got something arguably more telling: private tea diplomacy with Xi Jinping. Trump insists he is not jealous and even claimed his own ceremony was “more brilliant."

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 20) tried to save face as Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his China visit, got what the POTUS didn't: tea time with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The US President, during his recent trip to Beijing, was met with special military honour, marching bands and more. He even touted the meeting with Xi as something his predecessor could never get: "I don't think Biden would even get a meeting with President Xi". Xi "told me he was going to; I think it's good," Trump told reporters Wednesday, as he was forced to wave off any jealousy amid reports of Xi-Putin's private tea meeting. "I get along with both of them, but I think it’s good." Also read | 'Corruption in plain sight': Trump and family get ‘FOREVER’ shield from IRS audits after hush-hush settlement. All you need to know Trump claims his reception was superior to Putin's The US President also claimed that his reception in Beijing was far superior to that of the Russian president. "I don’t know if the ceremony was quite as brilliant as mine," he told reporters, adding, "I watched; we topped them". Notably, both Trump and Putin received similar welcomes that consisted of military honour guard marching bands, cheering children, and more. Also read | Fact check: Trump caught on video taking a sneak peek at Xi Jinping’s private notebook? Clip goes viral | WATCH Xi, Putin hit out at Trump According to reports, Xi and Putin, during their recent meet issued quite a few veiled references to Trump, and even condemned the "assassination" and "abduction" of world leaders, an apparent reference to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Venezuela's former president Nicolas Maduro. Xi also referred to China and Russia as forces of "calm amid chaos" on the world stage. This is being seen as a veiled jab at the turbulence Trump's presidency has caused so far. In their joint statement, the two nations warned of the dangers of "fragmentation" of the international community and a return to the "law of the jungle." "Attempts by a number of states to unilaterally manage global affairs, impose their interests on the entire world, and limit the sovereign development of other countries, in the spirit of the colonial era, have failed," read the statement.

Days after Donald Trump boasted about his grand Beijing welcome, Vladimir Putin arrived in China and got something arguably more telling: private tea diplomacy with Xi Jinping. Trump insists he is not jealous and even claimed his own ceremony was “more brilliant."

Jealous? Trump tries to downplay Xi-Putin private tea meeting, insists his Beijing welcome was ‘more brilliant’

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney mocked the US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, after experiencing his own teleprompter issue during his speech. Carney was at an event for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade on Wednesday. Instead of letting the malfunction disrupt his speech, he took it sportingly and made a thinly veiled reference to the US President. Carney recalled Trump's teleprompter issue at the New York Headquarters of the United Nations."Happens, it happens," Carney said while laughing. “I'm not going to go into the - I'm not going to say who I - you know what, there's a teleprompter joke I could tell about a conspiracy theory, but I think I, it's probably not”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-200-boeing-aircraft-trump-xi-trade-deal-1779279846759">China confirms purchase of 200 Boeing aircraft after Trump-Xi trade summit</a><h2>What is Carney's conspiracy theory joke?</h2>Carney's remarks referred to Trump's mishaps last September at the United Nations (UN) headquarters. During his visit, Trump faced troubles with the escalator, audio problems, and the teleprompter. Trump complained, saying that “bad” features are all he got from the international organisation.“I don’t mind making this speech without a teleprompter, because the teleprompter is not working,” Trump said previously. “I feel very happy to be up here with you, nevertheless, and that way you speak more from the heart.” He added, “I can only say that whoever is operating this teleprompter is in big trouble.”He later lashed out on Truth Social. He claimed the malfunctioning equipment was a "REAL DISGRACE" and "three very sinister events," ultimately calling on the UN to investigate the incidents as a case of "triple sabotage"“A REAL DISGRACE took place at the United Nations yesterday — Not one, not two, but three very sinister events!” wrote Trump in Truth Social. Earlier this year at the World Economic Forum, Carney directly confronted "bullies and hegemons", after which Trump warned Canada should be grateful to the US, after which Carney left the forum without meeting him.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney mocked Donald Trump after facing a teleprompter malfunction during a speech in Vancouver, referencing Trump’s earlier UN teleprompter controversy and “triple sabotage” claim.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney mocked the US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, after experiencing his own teleprompter issue during his speech. Carney was at an event for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade on Wednesday. Instead of letting the malfunction disrupt his speech, he took it sportingly and made a thinly veiled reference to the US President. Carney recalled Trump's teleprompter issue at the New York Headquarters of the United Nations. "Happens, it happens," Carney said while laughing. “I'm not going to go into the - I'm not going to say who I - you know what, there's a teleprompter joke I could tell about a conspiracy theory, but I think I, it's probably not” Also Read: China confirms purchase of 200 Boeing aircraft after Trump-Xi trade summit What is Carney's conspiracy theory joke? Carney's remarks referred to Trump's mishaps last September at the United Nations (UN) headquarters. During his visit, Trump faced troubles with the escalator, audio problems, and the teleprompter. Trump complained, saying that “bad” features are all he got from the international organisation. “I don’t mind making this speech without a teleprompter, because the teleprompter is not working,” Trump said previously. “I feel very happy to be up here with you, nevertheless, and that way you speak more from the heart.” He added, “I can only say that whoever is operating this teleprompter is in big trouble.” He later lashed out on Truth Social. He claimed the malfunctioning equipment was a "REAL DISGRACE" and "three very sinister events," ultimately calling on the UN to investigate the incidents as a case of "triple sabotage" “A REAL DISGRACE took place at the United Nations yesterday — Not one, not two, but three very sinister events!” wrote Trump in Truth Social. Earlier this year at the World Economic Forum, Carney directly confronted "bullies and hegemons", after which Trump warned Canada should be grateful to the US, after which Carney left the forum without meeting him.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney mocked Donald Trump after facing a teleprompter malfunction during a speech in Vancouver, referencing Trump’s earlier UN teleprompter controversy and “triple sabotage” claim.

Canada PM Mark Carney mocks Donald Trump over teleprompter glitch, jokes about ‘conspiracy theory’

A flight from France to Detroit Metro Airport was diverted over Ebola concerns on Wednesday (May 19). The flight was from Charles de Gaulle and was diverted from DTW to Montreal reportedly to remove a passenger who was from DRC. On the flight was a passenger from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) spokesperson said that the passenger should not have been on the flight as the US restricted travel from Congo, Uganda and South Sudan on May 18 due to a widening outbreak of Ebola in parts of Africa. This comes after US State Department issued Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories for the DRC, South Sudan and Uganda, and urged caution for neighbouring regions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rubio-criticises-who-as-a-little-late-identifying-deadly-congo-ebola-outbreak-1779210878638">Rubio criticises WHO as 'a little late' identifying deadly Congo Ebola outbreak</a><h3>CBP says passenger boarded flight ‘in error’</h3>The statement by CBP said: “Air France boarded a passenger from the Democratic Republic of Congo in error on a flight to the United States. Due to entry restrictions put in place to reduce the risk of the Ebola virus, the passenger should not have boarded the plane. CBP took decisive action and prohibited the flight carrying that traveler from landing at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, and instead, diverted to Montreal, Canada. CBP, in coordination with CDC, is taking the necessary measures to protect public health and reduce the risk of Ebola disease introduction into the United States.”&nbsp;The statement confirmed that passenger was removed after the plane was diverted to Canada. It also said that the passenger has not been confirmed to be infected with Ebola as of Wednesday evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ebola-outbreak-declared-international-health-emergency-by-who-is-it-a-pandemic-wion-decodes-1778992302702">Ebola outbreak declared 'international health emergency' by WHO: Is it a pandemic? WION Decodes</a><h3>WHO declares international health emergency over rare Ebola strain</h3>The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Ebola outbreak an ‘international health emergency’ that has killed over 139 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The WHO has also raised alarm due to its 'scale and speed'. Authorities warned that there was no vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain that is spreading. The global health body stopped short of declaring a pandemic emergency, the highest alert level introduced in 2024. There are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral drugs specifically for the Bundibugyo strain. Experimental candidates such as Merck’s Ervebo, Mapp Biopharmaceutical’s MBP 134 and Auro Vaccines’ VesiculoVax have shown promise in trials. Some early-stage research, including a Chinese mRNA vaccine tested in mice, has also shown potential but has not yet reached advanced testing stages.

An Air France flight from Paris to Detroit was diverted to Montreal after a passenger from the Democratic Republic of Congo was mistakenly allowed onboard despite US Ebola-related travel restrictions. Authorities removed the traveler, who has not been confirmed to have Ebola.

A flight from France to Detroit Metro Airport was diverted over Ebola concerns on Wednesday (May 19). The flight was from Charles de Gaulle and was diverted from DTW to Montreal reportedly to remove a passenger who was from DRC. On the flight was a passenger from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) spokesperson said that the passenger should not have been on the flight as the US restricted travel from Congo, Uganda and South Sudan on May 18 due to a widening outbreak of Ebola in parts of Africa. This comes after US State Department issued Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories for the DRC, South Sudan and Uganda, and urged caution for neighbouring regions. Also Read: Rubio criticises WHO as 'a little late' identifying deadly Congo Ebola outbreak CBP says passenger boarded flight ‘in error’ The statement by CBP said: “Air France boarded a passenger from the Democratic Republic of Congo in error on a flight to the United States. Due to entry restrictions put in place to reduce the risk of the Ebola virus, the passenger should not have boarded the plane. CBP took decisive action and prohibited the flight carrying that traveler from landing at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, and instead, diverted to Montreal, Canada. CBP, in coordination with CDC, is taking the necessary measures to protect public health and reduce the risk of Ebola disease introduction into the United States.” The statement confirmed that passenger was removed after the plane was diverted to Canada. It also said that the passenger has not been confirmed to be infected with Ebola as of Wednesday evening. Also Read: Ebola outbreak declared 'international health emergency' by WHO: Is it a pandemic? WION Decodes WHO declares international health emergency over rare Ebola strain The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Ebola outbreak an ‘international health emergency’ that has killed over 139 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The WHO has also raised alarm due to its 'scale and speed'. Authorities warned that there was no vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain that is spreading. The global health body stopped short of declaring a pandemic emergency, the highest alert level introduced in 2024. There are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral drugs specifically for the Bundibugyo strain. Experimental candidates such as Merck’s Ervebo, Mapp Biopharmaceutical’s MBP 134 and Auro Vaccines’ VesiculoVax have shown promise in trials. Some early-stage research, including a Chinese mRNA vaccine tested in mice, has also shown potential but has not yet reached advanced testing stages.

An Air France flight from Paris to Detroit was diverted to Montreal after a passenger from the Democratic Republic of Congo was mistakenly allowed onboard despite US Ebola-related travel restrictions. Authorities removed the traveler, who has not been confirmed to have Ebola.

Passenger from DRC boards Air France flight ‘in error’, removed after Ebola scare diversion: What happened

After a tense call with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, US President Donald Trump jokingly said that he was so popular in Israel that he could potentially “run for Prime Minister.” He also praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during remarks about Iran war. This comes amid as Trump mulls renewed strikes on the Islamic Republic. During the exchange with reporters, Trump turned to his own popularity in Israel and joked about the possibility of running for office there.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-trump-hold-talks-are-us-and-israel-preparing-to-strike-iran-again-iran-us-israel-war-iran-conflict-starit-of-hormuz-energy-fuel-crisis-1779070590231">Netanyahu-Trump talks fuel fears of renewed Iran strikes amid reports of Op Sledgehammer: Will the war start again?</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’m right now at 99% in Israel. I could run for prime minister,” Trump said. “So maybe after I do this, I’ll go to Israel, run for prime minister.” The president added, “I had a poll this morning. I’m 99%. So that’s good.” Praising Netanyahu, Trump said: “He’s fine. He’ll do whatever I want him to do. He’s a very good man. He’s a great guy. To me, he’s a great guy.” Trump also argued that Netanyahu was “wartime prime minister,” and was not being treated fairly in Israel. Trump also appeared to criticize Israel’s leadership dynamics, saying, “I think they have a president over there that treats him very poorly."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">NOW - Trump says Netanyahu &quot;will do whatever I want him to do. He&#39;s a great guy,&quot; adding, &quot;I&#39;m right now, at 99% in Israel. I could run for Prime Minister. So, maybe after I do this I&#39;ll go to Israel run for Prime Minister.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Pi1eFBufJL">pic.twitter.com/Pi1eFBufJL</a>&mdash; Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) <a href="https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/2057095762245292366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-bibi-s-hair-was-on-fire-trump-netanyahu-call-turns-tense-over-new-iran-peace-proposal-claims-report-1779305503990">'Bibi's hair was on fire': Trump, Netanyahu call turns tense over new Iran peace proposal, claims report</a><h2>Trump on Iran war</h2>US President Donald Trump said the United States was entering a critical phase in its standoff with Iran, warning that Tehran must agree to a deal or face potentially harsher action. Speaking to reporters, Trump said Washington was giving diplomacy “one shot” while insisting he was “in no hurry.” He later claimed Iran’s air force and navy had been effectively destroyed and cautioned that any future military action could become “even harder” if Tehran failed to reach an agreement, even as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran reportedly continue.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump claimed he was “99% popular” in Israel and joked he could run for prime minister while praising Benjamin Netanyahu amid rising Iran tensions. Trump also warned Tehran that the US could take “nasty” action if a deal is not reached.

After a tense call with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, US President Donald Trump jokingly said that he was so popular in Israel that he could potentially “run for Prime Minister.” He also praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during remarks about Iran war. This comes amid as Trump mulls renewed strikes on the Islamic Republic. During the exchange with reporters, Trump turned to his own popularity in Israel and joked about the possibility of running for office there. Also Read: Netanyahu-Trump talks fuel fears of renewed Iran strikes amid reports of Op Sledgehammer: Will the war start again? “I’m right now at 99% in Israel. I could run for prime minister,” Trump said. “So maybe after I do this, I’ll go to Israel, run for prime minister.” The president added, “I had a poll this morning. I’m 99%. So that’s good.” Praising Netanyahu, Trump said: “He’s fine. He’ll do whatever I want him to do. He’s a very good man. He’s a great guy. To me, he’s a great guy.” Trump also argued that Netanyahu was “wartime prime minister,” and was not being treated fairly in Israel. Trump also appeared to criticize Israel’s leadership dynamics, saying, “I think they have a president over there that treats him very poorly."

US President Donald Trump claimed he was “99% popular” in Israel and joked he could run for prime minister while praising Benjamin Netanyahu amid rising Iran tensions. Trump also warned Tehran that the US could take “nasty” action if a deal is not reached.

'I’ll go and run for prime minister...': Trump claims to have 99% approval in Israel amid tense call with Netanyahu | VIDEO

As PM Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni set the internet on fire with their Melody toffee video, Congress on Thursday (May 21) launched a sharp attack against the Indian Prime Minister. In a post on X, the chief Opposition party trolled Modi, commenting, "he can't say M for Mehengai (inflation), but he can say M for Melody". In another X video, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi slammed the PM, noting that while Modi himself urged the people of India to refrain from buying gold, driving a lot and going abroad, "he himself travels abroad on a plane worth thousands of crores of rupees, feeding Italian Prime Minister Meloni a Melody toffee."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-we-strongly-condemn-discrimination-taiwan-condemns-racist-election-poster-promising-a-ban-on-indian-immigrants-after-viral-backlash-1779262317332">‘We strongly condemn discrimination’: Taiwan slams racist election poster promising a ban on Indian immigrants after viral backlash</a><h2>An insult to the people of India</h2>Gandhi alleged that the now viral “reel that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made is an insult to the people of India who are suffering.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">मोदी जी, आपका Melody Reel हर भारतीय का - और उसके दर्द का - अपमान है। <a href="https://t.co/9SNqzg3uUJ">pic.twitter.com/9SNqzg3uUJ</a>&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/2057128654329794679?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Congress, in its video, claimed that Indians suffer in poverty while PM Modi "distributes Melody" toffees during his visit to Italy. The opposition party also posted a video montage contrasting economic hardships with clips of Modi gifting the popular Indian toffee to Italian PM Giorgia Meloni. "The country is struggling with a huge financial crisis...but what is the Prime Minister doing? Distributing toffees in Italy like Santa Claus.""Farmers, youths, women, workers, small businessmen — they are all crying...(while) PM laughs, makes reels, distributes toffees..Do something Mr. Modi... Do something!" it adds.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">देश के लोग गुरबत में जिंदगी काट रहे हैं मोदी इटली में &#39;मेलोडी&#39; बांट रहे हैं <a href="https://t.co/UYJdMMNxKM">pic.twitter.com/UYJdMMNxKM</a>&mdash; Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/2057086803954573357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-there-are-youngsters-like-cockroaches-what-made-cji-surya-kant-compare-youngsters-to-pests-supreme-court-hearing-turns-explosive-1778909973915">'There are youngsters like cockroaches': Why did CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests?</a><h2>The viral Melody moment</h2>In what was a brilliant social media strategy, Indian PM Modi, who is on a multi-nation visit, in a viral "sweet" moment, gifted the Italian PM a packet of a popular Indian toffee called Melody. A video reel of the moment went viral online, with people enjoying Modi's nod to the viral nickname 'MeloDi', which the internet has coined for him and PM Meloni. In the video, the Italian PM says that Prime Minister Modi has got a “very very special gift from India”. PM Modi then responds by saying ‘Melodi’ while showing a packet of Melody toffees.

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYjNN2KsWkx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Giorgia Meloni (@giorgiameloni)</a></div></blockquote>
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The term “Melodi” is a viral nickname created by social media users by blending the names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Both leaders were aware of the trend and joined in during the COP28 summit in Dubai in 2023. At the time, Meloni posted a selfie with Modi, captioning it “Good friends at COP28 #Melodi.” The buzz around the nickname resurfaced when Meloni welcomed Modi to Rome with another selfie. Social media users flooded the post with comments like “Melodi is back”.

The Congress on Thursday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his now-viral “Melodi” moment with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, accusing him of prioritising social media optics while ordinary Indians struggle with inflation and rising living costs. Here's what the party said.

As PM Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni set the internet on fire with their Melody toffee video, Congress on Thursday (May 21) launched a sharp attack against the Indian Prime Minister. In a post on X, the chief Opposition party trolled Modi, commenting, "he can't say M for Mehengai (inflation), but he can say M for Melody". In another X video, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi slammed the PM, noting that while Modi himself urged the people of India to refrain from buying gold, driving a lot and going abroad, "he himself travels abroad on a plane worth thousands of crores of rupees, feeding Italian Prime Minister Meloni a Melody toffee." Also read | ‘We strongly condemn discrimination’: Taiwan slams racist election poster promising a ban on Indian immigrants after viral backlash An insult to the people of India Gandhi alleged that the now viral “reel that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made is an insult to the people of India who are suffering.”

The Congress on Thursday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his now-viral “Melodi” moment with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, accusing him of prioritising social media optics while ordinary Indians struggle with inflation and rising living costs. Here's what the party said.

‘M for Melody, not Mehengai’: Congress mocks Modi over Meloni video, claims viral reel ‘insult to Indians suffering’

India has slammed Pakistan United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for attempting to interfere in India's internal issues while not speaking about its genocidal act against neighbouring nations. In a strongly worded speech on Thursday (May 21), India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, slammed the country of carrying out cross-border violence in Afghanistan that caused hundreds of civilian deaths and injuries. Putting Pakistan's horrible record in front of the world, the Indian envoy listed its attack on its own people during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, referring to Operation Searchlight. He also said that the country ignored global calls to uphold international humanitarian obligations. India reiterated that states supporting cross-border terrorism must be held accountable and stressed that protection of civilians should remain central to the UN Security Council’s peace and security efforts.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Indian Envoy to UN P Harish raises the issue of Pakistan attacks in Afghanistan last month &amp; violations in 🇧🇩 in 1971. Says,&quot;it was during the holy month of Ramadan in March this year Pakistan conducted a barbaric airstrike on the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul&quot; <a href="https://t.co/qxijuexRxd">pic.twitter.com/qxijuexRxd</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/2057273682817699856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What India’s UN envoy said?</h2>&nbsp;“It is ironic that Pakistan, with its long-tainted record of genocidal acts, has chosen to refer to issues that are strictly internal to India," he said. Parvathaneni's response came as Pakistan attempted to rake up Jammu and Kashmir issue at the UN Security Council’s open debate. About 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, Parvathaneni said, “During Operation Searchlight in 1971, Pakistan sanctioned the systematic campaign of genocidal mass rape of 400,000 women citizens by its own army. Such inhuman conduct reflects Pakistan's repeated attempts over decades to externalize internal failures through increasingly desperate acts of violence both within and beyond its borders. With no faith, no law, and no morality the world can see through Pakistan's propaganda.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/journalist-who-questioned-mea-says-instagram-facebook-suspended-what-happened-in-norway-1779243139618">Norwegian journalist in heated MEA exchange says Instagram, Facebook suddenly suspended: What’s happening?</a>&nbsp;About Afghanistan, he said, "The world has not forgotten that it was during the holy month of Ramadan in March this year, at a time of peace, reflection, and mercy, that Pakistan conducted a barbaric airstrike on the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul. Again, according to UNAMA, this cowardly and unconscionable act of violence claimed the lives of 269 civilians and injured a further 122 in a facility which can by no means be justified as a military target," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-right-to-change-govt-mea-counters-norway-journalist-s-why-should-we-trust-you-question-1779156603780">'Right to change govt...': MEA counters Norway journalist’s 'why should we trust you' question - VIDEO</a>&nbsp;In conclusion, India’s UN envoy Parvathaneni urged the global community to “restore and ensure respect for international humanitarian law, strengthen accountability, ensure humanitarian access, protect medical care, responsibly govern emerging technologies and thereby alleviate the suffering of civilians affected by armed conflict.”

India criticised Pakistan at the UN Security Council over cross-border violence in Afghanistan, attacks on civilians and hospitals, and atrocities during the 1971 Bangladesh war. The remarks came after Pakistan raised Jammu and Kashmir during the debate on civilian protection.


India has slammed Pakistan United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for attempting to interfere in India's internal issues while not speaking about its genocidal act against neighbouring nations. In a strongly worded speech on Thursday (May 21), India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, slammed the country of carrying out cross-border violence in Afghanistan that caused hundreds of civilian deaths and injuries. Putting Pakistan's horrible record in front of the world, the Indian envoy listed its attack on its own people during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, referring to Operation Searchlight. He also said that the country ignored global calls to uphold international humanitarian obligations. India reiterated that states supporting cross-border terrorism must be held accountable and stressed that protection of civilians should remain central to the UN Security Council’s peace and security efforts.

India criticised Pakistan at the UN Security Council over cross-border violence in Afghanistan, attacks on civilians and hospitals, and atrocities during the 1971 Bangladesh war. The remarks came after Pakistan raised Jammu and Kashmir during the debate on civilian protection.

'Its long-tainted record of genocidal acts...': India tears into Pakistan's at UNSC after Kashmir remarks - VIDEO

Keir Starmer sparked laughter in the House of Commons after accidentally claiming the UK had secured a trade deal with North Korea instead of South Korea during Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday (May 20). The British prime minister later corrected himself in Parliament, joking about the mistake while apologising to MPs. “I’ve just been handed a note saying that I inadvertently said we did a trade deal with North Korea rather than South Korea. “That would be breaking news and not very good. “So, before I’m referred to the Privileges Committee, can I correct the record in that regard? It was a slip of the tongue but a pretty unfortunate one.”&nbsp;The comments came as Starmer defended his international record and highlighted trade negotiations undertaken during his premiership. “In the last two years, I’ve been negotiating serious trade deals, which are vital for our most important sectors of the economy. “They’re trade deals with the EU, but also with India, North Korea and the United States.” The accidental reference immediately drew attention in the Commons and online, given the UK's lack of diplomatic and trade engagement with the isolated regime in Pyongyang.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 WATCH: Keir Starmer corrects the record after accidentally saying the UK struck a trade deal with North Korea instead of South Korea <a href="https://t.co/AJJePFLTtL">pic.twitter.com/AJJePFLTtL</a>&mdash; Politics UK (@PolitlcsUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/PolitlcsUK/status/2057063763862245524?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The joke about the Privileges Committee referenced a recent political controversy involving Starmer. Last month, MPs rejected a Conservative effort to refer him to the Commons Privileges Committee over allegations he misled Parliament during discussions about appointing Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the US. The issue surfaced during an exchange with Ed Davey, who challenged Labour figures over their opposition to Britain joining a customs union with the European Union.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senate-republicans-pull-1-billion-secret-service-funding-for-trump-s-white-house-ballroom-project-1779314558813">Senate Republicans pull $1 billion Secret Service funding for Trump's White House Ballroom project</a>&nbsp;Davey also pressed Starmer over concerns surrounding possible cuts to Britain’s overseas aid budget amid an Ebola outbreak in central Africa. “We now see a dangerous outbreak of Ebola in central Africa and many people fear it’s going to spread and get much worse,” Davey said. “Yet, there are rumours across Whitehall that the Prime Minister is planning further cuts to Britain’s international aid programme this year. “Will he today rule that out entirely?”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-union-makes-provisional-agreement-with-the-us-1779327946341/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-union-makes-provisional-agreement-with-the-us-1779327946341/embed</a>&nbsp;Starmer responded by describing Ebola as a “very important issue.” “Obviously, we’re working at pace and with others in relation to that issue. “We did take a decision in relation to aid in order to fund defence spending because we needed to increase defence spending. “But we are committed to our overseas aid and we mitigated that with some of the measures that we put in place.” The World Health Organization has assessed the Ebola outbreak risk in Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda as high at national and regional levels, though low globally.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologised in Parliament after accidentally saying Britain signed a trade deal with North Korea instead of South Korea during PMQs. The Commons erupted in laughter as Starmer called it a “pretty unfortunate” slip of the tongue

Keir Starmer sparked laughter in the House of Commons after accidentally claiming the UK had secured a trade deal with North Korea instead of South Korea during Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday (May 20). The British prime minister later corrected himself in Parliament, joking about the mistake while apologising to MPs. “I’ve just been handed a note saying that I inadvertently said we did a trade deal with North Korea rather than South Korea. “That would be breaking news and not very good. “So, before I’m referred to the Privileges Committee, can I correct the record in that regard? It was a slip of the tongue but a pretty unfortunate one.” The comments came as Starmer defended his international record and highlighted trade negotiations undertaken during his premiership. “In the last two years, I’ve been negotiating serious trade deals, which are vital for our most important sectors of the economy. “They’re trade deals with the EU, but also with India, North Korea and the United States.” The accidental reference immediately drew attention in the Commons and online, given the UK's lack of diplomatic and trade engagement with the isolated regime in Pyongyang. Watch the video here

Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologised after mistakenly claiming the UK struck a trade deal with North Korea instead of South Korea

WATCH | 'That would be breaking news': Starmer's 'slip of the tongue' on North Korea goes viral, leaves Commons in stitches

Donald Trump suffered a political setback on Wednesday (May 20) after Senate Republicans moved to remove a $1 billion Secret Service funding request linked to his White House ballroom project from a broader immigration enforcement bill. “We were told that the ballroom money is out,” said Sen. John Kennedy, adding he’d “like to read the text.” The decision followed a ruling by Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough, who determined that the provision did not comply with budget reconciliation rules because it extended beyond the jurisdiction of the Judiciary Committee.&nbsp;The funding removal was also influenced by growing Republican resistance in the Senate, where several lawmakers raised concerns about including financing tied to the White House ballroom project in an immigration-focused bill. Senate Majority Leader John Thune told Republicans during a closed-door lunch that both procedural issues and a lack of sufficient votes were barriers to keeping the funding provision, according to sources familiar with the meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-s-spacex-files-for-biggest-ever-ipo-in-history-under-ticker-spcx-here-s-all-you-need-to-know-about-it-1779313005490">Elon Musk's SpaceX files for biggest-ever IPO in history under ticker SPCX. Here's all you need to know about it</a>&nbsp;Kennedy and other GOP senators indicated the entire Secret Service funding section would likely be dropped. Thune later said discussions were ongoing and no final legislative text had been agreed upon. The draft bill had specifically referenced the East Wing Modernization Project, allowing part of the $1 billion in Secret Service funding to be used for “above-ground and below-ground security features” connected to the ballroom initiative. The White House had pushed for the inclusion, viewing it as implicit congressional backing for the broader project, which is currently facing legal challenges after a federal judge ruled it had not been properly authorized.Earlier drafts of legislative text were reportedly provided to senators by the administration, according to Thune.&nbsp;Behind the scenes, Republicans are reportedly bracing for a strong reaction from Trump, who had already called for MacDonough’s removal in a post on Truth Social.Officials said only about $220 million of the proposed funding was expected to directly support ballroom-related security upgrades and White House “hardening,” but questions remained among senators. With deadlines approaching, Republicans are now rushing to finalise immigration legislation for Trump’s approval this week.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/poland-us-troop-deployment-delayed-not-cancelled-1779298287303/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/poland-us-troop-deployment-delayed-not-cancelled-1779298287303/embed</a>&nbsp;However, the political tensions extend beyond the funding dispute. Democrats are preparing amendments targeting a Justice Department “anti-weaponization” fund created through a settlement involving Trump, which could be used for political ally compensation. Some Republicans believe those amendments could gain bipartisan support, further complicating the bill’s passage.

Senate Republicans removed a $1 billion Secret Service funding request linked to Donald Trump’s White House ballroom project from an immigration bill, citing procedural rules and GOP opposition. The move adds fresh political tension in Washington as lawmakers race to finalize legislation

Donald Trump suffered a political setback on Wednesday (May 20) after Senate Republicans moved to remove a $1 billion Secret Service funding request linked to his White House ballroom project from a broader immigration enforcement bill. “We were told that the ballroom money is out,” said Sen. John Kennedy, adding he’d “like to read the text.” The decision followed a ruling by Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough, who determined that the provision did not comply with budget reconciliation rules because it extended beyond the jurisdiction of the Judiciary Committee. The funding removal was also influenced by growing Republican resistance in the Senate, where several lawmakers raised concerns about including financing tied to the White House ballroom project in an immigration-focused bill. Senate Majority Leader John Thune told Republicans during a closed-door lunch that both procedural issues and a lack of sufficient votes were barriers to keeping the funding provision, according to sources familiar with the meeting. Also Read: Elon Musk's SpaceX files for biggest-ever IPO in history under ticker SPCX. Here's all you need to know about it Kennedy and other GOP senators indicated the entire Secret Service funding section would likely be dropped. Thune later said discussions were ongoing and no final legislative text had been agreed upon. The draft bill had specifically referenced the East Wing Modernization Project, allowing part of the $1 billion in Secret Service funding to be used for “above-ground and below-ground security features” connected to the ballroom initiative. The White House had pushed for the inclusion, viewing it as implicit congressional backing for the broader project, which is currently facing legal challenges after a federal judge ruled it had not been properly authorized. Earlier drafts of legislative text were reportedly provided to senators by the administration, according to Thune. Behind the scenes, Republicans are reportedly bracing for a strong reaction from Trump, who had already called for MacDonough’s removal in a post on Truth Social. Officials said only about $220 million of the proposed funding was expected to directly support ballroom-related security upgrades and White House “hardening,” but questions remained among senators. With deadlines approaching, Republicans are now rushing to finalise immigration legislation for Trump’s approval this week. https://www.wionews.com/videos/poland-us-troop-deployment-delayed-not-cancelled-1779298287303/embed However, the political tensions extend beyond the funding dispute. Democrats are preparing amendments targeting a Justice Department “anti-weaponization” fund created through a settlement involving Trump, which could be used for political ally compensation. Some Republicans believe those amendments could gain bipartisan support, further complicating the bill’s passage.

Senate Republicans drop $1 billion Secret Service funding tied to Donald Trump’s ballroom project amid legal, procedural, and political backlash

Senate Republicans pull $1 billion Secret Service funding for Trump's White House Ballroom project

SpaceX has filed for its long-anticipated initial public offering, revealing new details about its business model, ownership structure, and future ambitions as investors prepare for what could become the largest IPO in history. The company, founded and led by Elon Musk, is reportedly targeting a valuation that could raise $80 billion or more, surpassing the previous record held by Saudi Aramco, which raised $26 billion in its 2019 public listing.<h2>Massive market opportunity projection</h2>In its IPO filing, SpaceX estimates a total addressable market (TAM) of $28.5 trillion, describing it as the ‘largest actionable’ market opportunity ‘in human history’.The breakdown includes:<ul><li>$370 billion in space-enabled services</li><li>$1.6 trillion in connectivity, including Starlink broadband and mobile expansion</li><li>$26.5 trillion in artificial intelligence-related markets, spanning infrastructure, subscriptions, advertising, and enterprise applications</li><li>$22.7 trillion in enterprise applications</li></ul>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-there-won-t-be-escalation-says-trump-as-he-calls-indictment-against-raul-castro-very-big-moment-1779308113798">'There won't be escalation', says Trump as he calls indictment against Raul Castro 'very big moment'</a><h2>What is the stock symbol for SpaceX?&nbsp;</h2>The filing shows that SpaceX plans to trade under the ticker symbol ‘SPCX’ once it goes public next month. The stock will be dual-listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market and Nasdaq Texas, marking a competitive win for Nasdaq in attracting high-profile listings.<h2>Who are the board members of SpaceX?</h2>SpaceX disclosed its board structure, with Elon Musk serving as chairman. Other board members include long-time SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell, Google executive Donald Harrison, and investors Antonio Gracias, Steve Jurvetson, and Luke Nosek. Randy Glein and Ira Ehrenpreis recently joined as directors.<h2>How much did SpaceX spend last year?</h2>The company reported $20.7 billion in capital expenditures last year, driven by investments in launch systems, satellites, AI infrastructure, and its expanding Starlink network. The Starlink division remains central to revenue growth, with more than 10 million subscribers as of March, doubling year over year. SpaceX reported total revenue of approximately $18.7 billion in 2025, with Starlink alone generating more than $11 billion. The company described Starlink as capable of delivering broadband connectivity anywhere on Earth. It also identified telecom giants such as AT&amp;T and Verizon as competitors in the global internet market.<h2>AI satellite project won’t be easy: SpaceX</h2>SpaceX also outlined plans for an orbital AI computing network, potentially beginning deployment as early as 2028. However, the company acknowledged major technical hurdles. “Orbital AI compute is an incredibly difficult technical challenge,” the company said in its prospectus. “We believe we are the only company with a commercially viable path to building orbital AI compute at scale.” The initiative depends heavily on the successful development of the Starship rocket, which is expected to play a key role in deploying large-scale satellite infrastructure.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cristiano-ronaldo-s-final-attempt-to-win-the-fifa-world-cup-1779298231843/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/cristiano-ronaldo-s-final-attempt-to-win-the-fifa-world-cup-1779298231843/embed</a>

SpaceX has filed for its IPO under ticker SPCX, revealing major financials, Starlink growth, and plans for AI satellite networks. The company targets a massive valuation, positioning itself for one of the largest public offerings in history under Elon Musk’s leadership

SpaceX has filed for its long-anticipated initial public offering, revealing new details about its business model, ownership structure, and future ambitions as investors prepare for what could become the largest IPO in history. The company, founded and led by Elon Musk, is reportedly targeting a valuation that could raise $80 billion or more, surpassing the previous record held by Saudi Aramco, which raised $26 billion in its 2019 public listing. Massive market opportunity projection In its IPO filing, SpaceX estimates a total addressable market (TAM) of $28.5 trillion, describing it as the ‘largest actionable’ market opportunity ‘in human history’. The breakdown includes: $370 billion in space-enabled services $1.6 trillion in connectivity, including Starlink broadband and mobile expansion $26.5 trillion in artificial intelligence-related markets, spanning infrastructure, subscriptions, advertising, and enterprise applications $22.7 trillion in enterprise applications Also Read: 'There won't be escalation', says Trump as he calls indictment against Raul Castro 'very big moment' What is the stock symbol for SpaceX? The filing shows that SpaceX plans to trade under the ticker symbol ‘SPCX’ once it goes public next month. The stock will be dual-listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market and Nasdaq Texas, marking a competitive win for Nasdaq in attracting high-profile listings. Who are the board members of SpaceX? SpaceX disclosed its board structure, with Elon Musk serving as chairman. Other board members include long-time SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell, Google executive Donald Harrison, and investors Antonio Gracias, Steve Jurvetson, and Luke Nosek. Randy Glein and Ira Ehrenpreis recently joined as directors. How much did SpaceX spend last year? The company reported $20.7 billion in capital expenditures last year, driven by investments in launch systems, satellites, AI infrastructure, and its expanding Starlink network. The Starlink division remains central to revenue growth, with more than 10 million subscribers as of March, doubling year over year. SpaceX reported total revenue of approximately $18.7 billion in 2025, with Starlink alone generating more than $11 billion. The company described Starlink as capable of delivering broadband connectivity anywhere on Earth. It also identified telecom giants such as AT&T and Verizon as competitors in the global internet market. AI satellite project won’t be easy: SpaceX SpaceX also outlined plans for an orbital AI computing network, potentially beginning deployment as early as 2028. However, the company acknowledged major technical hurdles. “Orbital AI compute is an incredibly difficult technical challenge,” the company said in its prospectus. “We believe we are the only company with a commercially viable path to building orbital AI compute at scale.” The initiative depends heavily on the successful development of the Starship rocket, which is expected to play a key role in deploying large-scale satellite infrastructure. https://www.wionews.com/videos/cristiano-ronaldo-s-final-attempt-to-win-the-fifa-world-cup-1779298231843/embed

SpaceX files IPO, targets massive valuation, reveals SPCX listing, Starlink growth, and bold AI satellite plans for 2028

Elon Musk's SpaceX files for biggest-ever IPO in history under ticker SPCX. Here's all you need to know about it

Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 20) praised the US indictment of former Cuban leader Raul Castro, but said he does not believe further escalation against Cuba is necessary amid growing speculation over Washington’s intentions toward the communist island. "I think it was a very big moment," Trump told reporters when asked about the charges against the 94-year-old Castro. "There won't be escalation. I don't think there needs to be. Look, the place is falling apart. It's a mess, and they sort of lost control."&nbsp;Trump also indicated that his administration would soon announce the long-standing US embargo on Cuba. “We’ll see. We’ll be announcing it pretty soon,” Trump said when asked how long the embargo would remain in place. The United States has maintained a decades-old economic embargo and oil restrictions on Cuba, measures that have intensified the island’s ongoing economic and energy crisis.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-bibi-s-hair-was-on-fire-trump-netanyahu-call-turns-tense-over-new-iran-peace-proposal-claims-report-1779305503990">'Bibi's hair was on fire': Trump, Netanyahu call turns tense over new Iran peace proposal, claims report</a><h2>Families of victims react</h2>The indictment stems from the 1996 shootdown of two civilian aircraft operated by the Miami-based humanitarian group Brothers to the Rescue. The planes were destroyed near the Cuban coast after being targeted with heat-seeking missiles. Prosecutors allege that Castro, who was serving as Cuba’s defence minister at the time, authorised the attack. Miriam de la Pena, whose son Mario was among the four men killed in the incident, welcomed the charges against Castro. “His age doesn’t matter; he can be brought in on a stretcher,” she told CNN regarding the former Cuban leader. Another relative reportedly added: “That’s what wheelchairs are for.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secy-of-state-marco-rubio-to-begin-4-day-india-visit-on-may-23-1779297353533/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secy-of-state-marco-rubio-to-begin-4-day-india-visit-on-may-23-1779297353533/embed</a><h2>Cuban reaction</h2>Residents in Havana pushed back against the indictment, describing it as a politically motivated move that could worsen tensions during an already fragile period in US-Cuba relations. In areas surrounding Cuba’s Ministry of the Interior and the headquarters of the Revolutionary Armed Forces, several residents criticised the US action as a deliberate provocation. The Cuban government also strongly condemned the indictment, calling it a ‘despicable accusation’ against Castro.&nbsp;“It is a despicable and infamous act of political provocation,” the government said in a statement published online and broadcast on state television. Cuban authorities accused the United States of distorting facts surrounding the 1996 incident involving the downing of the two aircraft. Cuba has long defended the shootdown, arguing that the planes repeatedly violated Cuban airspace despite multiple warnings issued to Washington.&nbsp;“It is highly cynical that this accusation is made by the same government that has murdered nearly 200 people and destroyed 57 vessels in international waters of the Caribbean and the Pacific, far from the territory of the United States, with the disproportionate use of military force,” the statement read, referring to US operations against alleged drug-trafficking boats. The Cuban government further claimed the indictment was intended to justify “collective punishment” against the Cuban people.

Donald Trump praised the US indictment of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro over the 1996 plane shootdown, while Cuba condemned the charges as a political provocation. Families of the victims welcomed the indictment amid renewed debate over US-Cuba relations and the embargo

Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 20) praised the US indictment of former Cuban leader Raul Castro, but said he does not believe further escalation against Cuba is necessary amid growing speculation over Washington’s intentions toward the communist island. "I think it was a very big moment," Trump told reporters when asked about the charges against the 94-year-old Castro. "There won't be escalation. I don't think there needs to be. Look, the place is falling apart. It's a mess, and they sort of lost control." Trump also indicated that his administration would soon announce the long-standing US embargo on Cuba. “We’ll see. We’ll be announcing it pretty soon,” Trump said when asked how long the embargo would remain in place. The United States has maintained a decades-old economic embargo and oil restrictions on Cuba, measures that have intensified the island’s ongoing economic and energy crisis. Also Read: 'Bibi's hair was on fire': Trump, Netanyahu call turns tense over new Iran peace proposal, claims report Families of victims react The indictment stems from the 1996 shootdown of two civilian aircraft operated by the Miami-based humanitarian group Brothers to the Rescue. The planes were destroyed near the Cuban coast after being targeted with heat-seeking missiles. Prosecutors allege that Castro, who was serving as Cuba’s defence minister at the time, authorised the attack. Miriam de la Pena, whose son Mario was among the four men killed in the incident, welcomed the charges against Castro. “His age doesn’t matter; he can be brought in on a stretcher,” she told CNN regarding the former Cuban leader. Another relative reportedly added: “That’s what wheelchairs are for.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secy-of-state-marco-rubio-to-begin-4-day-india-visit-on-may-23-1779297353533/embed Cuban reaction Residents in Havana pushed back against the indictment, describing it as a politically motivated move that could worsen tensions during an already fragile period in US-Cuba relations. In areas surrounding Cuba’s Ministry of the Interior and the headquarters of the Revolutionary Armed Forces, several residents criticised the US action as a deliberate provocation. The Cuban government also strongly condemned the indictment, calling it a ‘despicable accusation’ against Castro. “It is a despicable and infamous act of political provocation,” the government said in a statement published online and broadcast on state television. Cuban authorities accused the United States of distorting facts surrounding the 1996 incident involving the downing of the two aircraft. Cuba has long defended the shootdown, arguing that the planes repeatedly violated Cuban airspace despite multiple warnings issued to Washington. “It is highly cynical that this accusation is made by the same government that has murdered nearly 200 people and destroyed 57 vessels in international waters of the Caribbean and the Pacific, far from the territory of the United States, with the disproportionate use of military force,” the statement read, referring to US operations against alleged drug-trafficking boats. The Cuban government further claimed the indictment was intended to justify “collective punishment” against the Cuban people.

Donald Trump praised Raul Castro’s indictment while Cuba condemned the charges as a political provocation tied to the 1996 plane shootdown

'There won't be escalation', says Trump as he calls indictment against Raul Castro 'very big moment'

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'There won't be escalation', says Trump; calls Castro indictment 'big moment'