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The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared a surge of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) an international health emergency, voicing deep concern over the outbreak's "scale and speed." The outbreak, responsible for an estimated 131 deaths and roughly 513 suspected cases, involves the Bundibugyo strain, for which no vaccine or treatment currently exists. The epidemic's epicentre is in the northeastern Ituri province, a gold-mining hub bordering Uganda and South Sudan, plagued by local militia clashes. The virus has spread to neighbouring provinces, including suspected cases in the commercial hub of Butembo and a recorded case in Goma, which is controlled by the M23 armed group, and crossed borders into Uganda, where two confirmed cases, including one death, were reported in Kampala.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-in-drc-ebola-confirmed-in-dr-congo-s-m23-rebel-held-goma-city-1779032740006/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-in-drc-ebola-confirmed-in-dr-congo-s-m23-rebel-held-goma-city-1779032740006/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Congolese Health Minister Samuel Roger Kamba stated that community figures include deaths not necessarily linked to Ebola, noting that slow community alerts occurred because people initially thought it was a mystical illness. Only 30 cases have been laboratory-confirmed in Ituri due to difficult-to-access conflict zones. ICRC’s Francois Moreillon warned that humanitarian access and coordination between conflict parties present significant challenges.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-confined-right-now-to-africa-says-trump-on-ebola-outbreak-as-us-tightens-travel-rules-and-steps-up-screening-at-airports-1779145250920">'Confined right now to Africa', says Trump on Ebola outbreak as US tightens travel rules and steps up screening at airports</a>&nbsp;WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated the UN is examining candidate vaccines. WHO representative Anne Ancia noted that the vaccine candidate Ervebo is being reviewed but will take at least two months to become available, warning the outbreak could be lengthy. President Felix Tshisekedi has urged calm and requested a stepped-up government response.&nbsp;The Africa CDC and the International Federation of Red Cross have activated their highest emergency levels. Internationally, Germany is preparing to treat an infected American doctor from the Christian NGO Serge, while the United States announced passenger screening from affected areas and temporarily suspended visa services. This is the DRC's 17th Ebola outbreak.

The WHO has declared a global health emergency over a fast-moving Ebola outbreak in the DRC that has killed 131 people. No vaccine exists for this rare strain.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared a surge of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) an international health emergency, voicing deep concern over the outbreak's "scale and speed." The outbreak, responsible for an estimated 131 deaths and roughly 513 suspected cases, involves the Bundibugyo strain, for which no vaccine or treatment currently exists. The epidemic's epicentre is in the northeastern Ituri province, a gold-mining hub bordering Uganda and South Sudan, plagued by local militia clashes. The virus has spread to neighbouring provinces, including suspected cases in the commercial hub of Butembo and a recorded case in Goma, which is controlled by the M23 armed group, and crossed borders into Uganda, where two confirmed cases, including one death, were reported in Kampala. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-in-drc-ebola-confirmed-in-dr-congo-s-m23-rebel-held-goma-city-1779032740006/embed Congolese Health Minister Samuel Roger Kamba stated that community figures include deaths not necessarily linked to Ebola, noting that slow community alerts occurred because people initially thought it was a mystical illness. Only 30 cases have been laboratory-confirmed in Ituri due to difficult-to-access conflict zones. ICRC’s Francois Moreillon warned that humanitarian access and coordination between conflict parties present significant challenges. Also read: 'Confined right now to Africa', says Trump on Ebola outbreak as US tightens travel rules and steps up screening at airports WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated the UN is examining candidate vaccines. WHO representative Anne Ancia noted that the vaccine candidate Ervebo is being reviewed but will take at least two months to become available, warning the outbreak could be lengthy. President Felix Tshisekedi has urged calm and requested a stepped-up government response. The Africa CDC and the International Federation of Red Cross have activated their highest emergency levels. Internationally, Germany is preparing to treat an infected American doctor from the Christian NGO Serge, while the United States announced passenger screening from affected areas and temporarily suspended visa services. This is the DRC's 17th Ebola outbreak.

The WHO has declared a global health emergency over a fast-moving Ebola outbreak in the DRC that has killed 131 people.No vaccine exists for this rare strain.

WHO declares global health emergency over rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in DRC

Russia’s foreign intelligence agency has accused Ukraine of planning to launch drone attacks on Russian territory from neighbouring Latvia, a claim that Latvian officials swiftly rejected as disinformation amid heightened regional tensions linked to the war in Ukraine. In a statement issued on Tuesday (May 19), Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, known as the SVR, alleged that the Ukrainian military intended to use Latvian territory as a base for drone strikes targeting Russia. The agency claimed that Latvia’s government had agreed to allow Ukrainian forces to operate from within the Baltic nation despite concerns over possible retaliation from Moscow.&nbsp;“The primitive Russophobia of Latvia’s current rulers proved stronger than their capacity for critical thinking or their sense of self-preservation,” the SVR said in its statement. The Russian agency further alleged that Ukrainian drone unit personnel had already been deployed to five Latvian military bases. It also issued what appeared to be a warning to Riga, saying that the locations of Latvia’s “decision-making centres are well-known” to Moscow and that the country’s NATO membership “will not protect the accomplices of terrorists from just retribution”.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-diego-mosque-shooting-suspect-s-mother-reveals-her-teen-son-was-suicidal-stole-firearms-from-home-1779190619940">San Diego mosque shooting: Suspect’s mother reveals her teen son was ‘suicidal’, stole firearms from home</a>&nbsp;Latvia strongly denied the allegations, with Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže accusing Russia of spreading false information. “Russia lies again,” Braže wrote on X. “Latvia does NOT provide airspace for attacks on Russia. That has been explained several times to Russian representatives.”&nbsp;The accusations come amid rising concerns in the Baltic region over the spillover effects of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which began in 2022. Several Russian and Ukrainian drones have previously crashed in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia during the course of the conflict. According to Latvian authorities, drone crashes reported in late March and early May caused some material damage but did not result in injuries.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-america-s-republican-primaries-are-drawing-national-attention-ahead-of-the-2026-midterms-wion-decodes-1779182928403">Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention | WION Decodes</a>

Russia's SVR accused Latvia of permitting Ukraine to launch drone strikes from its territory, a claim Latvia strongly rejected as disinformation, warning that NATO membership wouldn't protect Riga.

Russia’s foreign intelligence agency has accused Ukraine of planning to launch drone attacks on Russian territory from neighbouring Latvia, a claim that Latvian officials swiftly rejected as disinformation amid heightened regional tensions linked to the war in Ukraine. In a statement issued on Tuesday (May 19), Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, known as the SVR, alleged that the Ukrainian military intended to use Latvian territory as a base for drone strikes targeting Russia. The agency claimed that Latvia’s government had agreed to allow Ukrainian forces to operate from within the Baltic nation despite concerns over possible retaliation from Moscow. “The primitive Russophobia of Latvia’s current rulers proved stronger than their capacity for critical thinking or their sense of self-preservation,” the SVR said in its statement. The Russian agency further alleged that Ukrainian drone unit personnel had already been deployed to five Latvian military bases. It also issued what appeared to be a warning to Riga, saying that the locations of Latvia’s “decision-making centres are well-known” to Moscow and that the country’s NATO membership “will not protect the accomplices of terrorists from just retribution”. Also read: San Diego mosque shooting: Suspect’s mother reveals her teen son was ‘suicidal’, stole firearms from home Latvia strongly denied the allegations, with Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže accusing Russia of spreading false information. “Russia lies again,” Braže wrote on X. “Latvia does NOT provide airspace for attacks on Russia. That has been explained several times to Russian representatives.” The accusations come amid rising concerns in the Baltic region over the spillover effects of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which began in 2022. Several Russian and Ukrainian drones have previously crashed in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia during the course of the conflict. According to Latvian authorities, drone crashes reported in late March and early May caused some material damage but did not result in injuries. Also read: Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention | WION Decodes

Russia's SVR accused Latvia of permitting Ukraine to launch drone strikes from its territory, a claim Latvia strongly rejected as disinformation, warning that NATO membership wouldn't protect Riga.

Russia’s spy agency accuses Latvia of aiding Ukrainian drone strikes amid rising Baltic tensions

The investigation into the deadly shooting outside the Islamic Centre of San Diego has uncovered alarming new details, with authorities revealing that the mother of one of the teenage suspects had warned police hours earlier that her son was suicidal and that firearms were missing from the family home. According to San Diego Police Department Assistant Chief Scott Wahl, one of the suspects was a student at Madison High School, located about 1.1 miles north of the mosque.&nbsp;“He was associated with the school as a student,” Wahl said during a press briefing. Authorities identified the suspects as 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Vazquez. Police said the pair shot and killed three men at the mosque on Monday before apparently turning the guns on themselves a few blocks away.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-america-s-republican-primaries-are-drawing-national-attention-ahead-of-the-2026-midterms-wion-decodes-1779182928403">Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention ahead of the 2026 midterms | WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;Wahl said the mother of one of the teenagers contacted police shortly before the shooting, reporting that her son had run away from home and may have taken firearms with him. She also warned dispatchers that he was suicidal. According to police, the woman handed over a suicide note she had found, though authorities did not disclose its contents.&nbsp;Wahl said the mother also reported that several weapons and her vehicle were missing from the home. She further informed officers that her son was travelling with another person and that both teenagers were “dressed in camo”.&nbsp;Police then began using licence plate reader technology and other investigative tools to track the vehicle. Officers were dispatched to locations, including a shopping mall and Madison High School, as part of the search effort. At around 11:43 am local time, officers were with the suspect’s mother only a few streets away from the mosque when reports emerged of an active shooter at the Islamic Centre of San Diego.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-russia-s-massive-power-of-siberia-2-gas-pipeline-dominate-xi-putin-talks-in-beijing-what-is-it-wion-decodes-1779175340632">Putin Heads to Beijing With a Giant Pipeline Plan, What is ‘Power of Siberia 2’?</a><h2>Shooting being investigated as possible hate crime</h2>The two teenagers were later found dead inside the vehicle from what police described as apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds. The bodies of the three victims were discovered at the mosque. Wahl said investigators had uncovered evidence of “generalised hate rhetoric” linked to the case and that authorities were examining the shooting as a possible hate crime.

Two teens, Cain Clark and Caleb Vazquez, killed three men at a San Diego mosque before dying by suicide. Authorities are investigating the shooting as a potential hate crime.

The investigation into the deadly shooting outside the Islamic Centre of San Diego has uncovered alarming new details, with authorities revealing that the mother of one of the teenage suspects had warned police hours earlier that her son was suicidal and that firearms were missing from the family home. According to San Diego Police Department Assistant Chief Scott Wahl, one of the suspects was a student at Madison High School, located about 1.1 miles north of the mosque. “He was associated with the school as a student,” Wahl said during a press briefing. Authorities identified the suspects as 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Vazquez. Police said the pair shot and killed three men at the mosque on Monday before apparently turning the guns on themselves a few blocks away. Also read: Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention ahead of the 2026 midterms | WION Decodes Wahl said the mother of one of the teenagers contacted police shortly before the shooting, reporting that her son had run away from home and may have taken firearms with him. She also warned dispatchers that he was suicidal. According to police, the woman handed over a suicide note she had found, though authorities did not disclose its contents. Wahl said the mother also reported that several weapons and her vehicle were missing from the home. She further informed officers that her son was travelling with another person and that both teenagers were “dressed in camo”. Police then began using licence plate reader technology and other investigative tools to track the vehicle. Officers were dispatched to locations, including a shopping mall and Madison High School, as part of the search effort. At around 11:43 am local time, officers were with the suspect’s mother only a few streets away from the mosque when reports emerged of an active shooter at the Islamic Centre of San Diego. Also read: Putin Heads to Beijing With a Giant Pipeline Plan, What is ‘Power of Siberia 2’? Shooting being investigated as possible hate crime The two teenagers were later found dead inside the vehicle from what police described as apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds. The bodies of the three victims were discovered at the mosque. Wahl said investigators had uncovered evidence of “generalised hate rhetoric” linked to the case and that authorities were examining the shooting as a possible hate crime.

Two teens, Cain Clark and Caleb Vazquez, killed three men at a San Diego mosque before dying by suicide. Authorities are investigating the shooting as a potential hate crime.

San Diego mosque shooting: Suspect’s mother reveals her teen son was ‘suicidal’, stole firearms from home

The Republican primaries taking place across six US states on Tuesday (May 19) are shaping up to be one of the most consequential moments of the 2026 midterm election cycle so far. Beyond deciding candidates for Congress, governor’s offices and state legislatures, the contests are also being viewed as a referendum on President Donald Trump’s continued dominance over the Republican Party and a measure of Democratic momentum heading into November.&nbsp;The high stakes surrounding the primaries stem from several overlapping factors. Republican voters are deciding whether to back candidates closely aligned with Trump, Democrats are attempting to capitalise on anti-Trump enthusiasm, and key swing state races could influence the balance of power in Washington.<h2>Trump’s grip on the Republican Party under scrutiny</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-do-indian-kitchens-have-to-do-with-california-gas-prices-india-s-lpg-crisis-may-hold-the-answer-1779182685592">What do Indian kitchens have to do with California gas prices? India’s LPG crisis may hold the answer</a>&nbsp;One of the most closely watched contests is in Kentucky, where Republican Congressman Thomas Massie is facing a primary challenge from Ed Gallrein, a candidate endorsed by Trump. The race is being seen as another test of whether Republican voters are willing to remove incumbents whom Trump considers insufficiently loyal.&nbsp;Recent Republican primaries in states such as Indiana and Louisiana have already shown that Trump-backed candidates can successfully unseat sitting lawmakers. Tuesday’s contests could therefore provide further evidence of how much influence the president still holds within the GOP ahead of the general election. The Kentucky race is also significant because the state is preparing for a post-Mitch McConnell political era. Multiple candidates are competing to replace the veteran Republican senator, whose departure marks the end of an era in Kentucky politics.<h2>Georgia emerges as a major battleground</h2>Georgia is again at the centre of national political attention, with both parties preparing for expensive and highly competitive races. Republicans and Democrats are choosing candidates for a Senate contest that will determine who faces incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff. The race is widely regarded as one of the most competitive Senate battles in the country.&nbsp;The state is also selecting nominees to replace term-limited Republican Governor Brian Kemp. Analysts expect the governor’s race to become one of the most expensive campaigns of the year. While Republicans have dominated campaign spending in Georgia, Democrats are pointing to record turnout levels as a sign of strong grassroots mobilisation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-heads-to-beijing-after-trump-xi-meet-hails-unprecedented-russia-china-ties-why-is-the-visit-important-1779177938253">Putin hails 'unprecedented' Russia-China ties: Why is his Beijing visit crucial</a><h2>Why is it a big deal nationally?</h2>Taken together, Tuesday’s primaries are expected to offer one of the clearest indications yet of the political climate heading into the 2026 midterms. For Republicans, the contests will reveal whether Trump’s endorsement remains the defining force in GOP politics. For Democrats, turnout and candidate performance may show whether opposition to Trump can translate into electoral gains.&nbsp;The results could also determine which issues dominate the general election campaign, from voting rights and abortion access to economic concerns and foreign policy divisions. With control of Congress and several governors’ mansions potentially at stake later this year, the primaries are being viewed not simply as state-level contests but as an early test of the national political mood in the US.&nbsp;

The May 19, 2026, six-state primaries serve as a critical 2026 midterm indicator, testing Donald Trump's GOP dominance via key challenges, like Kentucky's Massie-Gallrein race, while measuring Democratic momentum.

The Republican primaries taking place across six US states on Tuesday (May 19) are shaping up to be one of the most consequential moments of the 2026 midterm election cycle so far. Beyond deciding candidates for Congress, governor’s offices and state legislatures, the contests are also being viewed as a referendum on President Donald Trump’s continued dominance over the Republican Party and a measure of Democratic momentum heading into November. The high stakes surrounding the primaries stem from several overlapping factors. Republican voters are deciding whether to back candidates closely aligned with Trump, Democrats are attempting to capitalise on anti-Trump enthusiasm, and key swing state races could influence the balance of power in Washington. Trump’s grip on the Republican Party under scrutiny Also read: What do Indian kitchens have to do with California gas prices? India’s LPG crisis may hold the answer One of the most closely watched contests is in Kentucky, where Republican Congressman Thomas Massie is facing a primary challenge from Ed Gallrein, a candidate endorsed by Trump. The race is being seen as another test of whether Republican voters are willing to remove incumbents whom Trump considers insufficiently loyal. Recent Republican primaries in states such as Indiana and Louisiana have already shown that Trump-backed candidates can successfully unseat sitting lawmakers. Tuesday’s contests could therefore provide further evidence of how much influence the president still holds within the GOP ahead of the general election. The Kentucky race is also significant because the state is preparing for a post-Mitch McConnell political era. Multiple candidates are competing to replace the veteran Republican senator, whose departure marks the end of an era in Kentucky politics. Georgia emerges as a major battleground Georgia is again at the centre of national political attention, with both parties preparing for expensive and highly competitive races. Republicans and Democrats are choosing candidates for a Senate contest that will determine who faces incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff. The race is widely regarded as one of the most competitive Senate battles in the country. The state is also selecting nominees to replace term-limited Republican Governor Brian Kemp. Analysts expect the governor’s race to become one of the most expensive campaigns of the year. While Republicans have dominated campaign spending in Georgia, Democrats are pointing to record turnout levels as a sign of strong grassroots mobilisation. Also read: Putin hails 'unprecedented' Russia-China ties: Why is his Beijing visit crucial Why is it a big deal nationally? Taken together, Tuesday’s primaries are expected to offer one of the clearest indications yet of the political climate heading into the 2026 midterms. For Republicans, the contests will reveal whether Trump’s endorsement remains the defining force in GOP politics. For Democrats, turnout and candidate performance may show whether opposition to Trump can translate into electoral gains. The results could also determine which issues dominate the general election campaign, from voting rights and abortion access to economic concerns and foreign policy divisions. With control of Congress and several governors’ mansions potentially at stake later this year, the primaries are being viewed not simply as state-level contests but as an early test of the national political mood in the US.

The May 19, 2026, six-state primaries serve as a critical 2026 midterm indicator, testing Donald Trump's GOP dominance via key challenges, like Kentucky's Massie-Gallrein race, while measuring Democratic momentum.

Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention ahead of the 2026 midterms | WION Decodes

India is currently navigating a severe Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) supply crunch. In California, motorists are paying more than $6 a gallon for petrol. Though separated by thousands of miles, both crises stem from the same disruption: the collapse of energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz following the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Before the conflict, roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passed through the narrow waterway. Iran’s near-closure of the route has since thrown global fuel markets into turmoil, forcing countries to draw down reserves and rethink supply chains. The knock-on effects are now being felt from Indian kitchens to American petrol stations.&nbsp;<h3>Why India’s LPG shortage matters to California</h3>&nbsp;India relies heavily on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as its primary cooking fuel, with more than 90 per cent of imports previously sourced from the Middle East. Faced with tightening supplies, New Delhi directed refiners to maximise LPG production to prevent a deeper domestic shortage.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/does-hosting-putin-help-or-hurt-xi-s-bid-to-project-china-as-a-responsible-global-power-1779180710403">Does hosting Putin help or hurt Xi’s bid to project China as a responsible global power?</a>&nbsp;That decision, however, has created another problem overseas. Indian refiners have reduced production of alkylates — cleaner-burning fuel additives produced using LPG feedstock. California depends heavily on alkylates because the state mandates a unique petrol blend designed to reduce smog and meet strict environmental standards. “With India’s LPG supply constrained by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, refiners there are producing and exporting less alkylate, adding pressure to an already tight California gasoline market,” Mason Hamilton, chief economist at the American Petroleum Institute told Reuters.&nbsp;Reliance Industries, operator of the world’s largest refinery complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat, said this month it was cutting alkylate output and exports to prioritise LPG production. According to Kpler data, India’s alkylate exports fell to 33,000 barrels per day in April, nearly half March levels and the lowest since October 2023.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-russia-s-massive-power-of-siberia-2-gas-pipeline-dominate-xi-putin-talks-in-beijing-what-is-it-wion-decodes-1779175340632">Will Russia’s massive ‘Power of Siberia 2’ gas pipeline dominate Xi-Putin talks in Beijing? What is it? | WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;<h3>California faces limited options</h3>&nbsp;The supply squeeze comes as California’s fuel market is already under pressure from falling Asian fuel exports and low stockpiles. According to Reuters, GasBuddy data showed average petrol prices in the state reached $6.14 per gallon on Friday, with analysts warning prices could climb beyond $6.50 in the coming weeks. “The more acute the alkylate supply shortfall becomes, the higher it could push prices in California,” said GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s shortages remain severe, with reports of long queues for LPG cylinders and some consumers turning to the black market. Restaurants and small businesses have also warned of possible shutdowns as the global energy disruption continues to spread across economies.

Iran’s near-closure of the route has since thrown global fuel markets into turmoil, forcing countries to draw down reserves and rethink supply chains. The knock-on effects are now being felt from Indian kitchens to American petrol stations.

India is currently navigating a severe Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) supply crunch. In California, motorists are paying more than $6 a gallon for petrol. Though separated by thousands of miles, both crises stem from the same disruption: the collapse of energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz following the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Before the conflict, roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passed through the narrow waterway. Iran’s near-closure of the route has since thrown global fuel markets into turmoil, forcing countries to draw down reserves and rethink supply chains. The knock-on effects are now being felt from Indian kitchens to American petrol stations. Why India’s LPG shortage matters to California India relies heavily on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as its primary cooking fuel, with more than 90 per cent of imports previously sourced from the Middle East. Faced with tightening supplies, New Delhi directed refiners to maximise LPG production to prevent a deeper domestic shortage. ALSO READ: Does hosting Putin help or hurt Xi’s bid to project China as a responsible global power? That decision, however, has created another problem overseas. Indian refiners have reduced production of alkylates — cleaner-burning fuel additives produced using LPG feedstock. California depends heavily on alkylates because the state mandates a unique petrol blend designed to reduce smog and meet strict environmental standards. “With India’s LPG supply constrained by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, refiners there are producing and exporting less alkylate, adding pressure to an already tight California gasoline market,” Mason Hamilton, chief economist at the American Petroleum Institute told Reuters. Reliance Industries, operator of the world’s largest refinery complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat, said this month it was cutting alkylate output and exports to prioritise LPG production. According to Kpler data, India’s alkylate exports fell to 33,000 barrels per day in April, nearly half March levels and the lowest since October 2023. ALSO READ: Will Russia’s massive ‘Power of Siberia 2’ gas pipeline dominate Xi-Putin talks in Beijing? What is it? | WION Decodes California faces limited options The supply squeeze comes as California’s fuel market is already under pressure from falling Asian fuel exports and low stockpiles. According to Reuters, GasBuddy data showed average petrol prices in the state reached $6.14 per gallon on Friday, with analysts warning prices could climb beyond $6.50 in the coming weeks. “The more acute the alkylate supply shortfall becomes, the higher it could push prices in California,” said GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan. Meanwhile, India’s shortages remain severe, with reports of long queues for LPG cylinders and some consumers turning to the black market. Restaurants and small businesses have also warned of possible shutdowns as the global energy disruption continues to spread across economies.

Iran’s near-closure of the route has since thrown global fuel markets into turmoil, forcing countries to draw down reserves and rethink supply chains. The knock-on effects are now being felt from Indian kitchens to American petrol stations.

What do Indian kitchens have to do with California gas prices? India’s LPG crisis may hold the answer

The United States on Monday (May 18) announced another 30-day extension of a sanctions waiver allowing purchases of Russian seaborne oil, reversing plans ‌not to grant an extension. US Treasury Secretary ​Scott Bessent said that the decison was taken to aid "energy-vulnerable" countries hit by the Iran war,&nbsp;In a post on X, Bessent said that the Treasury was issuing the 30-day general license after a previous waiver lapsed on Saturday. This will allow temporary access to Russian oil and petroleum products stranded on tankers without violating severe US sanctions on Russian oil majors. Bessent had earlier said that there would be no further extension of the Russian oil sanctions waiver was planned. The action marks the second time the Treasury has allowed the sanctions waiver to lapse and subsequently extended it.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-calls-for-wfh-amid-fuel-crisis-but-can-your-company-say-no-here-s-what-the-law-says-1778768411278">PM Modi calls for WFH amid fuel crisis. But can your company say no? Here's what the law says</a><h2>How will this impact India amid probable fuel crisis?</h2>Interestingly, India on Monday had said that it had been buying Moscow’s crude irrespective of the US waiver, and would continue to do so. Thus, the waiver now makes it easier for Indian refiners to continue with their heavy imports of Russian oil. “Regarding the American waiver on Russia, I would like to emphasise that we have been purchasing from Russia earlier, before waiver also, during waiver also, and now also. So, it is basically the commercial sense, which should be there for the OMCs (oil marketing companies) to purchase (Russian oil),” Petroleum Ministry Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma had said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-will-continue-buying-russian-oil-regardless-of-us-waiver-lapse-says-senior-official-1779124650871">India will continue buying Russian oil regardless of US waiver lapse</a>&nbsp;Without the waiver, Indian refiners wouldn’t have been able to take deliveries of Russian crude on sanctioned tankers or deal with Russian oil suppliers sanctioned by Washington, as that would have exposed them to the risk of attracting secondary sanctions from the US. According to reports, the quantity of India buying Russian crude has reduced notably as Iran war began. This was after US imposed sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil and subsequent US-India tariff deal.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-fuel-go-back-to-dynamic-pricing-in-india-1778910386736/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-fuel-go-back-to-dynamic-pricing-in-india-1778910386736/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In short, India that has hiked fuel prices by around Rs 3 recently after almost in four years, will temporarily escape the double squeeze of constraints in oil flows due to Hormuz blockage as well as Russian oil sanctions.

The US extended for 30 days a sanctions waiver allowing purchases of Russian seaborne oil, citing support for “energy-vulnerable” countries amid the Iran war. The move eases pressure on India, allowing refiners to continue Russian crude imports 

The United States on Monday (May 18) announced another 30-day extension of a sanctions waiver allowing purchases of Russian seaborne oil, reversing plans ‌not to grant an extension. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that the decison was taken to aid "energy-vulnerable" countries hit by the Iran war, In a post on X, Bessent said that the Treasury was issuing the 30-day general license after a previous waiver lapsed on Saturday. This will allow temporary access to Russian oil and petroleum products stranded on tankers without violating severe US sanctions on Russian oil majors. Bessent had earlier said that there would be no further extension of the Russian oil sanctions waiver was planned. The action marks the second time the Treasury has allowed the sanctions waiver to lapse and subsequently extended it. Also Read: PM Modi calls for WFH amid fuel crisis. But can your company say no? Here's what the law says How will this impact India amid probable fuel crisis? Interestingly, India on Monday had said that it had been buying Moscow’s crude irrespective of the US waiver, and would continue to do so. Thus, the waiver now makes it easier for Indian refiners to continue with their heavy imports of Russian oil. “Regarding the American waiver on Russia, I would like to emphasise that we have been purchasing from Russia earlier, before waiver also, during waiver also, and now also. So, it is basically the commercial sense, which should be there for the OMCs (oil marketing companies) to purchase (Russian oil),” Petroleum Ministry Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma had said. Also Read: India will continue buying Russian oil regardless of US waiver lapse Without the waiver, Indian refiners wouldn’t have been able to take deliveries of Russian crude on sanctioned tankers or deal with Russian oil suppliers sanctioned by Washington, as that would have exposed them to the risk of attracting secondary sanctions from the US. According to reports, the quantity of India buying Russian crude has reduced notably as Iran war began. This was after US imposed sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil and subsequent US-India tariff deal. https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-fuel-go-back-to-dynamic-pricing-in-india-1778910386736/embed In short, India that has hiked fuel prices by around Rs 3 recently after almost in four years, will temporarily escape the double squeeze of constraints in oil flows due to Hormuz blockage as well as Russian oil sanctions.

The US extended for 30 days a sanctions waiver allowing purchases of Russian seaborne oil, citing support for “energy-vulnerable” countries amid the Iran war. The move eases pressure on India, allowing refiners to continue Russian crude imports&nbsp;

US extends sanctions waiver for Russian crude again: How will this impact India amid fuel crisis?

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to host Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Beijing less than a week after US President Donald Trump’s closely watched visit to China, placing Beijing’s balancing act on full display. As trade tensions, wars and global energy disruptions reshape international politics, China is seeking to project itself as a stable and predictable power. Yet welcoming Putin, while Russia’s war in Ukraine grinds on, also risks renewed scrutiny of Beijing’s increasingly close partnership with Moscow. By rolling out the red carpet for two heavily conflicted global figures within days, Xi seeks to project China as an indispensable, stabilizing superpower capable of managing relations with both Washington and Moscow.&nbsp;Putin arrives on Tuesday for what Chinese officials describe as his 25th visit to China, underlining the depth of ties between the two countries. China and Russia have repeatedly characterised their relationship as an ‘all-weather’ and ‘ironclad’ partnership, with Xi and Putin maintaining regular contact through meetings, calls and personal exchanges.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-russia-s-massive-power-of-siberia-2-gas-pipeline-dominate-xi-putin-talks-in-beijing-what-is-it-wion-decodes-1779175340632">Will Russia’s massive ‘Power of Siberia 2’ gas pipeline dominate Xi-Putin talks in Beijing? What is it? | WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;<h3>A partnership built on strategy and energy</h3>&nbsp;The relationship is underpinned by complementary interests: China’s economic strength and Russia’s vast energy reserves. Moscow has become increasingly reliant on Beijing since Western sanctions cut Russia off from many European markets following the Ukraine conflict. “The Xi-Putin summit will telegraph to the world that the China-Russia strategic partnership remains the cornerstone of both countries’ foreign policies,” Ian Storey of the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, told Reuters, adding that any US attempt to divide the two powers was ‘destined to fail’.&nbsp;Trade between the two countries has more than doubled since 2020, according to the Mercator Institute for China Studies. More than 70 per cent of China’s imports from Russia are mineral fuels, while Russian oil exports to China have risen sharply since 2022. Energy cooperation is expected to dominate this week’s discussions, particularly the proposed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline. During Putin’s last visit in September 2025, both sides agreed to advance the project, although pricing disputes remain unresolved.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-oil-exports-through-strait-of-hormuz-plunge-from-93-million-to-10-million-barrels-amid-iran-war-1778925779784">Iraq oil exports through Strait of Hormuz plunge from 93 million to 10 million barrels in April</a>&nbsp;<h3>Beijing’s global messaging challenge</h3>&nbsp;While Beijing has regularly called for talks to end the war in Ukraine, now over four years long, it has never condemned Russia for sending in troops. Thus, it continues to present itself as neutral on Ukraine and insists it has not supplied lethal weapons to either side. “China says it strictly controls exports of dual-use items,” foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday. At the same time, Beijing appears determined to show that its diplomacy will not be shaped by Western pressure. According to AFP, &nbsp;Natasha Kuhrt of King’s College London described the summit as “a reminder to Washington that this is a solid relationship of 30 years-plus standing”.&nbsp;For Xi, the optics are carefully calibrated: projecting China as a force for global stability while preserving one of its most strategically important partnerships.

China and Russia have repeatedly characterised their relationship as an ‘all-weather’ and ‘ironclad’ partnership, with Xi and Putin maintaining regular contact through meetings, calls and personal exchanges.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to host Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Beijing less than a week after US President Donald Trump’s closely watched visit to China, placing Beijing’s balancing act on full display. As trade tensions, wars and global energy disruptions reshape international politics, China is seeking to project itself as a stable and predictable power. Yet welcoming Putin, while Russia’s war in Ukraine grinds on, also risks renewed scrutiny of Beijing’s increasingly close partnership with Moscow. By rolling out the red carpet for two heavily conflicted global figures within days, Xi seeks to project China as an indispensable, stabilizing superpower capable of managing relations with both Washington and Moscow. Putin arrives on Tuesday for what Chinese officials describe as his 25th visit to China, underlining the depth of ties between the two countries. China and Russia have repeatedly characterised their relationship as an ‘all-weather’ and ‘ironclad’ partnership, with Xi and Putin maintaining regular contact through meetings, calls and personal exchanges. ALSO READ: Will Russia’s massive ‘Power of Siberia 2’ gas pipeline dominate Xi-Putin talks in Beijing? What is it? | WION Decodes A partnership built on strategy and energy The relationship is underpinned by complementary interests: China’s economic strength and Russia’s vast energy reserves. Moscow has become increasingly reliant on Beijing since Western sanctions cut Russia off from many European markets following the Ukraine conflict. “The Xi-Putin summit will telegraph to the world that the China-Russia strategic partnership remains the cornerstone of both countries’ foreign policies,” Ian Storey of the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, told Reuters, adding that any US attempt to divide the two powers was ‘destined to fail’. Trade between the two countries has more than doubled since 2020, according to the Mercator Institute for China Studies. More than 70 per cent of China’s imports from Russia are mineral fuels, while Russian oil exports to China have risen sharply since 2022. Energy cooperation is expected to dominate this week’s discussions, particularly the proposed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline. During Putin’s last visit in September 2025, both sides agreed to advance the project, although pricing disputes remain unresolved. ALSO READ: Iraq oil exports through Strait of Hormuz plunge from 93 million to 10 million barrels in April Beijing’s global messaging challenge While Beijing has regularly called for talks to end the war in Ukraine, now over four years long, it has never condemned Russia for sending in troops. Thus, it continues to present itself as neutral on Ukraine and insists it has not supplied lethal weapons to either side. “China says it strictly controls exports of dual-use items,” foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday. At the same time, Beijing appears determined to show that its diplomacy will not be shaped by Western pressure. According to AFP, Natasha Kuhrt of King’s College London described the summit as “a reminder to Washington that this is a solid relationship of 30 years-plus standing”. For Xi, the optics are carefully calibrated: projecting China as a force for global stability while preserving one of its most strategically important partnerships.

China and Russia have repeatedly characterised their relationship as an ‘all-weather’ and ‘ironclad’ partnership, with Xi and Putin maintaining regular contact through meetings, calls and personal exchanges.

Does hosting Putin help or hurt Xi’s bid to project China as a responsible global power?

Bangladesh's former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has warned that the country risks slipping back into the “dark days” of 2001 to 2006, when the BNP was in power, citing the growing influence of militant and extremist forces. She made the remarks in an email interview. Hasina, who has been living in self-imposed exile in India since the fall of her Awami League government following student-led protests in 2024, also said she plans to return to Bangladesh “very soon.” However, she suggested that her return would depend on the restoration of political rights and the creation of a democratic environment. The Awami League remains banned in Bangladesh, while Hasina has been sentenced to death by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal.<h3>Vow to return&nbsp;</h3>Reflecting on her historic return from exile on May 17, 1981, Hasina made the remarks in an email interview with HT that her current return does not depend on a specific date but rather on the restoration of a democratic environment, freedom of expression, and the rule of law. Despite surviving 19 assassination attempts and currently facing a death sentence from Dhaka's International Crimes Tribunal, she vowed to return "very soon." Addressing the interim government's ban on the Awami League, Hasina dismissed it as a "temporary exercise of power" rooted in fear. She asserted that the Awami League is a party born from the masses, not from the "power of guns," and historical precedents show it routinely returns stronger. She noted that millions of grassroots supporters and leaders remain unified within Bangladesh despite ongoing arrests and persecution.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-america-s-republican-primaries-are-drawing-national-attention-ahead-of-the-2026-midterms-wion-decodes-1779182928403">Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention ahead of the 2026 midterms | WION Decodes</a><h3>Party reforms and exiled leadership</h3>When questioned about internal pushes for an "Awami League minus Sheikh Hasina," she stated that leadership is strictly determined by ideological activists through internal democratic procedures, not by the "prescriptions of conspirators." While acknowledging that the party never tolerates individual wrongdoing, she warned that rival political opponents frequently use the guise of "purification" to fracture opposition parties. Defending party members who fled the country, Hasina rejected the idea that they left voluntarily. She accused Muhammad Yunus’s interim government of executing a "silent political genocide," claiming nearly 600 activists were killed, 150,000 arrested on false charges, and thousands of pro-liberation state officials dismissed. She affirmed these exiled leaders are actively building international public opinion and will return once basic safety is guaranteed.<h3>Economic deterioration</h3>Hasina fiercely criticised the handling of the economy, comparing her administration's developmental track record with that of recent regimes. She highlighted that under her four terms since 2008, the national budget expanded from 70,000 crore taka to 797,000 crore taka, while per capita income rose from $482 to $2,784, driving mega-projects like the Padma Bridge. Conversely, she stated that the Yunus-led interim setup and the subsequent government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have driven the economy to the brink of collapse. She cited widespread mob violence that shuttered major industrial units, record-low foreign investment, and massive borrowing, amounting to 373,000 crore taka over 18 months by the interim setup, and nearly 100,000 crore taka in just three months under the BNP. This has triggered acute shortages of electricity, oil, gas, and fertilisers alongside skyrocketing commodity inflation.<h3>Geopolitical shifts and regional security</h3>Finally, Hasina expressed profound concern over Bangladesh's shifting foreign policy. While reiterating the Awami League's constitutional commitment to "friendship with all, malice toward none," she condemned the rising anti-India rhetoric used as a political tool by the Yunus and BNP administrations. Most critically, she warned of a resurgence in cross-border terrorism and militancy, drawing parallels to the 2001–2006 BNP-Jamaat alliance era when Bangladesh became a safe haven for extremists. She pointed out that since August 2024, top convicted terrorists have been released from prison, and individuals tied to militancy have entered Parliament, presenting an immediate threat to regional security.

In a recent interview from exile in India, former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina warned that the country risks returning to the "dark days" of extremist influence seen under past BNP rule. She also vowed to return "very soon" once democratic rights are restored.

Bangladesh's former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has warned that the country risks slipping back into the “dark days” of 2001 to 2006, when the BNP was in power, citing the growing influence of militant and extremist forces. She made the remarks in an email interview. Hasina, who has been living in self-imposed exile in India since the fall of her Awami League government following student-led protests in 2024, also said she plans to return to Bangladesh “very soon.” However, she suggested that her return would depend on the restoration of political rights and the creation of a democratic environment. The Awami League remains banned in Bangladesh, while Hasina has been sentenced to death by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal. Vow to return Reflecting on her historic return from exile on May 17, 1981, Hasina made the remarks in an email interview with HT that her current return does not depend on a specific date but rather on the restoration of a democratic environment, freedom of expression, and the rule of law. Despite surviving 19 assassination attempts and currently facing a death sentence from Dhaka's International Crimes Tribunal, she vowed to return "very soon." Addressing the interim government's ban on the Awami League, Hasina dismissed it as a "temporary exercise of power" rooted in fear. She asserted that the Awami League is a party born from the masses, not from the "power of guns," and historical precedents show it routinely returns stronger. She noted that millions of grassroots supporters and leaders remain unified within Bangladesh despite ongoing arrests and persecution. Also read: Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention ahead of the 2026 midterms | WION Decodes Party reforms and exiled leadership When questioned about internal pushes for an "Awami League minus Sheikh Hasina," she stated that leadership is strictly determined by ideological activists through internal democratic procedures, not by the "prescriptions of conspirators." While acknowledging that the party never tolerates individual wrongdoing, she warned that rival political opponents frequently use the guise of "purification" to fracture opposition parties. Defending party members who fled the country, Hasina rejected the idea that they left voluntarily. She accused Muhammad Yunus’s interim government of executing a "silent political genocide," claiming nearly 600 activists were killed, 150,000 arrested on false charges, and thousands of pro-liberation state officials dismissed. She affirmed these exiled leaders are actively building international public opinion and will return once basic safety is guaranteed. Economic deterioration Hasina fiercely criticised the handling of the economy, comparing her administration's developmental track record with that of recent regimes. She highlighted that under her four terms since 2008, the national budget expanded from 70,000 crore taka to 797,000 crore taka, while per capita income rose from $482 to $2,784, driving mega-projects like the Padma Bridge. Conversely, she stated that the Yunus-led interim setup and the subsequent government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have driven the economy to the brink of collapse. She cited widespread mob violence that shuttered major industrial units, record-low foreign investment, and massive borrowing, amounting to 373,000 crore taka over 18 months by the interim setup, and nearly 100,000 crore taka in just three months under the BNP. This has triggered acute shortages of electricity, oil, gas, and fertilisers alongside skyrocketing commodity inflation. Geopolitical shifts and regional security Finally, Hasina expressed profound concern over Bangladesh's shifting foreign policy. While reiterating the Awami League's constitutional commitment to "friendship with all, malice toward none," she condemned the rising anti-India rhetoric used as a political tool by the Yunus and BNP administrations. Most critically, she warned of a resurgence in cross-border terrorism and militancy, drawing parallels to the 2001–2006 BNP-Jamaat alliance era when Bangladesh became a safe haven for extremists. She pointed out that since August 2024, top convicted terrorists have been released from prison, and individuals tied to militancy have entered Parliament, presenting an immediate threat to regional security.

In a recent interview from exile in India, former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina warned that the country risks returning to the "dark days" of extremist influence seen under past BNP rule. She also vowed to return "very soon" once democratic rights are restored.

Sheikh Hasina warns Bangladesh risks return to ‘dark days’, vows comeback

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in Beijing on Tuesday for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a time when energy security, trade and geopolitical rivalries are becoming increasingly intertwined. Coming just days after US President Donald Trump’s closely watched visit to China, the summit is expected to highlight the strength of Beijing’s partnership with Moscow. While both sides routinely describe ties as ‘ironclad’, one project is likely to loom large over the discussions, the proposed Power of Siberia 2 natural gas pipeline. The pipeline has become central to Moscow’s efforts to redirect energy exports towards Asia after Western sanctions over the Ukraine war sharply reduced Russia’s gas business with Europe. For China, however, the calculation is more complex: securing long-term energy supplies while avoiding excessive dependence on a single partner.&nbsp;<h3>What exactly is Power of Siberia 2?</h3>&nbsp;Power of Siberia 2 is a proposed 2,600-kilometre cross-border gas pipeline designed to transport 50 billion cubic metres (bcm) of Russian natural gas annually to China through Mongolia. Unlike the existing Power of Siberia 1 pipeline, which began operations in 2019 and carries gas from eastern Siberian fields to China, the new route would draw supplies from the Yamal fields in western Siberia, reserves that once largely served European markets before sanctions linked to the Ukraine war disrupted Russia’s energy trade with Europe.&nbsp;During Putin and Xi’s meeting in September 2025, both sides agreed to raise the annual capacity of Power of Siberia 1 from 38 bcm to 44 bcm. Russian energy giant Gazprom, which is leading the Power of Siberia 2 project, began feasibility studies in 2020 and announced a legally binding 30-year supply memorandum last year. However, the project has remained stalled over disagreements on pricing. Putin said in September that gas supplied through the pipeline would be priced using a market-based formula similar to the mechanism previously used for Russian gas exports to Europe.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/record-voter-turnout-and-rising-elector-numbers-seen-across-bengal-tamil-nadu-kerala-and-assam-eci-data-shows-1778932204555">Record electoral participation seen across Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam &amp; Puducherry in recent elections: ECI</a>&nbsp;<h3>Why the pipeline matters to Russia</h3>&nbsp;For Moscow, the project carries both economic and strategic significance. China has already become the world’s largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels, cushioning Russia from the impact of Western sanctions. “In principle, we have reached a high degree of consensus regarding the taking of a serious — indeed, very substantial — step forward in our cooperation within the oil and gas sectors,” Putin told reporters on May 9, according to Reuters.&nbsp;In September 2025, AFP reported that Gazprom chief Alexei Miller described the agreement as ‘a very important step’ towards deepening the Russia-China strategic partnership and expanding ‘reliable supplies of clean energy’. Russia also agreed ⁠in 2025 to boost oil supplies to China via Kazakhstan by an additional 2.5 million metric tonnes annually.&nbsp;

Xi-Putin meeting in 2023

&nbsp;<h3>China’s balancing act</h3>&nbsp;Despite closer ties with Moscow, Beijing has avoided relying too heavily on Russian energy. Analysts say China continues to prioritise supply diversification. China is simultaneously discussing energy arrangements with Turkmenistan, which already supplies large volumes of gas to the Chinese market. A fourth pipeline proposed in 2014, from Turkmenistan’s giant Galkynysh gas field ⁠to northwest China, has itself faced years of delays over pricing disputes and logistical complexities involving Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the countries through which the pipeline would pass.&nbsp;ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-restricts-imports-of-two-types-of-silver-bars-with-immediate-effect-1778942317825">India restricts import of two types of silver bars with immediate effect</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Other existing gas pipeline network</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>According to Reuters, China’s pipeline-based natural gas imports have risen steadily, reaching 59.4 million tonnes in 2025 and accounting for about 19 per cent of domestic consumption. The country currently receives gas through five major pipelines linking it to Central Asia, Russia and Myanmar. Three pipelines from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, via Kazakhstan, supply over 40 billion cubic metres annually. The Myanmar-China Gas Pipeline has operated since 2013, while Russia and China are also building a separate 10 bcm pipeline connecting China to Russia’s Sakhalin island.&nbsp;<h3>Could the Iran conflict influence talks?</h3>&nbsp;Recent instability linked to the conflict involving Iran and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have renewed attention on overland energy routes less vulnerable to maritime disruption. That could strengthen Russia’s argument for Power of Siberia 2 as a stable, land-based supply corridor into China. Yet experts caution that pricing negotiations could still take years.&nbsp;<h3>More than just an energy deal</h3>&nbsp;The pipeline is also a symbol of the broader Russia-China strategic partnership. Putin and Xi have met dozens of times, with the Kremlin increasingly viewing Beijing as its most important economic partner. This week marks Putin’s 25th visit to China, according to Beijing’s foreign ministry. As Xi hosts his ‘old friend’, the fate of Power of Siberia 2 may offer the clearest indication yet of how far the two powers are prepared to deepen their long-term alignment.

 While both sides routinely describe ties as ‘ironclad’, one project is likely to loom large over the discussions, the proposed Power of Siberia 2 natural gas pipeline.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in Beijing on Tuesday for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a time when energy security, trade and geopolitical rivalries are becoming increasingly intertwined. Coming just days after US President Donald Trump’s closely watched visit to China, the summit is expected to highlight the strength of Beijing’s partnership with Moscow. While both sides routinely describe ties as ‘ironclad’, one project is likely to loom large over the discussions, the proposed Power of Siberia 2 natural gas pipeline. The pipeline has become central to Moscow’s efforts to redirect energy exports towards Asia after Western sanctions over the Ukraine war sharply reduced Russia’s gas business with Europe. For China, however, the calculation is more complex: securing long-term energy supplies while avoiding excessive dependence on a single partner. What exactly is Power of Siberia 2? Power of Siberia 2 is a proposed 2,600-kilometre cross-border gas pipeline designed to transport 50 billion cubic metres (bcm) of Russian natural gas annually to China through Mongolia. Unlike the existing Power of Siberia 1 pipeline, which began operations in 2019 and carries gas from eastern Siberian fields to China, the new route would draw supplies from the Yamal fields in western Siberia, reserves that once largely served European markets before sanctions linked to the Ukraine war disrupted Russia’s energy trade with Europe. During Putin and Xi’s meeting in September 2025, both sides agreed to raise the annual capacity of Power of Siberia 1 from 38 bcm to 44 bcm. Russian energy giant Gazprom, which is leading the Power of Siberia 2 project, began feasibility studies in 2020 and announced a legally binding 30-year supply memorandum last year. However, the project has remained stalled over disagreements on pricing. Putin said in September that gas supplied through the pipeline would be priced using a market-based formula similar to the mechanism previously used for Russian gas exports to Europe. ALSO READ: Record electoral participation seen across Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam & Puducherry in recent elections: ECI Why the pipeline matters to Russia For Moscow, the project carries both economic and strategic significance. China has already become the world’s largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels, cushioning Russia from the impact of Western sanctions. “In principle, we have reached a high degree of consensus regarding the taking of a serious — indeed, very substantial — step forward in our cooperation within the oil and gas sectors,” Putin told reporters on May 9, according to Reuters. In September 2025, AFP reported that Gazprom chief Alexei Miller described the agreement as ‘a very important step’ towards deepening the Russia-China strategic partnership and expanding ‘reliable supplies of clean energy’. Russia also agreed ⁠in 2025 to boost oil supplies to China via Kazakhstan by an additional 2.5 million metric tonnes annually.

&nbsp;While both sides routinely describe ties as ‘ironclad’, one project is likely to loom large over the discussions, the proposed Power of Siberia 2 natural gas pipeline.

Will Russia’s massive ‘Power of Siberia 2’ gas pipeline dominate Xi-Putin talks in Beijing? What is it? | WION Decodes

Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing on Tuesday (May 19) as the latter begins his two-day state visit. Ahead of the visit, Putin described relations between Moscow and Beijing having “unprecedented level” of trust and understanding. He has also said that Moscow and Beijing’s deepening ties will be a “stabilising” force on the world stage. Putin's state visit to China comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has wrapped up his Beijing visit. It also comes at a point of global instability due to Iran war. While Trump and Xi’s summit did not produce concrete agreements on the many issues, including trade, AI, Taiwan and the US-Israel war on Iran, Russia and China are looking forward to work together to promote AI development, governance. The visit is timed to mark the 25th anniversary of ‘Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation’ between the two countries.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">JUST IN: 🇷🇺🇨🇳 President Putin says Russia and China are working together to bring &quot;peace and universal prosperity&quot; to the world. <a href="https://t.co/aI4b8fZ6Oo">pic.twitter.com/aI4b8fZ6Oo</a>&mdash; BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/BRICSinfo/status/2056588573864771609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/xi-wants-china-us-to-transcend-thucydides-trap-what-the-term-means-and-what-are-its-origins-1778736539728">Xi wants China-US to transcend 'Thucydides Trap': What the term means and what are its origins</a><h3>What Putin said?</h3>In a video address released before the trip, Putin said that Moscow and Beijing do not wish to align against any other country but work together for “peace and universal prosperity.” Russia and China also support cooperation “within the framework of the UN, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, BRICS, and other multilateral platforms, making a significant contribution to addressing pressing global and regional issues,“ Putin said. "The two countries are ready to support each other on issues affecting the core interests of the two countries, including the protection of sovereignty and national unity. It is in this spirit that Moscow and Beijing coordinate efforts to defend international law and the principles of the UN Charter in their entirety,. We are not aligning against anyone, but working for the cause of peace and universal prosperity” he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Tazama na sikiliza ujumbe wa Putin kwa raia wa China kuelekea ziara yake nchini humo. Putin anazuru rasmi taifa hilo la Asia Mei 19 hadi 20. <a href="https://t.co/uvfuS26K0y">https://t.co/uvfuS26K0y</a> <a href="https://t.co/ug9cffPxRV">pic.twitter.com/ug9cffPxRV</a>&mdash; Sputnik Afrika (@sputnik_swahili) <a href="https://twitter.com/sputnik_swahili/status/2056525242177339423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 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/-if-mishandled-xi-jinping-issues-big-warning-to-trump-over-taiwan-says-it-could-lead-to-us-china-conflict-1778732369451/amp">'If mishandled...': Xi Jinping issues BIG warning to Trump over Taiwan</a><h3>What we know about China-Russia ties</h3>China and Russia have strengthened ties significantly since the start of the war in Ukraine. Beijing has maintained a close economic and diplomatic engagement with Moscow with two-way trade between Russia and China being doubled from 2020 to 2024, reaching $245billion, according to the Mercator Institute for China Studies. Russia’s exports to China largely consist of oil, gas and coal, shipments, while Chinese supplies to Russia include manufactured goods, including machinery, vehicles, electrical equipment and textiles.<h2>Why this is important?</h2>The visit comes at a time when both China and Russia are dealing with Trump’s United States. The Iran-US war and the energy crisis due to it has posed a significant threat to several nations including these two. With that in background, the two leaders meet, described in an article in the state-backed Global Times, as "the focal point of global diplomacy.” Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said earlier this week that that the two leaders will share views on “establishing a multipolar world” and a “new type of international relations.” Xi and Putin are also expected to discuss the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline.

Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping, praising Russia-China ties as “unprecedented.” The leaders are expected to discuss trade, energy, Iran, Ukraine and a “multipolar world” order.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing on Tuesday (May 19) as the latter begins his two-day state visit. Ahead of the visit, Putin described relations between Moscow and Beijing having “unprecedented level” of trust and understanding. He has also said that Moscow and Beijing’s deepening ties will be a “stabilising” force on the world stage. Putin's state visit to China comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has wrapped up his Beijing visit. It also comes at a point of global instability due to Iran war. While Trump and Xi’s summit did not produce concrete agreements on the many issues, including trade, AI, Taiwan and the US-Israel war on Iran, Russia and China are looking forward to work together to promote AI development, governance. The visit is timed to mark the 25th anniversary of ‘Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation’ between the two countries.

Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping, praising Russia-China ties as “unprecedented.” The leaders are expected to discuss trade, energy, Iran, Ukraine and a “multipolar world” order.

Putin heads to Beijing after Trump-Xi meet, hails 'unprecedented' Russia-China ties: Why is the visit important

In a first comment on Tehran’s latest peace proposal to the United States, Iran on Tuesday (May 19) revealed key focus points included in it. Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said that the proposal involves ending hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, and the exit of US forces from the areas near Iran, state media reported. &nbsp;This comes a day after Iran said that it responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the conflict in West Asia.<h2>What’s in the proposal?</h2>The peace plan involves stopping fighting on all fronts. It also includes ending hostilities in Lebanon, where the fighting with Israel has continued despite a ceasefire. The plan also includes reparations for the destruction caused during the war. Gharibabadi also said that Tehran has sought the lifting of sanctions and the release of frozen funds. The plan also includes an end to the US naval blockade of Iran’s ports.Reuters reported that the terms described in the Iranian reports appeared to have changed from Iran’s last offer, which the US President Donald Trump dismissed as “garbage”.<h2>Trump claims ‘very positive development’</h2>Meanwhile, Trump on Monday (May 18) hailed a “very positive development” in talks with Iran. He added that the allies in the Middle East told him “they are getting very close to making a deal” that would leave Iran without nuclear weapons.“It’s a very positive development, but we’ll see whether or not it amounts to anything,” Trump said during a White House event.He also claimed that the progress had convinced him to postpone a planned military attack on the Islamic Republic.In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates asked him “to hold off on our planned Military attack of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow, in that serious negotiations are now taking place.”He added that he had instructed the US military to be “prepared to go forward with a full, large scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, in the event that an acceptable Deal is not reached.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran on Tuesday said it has shared a new peace proposal with the United States aimed at ending the ongoing West Asia conflict. Here’s what Tehran has demanded.

In a first comment on Tehran’s latest peace proposal to the United States, Iran on Tuesday (May 19) revealed key focus points included in it. Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said that the proposal involves ending hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, and the exit of US forces from the areas near Iran, state media reported. This comes a day after Iran said that it responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the conflict in West Asia. What’s in the proposal? The peace plan involves stopping fighting on all fronts. It also includes ending hostilities in Lebanon, where the fighting with Israel has continued despite a ceasefire. The plan also includes reparations for the destruction caused during the war. Gharibabadi also said that Tehran has sought the lifting of sanctions and the release of frozen funds. The plan also includes an end to the US naval blockade of Iran’s ports. Reuters reported that the terms described in the Iranian reports appeared to have changed from Iran’s last offer, which the US President Donald Trump dismissed as “garbage”. Trump claims ‘very positive development’ Meanwhile, Trump on Monday (May 18) hailed a “very positive development” in talks with Iran. He added that the allies in the Middle East told him “they are getting very close to making a deal” that would leave Iran without nuclear weapons. “It’s a very positive development, but we’ll see whether or not it amounts to anything,” Trump said during a White House event. He also claimed that the progress had convinced him to postpone a planned military attack on the Islamic Republic. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates asked him “to hold off on our planned Military attack of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow, in that serious negotiations are now taking place.” He added that he had instructed the US military to be “prepared to go forward with a full, large scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, in the event that an acceptable Deal is not reached.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran on Tuesday said it has shared a new peace proposal with the United States aimed at ending the ongoing West Asia conflict. Here’s what in it.

Troops withdrawal, reparations for war damage: What Iran demanded in its latest proposal to US to end war

The Reserve Bank of India, in its payment systems report released on May 18, said that the stablecoins fail the core test of money- “singlesness, elasticity and integrity" of payments. It took a firm stance against stablecoins, saying that they pose a risk to jurisdictional and financial stability. The central bank argues instead that central bank digital currency (CBDC) is a valid alternative. It offers comparable efficiencies without the vulnerability of private and decentralised issuances.&nbsp;<h2>Trump is a huge backer of stablecoins</h2>This comes as there is a major push for stablecoins globally, US President Donald Trump strongly backs stablecoins as the core pillar of US financial strategy, and poses them as a tool of maintaining and extending the dominance of US dollars. In January 2025, right after taking office, Trump, through an executive order, halted the development of a US Central Bank Digital Currency, saying that it was to restrict the government surveillance mechanism and promote private builders. In July 2025, US President Donald Trump issued the Genius Act to create a clear regulatory framework for dollar-backed payment stablecoin. The issuer will be required to back the stablecoin with 1:1 reserves of cash or short-term treasuries and disclose their reserves monthly. This is primarily done to sell US debts, because compliant users must purchase a large amount of US treasuries to peg their stablecoin, so the government sees the private stablecoin as vital to US debt management.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-bond-market-selloff-us-iran-war-yields-surge-1778923636456">Global bond market sell-off deepens as US-Iran war fears push yields to multi-year highs</a><h2>Why do stablecoins fail the test of money?&nbsp;</h2>The RBI had been sceptical about the unregulated digital assets; there had been previous efforts to ban crypto transactions, which were later overturned by the Supreme Court. The Reserve Bank argues that money should be interchangeable at par value (1:1) across the economy. The stablecoins, despite being backed by the US treasuries, which have high liquidity, are still market securities and subject to volatility. If the market value of the bond drops, the stablecoins lose their $1.00 peg.&nbsp;'The traditional monetary system, globally, rests on a two-tier banking system, wherein the central bank money-based settlement forms the edifice, while commercial banks can issue money which is beyond their reserves held, as the central bank can always provide liquidity for settlement, preventing a gridlock scenario,' read the payment systems report. The RBI is not isolated in its sentiments; many other central banks mirror it. While countries like China and the European Union are pushing for a digital yuan and a digital euro, a regulatory framework for private digital assets remains a significant challenge. Perhaps a more nuanced approach to regulation is required instead of completely discarding it. A complete disregard for private digital assets could mean missed opportunities for the burgeoning fintech sector of India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The RBI has raised concerns over stablecoins, saying they fail the core tests of money and pose risks to financial stability, while backing CBDCs as a safer digital alternative.

The Reserve Bank of India, in its payment systems report released on May 18, said that the stablecoins fail the core test of money- “singlesness, elasticity and integrity" of payments. It took a firm stance against stablecoins, saying that they pose a risk to jurisdictional and financial stability. The central bank argues instead that central bank digital currency (CBDC) is a valid alternative. It offers comparable efficiencies without the vulnerability of private and decentralised issuances. Trump is a huge backer of stablecoins This comes as there is a major push for stablecoins globally, US President Donald Trump strongly backs stablecoins as the core pillar of US financial strategy, and poses them as a tool of maintaining and extending the dominance of US dollars. In January 2025, right after taking office, Trump, through an executive order, halted the development of a US Central Bank Digital Currency, saying that it was to restrict the government surveillance mechanism and promote private builders. In July 2025, US President Donald Trump issued the Genius Act to create a clear regulatory framework for dollar-backed payment stablecoin. The issuer will be required to back the stablecoin with 1:1 reserves of cash or short-term treasuries and disclose their reserves monthly. This is primarily done to sell US debts, because compliant users must purchase a large amount of US treasuries to peg their stablecoin, so the government sees the private stablecoin as vital to US debt management. Also Read: Global bond market sell-off deepens as US-Iran war fears push yields to multi-year highs Why do stablecoins fail the test of money? The RBI had been sceptical about the unregulated digital assets; there had been previous efforts to ban crypto transactions, which were later overturned by the Supreme Court. The Reserve Bank argues that money should be interchangeable at par value (1:1) across the economy. The stablecoins, despite being backed by the US treasuries, which have high liquidity, are still market securities and subject to volatility. If the market value of the bond drops, the stablecoins lose their $1.00 peg. 'The traditional monetary system, globally, rests on a two-tier banking system, wherein the central bank money-based settlement forms the edifice, while commercial banks can issue money which is beyond their reserves held, as the central bank can always provide liquidity for settlement, preventing a gridlock scenario,' read the payment systems report. The RBI is not isolated in its sentiments; many other central banks mirror it. While countries like China and the European Union are pushing for a digital yuan and a digital euro, a regulatory framework for private digital assets remains a significant challenge. Perhaps a more nuanced approach to regulation is required instead of completely discarding it. A complete disregard for private digital assets could mean missed opportunities for the burgeoning fintech sector of India.

The RBI has raised concerns over stablecoins, saying they fail the core tests of money and pose risks to financial stability, while backing CBDCs as a safer digital alternative.

Why RBI believes stablecoins fail the ‘singleness, elasticity and integrity’ test of money

Norway's Minister of International Development has praised India's rapid digitisation as an "international leadership" example, highlighting how the two countries can learn from each other in a new strategic partnership. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a visit, the first visit by an Indian PM in more than four decades. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Åsmund Grøver Aukrust welcomed the signing of a Green Strategic Partnership agreement focused on green transition and digital public goods.&nbsp;"India was the first receiver of Norwegian development assistance in the 1950s. Today they are a main partner for us," the minister said, pointing to the evolution of bilateral ties. "We are very glad to have this partnership, especially on wind transition, when it comes to the digital public partnership."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-norway-green-partnership-to-drive-sustainable-growth-says-fm-eide-1779177786491">India-Norway Green Partnership to drive sustainable growth, says FM Eide</a>&nbsp;Aukrust was particularly effusive about India's digital achievements. In Delhi, he witnessed a cashless revolution where citizens routinely make payments using mobile phones. "That was very fascinating. I was there two years ago, and already there had been an enormous change when it comes to digitalisation," he recalled.&nbsp;"I know there's a lot been happening for the last two years, so India is a real international leader, and we want to work together with you." The minister explained the joint work on digital identity as a major success. "India and Norway [are] doing together when it comes to digital ID, which has given more than 100 million people their ID in a digital way, and I mean this is a real milestone," he said.&nbsp;"We have a lot to learn from each other, and to really inspire each other, and to share experience." India's ambitious digital public infrastructure, enabling everything from instant payments to paperless services for its vast population, has impressed global observers. In many parts of Delhi, wallets have become almost redundant, a transformation Aukrust described as striking.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-ebola-symptoms-congo-outbreak-us-travel-measures-and-trump-s-remarks-1779157344474">What is Ebola? Symptoms, Congo outbreak, US travel measures and Trump’s remarks</a>&nbsp;The partnership extends beyond bilateral ties. Both countries are exploring "third country" cooperation, particularly in the Global South. "This is what we need in more international development policy, is to also work in third countries with real partnership," Aukrust said. "We look forward to continue to work with India as well with other third countries in the global south."&nbsp;Norway maintains one of the world's most generous aid programmes, allocating one per cent of its national income to development assistance. Aukrust said he would brief fellow ministers in London on the outcomes of the India-Norway meetings. The minister expressed eagerness to return to India soon. "Sometimes we also might inspire you, and definitely the opposite as well," he added.

Norway's development minister praised India's digital leadership during PM Modi’s visit, highlighting a new Green Strategic Partnership focused on the green transition, digital public goods, and Global South cooperation.

Norway's Minister of International Development has praised India's rapid digitisation as an "international leadership" example, highlighting how the two countries can learn from each other in a new strategic partnership. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a visit, the first visit by an Indian PM in more than four decades. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Åsmund Grøver Aukrust welcomed the signing of a Green Strategic Partnership agreement focused on green transition and digital public goods. "India was the first receiver of Norwegian development assistance in the 1950s. Today they are a main partner for us," the minister said, pointing to the evolution of bilateral ties. "We are very glad to have this partnership, especially on wind transition, when it comes to the digital public partnership." Also read: India-Norway Green Partnership to drive sustainable growth, says FM Eide Aukrust was particularly effusive about India's digital achievements. In Delhi, he witnessed a cashless revolution where citizens routinely make payments using mobile phones. "That was very fascinating. I was there two years ago, and already there had been an enormous change when it comes to digitalisation," he recalled. "I know there's a lot been happening for the last two years, so India is a real international leader, and we want to work together with you." The minister explained the joint work on digital identity as a major success. "India and Norway [are] doing together when it comes to digital ID, which has given more than 100 million people their ID in a digital way, and I mean this is a real milestone," he said. "We have a lot to learn from each other, and to really inspire each other, and to share experience." India's ambitious digital public infrastructure, enabling everything from instant payments to paperless services for its vast population, has impressed global observers. In many parts of Delhi, wallets have become almost redundant, a transformation Aukrust described as striking. Also read: What is Ebola? Symptoms, Congo outbreak, US travel measures and Trump’s remarks The partnership extends beyond bilateral ties. Both countries are exploring "third country" cooperation, particularly in the Global South. "This is what we need in more international development policy, is to also work in third countries with real partnership," Aukrust said. "We look forward to continue to work with India as well with other third countries in the global south." Norway maintains one of the world's most generous aid programmes, allocating one per cent of its national income to development assistance. Aukrust said he would brief fellow ministers in London on the outcomes of the India-Norway meetings. The minister expressed eagerness to return to India soon. "Sometimes we also might inspire you, and definitely the opposite as well," he added.

Norway's development minister praised India's digital leadership during PM Modi’s visit, highlighting a new Green Strategic Partnership focused on the green transition, digital public goods, and Global South cooperation.

Norway minister hails India's digital revolution as key to new green partnership

Oslo, Norway: Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has underscored the growing strategic importance of ties with India, praising its economic rise and shared commitment to sustainable development, while highlighting diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, FM Eide described the bilateral relationship as "excellent" both politically and economically."We recognise the importance of India and its ever-growing importance, very close to becoming the third largest economy in the world, but also a very innovative economy in the IT sector, in artificial intelligence, but also in many other industries," Eide said.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently in Norway, the first by an Indian PM since 1983. The centrepiece of discussions was the elevation of relations into a Green Strategic Partnership, focused on sustainable growth that balances economic expansion with environmental protection."The Green Strategic Partnership is about how we shape the future through economic growth, but the type of economic growth that is both sustainable, takes care of nature, and is more renewable," Eide explained.He commended India's progress on renewables and electrification, noting it had mitigated what could have been a worse energy crisis.A key focus of India-Norway talks was freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, disrupted by war in West Asia. Eide called for adherence to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which requires countries to allow traffic through straits connecting open seas."We need to work together to defend [the] Law of the Seas Convention," he said. In the longer term, Eide expressed hope that resolving the Hormuz issue could contribute to broader stability.The minister also touched on wider global challenges, including war in Ukraine and the Israel-Palestine conflict, which he termed as a "root issue" in the Middle East.Yet the emphasis remained firmly on practical cooperation with India. Eide highlighted the value of the Nordic-India engagement, describing Nordic countries as advanced, tightly knit societies keen to partner with the world's most populous nation. "We believe that as relatively small countries, but with advanced economies, we... have this conversation with India," he said, looking forward to the summit.

Eide highlighted the value of the Nordic-India engagement, describing Nordic countries as advanced, tightly knit societies keen to partner with the world's most populous nation. 

Oslo, Norway: Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has underscored the growing strategic importance of ties with India, praising its economic rise and shared commitment to sustainable development, while highlighting diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, FM Eide described the bilateral relationship as "excellent" both politically and economically. "We recognise the importance of India and its ever-growing importance, very close to becoming the third largest economy in the world, but also a very innovative economy in the IT sector, in artificial intelligence, but also in many other industries," Eide said. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently in Norway, the first by an Indian PM since 1983. The centrepiece of discussions was the elevation of relations into a Green Strategic Partnership, focused on sustainable growth that balances economic expansion with environmental protection. "The Green Strategic Partnership is about how we shape the future through economic growth, but the type of economic growth that is both sustainable, takes care of nature, and is more renewable," Eide explained. He commended India's progress on renewables and electrification, noting it had mitigated what could have been a worse energy crisis. A key focus of India-Norway talks was freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, disrupted by war in West Asia. Eide called for adherence to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which requires countries to allow traffic through straits connecting open seas. "We need to work together to defend [the] Law of the Seas Convention," he said. In the longer term, Eide expressed hope that resolving the Hormuz issue could contribute to broader stability. The minister also touched on wider global challenges, including war in Ukraine and the Israel-Palestine conflict, which he termed as a "root issue" in the Middle East. Yet the emphasis remained firmly on practical cooperation with India. Eide highlighted the value of the Nordic-India engagement, describing Nordic countries as advanced, tightly knit societies keen to partner with the world's most populous nation. "We believe that as relatively small countries, but with advanced economies, we... have this conversation with India," he said, looking forward to the summit.

Eide highlighted the value of the Nordic-India engagement, describing Nordic countries as advanced, tightly knit societies keen to partner with the world's most populous nation.&nbsp;

India-Norway Green Partnership to drive sustainable growth, says FM Eide

Mark Fuhrman, the former Los Angeles Police Department detective whose name became inseparable from the sensational OJ Simpson murder trial, has died at the age of 78 after reportedly battling throat cancer. Fuhrman died on May 12 in Idaho, where he had been living, according to Kootenai County Chief Deputy Coroner Lynette Acebedo.&nbsp;Multiple US media outlets, including Fox News, TMZ and The Hollywood Reporter, reported that he had been suffering from an aggressive form of throat cancer. The former detective rose to national prominence during the investigation into the 1994 murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, a case that would become one of the most closely watched trials in American history. Fuhrman was among the officers who searched Simpson’s Brentwood estate and discovered a bloody glove that prosecutors later described as a crucial piece of evidence.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luigi-mangione-trial-judge-allows-notebook-and-gun-as-evidence-in-unitedhealthcare-ceo-killing-case-1779144723326">Luigi Mangione trial: Judge allows notebook and gun can be used as evidence</a>&nbsp;The glove later became central to the courtroom drama that unfolded during the 1995 trial. Prosecutor Christopher Darden famously asked Simpson to try on the glove before the jury. When the glove appeared too small, defence lawyer Johnnie Cochran delivered the line that became synonymous with the case: “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit.”&nbsp;Simpson was ultimately acquitted of the murders, but scrutiny soon shifted towards Fuhrman himself. During the trial, audio recordings surfaced in which Fuhrman used racist language and racial slurs, severely damaging his credibility. Simpson’s legal team argued that the detective may have planted evidence at the crime scene.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-diego-mosque-shooting-everything-we-know-about-teen-suspects-1779173481407">San Diego mosque shooting: Everything we know about teen suspects</a>&nbsp;Fuhrman had earlier denied under oath that he had used such language. In 1996, he pleaded no contest to perjury charges, becoming the only person connected to the Simpson trial convicted of a crime related to the proceedings, according to Fox News and The Hollywood Reporter.&nbsp;

Mark Fuhrman, the former LAPD detective key to the 1994 OJ Simpson murder trial who was later convicted of perjury for lying about using racial slurs, has died at 78.

Mark Fuhrman, the former Los Angeles Police Department detective whose name became inseparable from the sensational OJ Simpson murder trial, has died at the age of 78 after reportedly battling throat cancer. Fuhrman died on May 12 in Idaho, where he had been living, according to Kootenai County Chief Deputy Coroner Lynette Acebedo. Multiple US media outlets, including Fox News, TMZ and The Hollywood Reporter, reported that he had been suffering from an aggressive form of throat cancer. The former detective rose to national prominence during the investigation into the 1994 murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, a case that would become one of the most closely watched trials in American history. Fuhrman was among the officers who searched Simpson’s Brentwood estate and discovered a bloody glove that prosecutors later described as a crucial piece of evidence. Also read: Luigi Mangione trial: Judge allows notebook and gun can be used as evidence The glove later became central to the courtroom drama that unfolded during the 1995 trial. Prosecutor Christopher Darden famously asked Simpson to try on the glove before the jury. When the glove appeared too small, defence lawyer Johnnie Cochran delivered the line that became synonymous with the case: “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit.” Simpson was ultimately acquitted of the murders, but scrutiny soon shifted towards Fuhrman himself. During the trial, audio recordings surfaced in which Fuhrman used racist language and racial slurs, severely damaging his credibility. Simpson’s legal team argued that the detective may have planted evidence at the crime scene. Also read: San Diego mosque shooting: Everything we know about teen suspects Fuhrman had earlier denied under oath that he had used such language. In 1996, he pleaded no contest to perjury charges, becoming the only person connected to the Simpson trial convicted of a crime related to the proceedings, according to Fox News and The Hollywood Reporter.

Mark Fuhrman, the former LAPD detective key to the 1994 OJ Simpson murder trial who was later convicted of perjury for lying about using racial slurs, has died at 78.

Who was Mark Fuhrman? Former LAPD detective from OJ Simpson case dies at 78

In what may be called a big change in Pakistan, the provincial government of Punjab has approved the restoration of several roads and neighbourhoods in Lahore to their original pre-Partition names, according to a report in PTI. The decision is a part of the Lahore Heritage Areas Revival project, that is a brain-child of former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Under this initiative, the historic identity of Lahore is being restored. After the Partition in 1947, several roads, parks, and localities associated with Hindu, or Sikh heritage were renamed to Islamic or nationalist identities. "The Punjab Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, a few days ago had approved a plan to restore the original and historical names of various streets and roads in Lahore and its neighbourhood," a Punjab government official told news agency PTI.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/polycystic-ovarian-syndrome-pcos-will-get-a-name-change-here-is-why-it-matters-1778594936443">Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) will get a name change. Here is why it matters</a><h2>What are the key name changes?</h2>Among the roads and areas set to regain their earlier identities are Queen’s Road, Jail Road, Davies Road, Lawrence Road, Empress Road, Krishan Nagar, Santnagar, Dharampura, Brandreth Road, Ram Gali, Tempbell Street, Laxmi Chowk, Jain Mandir Road, Kumharpura, Mohan Lal Bazaar, Sundar Das Road, Bhagwan Pura, Shanti Nagar, and Outfall Road, as per reports. Reports also said that local authorities have begun installing signboards bearing the restored names. Even Lahore’s iconic Lawrence Gardens, known for decades as Bagh-e-Jinnah, is set to reclaim its colonial-era title. PTI reported that Nawaz Sharif has also proposed bringing back Lahore’s historic cricket grounds and the old wrestling arena at Minto Park, now called Greater Iqbal Park.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-confirms-central-approval-for-keralam-name-change-1773220665499">PM Modi confirms central approval for 'Keralam' name change</a><h2>Full list of names that has been changed are:</h2><ul><li>Islampura is once again Krishan Nagar</li><li>Babri Masjid Chowk is now Jain Mandir Chowk again</li><li>Sunnat Nagar is back to Sant Nagar</li><li>Mustafaabad has become Dharampura again</li><li>Maulana Zafar Ali Khan Chowk&nbsp;is now&nbsp;Lakshmi Chowk</li></ul><h2>Some colonial-era names are also back:</h2><ul><li>Sir Aga Khan Road will now be called Davis Road</li><li>Fatima Jinnah Road will be called Queens Road</li><li>Bagh-e-Jinnah will again be called Lawrence Gardens</li><li>Greater Iqbal Park will be called Minto Park</li></ul>

Pakistan’s Punjab government has approved restoring several pre-Partition names of roads and neighbourhoods in Lahore under the Lahore Heritage Areas Revival project backed by Nawaz Sharif, reviving Hindu, Sikh, Jain and colonial-era identities.

In what may be called a big change in Pakistan, the provincial government of Punjab has approved the restoration of several roads and neighbourhoods in Lahore to their original pre-Partition names, according to a report in PTI. The decision is a part of the Lahore Heritage Areas Revival project, that is a brain-child of former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Under this initiative, the historic identity of Lahore is being restored. After the Partition in 1947, several roads, parks, and localities associated with Hindu, or Sikh heritage were renamed to Islamic or nationalist identities. "The Punjab Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, a few days ago had approved a plan to restore the original and historical names of various streets and roads in Lahore and its neighbourhood," a Punjab government official told news agency PTI. Also Read: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) will get a name change. Here is why it matters What are the key name changes? Among the roads and areas set to regain their earlier identities are Queen’s Road, Jail Road, Davies Road, Lawrence Road, Empress Road, Krishan Nagar, Santnagar, Dharampura, Brandreth Road, Ram Gali, Tempbell Street, Laxmi Chowk, Jain Mandir Road, Kumharpura, Mohan Lal Bazaar, Sundar Das Road, Bhagwan Pura, Shanti Nagar, and Outfall Road, as per reports. Reports also said that local authorities have begun installing signboards bearing the restored names. Even Lahore’s iconic Lawrence Gardens, known for decades as Bagh-e-Jinnah, is set to reclaim its colonial-era title. PTI reported that Nawaz Sharif has also proposed bringing back Lahore’s historic cricket grounds and the old wrestling arena at Minto Park, now called Greater Iqbal Park. Also Read: PM Modi confirms central approval for 'Keralam' name change Full list of names that has been changed are: Islampura is once again Krishan Nagar Babri Masjid Chowk is now Jain Mandir Chowk again Sunnat Nagar is back to Sant Nagar Mustafaabad has become Dharampura again Maulana Zafar Ali Khan Chowk is now Lakshmi Chowk Some colonial-era names are also back: Sir Aga Khan Road will now be called Davis Road Fatima Jinnah Road will be called Queens Road Bagh-e-Jinnah will again be called Lawrence Gardens Greater Iqbal Park will be called Minto Park

Pakistan’s Punjab government has approved restoring several pre-Partition names of roads and neighbourhoods in Lahore under the Lahore Heritage Areas Revival project backed by Nawaz Sharif, reviving Hindu, Sikh, Jain and colonial-era identities.

Lahore’s pre-partition street names RESTORED: From Jain Mandir to Krishnan Nagar |  FULL LIST

A deadly shooting at the Islamic Centre of San Diego in southern California on Monday (May 18) morning has left three people dead, with authorities now investigating the incident as a hate crime. The attack unfolded shortly before midday prayers when two teenage gunmen allegedly opened fire inside the mosque complex before later turning their weapons on themselves, according to police. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined the probe as investigators examine anti-Islamic material reportedly linked to the suspects. Calling the incident “every community’s worst nightmare”, San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said authorities were still piecing together the sequence of events and motives behind the attack.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-state-tv-launches-sacrifice-life-campaign-host-shoots-at-uae-flag-dubai-burning-gives-ak-47-kalashnikov-training-demo-1779166110243">Iran's state TV launches ‘Sacrifice Life’ campaign: Host shoots at UAE flag, gives AK-47 training demo: WATCH</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump also reacted to the shooting, describing it as a “terrible situation”. He added, “I’ve been given some early updates, but we’re going to be going back and looking at it very strongly.”<h2>How the shooting unfolded</h2>Police said the first emergency call came in at around 11.43 am local time, just before worshippers gathered for midday prayers at the mosque. Officers arriving at the Islamic Centre found three victims who had been fatally shot. At nearly the same time, dispatchers received another report about gunfire coming from a vehicle located roughly two blocks away from the mosque. When officers reached the second scene, they discovered the two suspects dead from what authorities described as self-inflicted gunshot wounds.<h2>Who were the teen suspects?</h2>Authorities have officially confirmed that the suspects were aged 17 and 18, though their identities have not yet been formally released. Several American media outlets, however, identified them as Cain Clark, 17, and Caleb Vazquez, 18. Investigators revealed that hours before the attack, police had received a call from the mother of one of the teenagers reporting that her son had gone missing along with her car and firearms.&nbsp;According to police, the woman also warned that her son was suicidal and likely travelling with a friend. She reportedly told officers that both young men were dressed in military-style fatigues. Investigators later found both suspects dead inside or near the vehicle linked to the earlier report. Police also confirmed that one of the teenagers had ties to Madison High School, located about a mile from the mosque.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cuba-warns-of-bloodbath-if-us-attacks-amid-rising-tensions-as-washington-imposes-new-sanctions-1779146675749">Cuba warns of ‘bloodbath’ if US attacks amid new sanctions and rising tensions</a>&nbsp;The FBI joined the investigation after officers reportedly discovered anti-Islamic writings inside the suspects’ vehicle. According to NBC News, one of the teenagers allegedly left behind a suicide note containing references to racial pride. At the same time, hate speech was also reportedly found scrawled on one of the weapons used in the shooting.&nbsp;The discovery of the writings prompted federal authorities to investigate the attack as a possible hate crime. However, Chief Wahl cautioned that the material recovered so far did not contain any direct threat specifically targeting the mosque.&nbsp;“There was no specific threat, especially no specific threat to the Islamic Center. It was just general hate kind of speech that I think covered a wide gamut,” Wahl told reporters. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as federal and local agencies continue examining evidence connected to the shooting. &nbsp;

Two teenagers killed three people at a San Diego mosque before committing suicide. The FBI is investigating the attack as a hate crime after discovering anti-Islamic material.

A deadly shooting at the Islamic Centre of San Diego in southern California on Monday (May 18) morning has left three people dead, with authorities now investigating the incident as a hate crime. The attack unfolded shortly before midday prayers when two teenage gunmen allegedly opened fire inside the mosque complex before later turning their weapons on themselves, according to police. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined the probe as investigators examine anti-Islamic material reportedly linked to the suspects. Calling the incident “every community’s worst nightmare”, San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said authorities were still piecing together the sequence of events and motives behind the attack. Also read: Iran's state TV launches ‘Sacrifice Life’ campaign: Host shoots at UAE flag, gives AK-47 training demo: WATCH US President Donald Trump also reacted to the shooting, describing it as a “terrible situation”. He added, “I’ve been given some early updates, but we’re going to be going back and looking at it very strongly.” How the shooting unfolded Police said the first emergency call came in at around 11.43 am local time, just before worshippers gathered for midday prayers at the mosque. Officers arriving at the Islamic Centre found three victims who had been fatally shot. At nearly the same time, dispatchers received another report about gunfire coming from a vehicle located roughly two blocks away from the mosque. When officers reached the second scene, they discovered the two suspects dead from what authorities described as self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Who were the teen suspects? Authorities have officially confirmed that the suspects were aged 17 and 18, though their identities have not yet been formally released. Several American media outlets, however, identified them as Cain Clark, 17, and Caleb Vazquez, 18. Investigators revealed that hours before the attack, police had received a call from the mother of one of the teenagers reporting that her son had gone missing along with her car and firearms. According to police, the woman also warned that her son was suicidal and likely travelling with a friend. She reportedly told officers that both young men were dressed in military-style fatigues. Investigators later found both suspects dead inside or near the vehicle linked to the earlier report. Police also confirmed that one of the teenagers had ties to Madison High School, located about a mile from the mosque. Also read: Cuba warns of ‘bloodbath’ if US attacks amid new sanctions and rising tensions The FBI joined the investigation after officers reportedly discovered anti-Islamic writings inside the suspects’ vehicle. According to NBC News, one of the teenagers allegedly left behind a suicide note containing references to racial pride. At the same time, hate speech was also reportedly found scrawled on one of the weapons used in the shooting. The discovery of the writings prompted federal authorities to investigate the attack as a possible hate crime. However, Chief Wahl cautioned that the material recovered so far did not contain any direct threat specifically targeting the mosque. “There was no specific threat, especially no specific threat to the Islamic Center. It was just general hate kind of speech that I think covered a wide gamut,” Wahl told reporters. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as federal and local agencies continue examining evidence connected to the shooting.

Two teenagers killed three people at a San Diego mosque before committing suicide. The FBI is investigating the attack as a hate crime after discovering anti-Islamic material.

San Diego mosque shooting: Everything we know about teen suspects

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said Norway hopes India will use its diplomatic ties with Russia to push for a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. Addressing Indian journalists in Oslo during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Norway, Store acknowledged differences between the two nations on the issue but said he understood India’s energy requirements. The Norwegian government has established a dedicated fund for Ukraine, provided military assistance during the conflict, and consistently supported stronger sanctions against Russia. Modi, who arrived in Norway after visiting Sweden, was welcomed at the airport by Støre and other senior Norwegian leaders. The trip marks Modi’s first visit to Norway and the first by an Indian prime minister in 43 years. Both leaders held talks on trade and investment, green technology, blue economy, and other key areas.&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</a><h3>Third Nordic-Indian Summit in Oslo</h3>In another significant development, PM Modi and Støre will collectively participate in the third Nordic-Indian Summit in Oslo on May 19. The event will bring India and the Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden and Norway together. &nbsp; The summit will build on the momentum of the two previous summits held in Stockholm in April 2018 and Copenhagen in May 2022, and is likely to add a more strategic dimension to India's engagement with the Nordic nations. PM Modi is also scheduled to meet King Harald V and Queen Sonja. In addition, he will jointly address the India-Norway Business and Research Summit alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. According to a statement issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs ahead of the visit, the prime minister will assess the progress in India-Norway ties and discuss opportunities to further strengthen cooperation, particularly in trade and investment. "The visit will provide an opportunity to review the progress made in India-Norway relations and explore avenues to further strengthen them, with a focus on trade and investment, capitalising on the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, as well as on clean and green tech and blue economy," the MEA said.

The trip marks PM Modi’s first visit to Norway and the first by an Indian prime minister in 43 years. Both leaders held talks on trade and investment, green technology, blue economy, and other key areas.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said Norway hopes India will use its diplomatic ties with Russia to push for a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. Addressing Indian journalists in Oslo during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Norway, Store acknowledged differences between the two nations on the issue but said he understood India’s energy requirements. The Norwegian government has established a dedicated fund for Ukraine, provided military assistance during the conflict, and consistently supported stronger sanctions against Russia. Modi, who arrived in Norway after visiting Sweden, was welcomed at the airport by Støre and other senior Norwegian leaders. The trip marks Modi’s first visit to Norway and the first by an Indian prime minister in 43 years. Both leaders held talks on trade and investment, green technology, blue economy, and other key areas. Also read: 'Right to change govt...': MEA counters Norway journalist’s 'why should we trust you' question Third Nordic-Indian Summit in Oslo In another significant development, PM Modi and Støre will collectively participate in the third Nordic-Indian Summit in Oslo on May 19. The event will bring India and the Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden and Norway together. The summit will build on the momentum of the two previous summits held in Stockholm in April 2018 and Copenhagen in May 2022, and is likely to add a more strategic dimension to India's engagement with the Nordic nations. PM Modi is also scheduled to meet King Harald V and Queen Sonja. In addition, he will jointly address the India-Norway Business and Research Summit alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. According to a statement issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs ahead of the visit, the prime minister will assess the progress in India-Norway ties and discuss opportunities to further strengthen cooperation, particularly in trade and investment. "The visit will provide an opportunity to review the progress made in India-Norway relations and explore avenues to further strengthen them, with a focus on trade and investment, capitalising on the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, as well as on clean and green tech and blue economy," the MEA said.

The trip marks PM Modi’s first visit to Norway and the first by an Indian prime minister in 43 years. Both leaders held talks on trade and investment, green technology, blue economy, and other key areas.

Norway looks to India to push Russia for ceasefire in Ukraine War

Unidentified gunman opened fire on pedestrians in the Egyptian town of Abnoub in Assiut province late Monday (May 18), killing eight people and injuring five others, according to a report by Gulf News. The news website cited local media reports and said that the attackers were travelling in a black Jeep Cherokee when they sprayed bullets near Al Central Street before fleeing the area. Witnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as residents rushed to escape the gunfire. A social emdia video of the incident is going viral. However, authenticity of the video is not known. Following the initial attack, police tracked the suspect, but the gunman refused to surrender and initiated a heavy exchange of gunfire, during which security forces fatally shot him.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/san-diego-mosque-shooting-deadly-attack-at-san-diego-islamic-center-leaves-3-dead-1779156041169/amp">San Diego Mosque Shooting: Deadly Attack At San Diego Islamic Center Leaves 3 Dead</a>&nbsp;According to the report, police and ambulances quickly arrived at the scene after authorities received reports of the shooting. Security forces imposed a cordon around the area while injured victims were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Prosecutors ordered the bodies of those killed to be transferred to the morgue pending investigation. Investigators have begun collecting evidence and questioning witnesses as authorities work to determine the motive behind the attack.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mersin-shooting-4-killed-8-injured-as-gunman-opens-fire-in-southern-turkey-1779122659869">Mersin Shooting: 4 killed, 8 injured as gunman opens fire in southern Turkey</a>&nbsp;Videos circulating on social media showed crowds gathering near the scene as residents reacted in shock. Women could reportedly be heard screaming after witnessing the aftermath of the shooting. Egyptian authorities had not issued a final official statement on the incident late Monday. Investigators began questioning witnesses and collecting evidence to establish the motive behind the shooting. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, and officials had not released a detailed statement on the final casualty toll late Monday. “One moment people were standing in the street, and the next there was gunfire everywhere,” one resident was quoted as saying by local media, adding that several bodies could be seen at the scene shortly after the attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eight people were killed and five injured after unidentified gunman opened fire in Egypt’s Abnoub town in Assiut province. According to a Gulf News report, attackers travelling in a black Jeep Cherokee fled after spraying bullets near Al Central Street late Monday.

Unidentified gunman opened fire on pedestrians in the Egyptian town of Abnoub in Assiut province late Monday (May 18), killing eight people and injuring five others, according to a report by Gulf News. The news website cited local media reports and said that the attackers were travelling in a black Jeep Cherokee when they sprayed bullets near Al Central Street before fleeing the area. Witnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as residents rushed to escape the gunfire. A social emdia video of the incident is going viral. However, authenticity of the video is not known. Following the initial attack, police tracked the suspect, but the gunman refused to surrender and initiated a heavy exchange of gunfire, during which security forces fatally shot him. Also Read: San Diego Mosque Shooting: Deadly Attack At San Diego Islamic Center Leaves 3 Dead According to the report, police and ambulances quickly arrived at the scene after authorities received reports of the shooting. Security forces imposed a cordon around the area while injured victims were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Prosecutors ordered the bodies of those killed to be transferred to the morgue pending investigation. Investigators have begun collecting evidence and questioning witnesses as authorities work to determine the motive behind the attack. Also Read: Mersin Shooting: 4 killed, 8 injured as gunman opens fire in southern Turkey Videos circulating on social media showed crowds gathering near the scene as residents reacted in shock. Women could reportedly be heard screaming after witnessing the aftermath of the shooting. Egyptian authorities had not issued a final official statement on the incident late Monday. Investigators began questioning witnesses and collecting evidence to establish the motive behind the shooting. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, and officials had not released a detailed statement on the final casualty toll late Monday. “One moment people were standing in the street, and the next there was gunfire everywhere,” one resident was quoted as saying by local media, adding that several bodies could be seen at the scene shortly after the attack.

Eight people were killed and five injured after unidentified gunman opened fire in Egypt’s Abnoub town in Assiut province. According to a Gulf News report, attackers travelling in a black Jeep Cherokee fled after spraying bullets near Al Central Street late Monday.

Gunman in black SUV opens fire on pedestrians in Egypt, 8 killed

Ebola outbreak in DR Congo raises global concern after an American tested positive. Know Ebola symptoms, spread, US travel rules, and Trump’s statement on Ebola

What is Ebola? Symptoms, Congo outbreak, US travel measures and Trump’s remarks

Massive drama unfolded as the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday (May 18) addressed a presser in Norway's Oslo as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meetings with the country's top leaders. A Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng demanded an answer from the MEA officials over why ‘India should be trusted’ and why Prime Minister Modi does not take questions from the press. MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George issued a lengthy answer and defended India's democratic framework, constitutional values, diversity and human rights record.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-s-ties-with-norway-trusted-futuristic-and-long-term-says-pm-modi-conferred-nation-s-highest-honour-1779109524256">India’s ties with Norway ‘trusted, futuristic, and long-term,’ says PM Modi; conferred nation’s highest honour</a>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-hails-lab-to-lab-and-scientist-to-scientist-ties-at-norway-india-business-and-research-summit-1779124305376">PM Modi hails ‘Lab-to-Lab’ and ‘Scientist-to-Scientist’ ties at Norway-India Business and Research Summit</a>&nbsp;The MEA Secretary (West) said India's Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens and provides legal remedies in cases of rights violations. Highlighting India's democratic values, he said the country ensured equal voting rights for women from the time of independence. George further stated that India believes in equality and human rights, adding that the right to vote and change governments remains the strongest example of democratic freedom. "We have a constitution which guarantees the rights of the people, fundamental rights of the people. We have, you know, we have equal rights for the women of our country, which is very important. In 1947, we gave the freedom to vote for our women. We together, we won the freedom together and they won itself. Many countries I know, the voting right for women came after several decades after India gave that freedom. You know, this, because we believe in equality, we believe in human rights. And what is the best example of human rights? The right to change government, the right to vote. And that is what is happening in India. We are so proud of that," said Sibi George.&nbsp;&nbsp;While answering the question, the MEA Secretary (West) repeatedly requested not to be interrupted while he answers, adding, "Let me answer the question, please don't interrupt me. You asked a question--this is my press conference. You asked why should a country trust India, let me answer that question." Referring to the scale and diversity of India's media landscape, George said the country has a vibrant and highly active press ecosystem operating in multiple languages. Stressing that India's scale and diversity are often misunderstood, and said, "You know how many stories are up here. We have how many breaking news coming every day in the evening. At least 200 TV channels in Delhi alone, in English language, in Hindi language and multiple languages. People have no understanding of the scale of India. People have no understanding."&nbsp;&nbsp;Emphasising India's adherence to legal norms and international standards, he added, "India is a country which believes in the rule of law. We have always been following rules wherever it is. We play by the book. That is India's reputation." Responding to a question on why the world should trust India, Sibi George referred to the country's role during global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and highlighted India's civilisational legacy. George also cited India's contributions to mathematics, culture and global heritage. He said, “You look around and you see an India connect everywhere in the world. India has the numbers you see on your phones--it originated in India. Shoonya, zero, originated in India. Chess originated in India. So we are proud of that civilisation. Yoga, which the world admires today, originated in India. India had epics and books.”&nbsp;

During PM Narendra Modi’s Norway visit, MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George defended India’s democracy, human rights record and press freedom in Oslo. He highlighted constitutional rights, women’s voting rights, media diversity and India’s commitment to rule of law.

Massive drama unfolded as the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday (May 18) addressed a presser in Norway's Oslo as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meetings with the country's top leaders. A Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng demanded an answer from the MEA officials over why ‘India should be trusted’ and why Prime Minister Modi does not take questions from the press. MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George issued a lengthy answer and defended India's democratic framework, constitutional values, diversity and human rights record. Also Read: India’s ties with Norway ‘trusted, futuristic, and long-term,’ says PM Modi; conferred nation’s highest honour

During PM Narendra Modi’s Norway visit, MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George defended India’s democracy, human rights record and press freedom in Oslo. He highlighted constitutional rights, women’s voting rights, media diversity and India’s commitment to rule of law.

'Right to change govt...': MEA counters Norway journalist’s 'why should we trust you' question - VIDEO

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;Writing on X, Diaz-Canel warned that any US military action would have severe consequences. “Cuba poses no threat” to the United States or any other country, he said, but warned that 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.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-confined-right-now-to-africa-says-trump-on-ebola-outbreak-as-us-tightens-travel-rules-and-steps-up-screening-at-airports-1779145250920"> 'Confined right now to Africa', says Trump on Ebola outbreak as US tightens travel rules and steps up screening at airports</a>&nbsp;Washington escalated pressure on Monday with new sanctions announced by the US Treasury against Cuba’s intelligence agency, along with nine Cuban officials, including ministers and senior Communist Party figures. The sanctions mark one of the strongest recent actions taken by the United States against Havana, as tensions intensify over military and intelligence concerns.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-trial-testimony-delayed-as-trust-crisis-deepens-in-israel-1779102067626/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-trial-testimony-delayed-as-trust-crisis-deepens-in-israel-1779102067626/embed</a>&nbsp;The United States has also tightened economic pressure in recent months, including restricting oil shipments and expanding tariff threats, further deepening Cuba’s ongoing energy and humanitarian crisis. Cuban officials accuse Washington of attempting to justify intervention, arguing that economic restrictions are designed to destabilize the country. The Axios report has further fueled speculation, though Cuba has not confirmed or denied the drone allegations.

Cuba warns of a 'bloodbath' if the US attacks following sanctions and drone allegations, as tensions escalate between Havana and Washington

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. Writing on X, Diaz-Canel warned that any US military action would have severe consequences. “Cuba poses no threat” to the United States or any other country, he said, but warned that 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. Also Read: 'Confined right now to Africa', says Trump on Ebola outbreak as US tightens travel rules and steps up screening at airports Washington escalated pressure on Monday with new sanctions announced by the US Treasury against Cuba’s intelligence agency, along with nine Cuban officials, including ministers and senior Communist Party figures. The sanctions mark one of the strongest recent actions taken by the United States against Havana, as tensions intensify over military and intelligence concerns. https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-trial-testimony-delayed-as-trust-crisis-deepens-in-israel-1779102067626/embed The United States has also tightened economic pressure in recent months, including restricting oil shipments and expanding tariff threats, further deepening Cuba’s ongoing energy and humanitarian crisis. Cuban officials accuse Washington of attempting to justify intervention, arguing that economic restrictions are designed to destabilize the country. The Axios report has further fueled speculation, though Cuba has not confirmed or denied the drone allegations.

Cuba warns of ‘bloodbath’ if the United States attacks amid sanctions and drone claims as tensions with Washington escalate sharply

Cuba warns of 'bloodbath' if US attacks amid rising tensions as Washington imposes new sanctions

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (May 18) he is concerned about an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo but believes the virus has not spread to the United States. "I'm concerned about everything, but certainly I am," Trump told reporters at the White House when asked about the outbreak after an American in the DRC was infected. "I think that it's been confined right now to Africa, but it's something that has had a breakout."&nbsp;The United States is increasing precautions to prevent the spread of Ebola, including enhanced screening of air travelers from affected regions and temporary suspension of some visa services. The measures, announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, come as the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a global health emergency. Health officials confirmed that an American working in the DRC has contracted the virus after occupational exposure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luigi-mangione-trial-judge-allows-notebook-and-gun-as-evidence-in-unitedhealthcare-ceo-killing-case-1779144723326">Luigi Mangione trial: Judge allows notebook and gun as evidence in UnitedHealthcare CEO killing case</a>&nbsp;“The person developed symptoms over the weekend and tested positive late Sunday,” said Satish Pillai, Ebola response incident manager. He added that efforts are underway to evacuate the patient to Germany for advanced treatment. Officials also said six additional individuals are being prepared for evacuation and monitoring. The CDC said about 25 US personnel are currently working in the DRC field office, with additional technical staff being deployed.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-kashmiri-ritual-flowing-through-centuries-1779126374316/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-kashmiri-ritual-flowing-through-centuries-1779126374316/embed</a>&nbsp;“At this time, CDC assesses the immediate risk to the general US public as low, but we will continue to evaluate the evolving situation and may adjust public health measures as additional information becomes available,” the agency said. New entry restrictions will apply to non-US passport holders who have recently traveled to Uganda, the DRC, or South Sudan within the past 21 days. The US Embassy in Kampala, Uganda, has temporarily suspended visa services, notifying affected applicants.

Trump expresses concern over the Ebola outbreak in Congo, while the CDC increases travel screening and the WHO declares a global health emergency

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (May 18) he is concerned about an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo but believes the virus has not spread to the United States. "I'm concerned about everything, but certainly I am," Trump told reporters at the White House when asked about the outbreak after an American in the DRC was infected. "I think that it's been confined right now to Africa, but it's something that has had a breakout." The United States is increasing precautions to prevent the spread of Ebola, including enhanced screening of air travelers from affected regions and temporary suspension of some visa services. The measures, announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, come as the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a global health emergency. Health officials confirmed that an American working in the DRC has contracted the virus after occupational exposure. Also Read: Luigi Mangione trial: Judge allows notebook and gun as evidence in UnitedHealthcare CEO killing case “The person developed symptoms over the weekend and tested positive late Sunday,” said Satish Pillai, Ebola response incident manager. He added that efforts are underway to evacuate the patient to Germany for advanced treatment. Officials also said six additional individuals are being prepared for evacuation and monitoring. The CDC said about 25 US personnel are currently working in the DRC field office, with additional technical staff being deployed. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-kashmiri-ritual-flowing-through-centuries-1779126374316/embed “At this time, CDC assesses the immediate risk to the general US public as low, but we will continue to evaluate the evolving situation and may adjust public health measures as additional information becomes available,” the agency said. New entry restrictions will apply to non-US passport holders who have recently traveled to Uganda, the DRC, or South Sudan within the past 21 days. The US Embassy in Kampala, Uganda, has temporarily suspended visa services, notifying affected applicants.

Trump says Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo is concerning but contained, as CDC tightens travel screening and WHO declares global health emergency

'Confined right now to Africa', says Trump on Ebola outbreak as US tightens travel rules and steps up screening at airports

A New York judge ruled on Monday (May 18) that prosecutors in the case of Luigi Mangione can use a notebook and a gun found in his backpack as evidence in his upcoming trial for the murder of Brian Thompson, but suppressed several other items seized during his arrest. Judge Gregory Carro of Manhattan state court said the initial search of Mangione’s backpack at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania did not meet legal standards for a warrantless search. “The evidence found during the search of the backpack at the McDonald’s must be suppressed, including the magazine, cellphone, passport, wallet, and computer chip,” he wrote.&nbsp;However, the judge ruled that evidence recovered later at a police station was legally obtained. “The cataloguing and photographing of the notebook was a valid part of the inventory search,” he wrote. The gun was found in a separate compartment during that later search. Carro also ruled that some statements Mangione made to police before receiving Miranda warnings cannot be used at trial, including responses to questions about his identity and ID documents.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-diego-mosque-shooting-at-least-3-killed-two-teen-suspects-found-dead-as-police-probe-possible-hate-crime-motive-here-s-what-we-know-so-far-1779138873706">San Diego mosque shooting: At least 3 killed, two teen suspects found dead as police probe possible hate crime motive. Here's what we know so far</a>&nbsp;Mangione, wearing a navy blazer and button-down shirt, attended Monday’s hearing in Manhattan. Supporters in the courtroom reacted with surprise when the ruling was read. A spokesperson for Mangione’s defense team declined to comment, while prosecutors said they were prepared to proceed with the trial. The state trial is scheduled for September 8. Prosecutors allege Mangione killed Thompson on December 4, 2024, in Midtown Manhattan, triggering a nationwide manhunt that ended with his arrest at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania. He has pleaded not guilty in both state and federal cases.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/haryana-ropes-in-pandits-maulvis-granthis-to-tackle-sex-ratio-drop-1779126336478/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/haryana-ropes-in-pandits-maulvis-granthis-to-tackle-sex-ratio-drop-1779126336478/embed</a>&nbsp;In the federal case, a judge previously allowed the backpack evidence. That trial is expected later this year. Prosecutors say the notebook will play a central role in the case, describing it as a diary containing entries outlining motive and intent. “The investor conference is a true windfall,” he said. “It embodies everything wrong with our health system, and, most importantly, the message becomes self-evident.” Authorities also said the 9mm handgun recovered from the backpack included a 3D-printed receiver housing key components of the weapon.

A New York judge ruled Luigi Mangione’s notebook and gun can be used as evidence in the Brian Thompson murder trial, while suppressing other seized items

A New York judge ruled on Monday (May 18) that prosecutors in the case of Luigi Mangione can use a notebook and a gun found in his backpack as evidence in his upcoming trial for the murder of Brian Thompson, but suppressed several other items seized during his arrest. Judge Gregory Carro of Manhattan state court said the initial search of Mangione’s backpack at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania did not meet legal standards for a warrantless search. “The evidence found during the search of the backpack at the McDonald’s must be suppressed, including the magazine, cellphone, passport, wallet, and computer chip,” he wrote. However, the judge ruled that evidence recovered later at a police station was legally obtained. “The cataloguing and photographing of the notebook was a valid part of the inventory search,” he wrote. The gun was found in a separate compartment during that later search. Carro also ruled that some statements Mangione made to police before receiving Miranda warnings cannot be used at trial, including responses to questions about his identity and ID documents. Also Read: San Diego mosque shooting: At least 3 killed, two teen suspects found dead as police probe possible hate crime motive. Here's what we know so far Mangione, wearing a navy blazer and button-down shirt, attended Monday’s hearing in Manhattan. Supporters in the courtroom reacted with surprise when the ruling was read. A spokesperson for Mangione’s defense team declined to comment, while prosecutors said they were prepared to proceed with the trial. The state trial is scheduled for September 8. Prosecutors allege Mangione killed Thompson on December 4, 2024, in Midtown Manhattan, triggering a nationwide manhunt that ended with his arrest at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania. He has pleaded not guilty in both state and federal cases. https://www.wionews.com/videos/haryana-ropes-in-pandits-maulvis-granthis-to-tackle-sex-ratio-drop-1779126336478/embed In the federal case, a judge previously allowed the backpack evidence. That trial is expected later this year. Prosecutors say the notebook will play a central role in the case, describing it as a diary containing entries outlining motive and intent. “The investor conference is a true windfall,” he said. “It embodies everything wrong with our health system, and, most importantly, the message becomes self-evident.” Authorities also said the 9mm handgun recovered from the backpack included a 3D-printed receiver housing key components of the weapon.

Judge allows notebook and gun in Luigi Mangione trial while suppressing other seized items in Brian Thompson murder case

Luigi Mangione trial: Judge allows notebook and gun as evidence in UnitedHealthcare CEO killing case

Authorities investigating the deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego said the two suspects found dead in a nearby vehicle were teenagers. Mark Remily, the special agent in charge of the FBI in San Diego, confirmed on Monday (May 18) that the suspects were juveniles but did not release their identities. Scott Wahl, San Diego Police Chief, later said the suspects were 17 and 19 years old. Police are currently treating the shooting as a possible hate crime because the attack targeted the Islamic Center, according to Chief Wahl.&nbsp;“Because of the Islamic Center location, we are considering this a hate crime until it’s not,” Wahl said. The police chief added that local investigators are working closely with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to determine the motive behind the attack. “We will work closely with the FBI to make sure that we are matching all the resources that we need for this investigation,” Wahl said. The shooting at San Diego’s largest mosque comes amid growing reports of anti-Muslim bias and discrimination across the United States, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-diego-mosque-shooting-police-neutralise-shooter-after-active-threat-at-least-3-dead-1779137213424">San Diego mosque shooting: Police 'neutralise' shooter after active threat; at least 3 dead</a><h2>Security guard killed in mosque shooting was ‘pivotal’ in stopping more harm</h2>The Muslim civil rights advocacy group said it received 8,683 complaints nationwide in 2025, marking the highest number reported in a single year since the organization began tracking incidents in 1996. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive for Monday’s shooting. Police said a security guard at the mosque was among the victims and may have helped prevent even greater loss of life during the attack.&nbsp;“One of the deceased is a security guard who works there, and I think played a pivotal role in preventing this from being much worse,” Chief Scott Wahl said during a news conference. Officials confirmed that three adult men were killed in the shooting, including the security guard. According to police, emergency response teams discovered the victims outside the sprawling mosque complex before later locating the two suspected gunmen dead inside a nearby vehicle in what authorities believe was a suicide. The investigation into the deadly shooting remains ongoing.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/researchers-say-bees-may-have-earth-s-hidden-compass-1779125448216/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/researchers-say-bees-may-have-earth-s-hidden-compass-1779125448216/embed</a><h2>Suspects appear to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds: Police chief&nbsp;</h2>Suspects in the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego ‘appear to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds’, Scott Wahl said during a news briefing. The suspects were identified as two males. “There were no officers involved in firing their weapons. But that is still very preliminary at this point. But that’s what we believe,” Wahl added.<h2>‘Probe will rely on extensive evidence’, says San Diego Police Chief&nbsp;</h2>Investigators at both local and federal levels are still working to determine what led up to the attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego, with officials saying the probe will rely on extensive evidence. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said investigators expect a large volume of material to review as they piece together the sequence of events. “There’s going to be a tremendous amount of information and details that we’re going to try to sort and put this puzzle back together again,” Chief Scott Wahl said. He added that video footage from the Islamic Center’s security cameras will play a key role in the investigation. The FBI has already arrived at the scene and pledged full support and resources to assist local authorities in the ongoing inquiry.<h2>‘Terrible situation’, says Trump</h2>President Donald Trump briefed reporters that he’s been given some early information on the San Diego mosque shooting and that his administration will continue to monitor the situation. “They’re giving a briefing on it, at the mosque … and it’s a terrible situation,” Trump said during a healthcare event at the White House. “I’ve been given some early updates, but we’re going to be going back and looking at it very strongly.”

San Diego police are treating the deadly Islamic Center shooting as a possible hate crime after three victims and two teenage suspects were found dead

Authorities investigating the deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego said the two suspects found dead in a nearby vehicle were teenagers. Mark Remily, the special agent in charge of the FBI in San Diego, confirmed on Monday (May 18) that the suspects were juveniles but did not release their identities. Scott Wahl, San Diego Police Chief, later said the suspects were 17 and 19 years old. Police are currently treating the shooting as a possible hate crime because the attack targeted the Islamic Center, according to Chief Wahl. “Because of the Islamic Center location, we are considering this a hate crime until it’s not,” Wahl said. The police chief added that local investigators are working closely with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to determine the motive behind the attack. “We will work closely with the FBI to make sure that we are matching all the resources that we need for this investigation,” Wahl said. The shooting at San Diego’s largest mosque comes amid growing reports of anti-Muslim bias and discrimination across the United States, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Also Read: San Diego mosque shooting: Police 'neutralise' shooter after active threat; at least 3 dead Security guard killed in mosque shooting was ‘pivotal’ in stopping more harm The Muslim civil rights advocacy group said it received 8,683 complaints nationwide in 2025, marking the highest number reported in a single year since the organization began tracking incidents in 1996. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive for Monday’s shooting. Police said a security guard at the mosque was among the victims and may have helped prevent even greater loss of life during the attack. “One of the deceased is a security guard who works there, and I think played a pivotal role in preventing this from being much worse,” Chief Scott Wahl said during a news conference. Officials confirmed that three adult men were killed in the shooting, including the security guard. According to police, emergency response teams discovered the victims outside the sprawling mosque complex before later locating the two suspected gunmen dead inside a nearby vehicle in what authorities believe was a suicide. The investigation into the deadly shooting remains ongoing. https://www.wionews.com/videos/researchers-say-bees-may-have-earth-s-hidden-compass-1779125448216/embed Suspects appear to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds: Police chief Suspects in the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego ‘appear to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds’, Scott Wahl said during a news briefing. The suspects were identified as two males. “There were no officers involved in firing their weapons. But that is still very preliminary at this point. But that’s what we believe,” Wahl added. ‘Probe will rely on extensive evidence’, says San Diego Police Chief Investigators at both local and federal levels are still working to determine what led up to the attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego, with officials saying the probe will rely on extensive evidence. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said investigators expect a large volume of material to review as they piece together the sequence of events. “There’s going to be a tremendous amount of information and details that we’re going to try to sort and put this puzzle back together again,” Chief Scott Wahl said. He added that video footage from the Islamic Center’s security cameras will play a key role in the investigation. The FBI has already arrived at the scene and pledged full support and resources to assist local authorities in the ongoing inquiry. ‘Terrible situation’, says Trump President Donald Trump briefed reporters that he’s been given some early information on the San Diego mosque shooting and that his administration will continue to monitor the situation. “They’re giving a briefing on it, at the mosque … and it’s a terrible situation,” Trump said during a healthcare event at the White House. “I’ve been given some early updates, but we’re going to be going back and looking at it very strongly.”

Police are investigating the deadly San Diego mosque shooting as a possible hate crime after at least three men died and two suspects were neutralised by cops

San Diego mosque shooting: At least 3 killed, two teen suspects found dead as police probe possible hate crime motive. Here's what we know so far

Police in San Diego said they had ‘neutralized’ a shooter at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Monday (May 18) after a major emergency response surrounded the mosque complex. Television footage from helicopters showed heavily armed law enforcement teams outside the sprawling Islamic center, while one unidentified person was seen lying in a pool of blood near the scene. According to CNN, one security guard was killed in the incident, citing a mosque official. “The threat at the Islamic center has been neutralized,” San Diego police said on X.&nbsp;Imam Taha Hassane said in a video statement that there were reports of casualties, although details had not yet been confirmed. He stressed that all students and staff at the mosque’s school were safe. “We are safe. The entire school is safe. All the kids, all the staff, and the teachers are safe,” he said. “We have a few casualties, not confirmed yet.” “There is no threat at this moment, but we want everyone to stay away,” he said. “Stay safe, stay at home, and make a lot of prayers.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-holding-off-planned-military-attack-on-iran-at-request-of-gulf-leaders-issues-fresh-warning-1779136541494">Trump says holding off planned military attack on Iran at request of Gulf leaders; issues fresh warning</a>&nbsp;Earlier, the San Diego Police Department described the situation as ‘active but contained’ and confirmed that ‘significant resources’ had been deployed to the area. Dozens of patrol vehicles surrounded the Islamic Center, which is described on its website as the largest mosque in San Diego County. California Governor Gavin Newsom was briefed on the incident, according to his office. “We are grateful to the first responders on the scene working to protect the community and urge everyone to follow guidance from local authorities,” the governor’s office said in a statement posted on X.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-launches-biggest-deep-strike-on-moscow-russia-downs-over-3-000-ukrainian-drones-last-week-1779123652713/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-launches-biggest-deep-strike-on-moscow-russia-downs-over-3-000-ukrainian-drones-last-week-1779123652713/embed</a>&nbsp;Before authorities secured the area, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria urged residents to avoid the location. “I am aware of the active shooter situation at the Islamic Center of San Diego,” Gloria said on X. “Emergency personnel are on scene and actively working to protect the community and secure the area.”

Police neutralized a shooter at the Islamic Center of San Diego after an active shooter incident left casualties and triggered a massive emergency response

Police in San Diego said they had ‘neutralized’ a shooter at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Monday (May 18) after a major emergency response surrounded the mosque complex. Television footage from helicopters showed heavily armed law enforcement teams outside the sprawling Islamic center, while one unidentified person was seen lying in a pool of blood near the scene. According to CNN, one security guard was killed in the incident, citing a mosque official. “The threat at the Islamic center has been neutralized,” San Diego police said on X. Imam Taha Hassane said in a video statement that there were reports of casualties, although details had not yet been confirmed. He stressed that all students and staff at the mosque’s school were safe. “We are safe. The entire school is safe. All the kids, all the staff, and the teachers are safe,” he said. “We have a few casualties, not confirmed yet.” “There is no threat at this moment, but we want everyone to stay away,” he said. “Stay safe, stay at home, and make a lot of prayers.” Also Read: Trump says holding off planned military attack on Iran at request of Gulf leaders; issues fresh warning Earlier, the San Diego Police Department described the situation as ‘active but contained’ and confirmed that ‘significant resources’ had been deployed to the area. Dozens of patrol vehicles surrounded the Islamic Center, which is described on its website as the largest mosque in San Diego County. California Governor Gavin Newsom was briefed on the incident, according to his office. “We are grateful to the first responders on the scene working to protect the community and urge everyone to follow guidance from local authorities,” the governor’s office said in a statement posted on X. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-launches-biggest-deep-strike-on-moscow-russia-downs-over-3-000-ukrainian-drones-last-week-1779123652713/embed Before authorities secured the area, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria urged residents to avoid the location. “I am aware of the active shooter situation at the Islamic Center of San Diego,” Gloria said on X. “Emergency personnel are on scene and actively working to protect the community and secure the area.”

Police neutralised a shooter at a San Diego mosque complex as authorities confirmed casualties and secured the area

San Diego mosque shooting: Police 'neutralise' shooter after active threat; at least 3 dead

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Luigi Mangione trial: Judge allows notebook and gun can be used as evidence

San Diego mosque shooting: 3 killed, 2 suspects dead as police probe hate crime

San Diego mosque shooting: Police 'neutralise' shooter after active threat