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US President Donald Trump had a meltdown on the Truth Social platform just before he kicked off his tour to China. Trump lashed out in an aggressive social media post attack on domestic media outlets, accusing them of “aiding and abetting the enemy”. This reaction was triggered by a New York Times report which claimed that despite the victory laps from Trump and Hegseth, Iran has access to most of its missile sites, launchers and underground facilities. The report flags the most alarming statistics, claiming that Iran has restored operational access to 30 of the 33 missile sites it maintains along the Strait of Hormuz, which could threaten US access and threaten its naval blockade.&nbsp;“When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement,” wrote Trump in a social media post. '“When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement,” said Trump. He called them “losers, ingrates and fools” and accused them of rooting against their own country.“Iran had 159 ships in their Navy — Every single ship is now resting at the bottom of the sea,” he continued. “They have no Navy, their Air Force is gone, all Technology is gone, their ‘leaders’ are no longer with us, and the Country is an Economic Disaster.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-sarmat-icbm-world-most-powerful-nuclear-missile-1778671275437">What is the Sarmat ICBM 'world’s most powerful nuclear missile'? Russia claims new missile can bypass all defence systems</a>The report claimed that Iran has maintained control of 70-75 per cent of it pre-war missile launchers and 70 per cent of its missile stockpile. Iran has regained access to roughly 90 per cent of its underground missile storage and launch facilities nationwide, which were previously made inaccessible due to strikes at the entrances. These are now assessed to be “partially or fully operational,” &nbsp;Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that infrastructure workarounds have pushed active supplies to 120 per cent.&nbsp;Trump's meltdown comes as he just kicked off his &nbsp;3-day state visit to China. Just before his trip, he claimed that he does not need China's assistance to resolve the conflict in Iran and open the Strait of Hormuz. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump lashed out at media outlets over a report claiming Iran restored access to key missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz just before his China visit.

US President Donald Trump had a meltdown on the Truth Social platform just before he kicked off his tour to China. Trump lashed out in an aggressive social media post attack on domestic media outlets, accusing them of “aiding and abetting the enemy”. This reaction was triggered by a New York Times report which claimed that despite the victory laps from Trump and Hegseth, Iran has access to most of its missile sites, launchers and underground facilities. The report flags the most alarming statistics, claiming that Iran has restored operational access to 30 of the 33 missile sites it maintains along the Strait of Hormuz, which could threaten US access and threaten its naval blockade. “When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement,” wrote Trump in a social media post. ' “When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement,” said Trump. He called them “losers, ingrates and fools” and accused them of rooting against their own country. “Iran had 159 ships in their Navy — Every single ship is now resting at the bottom of the sea,” he continued. “They have no Navy, their Air Force is gone, all Technology is gone, their ‘leaders’ are no longer with us, and the Country is an Economic Disaster.” Also Read: What is the Sarmat ICBM 'world’s most powerful nuclear missile'? Russia claims new missile can bypass all defence systems The report claimed that Iran has maintained control of 70-75 per cent of it pre-war missile launchers and 70 per cent of its missile stockpile. Iran has regained access to roughly 90 per cent of its underground missile storage and launch facilities nationwide, which were previously made inaccessible due to strikes at the entrances. These are now assessed to be “partially or fully operational,” Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that infrastructure workarounds have pushed active supplies to 120 per cent. Trump's meltdown comes as he just kicked off his 3-day state visit to China. Just before his trip, he claimed that he does not need China's assistance to resolve the conflict in Iran and open the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump lashed out at media outlets over a report claiming Iran restored access to key missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz just before his China visit.

Trump melts down after US media shows Iran retains missile capabilities

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet during a three-day summit in China. Here’s a look at a long history of meetings between two of the world’s most powerful leaders.

Trump to Meet Chinese President: Long history of meetings between the superpower leaders

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Gunshots have been heard at the Philippine Senate on Wednesday, and the people inside were told to run for cover, reported Reuters, citing a witness who heard at least five shots initially, with the total rising to more than a dozen. Gunfire was continuing to be heard, according to the witness.&nbsp;Since Monday, the Senate complex has been a refuge for Senator Bato dela Rosa, who is refusing arrest under an International Criminal Court warrant.&nbsp;Dela Rosa, who helped a powergrab in the upper chamber of Congress to install now Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, has been placed under the Senate’s protective custody.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NEW: Gunfire erupted at the Philippines Senate. Philippine Senator Bato dela Rosa — a top architect of Duterte&#39;s bloody drug war — is trying to evade an ICC arrest warrant. He is under &quot;protective custody&quot; at the Senate. The ICC charges him with crimes against humanity for his… <a href="https://t.co/U3kpn20ply">pic.twitter.com/U3kpn20ply</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/2054534872060805352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the security forces, led by the National Bureau of Investigation, are seeking to serve the warrant, citing Republic Act 9851, which allows the Philippine government to surrender or extradite suspected or accused persons to an international tribunal prosecuting such crimes.'Dela Rosa faces charges of crimes against humanity of murder in connection to the bloody war on drugs, which continued from 2016 to 2018 while he was chief of the National Police.There was chaos in the Philippines parliament when Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, the chief enforcer of the former President Rodrigo Duterte’s “war on drugs” campaign, fled the agents trying to take him under arrest in accordance with the International Criminal Court warrant.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A CCTV footage showed Dela Rosa fleeing into the Senate and locking himself inside as the officers chased him. He was seen racing down the hallways and, at one point, stumbling on the staircase during the escape. The police later said that they could not arrest him.&nbsp;Dela Rosa is wanted by The Hague for killing 32 people between 2016 and 2018. Allegedly, thousands of drug dealers were killed without any trial.Former President Duterte has been in the ICC's custody in The Hague since March. He is charged with crimes against humanity and has been accused of being a co-conspirator for murders committed between 2011 and 2019.&nbsp;<h2>Dela Rosa denies the charges</h2>&nbsp;“They want to forcibly bring me to The Hague, to surrender me there,” Dela Rosa said later on a Facebook livestream. On Tuesday, he rejected the ICC’s warrant, arguing that he was leading the war on drugs, and that does not mean he intentionally wanted people killed.&nbsp;The Philippine police stepped up security outside the Senate hours after the standoff ensued.Dela Rosa stated that he would remain within the Senate’s premises. He vowed that he would “do everything” to avoid being taken to the Hague. His lawyers have reportedly asked the Supreme Court to block his arrest. In an appeal to his supporters from inside the building, Dela Rosa said they must “keep vigil in front of the Senate until the Supreme Court decides”.

Since Monday, the Senate complex has been a refuge for Senator Bato dela Rosa, who is refusing arrest under an ICC warrant. Dela Rosa, who helped a powergrab in the Congress to install now Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, has been placed under the Senate’s protective custody.

Gunshots have been heard at the Philippine Senate on Wednesday, and the people inside were told to run for cover, reported Reuters, citing a witness who heard at least five shots initially, with the total rising to more than a dozen. Gunfire was continuing to be heard, according to the witness. Since Monday, the Senate complex has been a refuge for Senator Bato dela Rosa, who is refusing arrest under an International Criminal Court warrant. Dela Rosa, who helped a powergrab in the upper chamber of Congress to install now Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, has been placed under the Senate’s protective custody.

Since Monday, the Senate complex has been a refuge for Senator Bato dela Rosa, who is refusing arrest under an ICC warrant. Dela Rosa, who helped a powergrab in the Congress to install now Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, has been placed under the Senate’s protective custody.

Gunshots heard at Philippine Senate, people told to run for cover

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that it had test-fired a new strategic nuclear intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Russian President has claimed that the new ICBM was the world's “most powerful” missile that can deliver nuclear warheads until the United States. Putin said that the missile will be in service by the end of 2026. After severe setbacks since its initiation in 2018, including a failed launch in February 2023 and a deadly silo explosion in 2024, it is now it is ready to be inducted into the service. Russia’s strategic missile forces commander Sergei Karakayev confirmed it as a successful launch on Tuesday.<h2>What is the Sarmat ICBM?&nbsp;</h2>The Sarmat ICBM is the central pillar of Moscow's nuclear modernisation strategy. It is a super-heavy, liquid-fuelled ICBM and can deliver 10 heavy or 16 lighter Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRV). It can carry 10 tonnes of nuclear payload and can achieve a top speed of Mach 12. The Sarmat ICBM has a standard range of 18000 km, though Russian officials claimed that its suborbital and Fractional Orbital Bombardment System (FOBS) trajectories allow it to exceed 35,000 km.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iran-war-americans-financial-pain-oil-prices-inflation-1778668342146">Trump says he doesn’t think about Americans’ financial pain amid Iran war, defends oil shock</a><h2>Why is Putin calling Sarmat the world's “most powerful missile”?</h2>Russian President Vladimir Putin said to the state media, “This is the most powerful missile in the world,” adding that it was capable of suborbital flight and was more than four times ⁠greater than any Western equivalent."The deployment of ​launchers equipped with ​the Sarmat missile ⁠system will significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the ground-based strategic nuclear forces in terms of ​guaranteeing the destruction of targets and solving strategic deterrence ​problems," said &nbsp;Sergei Karakayev.&nbsp;"It has the ability to penetrate all existing and future ​anti-missile defence systems," said Putin. NATO called the missile “SATAN-II", but Western security analysts remain sceptical and call Putin's modernisation programme an exaggeration. Putin said that the Sarmat is meant to replace about 40 Soviet-built Voyevoda missiles. This development comes as the last remaining treaty, START, to restrict the development of strategic nuclear warheads, expired in February, 2026.<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the successful test of the Sarmat ICBM, claiming it is the world’s most powerful nuclear missile capable of carrying multiple warheads across intercontinental ranges.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that it had test-fired a new strategic nuclear intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Russian President has claimed that the new ICBM was the world's “most powerful” missile that can deliver nuclear warheads until the United States. Putin said that the missile will be in service by the end of 2026. After severe setbacks since its initiation in 2018, including a failed launch in February 2023 and a deadly silo explosion in 2024, it is now it is ready to be inducted into the service. Russia’s strategic missile forces commander Sergei Karakayev confirmed it as a successful launch on Tuesday. What is the Sarmat ICBM? The Sarmat ICBM is the central pillar of Moscow's nuclear modernisation strategy. It is a super-heavy, liquid-fuelled ICBM and can deliver 10 heavy or 16 lighter Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRV). It can carry 10 tonnes of nuclear payload and can achieve a top speed of Mach 12. The Sarmat ICBM has a standard range of 18000 km, though Russian officials claimed that its suborbital and Fractional Orbital Bombardment System (FOBS) trajectories allow it to exceed 35,000 km. Also Read: Trump says he doesn’t think about Americans’ financial pain amid Iran war, defends oil shock Why is Putin calling Sarmat the world's “most powerful missile”? Russian President Vladimir Putin said to the state media, “This is the most powerful missile in the world,” adding that it was capable of suborbital flight and was more than four times ⁠greater than any Western equivalent. "The deployment of launchers equipped with the Sarmat missile ⁠system will significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the ground-based strategic nuclear forces in terms of guaranteeing the destruction of targets and solving strategic deterrence problems," said Sergei Karakayev. "It has the ability to penetrate all existing and future anti-missile defence systems," said Putin. NATO called the missile “SATAN-II", but Western security analysts remain sceptical and call Putin's modernisation programme an exaggeration. Putin said that the Sarmat is meant to replace about 40 Soviet-built Voyevoda missiles. This development comes as the last remaining treaty, START, to restrict the development of strategic nuclear warheads, expired in February, 2026.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the successful test of the Sarmat ICBM, claiming it is the world’s most powerful nuclear missile capable of carrying multiple warheads across intercontinental ranges.

What is the Sarmat ICBM 'world’s most powerful nuclear missile'? Russia claims new missile can bypass all defence systems

The US war against Iran has already cost nearly $29 billion, according to the Pentagon, but independent experts warn that the final price tag could eventually climb to as much as $1 trillion once long-term military and veterans’ costs are fully accounted for. On Tuesday (May 12), Jay Hurst, who is performing the duties of Pentagon Comptroller, told a House Appropriations Committee hearing that the ongoing military campaign against Iran had cost “closer to $29 billion”, revising upwards an earlier estimate of $25 billion presented to Congress just two weeks ago.&nbsp;According to CNN, the revised assessment reflects updated operational expenses and the growing cost of repairing and replacing military equipment used in the conflict.“So, at the time of testimony from the House Armed Services Committee, it was $25 billion, but the joint staff team and the comptroller team are constantly looking at that estimate, and so now we think it is closer to 29. That is because of updated repair and replacement of equipment costs and also just general operational costs to keep people in theatre,” Hurst said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-marco-rubio-who-s-under-sanction-by-beijing-get-permission-to-travel-to-china-for-the-first-time-1778647018316">How did Marco Rubio, who’s under sanction by Beijing, get permission to travel to China for the first time?</a>&nbsp;Hurst later told a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing that the latest estimate still excluded the cost of damage sustained by US military bases across the Middle East. “We just do not have a good estimate at this time,” he added.&nbsp;CNN reported that previous internal assessments had suggested the true financial burden could rise substantially higher once damaged infrastructure and depleted military assets are fully replaced. One source cited by the broadcaster estimated the total could eventually reach between $40 billion and $50 billion.&nbsp;However, war budgeting expert Linda Bilmes of Harvard Kennedy School believes even those figures dramatically understate the long-term financial impact of the conflict. In a research paper released last week, Bilmes argued that the total cost of the Iran war could ultimately hit $1 trillion when future military expansion, veterans’ healthcare obligations and defence spending are included. “I am certain we will spend one trillion dollars on the Iran war. Perhaps we have already racked up that amount,” Bilmes stated.&nbsp;According to the research, the initial days of the conflict alone cost the US at least $16 billion because of the rapid depletion of expensive missile systems and intense operational activity.&nbsp;Bilmes estimated that the US is currently spending close to $2 billion per day on short-term operational costs, including missiles, interceptor systems, aircraft carrier deployments, combat pay, maintenance and replacement of damaged assets.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-jinping-meeting-highs-and-lows-of-us-china-relations-in-trump-era-1778651255403">Trump -Xi Jinping meeting: Highs and lows of US-China relations in Trump era</a>“We are spending down munitions at an extraordinarily fast pace,” she said, noting that the US had fired more Patriot missiles in the first four days of the Iran conflict than it had supplied to Ukraine during the previous four years. Bilmes also warned that Pentagon inventory valuations fail to reflect the significantly higher cost of replacing modern weapons systems.&nbsp;“For example, the Tomahawk missiles being used are valued at around $2 million each in inventory, but replacing them today costs $3 to $3.5 million. Patriot missiles in the inventory were valued at $1 to $2 million, but newer versions cost $4 to $5 million each,” she said.

The Pentagon estimates the Iran war cost at $29 billion, but experts like Linda Bilmes warn long-term expenses for munitions, equipment replacement, and veterans’ care could reach $1 trillion.

The US war against Iran has already cost nearly $29 billion, according to the Pentagon, but independent experts warn that the final price tag could eventually climb to as much as $1 trillion once long-term military and veterans’ costs are fully accounted for. On Tuesday (May 12), Jay Hurst, who is performing the duties of Pentagon Comptroller, told a House Appropriations Committee hearing that the ongoing military campaign against Iran had cost “closer to $29 billion”, revising upwards an earlier estimate of $25 billion presented to Congress just two weeks ago. According to CNN, the revised assessment reflects updated operational expenses and the growing cost of repairing and replacing military equipment used in the conflict. “So, at the time of testimony from the House Armed Services Committee, it was $25 billion, but the joint staff team and the comptroller team are constantly looking at that estimate, and so now we think it is closer to 29. That is because of updated repair and replacement of equipment costs and also just general operational costs to keep people in theatre,” Hurst said. Also read: How did Marco Rubio, who’s under sanction by Beijing, get permission to travel to China for the first time? Hurst later told a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing that the latest estimate still excluded the cost of damage sustained by US military bases across the Middle East. “We just do not have a good estimate at this time,” he added. CNN reported that previous internal assessments had suggested the true financial burden could rise substantially higher once damaged infrastructure and depleted military assets are fully replaced. One source cited by the broadcaster estimated the total could eventually reach between $40 billion and $50 billion. However, war budgeting expert Linda Bilmes of Harvard Kennedy School believes even those figures dramatically understate the long-term financial impact of the conflict. In a research paper released last week, Bilmes argued that the total cost of the Iran war could ultimately hit $1 trillion when future military expansion, veterans’ healthcare obligations and defence spending are included. “I am certain we will spend one trillion dollars on the Iran war. Perhaps we have already racked up that amount,” Bilmes stated. According to the research, the initial days of the conflict alone cost the US at least $16 billion because of the rapid depletion of expensive missile systems and intense operational activity. Bilmes estimated that the US is currently spending close to $2 billion per day on short-term operational costs, including missiles, interceptor systems, aircraft carrier deployments, combat pay, maintenance and replacement of damaged assets. Also read: Trump -Xi Jinping meeting: Highs and lows of US-China relations in Trump era “We are spending down munitions at an extraordinarily fast pace,” she said, noting that the US had fired more Patriot missiles in the first four days of the Iran conflict than it had supplied to Ukraine during the previous four years. Bilmes also warned that Pentagon inventory valuations fail to reflect the significantly higher cost of replacing modern weapons systems. “For example, the Tomahawk missiles being used are valued at around $2 million each in inventory, but replacing them today costs $3 to $3.5 million. Patriot missiles in the inventory were valued at $1 to $2 million, but newer versions cost $4 to $5 million each,” she said.

The Pentagon estimates the Iran war cost at $29 billion, but experts like Linda Bilmes warn long-term expenses for munitions, equipment replacement, and veterans’ care could reach $1 trillion.

Is Iran war costing Americans $29 billion or $1 trillion? Here’s what we know

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Wednesday (May 13) reiterated Moscow’s commitment to New Delhi, saying that India’s interests in energy supplies from Russia “will not be affected”. He assured that Russia will continue to ensure stable energy supplies for India despite what he called an “unfair competition”. Lavrov’s remarks come ahead of his visit to India for the BRICS summit, during which he will hold talks with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar and attend the foreign ministers’ meeting. &nbsp;Lavrov also accused the US of having a goal to “seize everything”. He alleged that the US was trying to dominate global energy corridors and impose pressure on countries maintaining energy ties with Russia.“Their [US] goal is to seize everything, to seize all energy routes that are important. This goal is pretty clear and I’m confident that India understands what is happening,” Lavrov said.“I can assure you that India’s interests when it comes to Russian supplies will not be affected and we will do our utmost to ensure that this unfair play, unfair competition, could not affect our arrangements,” he added.Lavrov said that Western nations, particularly European countries, were politically motivated to reduce dependence on Russian energy supplies rather than being driven by market factors.“And it’s not a force majeure, an act of God, that the Europeans recall when they strongly refuse to have contracts on energy supplies from Russia. Now they try to ban our gas and oil simply because Russia needs to be punished,” he stated.“We do not punish anyone and we treat our commitments in good faith. The commitments that we have in our relations with our partners. It doesn’t matter whether we’re talking about friendly or non-friendly countries. If we reached an agreement, it’s in the Russian tradition to live up to the arrangements,” Lavrov added.He also criticised Western powers, accusing them of cancelling agreements and pursuing economic dominance.“In the West, they have different traditions. They like to cancel history, to cancel arrangements, to come up with some excuses, to once again live at the expense of others, to punish, punish, and punish,” Lavrov said. “They put Europe into a dire crisis. Energy-wise and food-wise, probably Europe will be the one to be affected the most from the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.“The ban to buy Russian oil and gas means that they will need to switch to the US supplies of LNG, which come at a higher price,” Lavrov added.<h2>‘Hindi-Rusi bhai bhai’</h2>Lavrov also hailed the friendship between India and Russia saying that “Hindi-Rusi bhai bhai” (Indians and Russians are brothers) is not just a fun slogan to chant but has become a part of our culture.“Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor, more recent television series and films – they are immensely popular in Russia, everywhere, in every corner. The economy, joint energy production, military cooperation, nuclear and other forms of energy, cultural and humanitarian ties, and a high-level political dialogue marked by unprecedented trust – all of it is rock solid,” Lavrov said.

Sergey Lavrov assured India that Russian energy supplies will remain stable despite Western pressure, accused the US of targeting energy routes, and praised strong India-Russia ties.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Wednesday (May 13) reiterated Moscow’s commitment to New Delhi, saying that India’s interests in energy supplies from Russia “will not be affected”. He assured that Russia will continue to ensure stable energy supplies for India despite what he called an “unfair competition”. Lavrov’s remarks come ahead of his visit to India for the BRICS summit, during which he will hold talks with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar and attend the foreign ministers’ meeting. Lavrov also accused the US of having a goal to “seize everything”. He alleged that the US was trying to dominate global energy corridors and impose pressure on countries maintaining energy ties with Russia. “Their [US] goal is to seize everything, to seize all energy routes that are important. This goal is pretty clear and I’m confident that India understands what is happening,” Lavrov said. “I can assure you that India’s interests when it comes to Russian supplies will not be affected and we will do our utmost to ensure that this unfair play, unfair competition, could not affect our arrangements,” he added. Lavrov said that Western nations, particularly European countries, were politically motivated to reduce dependence on Russian energy supplies rather than being driven by market factors. “And it’s not a force majeure, an act of God, that the Europeans recall when they strongly refuse to have contracts on energy supplies from Russia. Now they try to ban our gas and oil simply because Russia needs to be punished,” he stated. “We do not punish anyone and we treat our commitments in good faith. The commitments that we have in our relations with our partners. It doesn’t matter whether we’re talking about friendly or non-friendly countries. If we reached an agreement, it’s in the Russian tradition to live up to the arrangements,” Lavrov added. He also criticised Western powers, accusing them of cancelling agreements and pursuing economic dominance. “In the West, they have different traditions. They like to cancel history, to cancel arrangements, to come up with some excuses, to once again live at the expense of others, to punish, punish, and punish,” Lavrov said. “They put Europe into a dire crisis. Energy-wise and food-wise, probably Europe will be the one to be affected the most from the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said. “The ban to buy Russian oil and gas means that they will need to switch to the US supplies of LNG, which come at a higher price,” Lavrov added. ‘Hindi-Rusi bhai bhai’ Lavrov also hailed the friendship between India and Russia saying that “Hindi-Rusi bhai bhai” (Indians and Russians are brothers) is not just a fun slogan to chant but has become a part of our culture. “Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor, more recent television series and films – they are immensely popular in Russia, everywhere, in every corner. The economy, joint energy production, military cooperation, nuclear and other forms of energy, cultural and humanitarian ties, and a high-level political dialogue marked by unprecedented trust – all of it is rock solid,” Lavrov said.

Sergey Lavrov assured India that Russian energy supplies will remain stable despite Western pressure, accused the US of targeting energy routes, and praised strong India-Russia ties.

‘Hindi-Rusi bhai bhai’: Lavrov assures India on Russian oil supplies, says US wants to ‘seize all energy routes’

King Charles delivered the UK government's legislative programme during his King's Speech in Parliament on Wednesday (May 13). He addressed both houses of the parliament, also one of the one of the most ceremonially significant events in the British political calendar. The King delivered his speech from the throne in the House of Lords chamber. In his speech, the King noted the ongoing West Asia crisis and its impact on the economic security of the country. In his opening note, he showed a sense of urgency as he warned "an increasingly dangerous and volatile world threatens the United Kingdom, with the conflict in West Asia only the most recent example," adding that "every element of the nation's energy, defence and economic security will be tested."&nbsp;&nbsp;On trade and the economy, the government announced plans to introduce a European Partnership Bill to strengthen ties with the European Union, describing improved trading relations as "vital for the United Kingdom's economic security". Additional legislation to tackle late payments to small businesses and to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens was also confirmed.&nbsp;&nbsp;He mentioned that the UK’s economy depends on world-class infrastructure and showed faith in his ministers to “improve trading relations are vital for the UK’s economic security” and “raise living standards in every part of England, control the cost of living.” Infrastructure featured prominently in the agenda. Legislation was announced to clean up the water industry through a Clean Water Bill and to establish Great British Railways under a Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill.&nbsp;

Explore King Charles III’s 2026 address to Parliament. From the West Asia crisis to UK energy security, we break down the impact of this year’s King’s Speech.

King Charles delivered the UK government's legislative programme during his King's Speech in Parliament on Wednesday (May 13). He addressed both houses of the parliament, also one of the one of the most ceremonially significant events in the British political calendar. The King delivered his speech from the throne in the House of Lords chamber. In his speech, the King noted the ongoing West Asia crisis and its impact on the economic security of the country. In his opening note, he showed a sense of urgency as he warned "an increasingly dangerous and volatile world threatens the United Kingdom, with the conflict in West Asia only the most recent example," adding that "every element of the nation's energy, defence and economic security will be tested." On trade and the economy, the government announced plans to introduce a European Partnership Bill to strengthen ties with the European Union, describing improved trading relations as "vital for the United Kingdom's economic security". Additional legislation to tackle late payments to small businesses and to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens was also confirmed. He mentioned that the UK’s economy depends on world-class infrastructure and showed faith in his ministers to “improve trading relations are vital for the UK’s economic security” and “raise living standards in every part of England, control the cost of living.” Infrastructure featured prominently in the agenda. Legislation was announced to clean up the water industry through a Clean Water Bill and to establish Great British Railways under a Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill.

Explore King Charles III’s 2026 address to Parliament. From the West Asia crisis to UK energy security, we break down the impact of this year’s King’s Speech.

King Charles delivers 2026 King's Speech, starts with West Asia crisis and its impact

United States (US) President Donald Trump is expected to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday (May 13) for a two-day summit with China’s leader, Xi Jinping. This comes at a time when war in Iran might renew as the fragile ceasefire has not resulted into a permanent deal between the two sides. As Trump and Jinping are set to meet in Beijing for a three-day summit is expected to focus on the US-Israel war on Iran, trade, and the status of Taiwan, among other issues. Trump is the first president approximately in a decade to visit China. Both the leaders met the last time in South Korea and struck a few deals. The agenda for the Trump-Xi summit is expected to cover a wide range of economic, strategic and geopolitical issues. Trade is likely to remain a major focus, with the United States seeking a more structured trade framework with China to avoid recurring tariff disputes. Washington may push for a special mechanism to better regulate the flow of goods between the two economies. Rare earth minerals are also expected to feature prominently, as the US looks for reliable access to Chinese supplies that are crucial for technology and defence industries. Large commercial agreements, including possible Chinese purchases of Boeing aircraft and increased imports of American agricultural products, could also be discussed.China, meanwhile, is expected to press for fewer restrictions on its companies operating in the US, particularly in sectors such as artificial intelligence and electric vehicles. Chinese EV giant BYD could emerge as a major talking point as Washington debates the future entry of Chinese-made vehicles into the American market. Taiwan is also expected to remain a highly sensitive issue, with Beijing likely to warn against US military support and arms sales to the island, which China considers part of its territory. Trump has additionally hinted that he may raise the issue of jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai during the talks.Security concerns are also expected to feature prominently, including the possibility of fresh nuclear arms discussions involving China. Trump is believed to favour expanding future arms control frameworks beyond the traditional US-Russia model to reflect shifting global power dynamics. Alongside these strategic issues, Beijing is expected to advocate for stronger educational, business and cultural exchanges between the two countries in an effort to stabilise relations beyond trade and political tensions.

This live blog has ended.

Jensen Huang, CEO of the American tech giant Nvidia, has joined Trump on his state visit to China this week after earlier reports suggested he would not be in attendance.Huang joined the US delegation in Alaska for the second leg of the flight to Beijing, according to pool reports. He had not been included on an earlier list of the American CEOs accompanying Trump, but White House spokesperson Steven Cheung said Huang was added to the trip once his schedule allowed it.A spokesperson for Nvidia said in a statement, “Jensen is attending the summit at the invitation of President Trump to support America and the administration’s goals.”

Nvidia’s Jensen Huang joins Trump’s China trip 

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 13) arrived in Beijing for a high-stakes summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Their meeting will focus on easing deep tensions between the United States and China. The relations between the two largest economies have soured over trade, Taiwan and the ongoing conflict involving Iran.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/red-carpet-300-chinese-youth-trump-s-special-welcome-in-beijing-ahead-of-talks-with-xi-jinping-1778685695970">Read more here.</a>

Red carpet, 300 Chinese youth: Trump’s special welcome in Beijing ahead of talks with Xi Jinping

Trump was greeted with a bunch of flowers and then walked along the red carpet, which was lined with 300 Chinese youth in white uniforms chanting "welcome" and waving small Chinese and US flags in unison.While en route to Beijing, Trump said on social media he would "be asking President Xi, a Leader of extraordinary distinction, to 'open up' China so that these brilliant people can work their magic".

Chinese youth waved Chinese And American flags as they welcomed Trump

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet during a three-day summit in China. Here’s a look at a long history of meetings between two of the world’s most powerful leaders.<h2>Long history of encounters</h2>US President Donald Trump is set to meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in a high-stakes summit. This marks the seventh face-to-face meeting between the two world leaders.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-to-meet-chinese-president-long-history-of-meetings-between-the-superpower-leaders-pics-1778678479885">Read more</a>

China set for high-stakes Trump-Xi diplomacy. The US president to raise Taiwan arms sales in talks with Xi Jinping.&nbsp;&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONDispatch?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WIONDispatch&lt;/a&gt; | China set for high-stakes Trump-Xi diplomacy&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Trump to raise Taiwan arms sales in talks with Xi Jinping&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;US remains Taiwan&amp;#39;s most important international backer&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/susanmtehrani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;@susanmtehrani&lt;/a&gt; joins &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/MollyGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;@MollyGambhir&lt;/a&gt; with the latest updates &lt;a href="https://t.co/3foirRPPwN"&gt;pic.twitter.com/3foirRPPwN&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2054557300967485486?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;May 13, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

China set for high-stakes Trump-Xi diplomacy

US President Donald Trump arrives in Beijing, welcomed by Chinese vice-president Han Zheng. &lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;US President Donald Trump arrives in Beijing on historic visit, welcomed by Chinese vice-president Han Zheng &lt;a href="https://t.co/aznCOOfFGL"&gt;pic.twitter.com/aznCOOfFGL&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2054536256739278905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;May 13, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Trump arrives in Beijing, welcomed by Chinese vice-president Han Zheng

US President Donald Trump lands in Beijing, receives a grand welcome.

Trump-Xi meet LIVE: US president arrives in Beijing

US President Donald Trump is expected to land shortly, and preparations to welcome him in Beijing are underway.

Trump-Xi meet LIVE: US president to land in Beijing shortly

Asked if Xi needs to intervene in Iran, Trump said, “I don’t think we need any help with Iran. We’ll win it one way or the other. We’ll win it peacefully or otherwise. Their Navy is gone. Their Air Force is gone. Every single element of their war machine is gone.”

Trump-Xi meet LIVE: Will Trump allow China to help with Iran?

As he left the White House, Trump downplayed differences with Xi over the US conflict in Iran and predicted that “good things are going to happen” during the visit.

Trump downplayed differences with Xi o

<h4>What's on agenda?</h4><ul><li>Trade rules and balancing business: The US wants a more organised trade system with China instead of constant tariff fights. Washington may propose a special trade mechanism to decide what goods both countries should buy and sell from each other.</li><li>Rare minerals and big business deals: The US is likely to seek steady access to China’s rare earth minerals, which are important for technology and defence. Big deals like China buying hundreds of Boeing planes and more US farm products could also be discussed.</li><li>Chinese companies and US market access: China wants fewer restrictions on its companies in the US, specially in sectors like AI and electric vehicles. Chinese EV giant BYD could become a key talking point as Washington debates whether Chinese cars should enter the American market.</li><li>Taiwan and security concerns: Taiwan is expected to remain a sensitive issue. China has repeatedly warned the US to be careful about arms sales and military support to Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory. Trump has also hinted that he would talk about Jimmy Lai.</li><li>Nuclear weapons and military stability: Donald Trump may push for fresh nuclear arms discussions that also include China, arguing that current US-Russia agreements no longer reflect today’s global balance.</li><li>Improving people-to-people ties: Beijing is expected to stress rebuilding educational, business and cultural exchanges with the US after relations worsened in recent years. The idea is to stabilise ties beyond just trade and politics.</li></ul>

Trump-Xi meet LIVE: What's on agenda

Iran has backed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s four-point proposal aimed at ensuring lasting security and shared development in the Persian Gulf region. Iran’s Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, said the Islamic Republic was ready to support the Chinese proposal ahead of US President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to China this week. In a post on X, the envoy said the issue was also discussed during Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s recent meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-backs-xi-jinping-s-four-point-proposal-ahead-of-trump-s-china-visit-1778581011682">Read more</a>

Trump-Xi meet LIVE: Iran backs Xi Jinping’s four-point proposal ahead of Trump’s China visit

As US President Donald Trump prepares for a closely watched summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping this week, diplomats and analysts are increasingly concerned that even a slight shift in language on Taiwan could trigger major geopolitical consequences. Trump has described the upcoming talks as “potentially historic”, but allies of Washington fear the meeting could become historic for another reason. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-meet-xi-jinping-will-there-be-straight-talk-on-taiwan-this-is-what-we-know-1778569946148">Read more</a>

Trump-Xi meet LIVE: Trump to meet Xi Jinping: Will there be straight talk on Taiwan?

Elon Musk, Tim Cook, Jensen Huang, and Larry Fink are among the prominent American corporate leaders travelling with President Donald Trump on his official high-stakes diplomatic trip to China. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-meet-xi-jinping-who-will-accompany-us-president-and-who-ll-not-here-s-what-we-know-1778566138212">Read more </a>

Trump-Xi meet LIVE: Trump to meet Xi Jinping: Who will accompany US president 

Nearly a decade later, the balance of confidence appears to have shifted further in China’s favour. Xi, now serving an unprecedented third term, has overseen a vast expansion of Chinese ambitions in advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, artificial intelligence and robotics. Chinese cities and industrial hubs increasingly reflect Beijing’s long-term strategy to challenge American dominance economically and technologically.This week’s summit is expected to include discussions on trade disputes, technology restrictions, Taiwan and the escalating tensions surrounding Iran. The talks come at a moment when Washington officially regards China as its foremost strategic competitor. Ali Wyne of the International Crisis Group said China no longer feels compelled to prove itself America’s equal because Washington now openly acknowledges Beijing as a “near-peer” rival.\<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-jinping-meeting-highs-and-lows-of-us-china-relations-in-trump-era-1778651255403">Read More&nbsp;</a>

Trump-Xi meet LIVE updates: Highs and lows of US-China relations in Trump era

US President Donald Trump is set to arrive in Beijing for a high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid tensions over Iran, trade and Taiwan. Talks are expected to focus on tariffs, rare earths, EVs, security issues and nuclear arms, as both sides seek to stabilise ties.

United States (US) President Donald Trump is expected to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday (May 13) for a two-day summit with China’s leader, Xi Jinping. This comes at a time when war in Iran might renew as the fragile ceasefire has not resulted into a permanent deal between the two sides. As Trump and Jinping are set to meet in Beijing for a three-day summit is expected to focus on the US-Israel war on Iran, trade, and the status of Taiwan, among other issues. Trump is the first president approximately in a decade to visit China. Both the leaders met the last time in South Korea and struck a few deals. The agenda for the Trump-Xi summit is expected to cover a wide range of economic, strategic and geopolitical issues. Trade is likely to remain a major focus, with the United States seeking a more structured trade framework with China to avoid recurring tariff disputes. Washington may push for a special mechanism to better regulate the flow of goods between the two economies. Rare earth minerals are also expected to feature prominently, as the US looks for reliable access to Chinese supplies that are crucial for technology and defence industries. Large commercial agreements, including possible Chinese purchases of Boeing aircraft and increased imports of American agricultural products, could also be discussed. China, meanwhile, is expected to press for fewer restrictions on its companies operating in the US, particularly in sectors such as artificial intelligence and electric vehicles. Chinese EV giant BYD could emerge as a major talking point as Washington debates the future entry of Chinese-made vehicles into the American market. Taiwan is also expected to remain a highly sensitive issue, with Beijing likely to warn against US military support and arms sales to the island, which China considers part of its territory. Trump has additionally hinted that he may raise the issue of jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai during the talks. Security concerns are also expected to feature prominently, including the possibility of fresh nuclear arms discussions involving China. Trump is believed to favour expanding future arms control frameworks beyond the traditional US-Russia model to reflect shifting global power dynamics. Alongside these strategic issues, Beijing is expected to advocate for stronger educational, business and cultural exchanges between the two countries in an effort to stabilise relations beyond trade and political tensions.

US President Donald Trump is set to arrive in Beijing for a high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid tensions over Iran, trade and Taiwan. Talks are expected to focus on tariffs, rare earths, EVs, security issues and nuclear arms, as both sides seek to stabilise ties.

Trump-Xi meet LIVE updates: US President Donald Trump lands in Beijing

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he is not worried about the financial plight of Americans. He said that he does not consider the financial strain while negotiating an end to the Iran war. Speaking on the White House South Lawn on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, ahead of his diplomatic trip to Beijing, Trump asserted that blocking Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons is his exclusive motivation. The US war on Iran and the resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz have pushed the oil prices over $100/ barrel. The gas prices in the US are $4.63/gallon, and the annual inflation rate has climbed to 3.7 per cent. US wage growth, which is 3.6 per cent, has fallen below the headline inflation rate."The only thing that matters when I'm talking about Iran—they can't have a nuclear weapon. I don't think about the Americans' financial situation. I don't think about anybody," Trump made the stunning statement to reporters before flying off to Beijing for the Xi-Trump summit. His remarks came just hours after a new survey showing US citizens consider the president for the record-high gas prices, rising mortgage rates and food costs that have followed. According to a CNN/SSRS poll, 77 per cent of citizens believe that Trump's decision to go to war was a major call driving the cost of living up.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/xi-trump-summit-iran-war-strait-of-hormuz-us-china-rivalry-1778656331990">Xi-Trump summit: Will the meeting bring a resolution to the war with Iran &amp; Hormuz blockade end</a>Trump was visibly frustrated when reporters pressed him if his policies had fulfilled the promises he had made in the election campaign that got him elected for his second non-consecutive term in 2024. Trump claimed that the administration's efforts had worked significantly, as the inflation had cooled by 1.7 per cent before Trump decided to go to war with Iran, ignoring the concern that a retaliation would result in a closure of the Strait of Hormuz and create a supply shock. He claimed that anyone who is concerned about financial strain wants Iran to have a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;“Anybody that wants them to have a nuclear weapon is a stupid person. So we said we're going to take the greatest stock market in history, and we're going to go down a little bit. And actually that turned out to be incorrect, because our stock market is now at the highest point in history, which frankly, surprised a lot of people,” said Trump.&nbsp;Economists warn that supply shock, which resulted in the rise of energy prices, has pushed the country into a period of stagflation as the Federal Reserve has to maintain the interest rate; otherwise, the dollar will be weakened and the sovereign debt will increase. Without a proper restoration of navigation, the global economy, as well as the US economy will face a recession.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said he is not worried about Americans’ financial strain while negotiating an end to the Iran war. Rising oil prices, inflation and gas costs are fuelling stagflation fears.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he is not worried about the financial plight of Americans. He said that he does not consider the financial strain while negotiating an end to the Iran war. Speaking on the White House South Lawn on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, ahead of his diplomatic trip to Beijing, Trump asserted that blocking Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons is his exclusive motivation. The US war on Iran and the resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz have pushed the oil prices over $100/ barrel. The gas prices in the US are $4.63/gallon, and the annual inflation rate has climbed to 3.7 per cent. US wage growth, which is 3.6 per cent, has fallen below the headline inflation rate. "The only thing that matters when I'm talking about Iran—they can't have a nuclear weapon. I don't think about the Americans' financial situation. I don't think about anybody," Trump made the stunning statement to reporters before flying off to Beijing for the Xi-Trump summit. His remarks came just hours after a new survey showing US citizens consider the president for the record-high gas prices, rising mortgage rates and food costs that have followed. According to a CNN/SSRS poll, 77 per cent of citizens believe that Trump's decision to go to war was a major call driving the cost of living up. Also Read: Xi-Trump summit: Will the meeting bring a resolution to the war with Iran & Hormuz blockade end Trump was visibly frustrated when reporters pressed him if his policies had fulfilled the promises he had made in the election campaign that got him elected for his second non-consecutive term in 2024. Trump claimed that the administration's efforts had worked significantly, as the inflation had cooled by 1.7 per cent before Trump decided to go to war with Iran, ignoring the concern that a retaliation would result in a closure of the Strait of Hormuz and create a supply shock. He claimed that anyone who is concerned about financial strain wants Iran to have a nuclear weapon. “Anybody that wants them to have a nuclear weapon is a stupid person. So we said we're going to take the greatest stock market in history, and we're going to go down a little bit. And actually that turned out to be incorrect, because our stock market is now at the highest point in history, which frankly, surprised a lot of people,” said Trump. Economists warn that supply shock, which resulted in the rise of energy prices, has pushed the country into a period of stagflation as the Federal Reserve has to maintain the interest rate; otherwise, the dollar will be weakened and the sovereign debt will increase. Without a proper restoration of navigation, the global economy, as well as the US economy will face a recession.

US President Donald Trump said he is not worried about Americans’ financial strain while negotiating an end to the Iran war. Rising oil prices, inflation and gas costs are fuelling stagflation fears.

Trump says he doesn’t think about Americans’ financial pain amid Iran war, defends oil shock

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in Beijing as tensions over Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, trade, tariffs and global power rivalry intensify. The summit comes amid fears of economic disruption and energy insecurity.

Xi-Trump summit: Will the meeting bring a resolution to the war with Iran & end Hormuz blockade?

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio sparked buzz on social media after he was reportedly spotted wearing a Nike Tech tracksuit while travelling to China with Donald Trump. His outfit has evoked memories of ousted Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, who was photographed blindfolded in the same attire earlier this year after he was flown to America following his capture. In a post on social media platform X, White House communications director Steven Cheung wrote, “Secretary Rubio rocking the Nike Tech ‘Venezuela’ on Air Force One!” Eric Daugherty wrote on X, “LMFAO! Sec. Marco Rubio was just spotted wearing the Nicolas Maduro "Nike Tech" aboard Air Force One, en route to China with President Trump. Just like Maduro wore when 47 captured him. We love Marco”. The White House also shared the photos, writing, “Full circle moment”. The photo of Marco Rubio followed earlier images shared by President Donald Trump that showed Nicolás Maduro handcuffed and blindfolded in a grey Nike Tech tracksuit after a weekend raid in which the ousted Venezuelan leader and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by US forces and flown to the United States in early January. Reports and images circulating online showed Maduro wearing the grey tracksuit at the time of his detention. Shortly after the arrest, Trump shared a photograph of Maduro in the outfit, prompting social media speculation that the tracksuit had sold out following the viral attention. Posts also claimed Maduro wore size 3XL. Other accessories he was reportedly seen wearing, including a low-cost sleep mask and noise-cancelling ear protectors, also drew online attention. As the image spread widely across social media, reactions were divided, with some users joking that the outfit could become a popular Halloween costume, while others pointed to a spike in online searches for Nike Tech fleece apparel.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Secretary Rubio rocking the Nike Tech ‘Venezuela’ on Air Force One! 😂 <a href="https://t.co/yi1b1mR8M0">pic.twitter.com/yi1b1mR8M0</a>&mdash; Steven Cheung (@StevenCheung47) <a href="https://twitter.com/StevenCheung47/status/2054325027659448711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Netizens react to the post?</h3>One of the users said, "He should be the next POTUS sorry JD but it's Marco's time but I do think that JD would be a great Secretary of State for Rubio and I would like to see Tulsi or Sean Duffy as Rubio's VP next go around."&nbsp;The next said," Rubio has become the MAN that do and be anyone at anytime!!"&nbsp;Another said,"More attention seeking from adult men in politics. Unprofessional. Larping like he’s Trump without having half the ability to pull of the real thing. He’s always riding someone else’s wave just like back in the Tea Party days.. He larped enough to get into office and sold out. He’s not our guy in 28’."&nbsp;"Nike actually sued Maduro in 2019 for counterfeiting and settled for $40 million so Rubio is literally wearing stolen intellectual property on a government plane," the next also said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-meeting-can-china-talks-help-end-iran-war-ease-trade-tensions-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-1778657952327">Trump-Xi meeting: Can China talks help end Iran War, ease trade tensions &amp; reopen Strait of Hormuz?</a>

Marco Rubio sparked social media buzz by wearing a Nike Tech tracksuit on Air Force One, mimicking the attire worn by captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. While supporters praised the "full circle" moment, critics labelled the stunt unprofessional or a larping of Trump’s style.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio sparked buzz on social media after he was reportedly spotted wearing a Nike Tech tracksuit while travelling to China with Donald Trump. His outfit has evoked memories of ousted Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, who was photographed blindfolded in the same attire earlier this year after he was flown to America following his capture. In a post on social media platform X, White House communications director Steven Cheung wrote, “Secretary Rubio rocking the Nike Tech ‘Venezuela’ on Air Force One!” Eric Daugherty wrote on X, “LMFAO! Sec. Marco Rubio was just spotted wearing the Nicolas Maduro "Nike Tech" aboard Air Force One, en route to China with President Trump. Just like Maduro wore when 47 captured him. We love Marco”. The White House also shared the photos, writing, “Full circle moment”. The photo of Marco Rubio followed earlier images shared by President Donald Trump that showed Nicolás Maduro handcuffed and blindfolded in a grey Nike Tech tracksuit after a weekend raid in which the ousted Venezuelan leader and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by US forces and flown to the United States in early January. Reports and images circulating online showed Maduro wearing the grey tracksuit at the time of his detention. Shortly after the arrest, Trump shared a photograph of Maduro in the outfit, prompting social media speculation that the tracksuit had sold out following the viral attention. Posts also claimed Maduro wore size 3XL. Other accessories he was reportedly seen wearing, including a low-cost sleep mask and noise-cancelling ear protectors, also drew online attention. As the image spread widely across social media, reactions were divided, with some users joking that the outfit could become a popular Halloween costume, while others pointed to a spike in online searches for Nike Tech fleece apparel.

Marco Rubio sparked social media buzz by wearing a Nike Tech tracksuit on Air Force One, mimicking the attire worn by captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. While supporters praised the "full circle" moment, critics labelled the stunt unprofessional or a larping of Trump’s style.

Marco copying Maduro? Rubio's Nike tracksuit similar to captured Venezuelan president sparks memefest

China has issued a blunt warning to Washington over Taiwan just days before US President Donald Trump meets Xi Jinping in Beijing, underlining how the self-ruled island has again become the most volatile point in US-China relations. The summit, scheduled for May 14-15, is expected to cover trade, artificial intelligence, Iran and rare earth exports, but Taiwan is already dominating the diplomatic atmosphere ahead of the talks.&nbsp;China on Wednesday renewed its strong opposition to US arms sales to Taiwan, urging Washington to uphold its commitments ahead of Trump’s summit visit to Beijing. Zhang Han, a spokesperson for Beijing’s Taiwan Affairs Office told Reuters that China’s determination to oppose independence was ‘as firm as a rock’ and described its ability to ‘crush’ separatism as ‘unbreakable’. The remarks came after Trump confirmed he would discuss American arms sales to Taiwan directly with Xi during the summit.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-xi-summit-tehran-taiwan-trade-five-big-issues-on-the-table-in-beijing-1778662233091">Trump-Xi summit: Tehran, Taiwan, trade — five big issues on the table in Beijing</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Record arms deals deepen the stand-off</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The tensions stem largely from Trump’s approval last December of an $11 billion arms package for Taiwan, the largest weapons sale ever authorised for the island. Reuters reported that another package worth around $14 billion may also be under consideration later this year. Beijing views such deals as interference in what it considers an internal matter.&nbsp;"We firmly oppose the United States engaging in any form of military ties ​with China's Taiwan region, and firmly oppose the United States selling weapons to China's Taiwan region. This position is consistent and unequivocal," Zhang Han ​said in Beijing.&nbsp;China claims Taiwan as part of its territory despite the island having its own democratic government, military and constitution. While Beijing says it prefers ‘peaceful reunification’, it has repeatedly refused to rule out the use of force. Taiwan, meanwhile, continues to reject China’s sovereignty claims. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te recently thanked the United States for helping strengthen the island’s defences and reiterated that Taiwan would not yield to external pressure. China has labelled Lai a separatist and increased military activity around the island in recent months.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/can-a-trump-xi-deal-revive-us-energy-exports-to-china-this-is-what-we-know-1778583912072">Can a Trump-Xi deal revive US energy exports to China? This is what we know</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Fears grow over what could be discussed behind closed doors</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Taipei is watching the Beijing summit closely amid concerns that Trump’s transactional approach to diplomacy could lead to compromises over Taiwan in exchange for Chinese cooperation on trade or economic issues. Taiwan intelligence chief Tsai Ming-yen recently warned that Beijing may attempt ‘manoeuvring’ on the Taiwan issue during the summit.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the news agency, former Pentagon spokesman John Kirby cautioned that US officials must be “extraordinarily precise” when discussing Taiwan because “the stakes are enormously high”. Any shift in American policy would carry major consequences not only for Asian security but also for global trade and semiconductor supply chains centred around Taiwan. Long calibrated to support Taiwan without provoking Beijing, the policy is expected to face renewed scrutiny during Trump’s China visit. Past remarks by US officials have occasionally triggered diplomatic tensions requiring swift clarification.&nbsp;

Long calibrated to support Taiwan without provoking Beijing, the policy is expected to face renewed scrutiny during Trump’s China visit. Past remarks by US officials have occasionally triggered diplomatic tensions requiring swift clarification.

China has issued a blunt warning to Washington over Taiwan just days before US President Donald Trump meets Xi Jinping in Beijing, underlining how the self-ruled island has again become the most volatile point in US-China relations. The summit, scheduled for May 14-15, is expected to cover trade, artificial intelligence, Iran and rare earth exports, but Taiwan is already dominating the diplomatic atmosphere ahead of the talks. China on Wednesday renewed its strong opposition to US arms sales to Taiwan, urging Washington to uphold its commitments ahead of Trump’s summit visit to Beijing. Zhang Han, a spokesperson for Beijing’s Taiwan Affairs Office told Reuters that China’s determination to oppose independence was ‘as firm as a rock’ and described its ability to ‘crush’ separatism as ‘unbreakable’. The remarks came after Trump confirmed he would discuss American arms sales to Taiwan directly with Xi during the summit. ALSO READ: Trump-Xi summit: Tehran, Taiwan, trade — five big issues on the table in Beijing Record arms deals deepen the stand-off The tensions stem largely from Trump’s approval last December of an $11 billion arms package for Taiwan, the largest weapons sale ever authorised for the island. Reuters reported that another package worth around $14 billion may also be under consideration later this year. Beijing views such deals as interference in what it considers an internal matter. "We firmly oppose the United States engaging in any form of military ties with China's Taiwan region, and firmly oppose the United States selling weapons to China's Taiwan region. This position is consistent and unequivocal," Zhang Han said in Beijing. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory despite the island having its own democratic government, military and constitution. While Beijing says it prefers ‘peaceful reunification’, it has repeatedly refused to rule out the use of force. Taiwan, meanwhile, continues to reject China’s sovereignty claims. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te recently thanked the United States for helping strengthen the island’s defences and reiterated that Taiwan would not yield to external pressure. China has labelled Lai a separatist and increased military activity around the island in recent months. ALSO READ: Can a Trump-Xi deal revive US energy exports to China? This is what we know Fears grow over what could be discussed behind closed doors Taipei is watching the Beijing summit closely amid concerns that Trump’s transactional approach to diplomacy could lead to compromises over Taiwan in exchange for Chinese cooperation on trade or economic issues. Taiwan intelligence chief Tsai Ming-yen recently warned that Beijing may attempt ‘manoeuvring’ on the Taiwan issue during the summit. According to the news agency, former Pentagon spokesman John Kirby cautioned that US officials must be “extraordinarily precise” when discussing Taiwan because “the stakes are enormously high”. Any shift in American policy would carry major consequences not only for Asian security but also for global trade and semiconductor supply chains centred around Taiwan. Long calibrated to support Taiwan without provoking Beijing, the policy is expected to face renewed scrutiny during Trump’s China visit. Past remarks by US officials have occasionally triggered diplomatic tensions requiring swift clarification.

Long calibrated to support Taiwan without provoking Beijing, the policy is expected to face renewed scrutiny during Trump’s China visit. Past remarks by US officials have occasionally triggered diplomatic tensions requiring swift clarification.

Beijing fires sharp warning at US over Taiwan before pivotal Trump-Xi summit

China on Wednesday (May 13) once again said it will take all measures to oppose Taiwan independence and that its capability to "crush" separatism is “unbreakable.” Reiterating that Taiwan issue is an internal matter for Beijing, China said it “firmly opposes” any form of military ties between the United States and Taiwan.&nbsp;Zhang Han, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said, “The Taiwan question is purely China’s internal affair and brooks no external interference,” as reported by state-run Global Times.&nbsp;“We firmly oppose any form of military ties between the US and China’s Taiwan region, and urge the US side to abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, prudently handle Taiwan-related issues, stop arms sales to Taiwan, and refrain from sending wrong signals to ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces,” Zhang said.&nbsp;The statement comes just hours ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to China. Trump will arrive in China on Wednesday (May 13) for his two day visit of the country. The highly anticipated presidential summit in Beijing is being framed as a business-focused summit aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies. And despite tensions over artificial intelligence, export controls, rare-earth minerals, Taiwan and the ongoing Iran war the two nations are deeply linked through trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-jinping-meeting-highs-and-lows-of-us-china-relations-in-trump-era-1778651255403">Trump -Xi Jinping meeting: Highs and lows of US-China relations in Trump era</a>&nbsp;Earlier on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun also opposed US arms sales to Taiwan.&nbsp;“China's firm opposition to US arms sales to China's Taiwan region is consistent and clear,” Guo said after Trump said Monday that he plans to discuss US arms sales to Taiwan with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his expected visit to Beijing.<h2>What does Trump, Xi summit mean for Taiwan?</h2>&nbsp;The Trump-Xi summit comes with high stakes for Taiwan, the island democracy that China views as its breakaway province. Since Trump's return to the White House, political analysts have witnessed greater ambivalence toward Taiwan, an approach that could be of concern for the Taiwanese regime ahead of Trump's China visit.&nbsp;The nation of 23 million people has spent decades living under threat from the China, which claims Taiwan as its territory despite never having control over it.&nbsp;One section of political analysts in the US believe that China "may offer Trump a deal: cooperation on tariffs, fentanyl, U.S. business access, or global flashpoints like Iran and Ukraine in exchange for Trump accepting a larger Chinese role in Taiwan’s future," reported Fox news.

Zhang Han, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said, The Taiwan question is purely Chinas internal affair and brooks no external interference.

China on Wednesday (May 13) once again said it will take all measures to oppose Taiwan independence and that its capability to "crush" separatism is “unbreakable.” Reiterating that Taiwan issue is an internal matter for Beijing, China said it “firmly opposes” any form of military ties between the United States and Taiwan. Zhang Han, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said, “The Taiwan question is purely China’s internal affair and brooks no external interference,” as reported by state-run Global Times. “We firmly oppose any form of military ties between the US and China’s Taiwan region, and urge the US side to abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, prudently handle Taiwan-related issues, stop arms sales to Taiwan, and refrain from sending wrong signals to ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces,” Zhang said. The statement comes just hours ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to China. Trump will arrive in China on Wednesday (May 13) for his two day visit of the country. The highly anticipated presidential summit in Beijing is being framed as a business-focused summit aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies. And despite tensions over artificial intelligence, export controls, rare-earth minerals, Taiwan and the ongoing Iran war the two nations are deeply linked through trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars. ALSO READ: Trump -Xi Jinping meeting: Highs and lows of US-China relations in Trump era Earlier on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun also opposed US arms sales to Taiwan. “China's firm opposition to US arms sales to China's Taiwan region is consistent and clear,” Guo said after Trump said Monday that he plans to discuss US arms sales to Taiwan with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his expected visit to Beijing. What does Trump, Xi summit mean for Taiwan? The Trump-Xi summit comes with high stakes for Taiwan, the island democracy that China views as its breakaway province. Since Trump's return to the White House, political analysts have witnessed greater ambivalence toward Taiwan, an approach that could be of concern for the Taiwanese regime ahead of Trump's China visit. The nation of 23 million people has spent decades living under threat from the China, which claims Taiwan as its territory despite never having control over it. One section of political analysts in the US believe that China "may offer Trump a deal: cooperation on tariffs, fentanyl, U.S. business access, or global flashpoints like Iran and Ukraine in exchange for Trump accepting a larger Chinese role in Taiwan’s future," reported Fox news.

Zhang Han, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said, “The Taiwan question is purely China’s internal affair and brooks no external interference."

'Prudently handle Taiwan-related issues', says China to US ahead of Trump visit

Fresh satellite imagery has added to scrutiny over Pakistan’s role in ongoing US-Iran diplomacy, with reports suggesting Islamabad may be sheltering at least one Iranian military aircraft at the strategically important Nur Khan Airbase near Islamabad.&nbsp;The images, reportedly sourced from Chinese satellite firm Mizarvision, appear to show an Iranian Air Force C-130 aircraft parked near a hangar at the Nur Khan Airbase, also known as Chaklala Airbase, in Rawalpindi. The military installation lies within the Islamabad-Rawalpindi metropolitan region, roughly 10 kilometres from central Islamabad.&nbsp;The development comes as Pakistan continues to publicly position itself as a mediator between Tehran and Washington amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The satellite imagery appears to support an earlier report by CBS News, which claimed Iran had moved several aircraft to Pakistan shortly after US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire in April. According to the report, the aircraft included reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering planes transferred to Nur Khan Airbase.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-to-rename-iran-war-operation-sledgehammer-if-ceasefire-collapses-report-1778660585222">US plans to rename Iran War 'Operation Sledgehammer' if ceasefire collapses: Report</a>&nbsp;Latest satellite images indicate that at least one of the aircraft may still be stationed at the facility. Defence observers noted that the aircraft visible in the images carries a desert camouflage paint scheme distinct from the Pakistan Air Force’s standard light grey colour scheme used on its own C-130 fleet. Analysts believe the aircraft may be an Iranian Air Force RC-130, a reconnaissance and intelligence variant of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft.&nbsp;Iran’s C-130 fleet dates back to the 1970s during the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, the aircraft remained in service with the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force. Due to decades of US sanctions, Tehran has been unable to procure new C-130 aircraft and has instead relied on domestic repairs and overhauls to maintain the ageing fleet. The reported presence of Iranian military aircraft at a Pakistani airbase has sparked reactions in Washington, particularly among Republican lawmakers.<h2>‘I don’t trust Pakistan’</h2>During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham sharply questioned Pakistan’s credibility as a mediator between Iran and the US. “I don’t trust Pakistan as far as I can throw them,” Graham said while referring to reports that Iranian aircraft may have been parked at Pakistani military bases. He added that if the reports proved accurate, Washington might need to look for “somebody else to mediate” in discussions with Tehran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-foreign-minister-arrives-in-delhi-for-brics-foreign-ministers-meeting-talks-to-be-held-with-eam-jaishankar-1778655812473">Iran's foreign minister arrives in Delhi today for BRICS meeting</a>&nbsp;“No wonder this damn thing is going nowhere,” Graham further remarked while discussing the ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Neither Pakistan nor Iran has officially commented on the latest satellite imagery reports. &nbsp;

Satellite imagery reveals an Iranian RC-130 reconnaissance plane at Pakistan’s Nur Khan Airbase, sparking US scepticism over Islamabad’s mediation role following reports of Iran sheltering military assets during tensions.

Fresh satellite imagery has added to scrutiny over Pakistan’s role in ongoing US-Iran diplomacy, with reports suggesting Islamabad may be sheltering at least one Iranian military aircraft at the strategically important Nur Khan Airbase near Islamabad. The images, reportedly sourced from Chinese satellite firm Mizarvision, appear to show an Iranian Air Force C-130 aircraft parked near a hangar at the Nur Khan Airbase, also known as Chaklala Airbase, in Rawalpindi. The military installation lies within the Islamabad-Rawalpindi metropolitan region, roughly 10 kilometres from central Islamabad. The development comes as Pakistan continues to publicly position itself as a mediator between Tehran and Washington amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The satellite imagery appears to support an earlier report by CBS News, which claimed Iran had moved several aircraft to Pakistan shortly after US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire in April. According to the report, the aircraft included reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering planes transferred to Nur Khan Airbase. Also read: US plans to rename Iran War 'Operation Sledgehammer' if ceasefire collapses: Report Latest satellite images indicate that at least one of the aircraft may still be stationed at the facility. Defence observers noted that the aircraft visible in the images carries a desert camouflage paint scheme distinct from the Pakistan Air Force’s standard light grey colour scheme used on its own C-130 fleet. Analysts believe the aircraft may be an Iranian Air Force RC-130, a reconnaissance and intelligence variant of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft. Iran’s C-130 fleet dates back to the 1970s during the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, the aircraft remained in service with the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force. Due to decades of US sanctions, Tehran has been unable to procure new C-130 aircraft and has instead relied on domestic repairs and overhauls to maintain the ageing fleet. The reported presence of Iranian military aircraft at a Pakistani airbase has sparked reactions in Washington, particularly among Republican lawmakers. ‘I don’t trust Pakistan’ During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham sharply questioned Pakistan’s credibility as a mediator between Iran and the US. “I don’t trust Pakistan as far as I can throw them,” Graham said while referring to reports that Iranian aircraft may have been parked at Pakistani military bases. He added that if the reports proved accurate, Washington might need to look for “somebody else to mediate” in discussions with Tehran. Also read: Iran's foreign minister arrives in Delhi today for BRICS meeting “No wonder this damn thing is going nowhere,” Graham further remarked while discussing the ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Neither Pakistan nor Iran has officially commented on the latest satellite imagery reports.

Satellite imagery reveals an Iranian RC-130 reconnaissance plane at Pakistan’s Nur Khan Airbase, sparking US scepticism over Islamabad’s mediation role following reports of Iran sheltering military assets during tensions.

Satellite images appear to show Iran shielding aircraft at Pakistan’s Nur Khan airbase

The U.S. military, according to a report is planning to officially rename the war with Iran “Operation Sledgehammer” if current ceasefire fails to sustain. The move to rename the operation is in context if &nbsp;US President Donald Trump decides to re-start major combat operations.&nbsp;According the NBC report, that cites White House officials, the discussions about possibly replacing “Operation Epic Fury” with “Operation Sledgehammer” reveals the seriousness of Trump's administration in resuming the war. Also, the move gives Trump the opportunity to argue that there is a reset on the 60-day clock that would require US Congress to authorize a war.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-summit-who-all-will-be-watching-what-does-the-visit-mean-for-taiwan-iran-and-india-1778650820442">Trump-Xi summit: Who all will be watching, what does the visit mean for Taiwan, Iran and India?</a>&nbsp;The US administration declared an end to Operation Epic Fury after both the countries(US, Iran) agreed to a ceasefire in early April to pursue diplomatic negotiations. However, Pentagon has continued to use the name, reported the media outlet.&nbsp;"At the time, the administration informed Congress that hostilities with Iran had terminated. But the Pentagon has continued to describe the conflict with Iran as Operation Epic Fury, including when providing public updates," reported NBC.&nbsp;Notably, Operation Sledgehammer is not the only name US officials are considering, said the sources.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Trump is set to embark on a visit to China on Wednesday (May 13) for his two day visit of the country. The highly anticipated presidential summit in Beijing is being framed as a business-focused summit aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies. And despite tensions over artificial intelligence, export controls, rare-earth minerals, Taiwan and the ongoing Iran war the two nations are deeply linked through trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars.&nbsp;The presidential summit between two superpowers of the world will closely be watched by Taiwan, India and Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US administration declared an end to Operation Epic Fury after both the countries(US, Iran) agreed to a ceasefire in early April to pursue diplomatic negotiations.

The U.S. military, according to a report is planning to officially rename the war with Iran “Operation Sledgehammer” if current ceasefire fails to sustain. The move to rename the operation is in context if US President Donald Trump decides to re-start major combat operations. According the NBC report, that cites White House officials, the discussions about possibly replacing “Operation Epic Fury” with “Operation Sledgehammer” reveals the seriousness of Trump's administration in resuming the war. Also, the move gives Trump the opportunity to argue that there is a reset on the 60-day clock that would require US Congress to authorize a war. ALSO READ: Trump-Xi summit: Who all will be watching, what does the visit mean for Taiwan, Iran and India? The US administration declared an end to Operation Epic Fury after both the countries(US, Iran) agreed to a ceasefire in early April to pursue diplomatic negotiations. However, Pentagon has continued to use the name, reported the media outlet. "At the time, the administration informed Congress that hostilities with Iran had terminated. But the Pentagon has continued to describe the conflict with Iran as Operation Epic Fury, including when providing public updates," reported NBC. Notably, Operation Sledgehammer is not the only name US officials are considering, said the sources. Meanwhile, Trump is set to embark on a visit to China on Wednesday (May 13) for his two day visit of the country. The highly anticipated presidential summit in Beijing is being framed as a business-focused summit aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies. And despite tensions over artificial intelligence, export controls, rare-earth minerals, Taiwan and the ongoing Iran war the two nations are deeply linked through trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars. The presidential summit between two superpowers of the world will closely be watched by Taiwan, India and Iran.

The US administration declared an end to Operation Epic Fury after both the countries(US, Iran) agreed to a ceasefire in early April to pursue diplomatic negotiations.

US plans to rename Iran War 'Operation Sledgehammer' if ceasefire collapses: Report

South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Ozzy Lamola, has described India-South Africa relations as “deep historically” and “grown from strength to strength” ahead of the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in Delhi. India is the chair of BRICS, &amp; will hold the foreign ministers' meet on Thursday and Friday.&nbsp;“India is a big player in terms of technology, in terms of agriculture. It’s also one of our biggest trading partners in South Africa… India’s number one trading partner in Africa in terms of trade,” Lamola told WION's Sidhant Sibal.He detailed, India &amp; South Africa relationship “is deep historically, as you have already mentioned the role of Mahatma Gandhi and also the role of our former President Nelson Mandela… the relationship between South Africa and India has grown from strength to strength.”He highlighted the large Indian diaspora in South Africa and called for practical steps to deepen ties. “There is engagement under direct flight. So we are looking into that possibility. We are also looking for cooperation in AI technology. India has got the advanced skills… science and agriculture,” Lamola stated.&nbsp;“We want to deepen more on South African products… value-added products, but also Indian companies coming with their technology into our economy… in particular, on critical minerals.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-foreign-minister-arrives-in-delhi-for-brics-foreign-ministers-meeting-talks-to-be-held-with-eam-jaishankar-1778655812473">Iran's foreign minister arrives in Delhi today for BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting, talks with EAM Jaishankar</a>With India hosting the India-Africa Summit in two weeks, Lamola said expectations are high. “Expectation is to continue to strengthen the relationship between India and the African continent… We want to see investment, value addition on the critical minerals… The African continent is a major partner, not only just as a consumer, but also in research and development.”At the BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, Lamola said the grouping is focused on “resolution of conflicts through peaceful means” in the Middle East and Ukraine-Russia.&nbsp;On a common BRICS currency, he noted: “The talks have been more on the use of local currencies in trade. It is a process that is still ongoing… it can also enhance BRICS trade amongst the BRICS.”He remained hopeful of a joint statement on West Asia: “The engagements are ongoing on a draft statement, and I remain hopeful that they will be able to… arrive to a statement that must send a positive message to the BRICS partners, to the Global South.”Lamola stressed BRICS’ relevance in global governance. “When we come to the BRICS platform, we all look for common positions that must help the Global South because we need a unified voice to advocate for the reform of the Security Council, for example, of the United Nations,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;On slow-moving UN Security Council reform, he declared: “It is very slow. It is painfully moving… but we shall not lose hope. We must continue to work for reform… it is going to happen.”Turning to the United States, Lamola called the Trump era “unpredictable”. “Even with India, it is unpredictable. And even for us, it is an unpredictable environment. We deal with it as it comes,” he said.&nbsp;South Africa maintains broad engagement: “We have to… maintain our communication with the White House and… American society… think tanks, academia, business sector.”On G20, he criticised the US decision: “We are a founding member of G20… no one member of G20 can say another can no longer be a member of G20. What he has done is not to invite South Africa to the G20 summit… We really don’t know what will be that summit which does not have one of these founding members.”Lamola said South Africa expects India and other members to raise the exclusion issue. He also reaffirmed his commitment to IBSA and Indian Ocean cooperation on maritime security and counter-piracy.

South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola praised India-South Africa ties as historically deep and growing stronger ahead of the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in Delhi. He highlighted cooperation in AI, trade, critical minerals and Global South representation.

South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Ozzy Lamola, has described India-South Africa relations as “deep historically” and “grown from strength to strength” ahead of the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in Delhi. India is the chair of BRICS, & will hold the foreign ministers' meet on Thursday and Friday. “India is a big player in terms of technology, in terms of agriculture. It’s also one of our biggest trading partners in South Africa… India’s number one trading partner in Africa in terms of trade,” Lamola told WION's Sidhant Sibal. He detailed, India & South Africa relationship “is deep historically, as you have already mentioned the role of Mahatma Gandhi and also the role of our former President Nelson Mandela… the relationship between South Africa and India has grown from strength to strength.” He highlighted the large Indian diaspora in South Africa and called for practical steps to deepen ties. “There is engagement under direct flight. So we are looking into that possibility. We are also looking for cooperation in AI technology. India has got the advanced skills… science and agriculture,” Lamola stated. “We want to deepen more on South African products… value-added products, but also Indian companies coming with their technology into our economy… in particular, on critical minerals.” Also Read: Iran's foreign minister arrives in Delhi today for BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting, talks with EAM Jaishankar With India hosting the India-Africa Summit in two weeks, Lamola said expectations are high. “Expectation is to continue to strengthen the relationship between India and the African continent… We want to see investment, value addition on the critical minerals… The African continent is a major partner, not only just as a consumer, but also in research and development.” At the BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, Lamola said the grouping is focused on “resolution of conflicts through peaceful means” in the Middle East and Ukraine-Russia. On a common BRICS currency, he noted: “The talks have been more on the use of local currencies in trade. It is a process that is still ongoing… it can also enhance BRICS trade amongst the BRICS.” He remained hopeful of a joint statement on West Asia: “The engagements are ongoing on a draft statement, and I remain hopeful that they will be able to… arrive to a statement that must send a positive message to the BRICS partners, to the Global South.” Lamola stressed BRICS’ relevance in global governance. “When we come to the BRICS platform, we all look for common positions that must help the Global South because we need a unified voice to advocate for the reform of the Security Council, for example, of the United Nations,” he said. On slow-moving UN Security Council reform, he declared: “It is very slow. It is painfully moving… but we shall not lose hope. We must continue to work for reform… it is going to happen.” Turning to the United States, Lamola called the Trump era “unpredictable”. “Even with India, it is unpredictable. And even for us, it is an unpredictable environment. We deal with it as it comes,” he said. South Africa maintains broad engagement: “We have to… maintain our communication with the White House and… American society… think tanks, academia, business sector.” On G20, he criticised the US decision: “We are a founding member of G20… no one member of G20 can say another can no longer be a member of G20. What he has done is not to invite South Africa to the G20 summit… We really don’t know what will be that summit which does not have one of these founding members.” Lamola said South Africa expects India and other members to raise the exclusion issue. He also reaffirmed his commitment to IBSA and Indian Ocean cooperation on maritime security and counter-piracy.

South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola praised India-South Africa ties as historically deep and growing stronger ahead of the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in Delhi. He highlighted cooperation in AI, trade, critical minerals and Global South representation.

India-South Africa relations have grown ‘from strength to strength’: South African FM Ronald Lamola ahead of BRICS meet

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit China from May 13 to 15 after the invitation of President Xi Jinping amid the ongoing Iran war. Trump's visit marks the first visit to China by an American president in almost nine years, which comes at a time of escalating bilateral tensions over a range of issues, including trade, technology and defence. The timing of Trump's visit to China intersects with a precarious US-Iran ceasefire and a dual blockade of the Strait of Hormuz that is driving up energy prices and stopping global economic growth. Ahead of the Trump-Xi summit, China has also pressed Iran to pursue a diplomatic resolution to the West Asia conflict and refrain from resuming hostilities. Ahead of the meeting between the presidents of the two global superpowers, several key questions remain over the future of trade ties, the prospects for resolving the Iran conflict, and whether the Strait of Hormuz blockade will come to an end. On Tuesday, President Trump said if Iran does not accept the terms to end the war and address its nuclear program, the United States will “finish the job". “They’ll either do the right thing, or we’ll finish the job,” he said ahead of a trip to China, which maintains ties with Iran and remains a major consumer of its oil exports. “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situations,” he said. “I don’t think about anybody.” “I think about one thing: we cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. That’s all.” Trump also said on Tuesday that he does not require the help of China to end the war with Iran, even as the scope for a lasting peace deal diminishes, and Tehran tightened its hold over the Strait of Hormuz. “I don’t think we need any help with Iran. We’ll win it one way or the other, peacefully or otherwise,” he told reporters.<h3>Iran warn US</h3>In response to Trump's warning, Iran’s chief negotiator stated on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) that Washington must accept the recent peace plan of Tehran or face failure. “There is no alternative but to accept the rights of the Iranian people as laid out in the 14-point proposal. Any other approach will be completely inconclusive; nothing but one failure after another,” Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said in a post on X. The war has closed the Strait of Hormuz – through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply previously flowed – stranding tankers and causing energy prices to spike to levels that could sabotage global economic growth.<h3>China &amp; US to talk on key issues</h3>During a visit to China, President Trump and Xi Jinping are expected to hold talks covering key issues, including Iran, Taiwan, artificial intelligence, and nuclear weapons, as they consider extending a crucial critical minerals agreement, according to US officials. They are expected to agree to forums to facilitate mutual trade and investment. China is likely to announce purchases related to Boeing aeroplanes, ​American agriculture and energy. Officials also indicated that plans for a Board of Trade and Board of Investment may be formally announced at the meeting. The two nations are also set to discuss extending the temporary truce in their trade dispute, which currently permits the flow of rare earth minerals from China to the United States, although it remains uncertain whether the arrangement will be renewed this week. Talks between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping are also expected to address longstanding flashpoints in US-China relations, including Iran, Taiwan, and nuclear weapons. The Trump administration has additionally raised concerns over Beijing’s ties with Russia. Xi, meanwhile, has expressed frustration over Washington’s continued support for Taiwan, which remains the most significant international partner and arms supplier to the democratically governed island that Beijing claims as its territory. Although China has significantly increased military activity near Taiwan in recent years, US officials have indicated that Washington’s policy remains unchanged. Trump’s advisers have also voiced growing concern over the rapid development of advanced artificial intelligence models in China, stressing the need for direct communication channels between both sides to prevent potential conflicts arising from the technology’s use.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-marco-rubio-who-s-under-sanction-by-beijing-get-permission-to-travel-to-china-for-the-first-time-1778647018316">How did Marco Rubio, who’s under sanction by Beijing, get permission to travel to China for the first time?</a>

Ahead of Trump and Xi's meeting, several key questions remain over the future of trade ties, the prospects for resolving the Iran conflict, and whether the Strait of Hormuz blockade will come to an end.

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit China from May 13 to 15 after the invitation of President Xi Jinping amid the ongoing Iran war. Trump's visit marks the first visit to China by an American president in almost nine years, which comes at a time of escalating bilateral tensions over a range of issues, including trade, technology and defence. The timing of Trump's visit to China intersects with a precarious US-Iran ceasefire and a dual blockade of the Strait of Hormuz that is driving up energy prices and stopping global economic growth. Ahead of the Trump-Xi summit, China has also pressed Iran to pursue a diplomatic resolution to the West Asia conflict and refrain from resuming hostilities. Ahead of the meeting between the presidents of the two global superpowers, several key questions remain over the future of trade ties, the prospects for resolving the Iran conflict, and whether the Strait of Hormuz blockade will come to an end. On Tuesday, President Trump said if Iran does not accept the terms to end the war and address its nuclear program, the United States will “finish the job". “They’ll either do the right thing, or we’ll finish the job,” he said ahead of a trip to China, which maintains ties with Iran and remains a major consumer of its oil exports. “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situations,” he said. “I don’t think about anybody.” “I think about one thing: we cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. That’s all.” Trump also said on Tuesday that he does not require the help of China to end the war with Iran, even as the scope for a lasting peace deal diminishes, and Tehran tightened its hold over the Strait of Hormuz. “I don’t think we need any help with Iran. We’ll win it one way or the other, peacefully or otherwise,” he told reporters. Iran warn US In response to Trump's warning, Iran’s chief negotiator stated on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) that Washington must accept the recent peace plan of Tehran or face failure. “There is no alternative but to accept the rights of the Iranian people as laid out in the 14-point proposal. Any other approach will be completely inconclusive; nothing but one failure after another,” Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said in a post on X. The war has closed the Strait of Hormuz – through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply previously flowed – stranding tankers and causing energy prices to spike to levels that could sabotage global economic growth. China & US to talk on key issues During a visit to China, President Trump and Xi Jinping are expected to hold talks covering key issues, including Iran, Taiwan, artificial intelligence, and nuclear weapons, as they consider extending a crucial critical minerals agreement, according to US officials. They are expected to agree to forums to facilitate mutual trade and investment. China is likely to announce purchases related to Boeing aeroplanes, American agriculture and energy. Officials also indicated that plans for a Board of Trade and Board of Investment may be formally announced at the meeting. The two nations are also set to discuss extending the temporary truce in their trade dispute, which currently permits the flow of rare earth minerals from China to the United States, although it remains uncertain whether the arrangement will be renewed this week. Talks between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping are also expected to address longstanding flashpoints in US-China relations, including Iran, Taiwan, and nuclear weapons. The Trump administration has additionally raised concerns over Beijing’s ties with Russia. Xi, meanwhile, has expressed frustration over Washington’s continued support for Taiwan, which remains the most significant international partner and arms supplier to the democratically governed island that Beijing claims as its territory. Although China has significantly increased military activity near Taiwan in recent years, US officials have indicated that Washington’s policy remains unchanged. Trump’s advisers have also voiced growing concern over the rapid development of advanced artificial intelligence models in China, stressing the need for direct communication channels between both sides to prevent potential conflicts arising from the technology’s use. Also read: How did Marco Rubio, who’s under sanction by Beijing, get permission to travel to China for the first time?

Ahead of Trump and Xi's meeting, several key questions remain over the future of trade ties, the prospects for resolving the Iran conflict, and whether the Strait of Hormuz blockade will come to an end.

Trump-Xi meeting: Can China talks help end Iran War, ease trade tensions & reopen Strait of Hormuz?

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will arrive in Beijing shortly. Trump and Xi’s three-day summit is expected to focus on the US-Israel war on Iran, trade, and the status of Taiwan, among other issues. Trump is the first time in approximately a decade to visit China. Both the leaders met the last time in South Korea and struck a few deals. This meeting is being seen as an important one amid ongoing Iran conflict and trade war.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-meet-first-visit-to-china-by-a-us-president-in-nearly-a-decade-1778636288909/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-meet-first-visit-to-china-by-a-us-president-in-nearly-a-decade-1778636288909/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Trump-Jinping Busan meet</h2>In October 30, 2025, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping last met in Busan, South Korea, during a bilateral sit-down on the sidelines of the APEC Summit. It ended with broad agreements amid tariff war with both leaders showcasing bonhomie. Trump said the two sides had agreed on "almost everything." It resulted in a one-year agreement on rare earths. US reduced China-related fentanyl tariffs by 10 per cent. Trump agreed to a partial rollback of triple-digit US tariffs on specific Chinese imports. In return, Beijing pledged to purchase massive amounts of American agricultural products, including soybeans.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also REad&nbsp;Calling Xi a ‘tough negotiator’ and Jinping said that although the US and China did not always “see eye to eye,” both countries should aim to remain “partners and friends.” Both leaders expressed optimism ahead of the talks, with Trump saying he expected a “very successful meeting,” while Xi remarked that it was “great to see” him. Trump said the US and China had finalised a rare-earth agreement that could be renewed annually. He told reporters that “all the rare earths” issues had been settled and described the arrangement as important “for the world.” According to Trump, the deal would initially last one year before being renegotiated. The meeting did not result in a signed, formal treaty.

US President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing for a high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping focused on Iran, Taiwan and trade tensions. The two leaders last met in Busan in 2025, where they reached broad agreements on rare earths, tariffs and agricultural trade amid improving ties.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will arrive in Beijing shortly. Trump and Xi’s three-day summit is expected to focus on the US-Israel war on Iran, trade, and the status of Taiwan, among other issues. Trump is the first time in approximately a decade to visit China. Both the leaders met the last time in South Korea and struck a few deals. This meeting is being seen as an important one amid ongoing Iran conflict and trade war. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-meet-first-visit-to-china-by-a-us-president-in-nearly-a-decade-1778636288909/embed Trump-Jinping Busan meet In October 30, 2025, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping last met in Busan, South Korea, during a bilateral sit-down on the sidelines of the APEC Summit. It ended with broad agreements amid tariff war with both leaders showcasing bonhomie. Trump said the two sides had agreed on "almost everything." It resulted in a one-year agreement on rare earths. US reduced China-related fentanyl tariffs by 10 per cent. Trump agreed to a partial rollback of triple-digit US tariffs on specific Chinese imports. In return, Beijing pledged to purchase massive amounts of American agricultural products, including soybeans. Also REad Calling Xi a ‘tough negotiator’ and Jinping said that although the US and China did not always “see eye to eye,” both countries should aim to remain “partners and friends.” Both leaders expressed optimism ahead of the talks, with Trump saying he expected a “very successful meeting,” while Xi remarked that it was “great to see” him. Trump said the US and China had finalised a rare-earth agreement that could be renewed annually. He told reporters that “all the rare earths” issues had been settled and described the arrangement as important “for the world.” According to Trump, the deal would initially last one year before being renegotiated. The meeting did not result in a signed, formal treaty.

US President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing for a high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping focused on Iran, Taiwan and trade tensions. The two leaders last met in Busan in 2025, where they reached broad agreements on rare earths, tariffs and agricultural trade&nbsp;

Where Trump and Xi Jinping last held talks — and why it still matters

Longtime Immigration and Customs Enforcement official David Venturella has been selected to lead the agency following the announced departure of acting director Todd Lyons, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday (May 12). Venturella previously served as executive director of ICE’s Secure Communities programme, which focused on identifying people in the US illegally who were being held by local law enforcement agencies. Under the programme, digital fingerprints collected from everyone booked into jail were shared with federal authorities to identify individuals lacking legal immigration status.&nbsp;The Secure Communities initiative was ended in 2014 by then Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson during the administration of former President Barack Obama. Johnson argued at the time that the programme damaged trust between immigrant communities and local police forces.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-marco-rubio-who-s-under-sanction-by-beijing-get-permission-to-travel-to-china-for-the-first-time-1778647018316">How did Marco Rubio, who’s under sanction by Beijing, get permission to travel to China for the first time?</a>&nbsp;However, Trump reinstated the programme through an executive order during his first term in 2017. Trump has made immigration enforcement a central issue of his political agenda and campaigned for a second term on promises of mass deportations.&nbsp;Venturella also held a senior position at private prison company GEO Group, where he served as senior vice president of client relations until 2023. Public records show the company has more than $1 billion in contracts with ICE. After retiring from GEO Group, Venturella continued working as a consultant for the company, advising on new and existing contracts, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-meet-xi-jinping-who-will-accompany-us-president-and-who-ll-not-here-s-what-we-know-1778566138212">Trump to meet Xi Jinping: Who will accompany US president and who won't - here’s what we know</a>&nbsp;His appointment drew criticism from immigration advocates and Democratic lawmakers. US Representative Delia Ramirez, an outspoken critic of Trump’s immigration policies, wrote on X that Venturella’s selection was aimed at ensuring “Trump’s corporate bosses continue profiting from our communities’ pain”.

Former GEO Group executive David Venturella will lead ICE as acting director starting June 1, succeeding Todd Lyons. His appointment signals a continued crackdown on immigration and mass deportations.

Longtime Immigration and Customs Enforcement official David Venturella has been selected to lead the agency following the announced departure of acting director Todd Lyons, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday (May 12). Venturella previously served as executive director of ICE’s Secure Communities programme, which focused on identifying people in the US illegally who were being held by local law enforcement agencies. Under the programme, digital fingerprints collected from everyone booked into jail were shared with federal authorities to identify individuals lacking legal immigration status. The Secure Communities initiative was ended in 2014 by then Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson during the administration of former President Barack Obama. Johnson argued at the time that the programme damaged trust between immigrant communities and local police forces. Also read: How did Marco Rubio, who’s under sanction by Beijing, get permission to travel to China for the first time? However, Trump reinstated the programme through an executive order during his first term in 2017. Trump has made immigration enforcement a central issue of his political agenda and campaigned for a second term on promises of mass deportations. Venturella also held a senior position at private prison company GEO Group, where he served as senior vice president of client relations until 2023. Public records show the company has more than $1 billion in contracts with ICE. After retiring from GEO Group, Venturella continued working as a consultant for the company, advising on new and existing contracts, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Also read: Trump to meet Xi Jinping: Who will accompany US president and who won't - here’s what we know His appointment drew criticism from immigration advocates and Democratic lawmakers. US Representative Delia Ramirez, an outspoken critic of Trump’s immigration policies, wrote on X that Venturella’s selection was aimed at ensuring “Trump’s corporate bosses continue profiting from our communities’ pain”.

Former GEO Group executive David Venturella will lead ICE as acting director starting June 1, succeeding Todd Lyons. His appointment signals a continued crackdown on immigration and mass deportations.

Longtime ICE official David Venturella to lead agency amid immigration crackdown

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi is due in New Delhi on Wednesday for a two-day BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, as the expanded grouping seeks to address escalating West Asian tensions and their impact on global energy security. "Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, will travel to New Delhi to participate in the Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of BRICS member countries", an Iranian statement said.&nbsp;The gathering, hosted by India as current BRICS chair, comes at a critical juncture. A fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States, reached in April after direct exchanges involving Israeli and American strikes, remains precarious amid fresh accusations of violations in the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi's visit, his first to India since the latest round of hostilities, shows Tehran's determination to deepen ties within BRICS, which it joined as a full member alongside Egypt, Ethiopia and others.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-foreign-minister-set-for-key-brics-talks-in-india-amid-fragile-west-asia-truce-1778496858480">Iran's Foreign Minister set for key BRICS talks in India amid fragile West Asia truce</a>Bilateral talks between Araghchi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will focus heavily on the safe passage of Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. "Of the ships that were supposed to come through the Strait of Hormuz, 11 have already arrived, and thirteen ships of ours are still there", MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Tuesday.&nbsp;India imports a substantial portion of its LNG via this narrow chokepoint, and any disruption could have serious implications for energy prices and economic stability in the world's fastest-growing major economy. The BRICS meeting is also expected to discuss broader multilateral cooperation and economic resilience.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-halt-military-action-first-iran-s-president-calls-on-india-chaired-brics-to-play-role-in-halting-aggression-1774116854054">‘Halt military action first’: Iran's president calls on India-chaired BRICS to play role in halting aggression</a> &nbsp;Russia's Sergey Lavrov is expected to attend, while China's Wang Yi will be absent due to scheduling clashes linked to US President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing. BRICS itself faces challenges in presenting a united front. Internal divisions, notably between Iran and the UAE, have complicated efforts to craft common positions on the West Asia conflict. Any joint statement emerging from the Delhi meeting would be closely watched as a test of the group's relevance as a voice for developing nations.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will visit New Delhi for the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting amid rising West Asia tensions. India and Iran are expected to discuss Strait of Hormuz security, energy supplies and regional stability as BRICS seeks a common position on the crisis.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi is due in New Delhi on Wednesday for a two-day BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, as the expanded grouping seeks to address escalating West Asian tensions and their impact on global energy security. "Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, will travel to New Delhi to participate in the Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of BRICS member countries", an Iranian statement said. The gathering, hosted by India as current BRICS chair, comes at a critical juncture. A fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States, reached in April after direct exchanges involving Israeli and American strikes, remains precarious amid fresh accusations of violations in the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi's visit, his first to India since the latest round of hostilities, shows Tehran's determination to deepen ties within BRICS, which it joined as a full member alongside Egypt, Ethiopia and others. Also Read: Iran's Foreign Minister set for key BRICS talks in India amid fragile West Asia truce Bilateral talks between Araghchi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will focus heavily on the safe passage of Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. "Of the ships that were supposed to come through the Strait of Hormuz, 11 have already arrived, and thirteen ships of ours are still there", MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Tuesday. India imports a substantial portion of its LNG via this narrow chokepoint, and any disruption could have serious implications for energy prices and economic stability in the world's fastest-growing major economy. The BRICS meeting is also expected to discuss broader multilateral cooperation and economic resilience. Also Read: ‘Halt military action first’: Iran's president calls on India-chaired BRICS to play role in halting aggression Russia's Sergey Lavrov is expected to attend, while China's Wang Yi will be absent due to scheduling clashes linked to US President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing. BRICS itself faces challenges in presenting a united front. Internal divisions, notably between Iran and the UAE, have complicated efforts to craft common positions on the West Asia conflict. Any joint statement emerging from the Delhi meeting would be closely watched as a test of the group's relevance as a voice for developing nations.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will visit New Delhi for the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting amid rising West Asia tensions. India and Iran are expected to discuss Strait of Hormuz security, energy supplies and regional stability as BRICS seeks a common position on the crisis.

Iran's foreign minister arrives in Delhi today for BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting, talks with EAM Jaishankar

The Indian government has imposed a 15% import duty on gold and silver, days after Narendra Modi urged citizens to avoid non-essential gold purchases. The move is aimed at protecting forex reserves and reducing pressure on the current account deficit amid global economic uncertainty.

Indian government imposes new bullion tariffs as India battles rising import bills

As US President Donald Trump is set to visit China on Wednesday (May 13) for high-stakes talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the visit marks another chapter in one of the world’s most consequential and turbulent relationships. Since Trump first came to power in 2017, ties between Washington and Beijing have swung between ceremonial warmth and intense confrontation, reshaping global trade, diplomacy and technology.&nbsp;Trump’s first state visit to China in November 2017 was marked by lavish symbolism. Xi hosted the American president inside the Forbidden City, a privilege previously extended to no other US president. Beijing sought to project an image of parity between the two powers while presenting Xi as Trump’s geopolitical equal.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippine-military-s-massacre-of-19-including-civilians-triggers-debate-on-human-rights-situation-in-the-country-1778651080356">Philippine military's massacre of 19, including civilians, triggers debate on human rights situation in the country</a>&nbsp;Nearly a decade later, the balance of confidence appears to have shifted further in China’s favour. Xi, now serving an unprecedented third term, has overseen a vast expansion of Chinese ambitions in advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, artificial intelligence and robotics. Chinese cities and industrial hubs increasingly reflect Beijing’s long-term strategy to challenge American dominance economically and technologically.&nbsp;This week’s summit is expected to include discussions on trade disputes, technology restrictions, Taiwan and the escalating tensions surrounding Iran. The talks come at a moment when Washington officially regards China as its foremost strategic competitor. Ali Wyne of the International Crisis Group said China no longer feels compelled to prove itself America’s equal because Washington now openly acknowledges Beijing as a “near-peer” rival.<h2>Where does China stand?</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-summit-who-all-will-be-watching-what-does-the-visit-mean-for-taiwan-iran-and-india-1778650820442">Trump-Xi summit: what does the visit mean for Taiwan, Iran and India?</a>&nbsp;Much of modern China’s transformation is visible far from Beijing’s political centre. In the sprawling south-western megacity of Chongqing, massive state investment has turned a once gritty manufacturing base into a futuristic urban powerhouse known for automation, advanced logistics and dazzling skyscrapers.&nbsp;Nicknamed China’s “8D city” because of its layered vertical design, Chongqing has become one of the country’s biggest soft power showcases. Visa-free policies and social media-driven tourism campaigns have helped attract millions of overseas visitors in recent years.&nbsp;Yet the glittering skyline also masks economic strain. Local governments across China are grappling with heavy debt burdens after years of rapid infrastructure spending. The country’s property downturn, weak domestic consumption and rising unemployment continue to weigh on growth.&nbsp;Additional pressure has come from Trump-era tariffs that remain partly in place and renewed instability in the Middle East following the US-Israeli conflict involving Iran. Chinese citizens interviewed in Chongqing expressed frustration over global instability and the impact on investments and jobs.&nbsp;One resident criticised Trump’s “America First” approach, saying China had spent decades pursuing long-term strategies while the US president focused on confrontation. Trump even acquired an unusual nickname among some Chinese internet users: “Chuan Jianguo”, loosely translating to “Trump the nation builder”, reflecting a tongue-in-cheek belief that his policies inadvertently accelerated China’s rise.&nbsp;Despite political tensions, many young Chinese still admire the US for its openness, innovation and educational opportunities. However, deteriorating bilateral ties and tighter visa scrutiny have made studying and working in America more uncertain than before.&nbsp;

President Trump’s visit to Beijing with Marco Rubio highlights fluctuating US-China ties. Discussions centre on trade, Taiwan, and Iran, while China utilises a name-transliteration workaround to bypass Rubio’s sanctions.

As US President Donald Trump is set to visit China on Wednesday (May 13) for high-stakes talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the visit marks another chapter in one of the world’s most consequential and turbulent relationships. Since Trump first came to power in 2017, ties between Washington and Beijing have swung between ceremonial warmth and intense confrontation, reshaping global trade, diplomacy and technology. Trump’s first state visit to China in November 2017 was marked by lavish symbolism. Xi hosted the American president inside the Forbidden City, a privilege previously extended to no other US president. Beijing sought to project an image of parity between the two powers while presenting Xi as Trump’s geopolitical equal. Also read: Philippine military's massacre of 19, including civilians, triggers debate on human rights situation in the country Nearly a decade later, the balance of confidence appears to have shifted further in China’s favour. Xi, now serving an unprecedented third term, has overseen a vast expansion of Chinese ambitions in advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, artificial intelligence and robotics. Chinese cities and industrial hubs increasingly reflect Beijing’s long-term strategy to challenge American dominance economically and technologically. This week’s summit is expected to include discussions on trade disputes, technology restrictions, Taiwan and the escalating tensions surrounding Iran. The talks come at a moment when Washington officially regards China as its foremost strategic competitor. Ali Wyne of the International Crisis Group said China no longer feels compelled to prove itself America’s equal because Washington now openly acknowledges Beijing as a “near-peer” rival. Where does China stand? Also read: Trump-Xi summit: what does the visit mean for Taiwan, Iran and India? Much of modern China’s transformation is visible far from Beijing’s political centre. In the sprawling south-western megacity of Chongqing, massive state investment has turned a once gritty manufacturing base into a futuristic urban powerhouse known for automation, advanced logistics and dazzling skyscrapers. Nicknamed China’s “8D city” because of its layered vertical design, Chongqing has become one of the country’s biggest soft power showcases. Visa-free policies and social media-driven tourism campaigns have helped attract millions of overseas visitors in recent years. Yet the glittering skyline also masks economic strain. Local governments across China are grappling with heavy debt burdens after years of rapid infrastructure spending. The country’s property downturn, weak domestic consumption and rising unemployment continue to weigh on growth. Additional pressure has come from Trump-era tariffs that remain partly in place and renewed instability in the Middle East following the US-Israeli conflict involving Iran. Chinese citizens interviewed in Chongqing expressed frustration over global instability and the impact on investments and jobs. One resident criticised Trump’s “America First” approach, saying China had spent decades pursuing long-term strategies while the US president focused on confrontation. Trump even acquired an unusual nickname among some Chinese internet users: “Chuan Jianguo”, loosely translating to “Trump the nation builder”, reflecting a tongue-in-cheek belief that his policies inadvertently accelerated China’s rise. Despite political tensions, many young Chinese still admire the US for its openness, innovation and educational opportunities. However, deteriorating bilateral ties and tighter visa scrutiny have made studying and working in America more uncertain than before.

President Trump’s visit to Beijing with Marco Rubio highlights fluctuating US-China ties. Discussions centre on trade, Taiwan, and Iran, while China utilises a name-transliteration workaround to bypass Rubio’s sanctions.

Trump -Xi Jinping meeting: Highs and lows of US-China relations in Trump era

The Philippine military reportedly massacred 19 people in April, triggering outrage and drawing comparisons with the regime of former president Rodrigo Duterte. Known as the Toboso killings, it resulted in the death of 10 members of the Northern Negros Front of the New People's Army (NPA NNF) and nine presumed civilians. The incident has raised questions about the human rights situation in the country, which activists claim has not changed even after Duterte left. They claim that those killed included activists, journalists, students, and US citizens. Those killed include Poet and journalist &nbsp;RJ Ledesma, University of the Philippines students Alyssa Alano and Maureen Santuyo, and Errol Wende, along with Lyle Prijoles, a County Council member of the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines (ICHRP), and American activist Kai Dana-Rene Sorem.<h2>Duterte's war on &nbsp;drugs&nbsp;</h2>Duterte waged a violent war on drugs during his tenure as president between 2016 and 2022. Thousands of families lost their loved ones to the government's actions, in the name of wiping out drug trafficking in the country. However, critics say that most of those who were killed by the Duterte regime were his critics and not drug traffickers. The current Philippine president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., promised to reverse the aggressive tactics while tackling the drug menace and aimed at drug rehabilitation. However, experts say that things have barely changed in the country.<h2>Critics say violence hasn't abated under Marcos</h2>Carlos Conde, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, told the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights in September 2023, "While the new [Marcos] administration has been less confrontational and more diplomatic than the previous one,” he said, “that does not mean that the human rights situation in the country has improved." He claimed that Marco failed to demilitarise the drug war, and the killings continue under the administration, with the police having “wide authority … to conduct anti-drug raids.”&nbsp;Questions are being raised about the United States' inaction against the Philippines, as it aims to increase its military presence in the Pacific to counter China. An analysis by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute states that the US has transferred Black Hawk transport helicopters, air-to-air missiles, C-130 transport planes, training aircraft, anti-tank missiles, and anti-submarine sonar in the last 10 years. Critics say these arms were most likely used in the April massacre.

Nineteen people were killed in the Philippines in April in a conflict between the 79th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Northern Negros Front of the New People's Army, including activists and students. The incident has triggered debate on the state of things after Duterte.

The Philippine military reportedly massacred 19 people in April, triggering outrage and drawing comparisons with the regime of former president Rodrigo Duterte. Known as the Toboso killings, it resulted in the death of 10 members of the Northern Negros Front of the New People's Army (NPA NNF) and nine presumed civilians. The incident has raised questions about the human rights situation in the country, which activists claim has not changed even after Duterte left. They claim that those killed included activists, journalists, students, and US citizens. Those killed include Poet and journalist RJ Ledesma, University of the Philippines students Alyssa Alano and Maureen Santuyo, and Errol Wende, along with Lyle Prijoles, a County Council member of the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines (ICHRP), and American activist Kai Dana-Rene Sorem. Duterte's war on drugs Duterte waged a violent war on drugs during his tenure as president between 2016 and 2022. Thousands of families lost their loved ones to the government's actions, in the name of wiping out drug trafficking in the country. However, critics say that most of those who were killed by the Duterte regime were his critics and not drug traffickers. The current Philippine president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., promised to reverse the aggressive tactics while tackling the drug menace and aimed at drug rehabilitation. However, experts say that things have barely changed in the country. Critics say violence hasn't abated under Marcos Carlos Conde, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, told the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights in September 2023, "While the new [Marcos] administration has been less confrontational and more diplomatic than the previous one,” he said, “that does not mean that the human rights situation in the country has improved." He claimed that Marco failed to demilitarise the drug war, and the killings continue under the administration, with the police having “wide authority … to conduct anti-drug raids.” Questions are being raised about the United States' inaction against the Philippines, as it aims to increase its military presence in the Pacific to counter China. An analysis by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute states that the US has transferred Black Hawk transport helicopters, air-to-air missiles, C-130 transport planes, training aircraft, anti-tank missiles, and anti-submarine sonar in the last 10 years. Critics say these arms were most likely used in the April massacre.

Nineteen people were killed in the Philippines in April in a conflict between the 79th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Northern Negros Front of the New People's Army, including activists and students. The incident has triggered debate on the state of things after Duterte.

Philippine military's massacre of 19, including civilians, triggers debate on human rights situation in the country

US President Donald Trump will arrive in China on Wednesday (May 13) for his two day visit of the country. The highly anticipated presidential summit in Beijing is being framed as a business-focused summit aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies. And despite tensions over artificial intelligence, export controls, rare-earth minerals, Taiwan and the ongoing Iran war the two nations are deeply linked through trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars.The presidential summit between two superpowers of the world will closely be watched by Taiwan, India and Iran.<h2>What does Trump, Xi summit mean for Taiwan?</h2>&nbsp;The Trump-Xi summit comes with high stakes for Taiwan, the island democracy that China views as its breakaway province. Since Trump's return to the White House, political analysts have witnessed greater ambivalence toward Taiwan, an approach that could be of concern for the Taiwanese regime ahead of Trump's China visit.&nbsp;The nation of 23 million people has spent decades living under threat from the China, which claims Taiwan as its territory despite never having control over it.&nbsp;One section of political analysts in the US believe that China "may offer Trump a deal: cooperation on tariffs, fentanyl, U.S. business access, or global flashpoints like Iran and Ukraine in exchange for Trump accepting a larger Chinese role in Taiwan’s future," reported Fox news.<h2>What does Trump, Xi summit mean for Iran?</h2>&nbsp;For Iran too, the summit is a high stake one as the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia are expected to feature prominently during the discussions.&nbsp;A senior administration official told news outlets in an anonymous briefing on Sunday that Trump could “apply pressure” to China on Iran in areas such as oil sales and Tehran’s purchase of potential dual-role military-civilian goods.&nbsp;China is one of the nations most severely impacted by the closure of the vital waterway, as it acquires nearly 20 per cent of its energy through the strait. Beijing has called for open and secure shipping multiple times; however, it has termed the US naval blockade "a dangerous escalation of unilateralism."&nbsp;Washington expects Chinese support to persuade the Islamic Republic to accept its peace terms, as Beijing remains one of the major importers of Iranian oil despite the ongoing crisis.&nbsp;The US is expected to use this week's summit to present evidence of "dual-use technology" transfers and demand that Beijing use its leverage as a mediator in the “Islamabad Talks” to secure a final deal. For the Trump administration, the goal is clear: to press China to withdraw its economic and tacit military support, forcing Tehran to accept the current peace proposal.<h2>What does Trump, Xi summit mean for India?</h2>&nbsp;While for India, the Trump, Xi meet is equally important as experts say that a weaker Trump may grant Beijing concessions that could impact New Delhi not only economically but also geopolitically.&nbsp;Also, the world’s two largest economies - Beijing and Washington - are the biggest trading partners of India.&nbsp;There are scare that Trump could set aside past policy and side with Beijing on several issues just like he did while imposing tariffs. &nbsp;India was hit by steep trade tariffs along with other US allies like Brazil, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union, while China got concessions after threatening to block the supply of rare earths to America.&nbsp;New Delhi will also be closely watching what conclusion both the countries reach on Strait of Hormuz as most of its oil and gas passes through the vital chokepoint that has been blocked by Iran after the war began with US.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Trump-Xi summit comes with high stakes for Taiwan, the island democracy that China views as its breakaway province. While for India, the meet is equally important as experts say that a weaker Trump may grant Beijing concessions impacting New Delhi.

US President Donald Trump will arrive in China on Wednesday (May 13) for his two day visit of the country. The highly anticipated presidential summit in Beijing is being framed as a business-focused summit aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies. And despite tensions over artificial intelligence, export controls, rare-earth minerals, Taiwan and the ongoing Iran war the two nations are deeply linked through trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars. The presidential summit between two superpowers of the world will closely be watched by Taiwan, India and Iran. What does Trump, Xi summit mean for Taiwan? The Trump-Xi summit comes with high stakes for Taiwan, the island democracy that China views as its breakaway province. Since Trump's return to the White House, political analysts have witnessed greater ambivalence toward Taiwan, an approach that could be of concern for the Taiwanese regime ahead of Trump's China visit. The nation of 23 million people has spent decades living under threat from the China, which claims Taiwan as its territory despite never having control over it. One section of political analysts in the US believe that China "may offer Trump a deal: cooperation on tariffs, fentanyl, U.S. business access, or global flashpoints like Iran and Ukraine in exchange for Trump accepting a larger Chinese role in Taiwan’s future," reported Fox news. What does Trump, Xi summit mean for Iran? For Iran too, the summit is a high stake one as the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia are expected to feature prominently during the discussions. A senior administration official told news outlets in an anonymous briefing on Sunday that Trump could “apply pressure” to China on Iran in areas such as oil sales and Tehran’s purchase of potential dual-role military-civilian goods. China is one of the nations most severely impacted by the closure of the vital waterway, as it acquires nearly 20 per cent of its energy through the strait. Beijing has called for open and secure shipping multiple times; however, it has termed the US naval blockade "a dangerous escalation of unilateralism." Washington expects Chinese support to persuade the Islamic Republic to accept its peace terms, as Beijing remains one of the major importers of Iranian oil despite the ongoing crisis. The US is expected to use this week's summit to present evidence of "dual-use technology" transfers and demand that Beijing use its leverage as a mediator in the “Islamabad Talks” to secure a final deal. For the Trump administration, the goal is clear: to press China to withdraw its economic and tacit military support, forcing Tehran to accept the current peace proposal. What does Trump, Xi summit mean for India? While for India, the Trump, Xi meet is equally important as experts say that a weaker Trump may grant Beijing concessions that could impact New Delhi not only economically but also geopolitically. Also, the world’s two largest economies - Beijing and Washington - are the biggest trading partners of India. There are scare that Trump could set aside past policy and side with Beijing on several issues just like he did while imposing tariffs. India was hit by steep trade tariffs along with other US allies like Brazil, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union, while China got concessions after threatening to block the supply of rare earths to America. New Delhi will also be closely watching what conclusion both the countries reach on Strait of Hormuz as most of its oil and gas passes through the vital chokepoint that has been blocked by Iran after the war began with US.

The Trump-Xi summit comes with high stakes for Taiwan, the island democracy that China views as its breakaway province. While for India, the meet is equally important as experts say that a weaker Trump may grant Beijing concessions impacting New Delhi.

Trump-Xi summit: Who all will be watching, what does the visit mean for Taiwan, Iran and India?

A US federal appeals court on Tuesday (May 12) temporarily halted a ruling that had declared US President Donald Trump’s 10-percent global tariffs unlawful, agreeing to the administration’s request to pause the decision while the case moves through the appeals process. Trump introduced the temporary 10-percent tariff in February, soon after the Supreme Court invalidated several of his broader global tariff measures. Earlier, on May 7, the US Court of International Trade (CIT) had barred the tariffs from being enforced against two companies and the state of Washington. That ruling was scheduled to come into effect on Tuesday (May 12).&nbsp;However, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit issued a short order granting an administrative stay on the CIT decision and laid out a timeline for both sides to submit legal briefs. In seeking the stay, the Trump administration argued that the lower court ruling should remain suspended until all appeals are exhausted, including a possible review by the Supreme Court. The government maintained that issuing refunds for the 10-percent tariffs now could create problems if higher courts later sided with the administration, as recovering those funds would be difficult. Meanwhile, it argued that the plaintiffs could still be compensated later through refunds with interest if the tariffs are eventually ruled illegal. The appeals court clarified that its order is only a temporary administrative pause while it reviews the request for a longer stay during the appeal process.<h2>What this means?</h2>The appeals court’s decision means President Donald Trump’s 10-percent global tariffs will remain in force for now despite a lower court ruling calling them illegal. Businesses importing goods into the US must continue paying the tariffs until the appeal is resolved. The temporary stay also gives the Trump administration time to defend the policy in higher courts, including potentially the Supreme Court. If the administration ultimately loses, affected companies could receive refunds with interest.<h2>Trump's tariff regime&nbsp;</h2>The Trump administration has said the new tariff was meant to deal with balance-of-payments deficits, citing Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The 10-percent global tariff under Section 122 is valid until late July unless extended by Congress.&nbsp;The Trump administration has also been pursuing other means to impose tariffs to replace those struck down by the Supreme Court.US authorities have opened investigations into dozens of trading partners over forced labor and overcapacity allegations -- which could lead to fresh tariffs or other action. Trump's sector-specific tariffs on goods like steel, aluminum and autos remain unaffected by these legal challenges. The Supreme Court's striking down of the majority of Trump's tariffs was a blow to the Republican president, after he made the levies a signature economic policy. Since the decision, businesses have rushed for refunds.&nbsp;US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) estimated in March that more than 330,000 importers could be eligible for refunds after the Supreme Court's decision.The tariffs that were struck down earlier, imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), collected approximately $166 billion in duties and estimated deposits. On Tuesday, CNBC reported that businesses had begun to receive refunds, in line with a CBP timeline released earlier this month.CBP did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment.

A US appeals court temporarily paused a ruling that blocked President Donald Trump’s 10-percent global tariffs, allowing the duties to remain in place during the appeal process. The Trump administration argued refunds would be difficult to recover if higher courts later upheld the tariffs.

A US federal appeals court on Tuesday (May 12) temporarily halted a ruling that had declared US President Donald Trump’s 10-percent global tariffs unlawful, agreeing to the administration’s request to pause the decision while the case moves through the appeals process. Trump introduced the temporary 10-percent tariff in February, soon after the Supreme Court invalidated several of his broader global tariff measures. Earlier, on May 7, the US Court of International Trade (CIT) had barred the tariffs from being enforced against two companies and the state of Washington. That ruling was scheduled to come into effect on Tuesday (May 12). However, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit issued a short order granting an administrative stay on the CIT decision and laid out a timeline for both sides to submit legal briefs. In seeking the stay, the Trump administration argued that the lower court ruling should remain suspended until all appeals are exhausted, including a possible review by the Supreme Court. The government maintained that issuing refunds for the 10-percent tariffs now could create problems if higher courts later sided with the administration, as recovering those funds would be difficult. Meanwhile, it argued that the plaintiffs could still be compensated later through refunds with interest if the tariffs are eventually ruled illegal. The appeals court clarified that its order is only a temporary administrative pause while it reviews the request for a longer stay during the appeal process. What this means? The appeals court’s decision means President Donald Trump’s 10-percent global tariffs will remain in force for now despite a lower court ruling calling them illegal. Businesses importing goods into the US must continue paying the tariffs until the appeal is resolved. The temporary stay also gives the Trump administration time to defend the policy in higher courts, including potentially the Supreme Court. If the administration ultimately loses, affected companies could receive refunds with interest. Trump's tariff regime The Trump administration has said the new tariff was meant to deal with balance-of-payments deficits, citing Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The 10-percent global tariff under Section 122 is valid until late July unless extended by Congress. The Trump administration has also been pursuing other means to impose tariffs to replace those struck down by the Supreme Court. US authorities have opened investigations into dozens of trading partners over forced labor and overcapacity allegations -- which could lead to fresh tariffs or other action. Trump's sector-specific tariffs on goods like steel, aluminum and autos remain unaffected by these legal challenges. The Supreme Court's striking down of the majority of Trump's tariffs was a blow to the Republican president, after he made the levies a signature economic policy. Since the decision, businesses have rushed for refunds. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) estimated in March that more than 330,000 importers could be eligible for refunds after the Supreme Court's decision. The tariffs that were struck down earlier, imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), collected approximately $166 billion in duties and estimated deposits. On Tuesday, CNBC reported that businesses had begun to receive refunds, in line with a CBP timeline released earlier this month. CBP did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment.

A US appeals court temporarily paused a ruling that blocked President Donald Trump’s 10-percent global tariffs, allowing the duties to remain in place during the appeal process. The Trump administration argued refunds would be difficult to recover if higher courts later upheld the tariffs.

US appeals court halts order declaring Trump's global 10 per cent tariff illegal: What this means

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Trump-Xi summit: what does the visit mean for Taiwan, Iran and India?

US appeals court halts order declaring Trump's global 10 per cent tariff illegal