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New York’s “Donald J. Trump and Jeffrey Epstein Memorial Reading Room” displays 3.5 million pages of Epstein Files released by the US Department of Justice. It exhibit highlights Trump-Epstein ties, transparency concerns, and accountability debates surrounding the handling of the documents.

New York exhibition displays 3.5 million pages of Epstein Files, highlights his relations with Trump | IN PICS

US President Donald Trump expects a "big, fat hug" from his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, when they meet in Beijing this week. The US President will be in China from May 13 to 15. The meeting will be the seventh Trump and Xi face-to-face meeting, and the first trip by a US leader to China in 2017. The three-day summit is expected to focus on the US-Israel war on Iran, trade and the status of Taiwan.Trump and Xi’s relationship has always been a curious blend of personal flattery and strategic hostility, warm handshakes often followed by economic warfare. Let's take a look at the Trump-Xi equation over the years.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-two-timed-trump-report-reveals-islamabad-quietly-sheltered-iranian-military-aircraft-while-brokering-peace-talks-1778551810479">Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war</a><h2>2017: First meeting to first shots fired in US-China trade war</h2>The two leaders first met at Trump's private Mar-a-Lago resort on April 6, 2017, during the Republicans' first term. The meeting was offset by Trump breaking decades of diplomatic precedent set in 1979 when Washington cut off relations with Taiwan and talking to the nation's President Tsai Ing-wen for a congratulatory phone call. However, despite that, the two appeared to build a personal rapport and later Trump claimed that they had made "tremendous progress" towards improving US-China relations.In July 2017, the two leaders met in Hamburg, Germany, on the sidelines of the G20 summit, where they discussed North Korea’s nuclear programme and economic ties. Just a month later, the US fired the first shot in the US-China trade war by launching an investigation into alleged theft of US intellectual property and finally invoking Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. With this, the White House laid the groundwork to impose punitive tariffs on China.By November that year, Trump was in Beijing enjoying full state-visit pageantry, from the Forbidden City to lavish banquets, while touting major business deals. Then came tariffs.<h2>Trade war years: smiles, then sanctions</h2>From Hamburg to Buenos Aires (Dec 2018) to Osaka (June 2019), Trump and Xi repeatedly met on the sidelines of global summits, often using personal diplomacy to cool tensions temporarily.But beneath each handshake, the trade war deepened. Trump launched Section 301 investigations, imposed tariffs on hundreds of billions in Chinese goods, and targeted firms like Huawei and ZTE. China retaliated in kind, imposing tariffs on $110bn worth of US goods.Eventually, months later, the two nations signed a “phase one” trade deal, under which Washington agreed to roll back several tariffs, and Beijing pledged to buy $200bn worth of US goods and services. However, the trade deal never fully delivered on its promises, and China did not meet its purchase commitments during the required timeframe.<h2>2025: Reunion after six years</h2>Their October 2025 meeting in Busan marked their first in-person encounter in six years, coming after tariff levels between both countries had exploded past 100 per cent - the US had imposed 145 per cent duties on China, in return, Beijing imposed 125 per cent duties on Washington. That summit produced a one-year truce, a pause in the trade war.<h2>2026: Why Beijing matters now</h2>This week’s summit comes at an even more turbulent moment as the US-Israel-Iran conflict, Taiwan tensions, technology restrictions, and global supply chain stress all raise the stakes far beyond trade deficits.Trump may joke about hugs, but this meeting could shape whether the US-China rivalry stabilises, worsens, or simply gets postponed again. Notably, history suggests one thing clearly: when it comes to Trump and Xi, personal chemistry has never guaranteed political calm. Sometimes, it has simply bought time before the next fight. &nbsp;

Trump says he expects a “big, fat hug” from Xi in Beijing, but history suggests the Trump-Xi relationship is usually less bromance, more handshake before the next geopolitical brawl. Let's take a look at their equation. Scroll down.

US President Donald Trump expects a "big, fat hug" from his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, when they meet in Beijing this week. The US President will be in China from May 13 to 15. The meeting will be the seventh Trump and Xi face-to-face meeting, and the first trip by a US leader to China in 2017. The three-day summit is expected to focus on the US-Israel war on Iran, trade and the status of Taiwan. Trump and Xi’s relationship has always been a curious blend of personal flattery and strategic hostility, warm handshakes often followed by economic warfare. Let's take a look at the Trump-Xi equation over the years. Also read | Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war 2017: First meeting to first shots fired in US-China trade war The two leaders first met at Trump's private Mar-a-Lago resort on April 6, 2017, during the Republicans' first term. The meeting was offset by Trump breaking decades of diplomatic precedent set in 1979 when Washington cut off relations with Taiwan and talking to the nation's President Tsai Ing-wen for a congratulatory phone call. However, despite that, the two appeared to build a personal rapport and later Trump claimed that they had made "tremendous progress" towards improving US-China relations. In July 2017, the two leaders met in Hamburg, Germany, on the sidelines of the G20 summit, where they discussed North Korea’s nuclear programme and economic ties. Just a month later, the US fired the first shot in the US-China trade war by launching an investigation into alleged theft of US intellectual property and finally invoking Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. With this, the White House laid the groundwork to impose punitive tariffs on China. By November that year, Trump was in Beijing enjoying full state-visit pageantry, from the Forbidden City to lavish banquets, while touting major business deals. Then came tariffs. Trade war years: smiles, then sanctions From Hamburg to Buenos Aires (Dec 2018) to Osaka (June 2019), Trump and Xi repeatedly met on the sidelines of global summits, often using personal diplomacy to cool tensions temporarily. But beneath each handshake, the trade war deepened. Trump launched Section 301 investigations, imposed tariffs on hundreds of billions in Chinese goods, and targeted firms like Huawei and ZTE. China retaliated in kind, imposing tariffs on $110bn worth of US goods. Eventually, months later, the two nations signed a “phase one” trade deal, under which Washington agreed to roll back several tariffs, and Beijing pledged to buy $200bn worth of US goods and services. However, the trade deal never fully delivered on its promises, and China did not meet its purchase commitments during the required timeframe. 2025: Reunion after six years Their October 2025 meeting in Busan marked their first in-person encounter in six years, coming after tariff levels between both countries had exploded past 100 per cent - the US had imposed 145 per cent duties on China, in return, Beijing imposed 125 per cent duties on Washington. That summit produced a one-year truce, a pause in the trade war. 2026: Why Beijing matters now This week’s summit comes at an even more turbulent moment as the US-Israel-Iran conflict, Taiwan tensions, technology restrictions, and global supply chain stress all raise the stakes far beyond trade deficits. Trump may joke about hugs, but this meeting could shape whether the US-China rivalry stabilises, worsens, or simply gets postponed again. Notably, history suggests one thing clearly: when it comes to Trump and Xi, personal chemistry has never guaranteed political calm. Sometimes, it has simply bought time before the next fight.

Trump says he expects a “big, fat hug” from Xi in Beijing, but history suggests the Trump-Xi relationship is usually less bromance, more handshake before the next geopolitical brawl. Let's take a look at their equation. Scroll down.

The ultimate frenemies? From ‘big, fat hug’ to bitter trade wars, analysing a decade of Trump-Xi rollercoaster equation

Amid the continuing deadlock between Washington and Tehran over the ongoing conflict in West Asia, 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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;“The Islamic Republic of Iran has announced its readiness to support the Chinese President’s four-point plan aimed at establishing lasting security and shared development in the Persian Gulf region,” the envoy said.<h2>What does China’s four-point Gulf proposal say?</h2>According to Yu Jing, the Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in India, the proposal focuses on regional peace, sovereignty, international law and coordinated development.The first point of the proposal calls for peaceful coexistence through the creation of a “common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable” security framework for the Middle East and the Persian Gulf region.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iranian Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, stated that Iran supports the four-point proposal raised by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The proposal consists of: 1️⃣ Commitment to Peaceful Coexistence: Promoting the construction of a “common, comprehensive, cooperative,… <a href="https://t.co/PMBofCuUTA">pic.twitter.com/PMBofCuUTA</a>&mdash; Yu Jing (@ChinaSpox_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinaSpox_India/status/2054089101868220596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The second point stresses respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity, while ensuring the protection of people, institutions and critical infrastructure across the region.The third point highlights adherence to international law and warns against the global system descending into what China described as the “law of the jungle”.&nbsp;The fourth point focuses on balancing development and security by promoting regional cooperation aimed at long-term economic growth and stability across West Asia and the Gulf.&nbsp;The development come as Trump is set to travel to Beijing from May 13 to May 15 for high-level talks with Xi amid heightened tensions in West Asia and ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran and regional powers.

China has increasingly positioned itself as a diplomatic player in the Gulf region in recent years, advocating dialogue-driven approaches to regional security and economic cooperation.


Amid the continuing deadlock between Washington and Tehran over the ongoing conflict in West Asia, 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. “The Islamic Republic of Iran has announced its readiness to support the Chinese President’s four-point plan aimed at establishing lasting security and shared development in the Persian Gulf region,” the envoy said. What does China’s four-point Gulf proposal say? According to Yu Jing, the Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in India, the proposal focuses on regional peace, sovereignty, international law and coordinated development. The first point of the proposal calls for peaceful coexistence through the creation of a “common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable” security framework for the Middle East and the Persian Gulf region.

China has increasingly positioned itself as a diplomatic player in the Gulf region in recent years, advocating dialogue-driven approaches to regional security and economic cooperation. &nbsp;

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

Somalia's Ambassador to India, Dr Abdullahi Mohammed Odowa, has described the bilateral relationship as a century-old bond rooted in trade, culture, and shared Indian Ocean heritage as both nations prepare for the India-Africa Forum Summit. In an interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Odowa emphasised the enduring people-to-people connections that have persisted. “The India-Somali relationship is a very old one... it has been growing and has gone through dramatic transformations over the years,” he said. He noted that many Somali leaders, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama, graduated from Indian universities in the 1980s, with the latter fluent in Hindi.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-s-ramaphosa-faces-fresh-resignation-calls-after-court-ruling-shock-1778510661886/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-s-ramaphosa-faces-fresh-resignation-calls-after-court-ruling-shock-1778510661886/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Education remains a cornerstone. India offers ICCR scholarships and short-term training programmes for Somali officials, while hundreds of students have studied there. Health tourism has surged, with India becoming a preferred destination for medical treatment. “Somalia is one of the largest countries sending medical tourists,” Ambassador Odowa revealed. “In the last two years... several Somalis have been attending for medical purposes", travelling to cities like Hyderabad and New Delhi.&nbsp;Bilateral trade has grown significantly, reaching about $1 billion, driven by Somali imports and Indian exports. Cultural affinities are strong, with Somali cuisine featuring Indian staples like biryani and chapati, reflecting centuries of Indian Ocean exchange. The upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit is seen as a pivotal platform to discuss several issues, including the West Asia war.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-africa-summit-2026-new-delhi-pushes-concrete-outcomes-to-deepen-ties-with-continent-1778330434717">India-Africa Summit 2026: New Delhi pushes ‘Concrete Outcomes’ to deepen ties with continent</a>&nbsp;Ambassador Odowa expects discussions on agriculture, technology, education, medical collaboration, and crucially, maritime security in the Indian Ocean. Somalia, with Africa’s longest coastline, faces piracy and terrorism threats, including from Al-Shabaab. He proposed deeper cooperation on counter terrorism: “India... has the human resource and the knowledge... they can support Africa in terms of information gathering... contributing technology... and also thinking about joint missions of securing the maritime" domain.&nbsp;The ambassador expressed deep appreciation for India’s strong stance on Somalia’s territorial integrity, particularly its refusal to recognise Somaliland amid recent diplomatic manoeuvres by other nations. “We value and we appreciate the Indian support of Somalia’s unity and independence,” he said. “In the 21st century, you cannot just come and recognise a region within a country... India has been fully clear on that.”&nbsp;He added that this position aligns with international norms and supports regional stability as Africa and India, representing nearly 3 billion people, seek a stronger “Global South” voice. For the African country, priorities include digitalisation of Somalia’s economy, leveraging Indian expertise, enhanced trade, and capacity-building. &nbsp;

Somalia’s Ambassador Dr Odowa praises the strengthening partnership with India. Explore key insights on bilateral ties ahead of the India-Africa Forum Summit.

Somalia's Ambassador to India, Dr Abdullahi Mohammed Odowa, has described the bilateral relationship as a century-old bond rooted in trade, culture, and shared Indian Ocean heritage as both nations prepare for the India-Africa Forum Summit. In an interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Odowa emphasised the enduring people-to-people connections that have persisted. “The India-Somali relationship is a very old one... it has been growing and has gone through dramatic transformations over the years,” he said. He noted that many Somali leaders, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama, graduated from Indian universities in the 1980s, with the latter fluent in Hindi. https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-s-ramaphosa-faces-fresh-resignation-calls-after-court-ruling-shock-1778510661886/embed Education remains a cornerstone. India offers ICCR scholarships and short-term training programmes for Somali officials, while hundreds of students have studied there. Health tourism has surged, with India becoming a preferred destination for medical treatment. “Somalia is one of the largest countries sending medical tourists,” Ambassador Odowa revealed. “In the last two years... several Somalis have been attending for medical purposes", travelling to cities like Hyderabad and New Delhi. Bilateral trade has grown significantly, reaching about $1 billion, driven by Somali imports and Indian exports. Cultural affinities are strong, with Somali cuisine featuring Indian staples like biryani and chapati, reflecting centuries of Indian Ocean exchange. The upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit is seen as a pivotal platform to discuss several issues, including the West Asia war. Also read: India-Africa Summit 2026: New Delhi pushes ‘Concrete Outcomes’ to deepen ties with continent Ambassador Odowa expects discussions on agriculture, technology, education, medical collaboration, and crucially, maritime security in the Indian Ocean. Somalia, with Africa’s longest coastline, faces piracy and terrorism threats, including from Al-Shabaab. He proposed deeper cooperation on counter terrorism: “India... has the human resource and the knowledge... they can support Africa in terms of information gathering... contributing technology... and also thinking about joint missions of securing the maritime" domain. The ambassador expressed deep appreciation for India’s strong stance on Somalia’s territorial integrity, particularly its refusal to recognise Somaliland amid recent diplomatic manoeuvres by other nations. “We value and we appreciate the Indian support of Somalia’s unity and independence,” he said. “In the 21st century, you cannot just come and recognise a region within a country... India has been fully clear on that.” He added that this position aligns with international norms and supports regional stability as Africa and India, representing nearly 3 billion people, seek a stronger “Global South” voice. For the African country, priorities include digitalisation of Somalia’s economy, leveraging Indian expertise, enhanced trade, and capacity-building.

Somalia’s Ambassador Dr Odowa praises the strengthening partnership with India. Explore key insights on bilateral ties ahead of the India-Africa Forum Summit.

Somalia Ambassador Dr Odowa hails deepening ties with Delhi ahead of India-Africa Forum Summit

Wildfires across the world have surged to record levels in 2026, with scientists warning that worsening heat extremes and the return of El Niño conditions could intensify the crisis in the months ahead. From Africa and Asia to parts of North America, vast stretches of land have already burned this year, underlining the growing impact of climate change on global fire patterns.&nbsp;According to scientists cited by Reuters, more than 150 million hectares have burned globally between January and April this year, around 20 per cent higher than the previous record for the same period. Researchers said the scale of the outbreaks reflects increasingly volatile weather conditions driven by rising global temperatures.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/world-telecommunications-day-fast-net-wider-access-lower-costs-how-india-expanded-internet-access-over-the-last-decade-1778573569086">World Telecommunications Day| Fast net, wider access, lower costs: How India expanded internet access over the last decade</a><h3>Africa and Asia see sharp rise in fires</h3>Africa has recorded the largest area affected, with nearly 85 million hectares burned so far in 2026. Scientists said unusually heavy rainfall in previous months increased vegetation growth, which later became fuel during prolonged dry conditions and extreme heat. The continent’s burned area is estimated to be 23 per cent above previous highs.&nbsp;According to Reuters, Asia has also experienced severe fire activity. Around 44 million hectares have burned across the region, exceeding the previous 2014 record by roughly 40 per cent. Countries including India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and China have all faced intense fire outbreaks linked to prolonged heat and dry conditions.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-a-single-missile-multiple-warheads-multiple-targets-india-successfully-tests-advanced-agni-missile-with-mirv-system-1778333872576">'A single missile, multiple warheads, multiple targets': India successfully tests Advanced Agni missile with MIRV system</a><h3>El Niño raises fears of worsening extremes</h3>Scientists said conditions may deteriorate further as the northern hemisphere enters summer and El Niño develops in the Pacific Ocean. The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño conditions to emerge from May, increasing the likelihood of droughts, heatwaves and further wildfire outbreaks globally. Researchers warned that countries including Australia, Canada and the Amazon rainforest could face heightened fire risks later this year. Scientists described the projected heat extremes as potentially “unprecedented”, reflecting the growing interaction between climate change, extreme temperatures and prolonged drought.&nbsp;

The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño conditions to emerge from May, increasing the likelihood of droughts, heatwaves and further wildfire outbreaks globally.

Wildfires across the world have surged to record levels in 2026, with scientists warning that worsening heat extremes and the return of El Niño conditions could intensify the crisis in the months ahead. From Africa and Asia to parts of North America, vast stretches of land have already burned this year, underlining the growing impact of climate change on global fire patterns. According to scientists cited by Reuters, more than 150 million hectares have burned globally between January and April this year, around 20 per cent higher than the previous record for the same period. Researchers said the scale of the outbreaks reflects increasingly volatile weather conditions driven by rising global temperatures. ALSO READ: World Telecommunications Day| Fast net, wider access, lower costs: How India expanded internet access over the last decade Africa and Asia see sharp rise in fires Africa has recorded the largest area affected, with nearly 85 million hectares burned so far in 2026. Scientists said unusually heavy rainfall in previous months increased vegetation growth, which later became fuel during prolonged dry conditions and extreme heat. The continent’s burned area is estimated to be 23 per cent above previous highs. According to Reuters, Asia has also experienced severe fire activity. Around 44 million hectares have burned across the region, exceeding the previous 2014 record by roughly 40 per cent. Countries including India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and China have all faced intense fire outbreaks linked to prolonged heat and dry conditions. ALSO READ: 'A single missile, multiple warheads, multiple targets': India successfully tests Advanced Agni missile with MIRV system El Niño raises fears of worsening extremes Scientists said conditions may deteriorate further as the northern hemisphere enters summer and El Niño develops in the Pacific Ocean. The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño conditions to emerge from May, increasing the likelihood of droughts, heatwaves and further wildfire outbreaks globally. Researchers warned that countries including Australia, Canada and the Amazon rainforest could face heightened fire risks later this year. Scientists described the projected heat extremes as potentially “unprecedented”, reflecting the growing interaction between climate change, extreme temperatures and prolonged drought.

The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño conditions to emerge from May, increasing the likelihood of droughts, heatwaves and further wildfire outbreaks globally.

Over 150 million hectares burnt! Global wildfires hit record high in 2026 as extreme heat fuels climate fears

Keir Starmer faced his most serious internal challenge yet on Tuesday (May 12) as a minister resigned and publicly called on him to set a timetable for his own departure. Miatta Fahnbulleh is the first serving minister to break ranks and openly question whether the prime minister can lead Labour through the rest of this parliament. Fahnbulleh posted her resignation letter on X and sent it to Downing Street simultaneously. In her resignation, she was careful not to demand Starmer go immediately, but urged him to announce "an orderly transition so that a new team can deliver the change we promised the country."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rfk-jr-claims-modern-us-teens-have-half-the-sperm-count-of-68-year-olds-in-1970-fact-check-1778560549502">RFK Jr claims modern US teens have half the sperm count of 68-year-olds in 1970 | Fact-check</a><h2>What she said in her resignation letter</h2>"Whilst progress has been made, we have not acted with the vision, pace and ambition that our mandate for change demands of us," Fahnbulleh wrote in her resignation. “Nor have we governed as a Labour Party clear about our values and strong in our convictions. Mistakes such as the winter fuel payment and cuts to the support provided to disabled people have left too many of my constituents doubting our mission. And the message on the doorstep was clear: you, Prime Minister, have lost the trust and confidence of the public. The public does not believe that you can lead this change — and nor do I.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-two-timed-trump-report-reveals-islamabad-quietly-sheltered-iranian-military-aircraft-while-brokering-peace-talks-1778551810479">Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war</a><h2>Who is Miatta Fahnbulleh?</h2>Miatta Fahnbulleh only became an MP in 2024 and went on to serve as Minister for Devolution, Faith and Communities in Keir Starmer's government. Before entering frontline politics, she led the New Economics Foundation, a left‑wing think tank. After becoming an MP, she was quickly promoted to a ministerial role under Ed Miliband at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, before being moved to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Fahnbulleh is regarded as a close ally of Miliband, himself a former Labour leader.&nbsp;

A major crack has opened inside Keir Starmer’s government. Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh has quit, becoming the first serving minister to publicly call for the prime minister to begin an “orderly transition” after declaring voters no longer trust him. 

Keir Starmer faced his most serious internal challenge yet on Tuesday (May 12) as a minister resigned and publicly called on him to set a timetable for his own departure. Miatta Fahnbulleh is the first serving minister to break ranks and openly question whether the prime minister can lead Labour through the rest of this parliament. Fahnbulleh posted her resignation letter on X and sent it to Downing Street simultaneously. In her resignation, she was careful not to demand Starmer go immediately, but urged him to announce "an orderly transition so that a new team can deliver the change we promised the country." Also read | RFK Jr claims modern US teens have half the sperm count of 68-year-olds in 1970 | Fact-check What she said in her resignation letter "Whilst progress has been made, we have not acted with the vision, pace and ambition that our mandate for change demands of us," Fahnbulleh wrote in her resignation. “Nor have we governed as a Labour Party clear about our values and strong in our convictions. Mistakes such as the winter fuel payment and cuts to the support provided to disabled people have left too many of my constituents doubting our mission. And the message on the doorstep was clear: you, Prime Minister, have lost the trust and confidence of the public. The public does not believe that you can lead this change — and nor do I.” Also read | Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war Who is Miatta Fahnbulleh? Miatta Fahnbulleh only became an MP in 2024 and went on to serve as Minister for Devolution, Faith and Communities in Keir Starmer's government. Before entering frontline politics, she led the New Economics Foundation, a left‑wing think tank. After becoming an MP, she was quickly promoted to a ministerial role under Ed Miliband at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, before being moved to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Fahnbulleh is regarded as a close ally of Miliband, himself a former Labour leader.

A major crack has opened inside Keir Starmer’s government. Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh has quit, becoming the first serving minister to publicly call for the prime minister to begin an “orderly transition” after declaring voters no longer trust him.&nbsp;

Keir Starmer rocked by first ministerial resignation; Miatta Fahnbulleh tells PM 'public doesn't believe you can lead'

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit China this week after rejecting a peace proposal by Iran and mulling another military action on Tehran. Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's advisor has issued a warning saying that US president might not go to Beijing “triumphantly.” Ali Akbar Velayati, former Foreign minister of Iran said that Trump should not mistake the current lack of fighting between the US and Iran. This came after Trump said that the monthlong ceasefire between the US and Iran is on “massive life support.” Both Iran and the US have blocked the Strait of Hormuz since the ceasefire took effect.&nbsp;“Mr. Trump, never imagine that by taking advantage of Iran’s current calm, you will be able to enter Beijing triumphantly,” Ali Akbar Velayati said according to a report from Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency. “We defeated you on the battlefield; so never think that you will emerge victorious in diplomacy as well," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-pakistan-betray-us-by-allowing-iran-to-park-spy-aircraft-trump-aide-says-asim-munir-shehbaz-sharif-mediator-china-russia-1778555836664">Did Pakistan betray US by allowing Iran to park spy aircraft? Trump aide says...</a><h2>What China said about Trump visit?</h2>China said that it is ready to work with the United States in the pursuit of "more stability" globally. China confirmed Trump's Beijing visit from May 13 to 15. The trip will mark Trump’s first visit to China during his second term and is expected to focus heavily on improving strained trade relations between the two global economic powers. The two leaders last met in South Korea in October, where they agreed to ease tensions stemming from ongoing trade disputes initiated by US tariffs.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-trump-s-beijing-visit-from-may-13-to-15-trade-jimmy-lai-taiwan-iran-war-what-s-on-agenda-1778465256028">China confirms Trump's Beijing visit from May 13 to 15: What's on agenda?</a><h2>What's on agenda?</h2>The upcoming meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping is expected to focus on trade, security and global tensions. Key issues include reducing tariff disputes, access to China’s rare earth minerals, market access for Chinese firms like BYD, and major business deals involving Boeing aircraft and US farm products. Taiwan and nuclear security talks are also likely to feature prominently. The two sides may also discuss improving educational, business and cultural ties to stabilise US-China relations.<h2>China - the backchannel negotiator</h2>While China's role in mediating between Iran and the US is not known publically, there are widespread speculations that China might have convinced Iran to come to the negotiating table amid raging war with the US and Israel in mid March. While Pakistan was the official mediator, several visits by Pakistan's top leaders to Beijing and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to the country sparked the rumours. China has not openly accepted its role about mediation but has maintained that it has been working “tirelessly for peace.” China is a key customer for Iranian oil, defying sanctions imposed by the United States as Washington seeks to choke off revenue to Tehran.&nbsp;

An advisor to Iran’s supreme leader warned Donald Trump not to view the Iran-US ceasefire as a victory ahead of his Beijing visit. The remarks come as Trump prepares for high-stakes talks with Xi Jinping on trade, security and global tensions amid fragile regional calm.

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit China this week after rejecting a peace proposal by Iran and mulling another military action on Tehran. Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's advisor has issued a warning saying that US president might not go to Beijing “triumphantly.” Ali Akbar Velayati, former Foreign minister of Iran said that Trump should not mistake the current lack of fighting between the US and Iran. This came after Trump said that the monthlong ceasefire between the US and Iran is on “massive life support.” Both Iran and the US have blocked the Strait of Hormuz since the ceasefire took effect. “Mr. Trump, never imagine that by taking advantage of Iran’s current calm, you will be able to enter Beijing triumphantly,” Ali Akbar Velayati said according to a report from Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency. “We defeated you on the battlefield; so never think that you will emerge victorious in diplomacy as well," he added. Also Read: Did Pakistan betray US by allowing Iran to park spy aircraft? Trump aide says... What China said about Trump visit? China said that it is ready to work with the United States in the pursuit of "more stability" globally. China confirmed Trump's Beijing visit from May 13 to 15. The trip will mark Trump’s first visit to China during his second term and is expected to focus heavily on improving strained trade relations between the two global economic powers. The two leaders last met in South Korea in October, where they agreed to ease tensions stemming from ongoing trade disputes initiated by US tariffs. Also Read: China confirms Trump's Beijing visit from May 13 to 15: What's on agenda? What's on agenda? The upcoming meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping is expected to focus on trade, security and global tensions. Key issues include reducing tariff disputes, access to China’s rare earth minerals, market access for Chinese firms like BYD, and major business deals involving Boeing aircraft and US farm products. Taiwan and nuclear security talks are also likely to feature prominently. The two sides may also discuss improving educational, business and cultural ties to stabilise US-China relations. China - the backchannel negotiator While China's role in mediating between Iran and the US is not known publically, there are widespread speculations that China might have convinced Iran to come to the negotiating table amid raging war with the US and Israel in mid March. While Pakistan was the official mediator, several visits by Pakistan's top leaders to Beijing and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to the country sparked the rumours. China has not openly accepted its role about mediation but has maintained that it has been working “tirelessly for peace.” China is a key customer for Iranian oil, defying sanctions imposed by the United States as Washington seeks to choke off revenue to Tehran.

An advisor to Iran’s supreme leader warned Donald Trump not to view the Iran-US ceasefire as a victory ahead of his Beijing visit. The remarks come as Trump prepares for high-stakes talks with Xi Jinping on trade, security and global tensions amid fragile regional calm.

'US president might not go to...': Mojtaba Khamenei's advisor warns Trump ahead of China visit

An Indian-origin philanthropist stunned graduating students at North Carolina State University’s Wilson College of Textiles by announcing that he would pay off all final-year education loans for 176 graduates during their commencement ceremony in Raleigh.&nbsp;According to the New York Post, Anil Kochhar announced while addressing the class of 2026 at Reynolds Coliseum on Friday. Wearing a red NC State cap, he said the gesture was intended to honour the legacy of his late father, Prakash Chand Kochhar, who travelled from Punjab to North Carolina nearly 80 years ago to study textile manufacturing.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">NEW: Students go nuts after donor announces during his commencement speech that he is paying off all of their senior year debts. Anil Kochhar and his wife decided to give the gift to all ~200 graduates in N.C. State&#39;s family. Kochhar is the son of Prakash Chand Kochhar, an… <a href="https://t.co/oCPcMwFaW1">pic.twitter.com/oCPcMwFaW1</a>&mdash; Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/2053504283044438341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-passport-ranking-78th-henley-index-2026-1778569111964">Indian passport slips to 78th in Henley Index; citizens can still travel unrestricted to 56 countries</a>&nbsp;“It is my privilege to announce today that, in honour of my father, Prakash Chand Kochhar, Marilyn and I are providing a graduation gift to cover all the final-year education loans incurred by Wilson College graduates during the 2025-26 academic year,” Kochhar told the students.&nbsp;The announcement prompted a standing ovation from graduates and their families. Kochhar said he hoped the financial support would give students “greater freedom to pursue your goals, take risks and build the lives you've worked so hard to achieve”. The loan relief applies to all 176 bachelor’s degree recipients from the college and covers loans taken out during their senior year. Another 26 master’s students also graduated during the ceremony, according to Axios Raleigh.&nbsp;For many students, the gesture was described as life-changing. Alyssa D’Costa, a fashion and textile management major, said the support would ease pressure on her immigrant family. “As a daughter of immigrants, this money helps my family and me a lot, and I'm really fortunate to have an opportunity like this,” she told the university.&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</a>&nbsp;University officials said the Kochhars coordinated the initiative with school leadership and the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid before the public announcement. David Hinks praised the donation, saying, “I could not be more grateful to Anil and Marilyn for this extraordinary investment in our newest Wilson for Life alumni.” He added that affordability remains one of the college’s main goals.

Philanthropist Anil Kochhar stunned 176 NC State graduates by paying off their final-year student loans. The gift honours his father’s legacy, aiming to provide students with financial freedom to pursue goals.

An Indian-origin philanthropist stunned graduating students at North Carolina State University’s Wilson College of Textiles by announcing that he would pay off all final-year education loans for 176 graduates during their commencement ceremony in Raleigh. According to the New York Post, Anil Kochhar announced while addressing the class of 2026 at Reynolds Coliseum on Friday. Wearing a red NC State cap, he said the gesture was intended to honour the legacy of his late father, Prakash Chand Kochhar, who travelled from Punjab to North Carolina nearly 80 years ago to study textile manufacturing.

Philanthropist Anil Kochhar stunned 176 NC State graduates by paying off their final-year student loans. The gift honours his father’s legacy, aiming to provide students with financial freedom to pursue goals.

‘Pursue your goals’: Indian-origin philanthropist pays off loans for entire graduating class in US

India's Passport has slipped to 78th position in Henley's Passport Index, but still holders can travel to 56 countries visa-free, visa-on-arrival and electronic travel authorisation routes. This is a three-position dip for the Indian passport from the 75th position in February 2026. The Indian passport reached its peak of 71st in 2006. In the latest ranking, India shares the 75th position with Burkina Faso, Cuba and Senegal. The Henly's Passport Index is based on International Air Transport Association data, which evaluates 199 countries across 277 destinations worldwide. The index is relative, and experts suggest that the declining strength of the Indian passport is related to the West Asian and Transatlantic crisis.&nbsp;<h2>Where can Indian travellers go?</h2>Indian citizens can access 56 countries visa-free, visa-on-arrival and electronic travel authorisation arrangements. Visa-free countries allow entry without a prior visa, subject to immigration checks on arrival. Currently, Indian passport holders can visit 30 countries without a prior visa. These are Angola, Barbados, Bhutan, British Virgin Islands, Cook Islands, Dominica, Fiji, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Macao (SAR China), Malaysia, Mauritius, Micronesia, Montserrat, Nepal, Niue, Philippines, Rwanda, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Thailand, The Gambia, Trinidad and Tobago, Vanuatu. Indians can acquire a visa on arrival in 23 countries, namely Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Indonesia, Jordan, Laos, Madagascar, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Palau Islands, Qatar, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, St. Lucia, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu, and Zimbabwe. ETA is a pre-travel online approval that must be acquired before departure, but doesn't require a visa stamp. Indians can get a visa on arrival in Kenya, Seychelles, St. Kitts and Nevis.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-venezuela-51st-state-delcy-rodriguez-response-1778566080236">Trump says he is ‘seriously considering’ making Venezuela 51st US state; Delcy Rodríguez rejects proposal</a>&nbsp;<h2>What is the top global passport ranking?</h2>Singapore currently holds the top position with visa-free access to 192 destinations, followed by the UAE, South Korea and Japan. European nations dominate the following in the top 10 rankings, followed by Sweden at third, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland at fourth and Hungary, Portugal, Slovakia, and Slovenia at fifth. Both the United States and the United Kingdom recorded some of the steepest annual declines in mobility, as per Henley's Passport Index. The United Kingdom is in eighth place and lost visa-free access to eight countries, and the United States is in 10th and lost visa-free access to seven destinations.&nbsp;

India’s passport has dropped to 78th place in the Henley Passport Index 2026, a three-rank decline from February. Despite the fall, Indian passport holders can still travel to 56 countries through visa-free, visa-on-arrival and ETA access routes.

India's Passport has slipped to 78th position in Henley's Passport Index, but still holders can travel to 56 countries visa-free, visa-on-arrival and electronic travel authorisation routes. This is a three-position dip for the Indian passport from the 75th position in February 2026. The Indian passport reached its peak of 71st in 2006. In the latest ranking, India shares the 75th position with Burkina Faso, Cuba and Senegal. The Henly's Passport Index is based on International Air Transport Association data, which evaluates 199 countries across 277 destinations worldwide. The index is relative, and experts suggest that the declining strength of the Indian passport is related to the West Asian and Transatlantic crisis. Where can Indian travellers go? Indian citizens can access 56 countries visa-free, visa-on-arrival and electronic travel authorisation arrangements. Visa-free countries allow entry without a prior visa, subject to immigration checks on arrival. Currently, Indian passport holders can visit 30 countries without a prior visa. These are Angola, Barbados, Bhutan, British Virgin Islands, Cook Islands, Dominica, Fiji, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Macao (SAR China), Malaysia, Mauritius, Micronesia, Montserrat, Nepal, Niue, Philippines, Rwanda, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Thailand, The Gambia, Trinidad and Tobago, Vanuatu. Indians can acquire a visa on arrival in 23 countries, namely Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Indonesia, Jordan, Laos, Madagascar, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Palau Islands, Qatar, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, St. Lucia, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu, and Zimbabwe. ETA is a pre-travel online approval that must be acquired before departure, but doesn't require a visa stamp. Indians can get a visa on arrival in Kenya, Seychelles, St. Kitts and Nevis. Also Read: Trump says he is ‘seriously considering’ making Venezuela 51st US state; Delcy Rodríguez rejects proposal What is the top global passport ranking? Singapore currently holds the top position with visa-free access to 192 destinations, followed by the UAE, South Korea and Japan. European nations dominate the following in the top 10 rankings, followed by Sweden at third, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland at fourth and Hungary, Portugal, Slovakia, and Slovenia at fifth. Both the United States and the United Kingdom recorded some of the steepest annual declines in mobility, as per Henley's Passport Index. The United Kingdom is in eighth place and lost visa-free access to eight countries, and the United States is in 10th and lost visa-free access to seven destinations.

India’s passport has dropped to 78th place in the Henley Passport Index 2026, a three-rank decline from February. Despite the fall, Indian passport holders can still travel to 56 countries through visa-free, visa-on-arrival and ETA access routes.

Indian passport slips to 78th in Henley Index; citizens can still travel unrestricted to 56 countries

Have you ever watched a huge aeroplane land and wondered how those small tyres handle such a heavy machine hitting the runway at over 250 kilometres per hour? It looks almost impossible, but the science behind it is fascinating.&nbsp;Aircraft tyres are built to be extraordinarily strong. They are made with multiple layers of rubber, nylon, and synthetic materials, all bonded together to handle massive loads. A single aircraft tyre can support more than 30 tons of weight, which is many times more than what a car tyre can manage.&nbsp;One of the most interesting things is the air inside them. Aeroplane tyres are not filled with normal air. They are filled with nitrogen gas. The reason is simple. Normal air contains oxygen, and oxygen reacts at high temperatures. During landing, the tyres heat up very quickly because of friction. In the past, when ordinary air was used, some tyres actually burst or caught fire. Nitrogen, on the other hand, is stable and non-reactive. It does not expand much with heat, which keeps the tyre safe during take-off, flight, and landing.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uss-alaska-movement-near-gibraltar-sparks-speculation-after-trump-calls-iran-response-totally-unacceptable-1778500785575">USS Alaska movement near Gibraltar sparks speculation after Trump calls Iran response ‘totally unacceptable’</a>&nbsp;The pressure inside is also surprising. Commercial aeroplane tyres are filled to around 200 psi, which is nearly six times more than a normal car tyre. In fighter jets like the F-16, the pressure goes up to almost 320 psi. This high pressure helps the tyre keep its shape under heavy weight and speed.&nbsp;Now, here is something most people do not know. When a plane lands, its wheels are not spinning. They are completely still. The moment the tyre touches the runway, it goes from zero to full speed in just one second. This is why you see that white smoke during landing. The tyre actually skids and drags for a short moment before it starts rolling at the same speed as the aircraft.&nbsp;This is also the reason why aeroplane tyres have straight parallel grooves instead of the block-shaped patterns seen on car tyres. If they had block patterns, those blocks would tear off because of the heavy friction and force during that skidding moment. The straight grooves help the tyre handle this stress smoothly and also push water away on wet runways.&nbsp;Another amazing fact is that these tyres are not thrown away after one use. They are retreaded and reused several times safely, which makes them both strong and cost-effective. So the next time you see an aeroplane landing, remember that those tyres are silently doing one of the toughest jobs in aviation. They truly perform under pressure, and they are one of the most underrated heroes of flight safety.&nbsp;(Girish Linganna is an award-winning science communicator and a Defence, Aerospace &amp; Geopolitical Analyst. He is the Managing Director of ADD Engineering Components India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany.)

Aircraft tires withstand 250 km/h landings using nitrogen inflation, high pressure, and reinforced layers. Their unique straight grooves prevent tearing during the initial high-friction skid, ensuring extreme durability and safety.

Have you ever watched a huge aeroplane land and wondered how those small tyres handle such a heavy machine hitting the runway at over 250 kilometres per hour? It looks almost impossible, but the science behind it is fascinating. Aircraft tyres are built to be extraordinarily strong. They are made with multiple layers of rubber, nylon, and synthetic materials, all bonded together to handle massive loads. A single aircraft tyre can support more than 30 tons of weight, which is many times more than what a car tyre can manage. One of the most interesting things is the air inside them. Aeroplane tyres are not filled with normal air. They are filled with nitrogen gas. The reason is simple. Normal air contains oxygen, and oxygen reacts at high temperatures. During landing, the tyres heat up very quickly because of friction. In the past, when ordinary air was used, some tyres actually burst or caught fire. Nitrogen, on the other hand, is stable and non-reactive. It does not expand much with heat, which keeps the tyre safe during take-off, flight, and landing. Also read: USS Alaska movement near Gibraltar sparks speculation after Trump calls Iran response ‘totally unacceptable’ The pressure inside is also surprising. Commercial aeroplane tyres are filled to around 200 psi, which is nearly six times more than a normal car tyre. In fighter jets like the F-16, the pressure goes up to almost 320 psi. This high pressure helps the tyre keep its shape under heavy weight and speed. Now, here is something most people do not know. When a plane lands, its wheels are not spinning. They are completely still. The moment the tyre touches the runway, it goes from zero to full speed in just one second. This is why you see that white smoke during landing. The tyre actually skids and drags for a short moment before it starts rolling at the same speed as the aircraft. This is also the reason why aeroplane tyres have straight parallel grooves instead of the block-shaped patterns seen on car tyres. If they had block patterns, those blocks would tear off because of the heavy friction and force during that skidding moment. The straight grooves help the tyre handle this stress smoothly and also push water away on wet runways. Another amazing fact is that these tyres are not thrown away after one use. They are retreaded and reused several times safely, which makes them both strong and cost-effective. So the next time you see an aeroplane landing, remember that those tyres are silently doing one of the toughest jobs in aviation. They truly perform under pressure, and they are one of the most underrated heroes of flight safety. (Girish Linganna is an award-winning science communicator and a Defence, Aerospace & Geopolitical Analyst. He is the Managing Director of ADD Engineering Components India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany.)

Aircraft tires withstand 250 km/h landings using nitrogen inflation, high pressure, and reinforced layers. Their unique straight grooves prevent tearing during the initial high-friction skid, ensuring extreme durability and safety.

EXPLAINED: Why plane tyres never burst at 250 KMPH

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in United States' Washington, DC, has showcased a saree of India's legendary "rocket woman" Nandini Harinath. Sharing videos and photos, the museum said that she helped her country reach Mars. The museum revealed that the saree was showcased because she wore this saree to work the day the Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) spacecraft successfully left Earth’s orbit and began its 300-day journey to Mars.&nbsp;&nbsp;Recalling, the space scientist said, “But Mangalyaan was special because of the number of people watching us. And it feels great to be recognised for your expertise and competence. The PM shook hands with us. NASA congratulated us; they're now collaborating with us. But it's not just the industry, it's the wider public, institutions, schools—they're all so interested! They're even following it on social media."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-isro-became-the-silent-force-behind-operation-sindoor-against-pakistan-1778146907389">How ISRO became the silent force behind Operation Sindoor against Pakistan</a>&nbsp;In the post, Smithsonian said, “As a rocket scientist and the Mars Orbiter Mission’s deputy operations director, Harinath was integral to mission planning and operations. Far exceeding its mission of six to 10 months, the spacecraft spent eight years in orbit, documenting Mars’ surface and atmosphere. The team’s success made India the first Asian country and the fourth country in the world to reach Mars. The sarees worn by the mission’s women leaders came to symbolize their national identity and India’s success in space. The museum shared a video and a photo of a “mannequin dressed in a vibrant red and blue sari with intricate patterns.” “The sari includes a blue blouse and a red and blue draped fabric with detailed designs.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-gets-russian-3-d-printer-to-make-aerospace-components-1777555247478">ISRO gets Russian 3-D printer to make aerospace components</a><h2>Who is Nandini Harinath?</h2>Nandini Harinath was born and raised in India to a Maths teacher mother and an engineer father. Before joining ISRO, she completed her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in engineering. She has supported more than 14 missions in her career at the Indian space agency, spanning over 20 years. Mars Orbiter Mission 'Mangalyaan' was ISRO’s first interplanetary mission. A spacecraft was launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, on November 5, 2013.

A saree worn by ISRO scientist Nandini Harinath during India’s historic Mangalyaan mission is now displayed at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. The tribute honors one of India’s “rocket women” who helped make India the first Asian nation to reach Mars

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in United States' Washington, DC, has showcased a saree of India's legendary "rocket woman" Nandini Harinath. Sharing videos and photos, the museum said that she helped her country reach Mars. The museum revealed that the saree was showcased because she wore this saree to work the day the Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) spacecraft successfully left Earth’s orbit and began its 300-day journey to Mars. Recalling, the space scientist said, “But Mangalyaan was special because of the number of people watching us. And it feels great to be recognised for your expertise and competence. The PM shook hands with us. NASA congratulated us; they're now collaborating with us. But it's not just the industry, it's the wider public, institutions, schools—they're all so interested! They're even following it on social media." Also Read: How ISRO became the silent force behind Operation Sindoor against Pakistan In the post, Smithsonian said, “As a rocket scientist and the Mars Orbiter Mission’s deputy operations director, Harinath was integral to mission planning and operations. Far exceeding its mission of six to 10 months, the spacecraft spent eight years in orbit, documenting Mars’ surface and atmosphere. The team’s success made India the first Asian country and the fourth country in the world to reach Mars. The sarees worn by the mission’s women leaders came to symbolize their national identity and India’s success in space. The museum shared a video and a photo of a “mannequin dressed in a vibrant red and blue sari with intricate patterns.” “The sari includes a blue blouse and a red and blue draped fabric with detailed designs.” Also Read: ISRO gets Russian 3-D printer to make aerospace components Who is Nandini Harinath? Nandini Harinath was born and raised in India to a Maths teacher mother and an engineer father. Before joining ISRO, she completed her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in engineering. She has supported more than 14 missions in her career at the Indian space agency, spanning over 20 years. Mars Orbiter Mission 'Mangalyaan' was ISRO’s first interplanetary mission. A spacecraft was launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, on November 5, 2013.

A saree worn by ISRO scientist Nandini Harinath during India’s historic Mangalyaan mission is now displayed at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. The tribute honors one of India’s “rocket women” who helped make India the first Asian nation to reach Mars

US museum displays saree worn by THIS Indian scientist: Who is she?

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.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to diplomats from Asian and European countries, there is anxiety that Trump’s unpredictable style and tendency for unscripted remarks may inadvertently weaken decades of carefully balanced US policy on Taiwan.&nbsp;“It will be a great success for Xi to make Trump say something good for China in public like ‘I support peaceful unification’ or ‘I oppose the independence of Taiwan,’” one Asian diplomat told Politico. “Trump is Trump, off script all the time. Let’s pray nothing disastrous happens,” they added.&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</a>&nbsp;The US has long maintained a policy of recognising Taiwan as distinct from mainland China while avoiding explicit support for Taiwanese independence. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly warned that any formal backing for independence could provoke war.&nbsp;China experts believe Beijing may try to push Trump into altering a key phrase in longstanding US policy. Analysts say changing the wording from “we do not support Taiwan independence” to “we oppose Taiwan independence” would carry major strategic implications.<h2>‘Trump doesn’t operate with that level of precision’</h2>Jonathan Czin, a former CIA China analyst now with the Brookings Institution, said the distinction may sound minor but could significantly alter diplomatic interpretations. “Trump doesn’t operate with that level of precision,” he warned.&nbsp;Officials close to the White House told reporters that advisers are urging Trump to avoid any deviation from established Taiwan policy. One source said briefing materials are focused on preserving the status quo and minimising discussion of Taiwan during the summit.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-arrived-during-ceasefire-period-pak-confirms-presence-of-iranian-aircraft-claims-it-has-no-links-to-military-1778564644772">Pak confirms presence of Iranian aircraft, claims it has no links to military</a>&nbsp;

Diplomats fear President Trump’s unscripted style during his summit with Xi Jinping could inadvertently alter long-standing US policy on Taiwan, potentially trading concessions for Chinese cooperation on global security.

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. According to diplomats from Asian and European countries, there is anxiety that Trump’s unpredictable style and tendency for unscripted remarks may inadvertently weaken decades of carefully balanced US policy on Taiwan. “It will be a great success for Xi to make Trump say something good for China in public like ‘I support peaceful unification’ or ‘I oppose the independence of Taiwan,’” one Asian diplomat told Politico. “Trump is Trump, off script all the time. Let’s pray nothing disastrous happens,” they added. Also read: Trump to meet Xi Jinping: Who will accompany US president and who won't The US has long maintained a policy of recognising Taiwan as distinct from mainland China while avoiding explicit support for Taiwanese independence. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly warned that any formal backing for independence could provoke war. China experts believe Beijing may try to push Trump into altering a key phrase in longstanding US policy. Analysts say changing the wording from “we do not support Taiwan independence” to “we oppose Taiwan independence” would carry major strategic implications. ‘Trump doesn’t operate with that level of precision’ Jonathan Czin, a former CIA China analyst now with the Brookings Institution, said the distinction may sound minor but could significantly alter diplomatic interpretations. “Trump doesn’t operate with that level of precision,” he warned. Officials close to the White House told reporters that advisers are urging Trump to avoid any deviation from established Taiwan policy. One source said briefing materials are focused on preserving the status quo and minimising discussion of Taiwan during the summit. Also read: Pak confirms presence of Iranian aircraft, claims it has no links to military

Diplomats fear President Trump’s unscripted style during his summit with Xi Jinping could inadvertently alter long-standing US policy on Taiwan, potentially trading concessions for Chinese cooperation on global security.

Trump to meet Xi Jinping: Will there be straight talk on Taiwan? This is what we know

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodrigues said that Venezuela never considered becoming the 51st state of the United States, as Trump has been suggesting following the kidnapping of the then-President Nicolas Maduro. US President Donald Trump said in a phone call with Fox News that he was "seriously" considering making Venezuela the 51st state of the United States, claiming that he is popular within the nation.&nbsp;"Venezuela loves Trump," said Trump.&nbsp;Trump said that he is effectively motivated by the $40 trillion worth of Venezuelan oil reserves. "As the President has said, relations between Venezuela and the United States have been extraordinary. Oil is starting to flow, and large amounts of money, unseen for many years, will soon be helping the great people of Venezuela," said a White House spokesperson. The spokesperson said to Fox News that Trump is the reason for the “revitalisation” of the US-Venezuela relationship and that the “best” is yet to come. He did not clarify the plan of the US President regarding Venezuela. Trump's capture of Venezuela's oil reserve had been instrumental in securing US energy requirements, as West Asia has plunged into war.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-venezuela-51st-state-wbc-maduro-trial-1773733226366">‘Statehood #51?’: Trump’s sneaky Venezuela remark after WBC victory</a>"That would never have been considered, because if there is one thing we Venezuelan men and women have, it is that we love our independence process, we love our heroes and heroines of independence," said Delcy Rodrigues after a hearing at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. She was at the top court for a centuries-old dispute with Guyana over an oil-rich region, in her first trip outside the Caribbean since assuming power.Back in March, following Venezuela's success in the baseball World Cup, Trump made a post on the Truth Social platform, "Good things are happening to Venezuela lately! I wonder what this magic is all about? STATEHOOD, #51, ANYONE?" The US has maintained effective control over Venezuelan oil through a “joint venture” model established following a 2026 military intervention. The export of Venezuelan sour crudes surged to 1.23 million bpd in April 2026, marking the strongest performance since 2018. While Venezuela maintains domestic production capacity, the US Treasury Department continues to control the funds and disburse using its own discretion.&nbsp;

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez rejected Donald Trump’s remarks about making Venezuela the 51st US state, saying Venezuelans “love independence” amid growing US control over Venezuelan oil.

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodrigues said that Venezuela never considered becoming the 51st state of the United States, as Trump has been suggesting following the kidnapping of the then-President Nicolas Maduro. US President Donald Trump said in a phone call with Fox News that he was "seriously" considering making Venezuela the 51st state of the United States, claiming that he is popular within the nation. "Venezuela loves Trump," said Trump. Trump said that he is effectively motivated by the $40 trillion worth of Venezuelan oil reserves. "As the President has said, relations between Venezuela and the United States have been extraordinary. Oil is starting to flow, and large amounts of money, unseen for many years, will soon be helping the great people of Venezuela," said a White House spokesperson. The spokesperson said to Fox News that Trump is the reason for the “revitalisation” of the US-Venezuela relationship and that the “best” is yet to come. He did not clarify the plan of the US President regarding Venezuela. Trump's capture of Venezuela's oil reserve had been instrumental in securing US energy requirements, as West Asia has plunged into war. Also Read: ‘Statehood #51?’: Trump’s sneaky Venezuela remark after WBC victory "That would never have been considered, because if there is one thing we Venezuelan men and women have, it is that we love our independence process, we love our heroes and heroines of independence," said Delcy Rodrigues after a hearing at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. She was at the top court for a centuries-old dispute with Guyana over an oil-rich region, in her first trip outside the Caribbean since assuming power. Back in March, following Venezuela's success in the baseball World Cup, Trump made a post on the Truth Social platform, "Good things are happening to Venezuela lately! I wonder what this magic is all about? STATEHOOD, #51, ANYONE?" The US has maintained effective control over Venezuelan oil through a “joint venture” model established following a 2026 military intervention. The export of Venezuelan sour crudes surged to 1.23 million bpd in April 2026, marking the strongest performance since 2018. While Venezuela maintains domestic production capacity, the US Treasury Department continues to control the funds and disburse using its own discretion.

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez rejected Donald Trump’s remarks about making Venezuela the 51st US state, saying Venezuelans “love independence” amid growing US control over Venezuelan oil.

Trump says he is ‘seriously considering’ making Venezuela 51st US state; Delcy Rodríguez rejects proposal

US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Monday (May 11) sought to characterise America’s declining birth rate as an "existential crisis." He also claimed that since 2007, women are in a "fertility crisis" and that teenage boys today have a worse sperm count than nearly 70-year-old men in the 1970s. Speaking at a White House event on maternal healthcare Monday (May 11), Kennedy argued that the United States is facing a deepening fertility emergency that stretches far beyond family planning and into the future of the country itself. “This is a threat not only to our economy, but to our national security,” Kennedy said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-two-timed-trump-report-reveals-islamabad-quietly-sheltered-iranian-military-aircraft-while-brokering-peace-talks-1778551810479">Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war</a><h2>Teenagers have a lower sperm count than 68-year-olds</h2>Then, RFK Jr pitched a statistic that immediately grabbed attention. “In 1970, men had twice the sperm count as our teenagers do today,” he claimed, framing the decline as evidence of a broader reproductive collapse affecting both men and women.What Kennedy says is driving itKennedy pointed to a mix of environmental and health-related factors, including obesity, metabolic disorders, endocrine disruptors, pesticides, and what he described as a growing “toxic soup” affecting reproductive health.According to him, the fertility crisis among women began around 2007, while men are now confronting their own version through falling sperm density, testosterone concerns, and broader hormonal disruption.His department, he said, is actively examining how environmental exposure may be reshaping fertility outcomes.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-absolute-moron-white-house-goes-nuclear-as-photos-of-trump-dozing-off-during-oval-office-event-goes-viral-1778557899199">'You absolute moron': White House goes nuclear as photos of Trump dozing off during Oval Office event goes viral</a><h2>The science is more complicated</h2>Kennedy’s warning is rooted partly in a widely discussed 2022 global review published in Human Reproduction Update, which found substantial declines in sperm counts over decades. However, there is an important caveat: the study did not specifically compare modern American teenagers to men in 1970 in the exact way Kennedy described.That distinction matters. Notably, some reproductive health experts say sperm decline is a serious hypothesis worth studying, but caution that long-term trend analysis remains difficult, partly because methodologies, populations and measurement standards vary widely across decades.

RFK Jr. is warning America faces an “existential” fertility crisis, claiming today’s teen boys may have dramatically lower sperm counts than older men decades ago. But how much of this is alarm, and how much is actual science? Scroll down.

US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Monday (May 11) sought to characterise America’s declining birth rate as an "existential crisis." He also claimed that since 2007, women are in a "fertility crisis" and that teenage boys today have a worse sperm count than nearly 70-year-old men in the 1970s. Speaking at a White House event on maternal healthcare Monday (May 11), Kennedy argued that the United States is facing a deepening fertility emergency that stretches far beyond family planning and into the future of the country itself. “This is a threat not only to our economy, but to our national security,” Kennedy said. Also read | Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war Teenagers have a lower sperm count than 68-year-olds Then, RFK Jr pitched a statistic that immediately grabbed attention. “In 1970, men had twice the sperm count as our teenagers do today,” he claimed, framing the decline as evidence of a broader reproductive collapse affecting both men and women. What Kennedy says is driving it Kennedy pointed to a mix of environmental and health-related factors, including obesity, metabolic disorders, endocrine disruptors, pesticides, and what he described as a growing “toxic soup” affecting reproductive health. According to him, the fertility crisis among women began around 2007, while men are now confronting their own version through falling sperm density, testosterone concerns, and broader hormonal disruption. His department, he said, is actively examining how environmental exposure may be reshaping fertility outcomes. Also read | 'You absolute moron': White House goes nuclear as photos of Trump dozing off during Oval Office event goes viral The science is more complicated Kennedy’s warning is rooted partly in a widely discussed 2022 global review published in Human Reproduction Update, which found substantial declines in sperm counts over decades. However, there is an important caveat: the study did not specifically compare modern American teenagers to men in 1970 in the exact way Kennedy described. That distinction matters. Notably, some reproductive health experts say sperm decline is a serious hypothesis worth studying, but caution that long-term trend analysis remains difficult, partly because methodologies, populations and measurement standards vary widely across decades.

RFK Jr. is warning America faces an “existential” fertility crisis, claiming today’s teen boys may have dramatically lower sperm counts than older men decades ago. But how much of this is alarm, and how much is actual science? Scroll down.

RFK Jr claims modern US teens have half the sperm count of 68-year-olds in 1970 | Fact-check

US President Donald Trump is preparing for a high-profile visit to China this week, where he is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping for talks expected to centre heavily on trade and business relations. The visit, scheduled for May 14 and 15, is being framed as a business-focused summit aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies. America and China remain deeply linked through trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars despite tensions over artificial intelligence, export controls, rare-earth minerals, Taiwan and the ongoing Iran war.&nbsp;One of the biggest talking points ahead of the trip is the list of American corporate leaders travelling with Trump, and one major absence from the delegation is Jensen Huang.<h2>Trump invites Elon Musk despite past fallout</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uss-alaska-movement-near-gibraltar-sparks-speculation-after-trump-calls-iran-response-totally-unacceptable-1778500785575">USS Alaska movement near Gibraltar sparks speculation after Trump calls Iran response ‘totally unacceptable’</a>&nbsp;Among the business leaders expected to accompany Trump is Elon Musk, a move that has surprised many, given the difficult relationship the two men appeared to share after last year’s fallout. Musk had last year distanced himself from Trump’s DOGE initiative. His inclusion in the China delegation now suggests a shift in the Trump-Musk relationship.&nbsp;Reports say Musk is joining the trip as part of a wider American business delegation rather than for a separate personal visit. The White House invited him alongside several major corporate chiefs from sectors including technology, finance, aviation and manufacturing.&nbsp;Musk’s participation is considered significant because of Tesla’s extensive business interests in China. The electric vehicle company has a major manufacturing and market presence there, making Musk an important figure in discussions linked to trade, industrial production and market access.&nbsp;His presence also signals that the administration wants to showcase American commercial and technology interests during the summit with Xi Jinping.<h2>Jensen Huang left out of delegation</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-bow-to-the-enemy-says-pezeshkian-as-tehran-pushes-recovery-efforts-after-conflict-1778411139602">Iran will ‘never bow to the enemy’, says Pezeshkian as Tehran pushes recovery efforts after conflict</a>&nbsp;While Musk’s inclusion has drawn attention, the absence of Huang has generated even greater discussion. Huang, the chief executive of Nvidia, had been widely expected to join the trip. Reports from Reuters and Bloomberg said the AI chip company chief would have attended if invited. Huang himself reportedly said that representing the United States would have been “a privilege” and “a great honour”. However, he was not included in the presidential delegation.<h2>Why Nvidia’s absence matters</h2>Nvidia currently sits at the centre of the growing technology rivalry between Washington and Beijing. The company’s AI chips have become a major issue in the wider US-China dispute over advanced technology and export controls. According to reports, the White House may not want the summit to become dominated by debates over AI chip exports or pressure for concessions linked to semiconductor trade.Because of this, Huang’s absence appears to reflect the administration’s priorities for the trip rather than any personal disagreement.&nbsp;The situation is particularly notable because Trump is believed to have developed a strong working relationship with Huang since returning to office. The administration had also reportedly agreed to allow Nvidia’s H200 AI chips to be exported to China.

President Trump’s May 14–15 China summit includes Elon Musk and Tim Cook in a 16-member business delegation, prioritising trade and Boeing deals. Nvidia’s Jensen Huang was notably excluded.

US President Donald Trump is preparing for a high-profile visit to China this week, where he is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping for talks expected to centre heavily on trade and business relations. The visit, scheduled for May 14 and 15, is being framed as a business-focused summit aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies. America and China remain deeply linked through trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars despite tensions over artificial intelligence, export controls, rare-earth minerals, Taiwan and the ongoing Iran war. One of the biggest talking points ahead of the trip is the list of American corporate leaders travelling with Trump, and one major absence from the delegation is Jensen Huang. Trump invites Elon Musk despite past fallout Also read: USS Alaska movement near Gibraltar sparks speculation after Trump calls Iran response ‘totally unacceptable’ Among the business leaders expected to accompany Trump is Elon Musk, a move that has surprised many, given the difficult relationship the two men appeared to share after last year’s fallout. Musk had last year distanced himself from Trump’s DOGE initiative. His inclusion in the China delegation now suggests a shift in the Trump-Musk relationship. Reports say Musk is joining the trip as part of a wider American business delegation rather than for a separate personal visit. The White House invited him alongside several major corporate chiefs from sectors including technology, finance, aviation and manufacturing. Musk’s participation is considered significant because of Tesla’s extensive business interests in China. The electric vehicle company has a major manufacturing and market presence there, making Musk an important figure in discussions linked to trade, industrial production and market access. His presence also signals that the administration wants to showcase American commercial and technology interests during the summit with Xi Jinping. Jensen Huang left out of delegation Also read: Iran will ‘never bow to the enemy’, says Pezeshkian as Tehran pushes recovery efforts after conflict While Musk’s inclusion has drawn attention, the absence of Huang has generated even greater discussion. Huang, the chief executive of Nvidia, had been widely expected to join the trip. Reports from Reuters and Bloomberg said the AI chip company chief would have attended if invited. Huang himself reportedly said that representing the United States would have been “a privilege” and “a great honour”. However, he was not included in the presidential delegation. Why Nvidia’s absence matters Nvidia currently sits at the centre of the growing technology rivalry between Washington and Beijing. The company’s AI chips have become a major issue in the wider US-China dispute over advanced technology and export controls. According to reports, the White House may not want the summit to become dominated by debates over AI chip exports or pressure for concessions linked to semiconductor trade. Because of this, Huang’s absence appears to reflect the administration’s priorities for the trip rather than any personal disagreement. The situation is particularly notable because Trump is believed to have developed a strong working relationship with Huang since returning to office. The administration had also reportedly agreed to allow Nvidia’s H200 AI chips to be exported to China.

President Trump’s May 14–15 China summit includes Elon Musk and Tim Cook in a 16-member business delegation, prioritising trade and Boeing deals. Nvidia’s Jensen Huang was notably excluded.

Trump to meet Xi Jinping: Who will accompany US president and who won't - here’s what we know

Pakistan has “categorically” rejected the report that Pakistan may have allowed Iran to park military and spy aircraft despite positioning itself as a neutral party during talks between the Islamic Republic and the US. In a statement, the Pakistan Foreign Ministry confirmed the presence of the Iranian aircraft, claiming that that it has “no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.” It also said that some aircraft and support personnel “remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.” The statement highlighted Islamabad's role as a mediator, emphasizing that it is “impartial, constructive, and responsible facilitator in support of dialogue and de- escalation.” It called the CBS report “misleading and sensationalized”, adding that such “speculative narratives appear aimed at undermining ongoing efforts for regional stability and peace.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-pakistan-betray-us-by-allowing-iran-to-park-spy-aircraft-trump-aide-says-asim-munir-shehbaz-sharif-mediator-china-russia-1778555836664">Did Pakistan betray US by allowing Iran to park spy aircraft? Trump aide says...</a><h3>What was the statement by Pakistan?</h3>The Pak Foreign Ministry statement explained that following the ceasefire and during the initial round of the Islamabad Talks, a number of aircraft from Iran and the United States arrived in Pakistan to facilitate the movement of diplomatic personnel, security teams, and administrative staff associated with the talks process. It said, “Some aircraft and support personnel remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.” Pointing at the subsequent visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Islamabad, the statement said that it was “facilitated through the existing logistical and administrative arrangements.” In confirmation of the CBS report, Pak said: “The Iranian aircraft currently parked in Pakistan arrived during the ceasefire period.” However, the country attempted to clarify its stance by saying that the aircraft bears “no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.”&nbsp;

It also added in the statement: "Assertions suggesting otherwise are speculative, misleading, and entirely detached from the factual context. Pakistan has consistently acted as an impartial, constructive, and responsible facilitator in support of dialogue and de- escalation. In line with this role, Pakistan has extended routine logistical and administrative support where required, while maintaining full transparency and regular communication with all relevant parties. Pakistan remains committed to supporting all sincere efforts aimed at promoting dialogue, reducing tensions, and advancing regional and global peace, stability, and security.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-don-t-like-it-trump-rejects-iran-s-peace-proposal-issues-stark-warning-war-to-restart-1778467060283">'I don't like it...': Trump rejects Iran's peace proposal, issues …</a><h2>Pakistan's mediator role under scanner</h2>CBS News reported that Pakistan may have “quietly allowed" Iranian military and surveillance aircraft to park on its airfields. CBS quoted American officials who also alleged US officials further alleged that Tehran deployed multiple aircraft, including an Iranian Air Force RC-130 — a reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering variant of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft — to Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan near Rawalpindi. The US and Iran met in Islamabad on Apr 11 and held approximately 15-hour marathon talks but couldn't strike a deal. The American delegation was led by Vice President JD Vance and Iranian side was led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. While Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir earned the praise of Trump, the visit did not result in a long-lasting peace deal.<h2>Trump's aide responds</h2>Trump administration has issued first response on a report. Trump aide and United States Senator Lindsey Graham said in a statement that if the report is true, then "a complete reevaluation of Pakistan's role" will be required. He also highlighted the statements of Pakistani officials against Israel and said that he wouldn't be shocked if this is true.

Pakistan rejected reports that it allowed Iran to park military and spy aircraft during Iran-US talks, calling the claims “misleading and sensationalized.” Islamabad said the aircraft were linked to diplomatic and logistical support during ceasefire negotiations.

Pakistan has “categorically” rejected the report that Pakistan may have allowed Iran to park military and spy aircraft despite positioning itself as a neutral party during talks between the Islamic Republic and the US. In a statement, the Pakistan Foreign Ministry confirmed the presence of the Iranian aircraft, claiming that that it has “no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.” It also said that some aircraft and support personnel “remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.” The statement highlighted Islamabad's role as a mediator, emphasizing that it is “impartial, constructive, and responsible facilitator in support of dialogue and de- escalation.” It called the CBS report “misleading and sensationalized”, adding that such “speculative narratives appear aimed at undermining ongoing efforts for regional stability and peace.” Also Read: Did Pakistan betray US by allowing Iran to park spy aircraft? Trump aide says... What was the statement by Pakistan? The Pak Foreign Ministry statement explained that following the ceasefire and during the initial round of the Islamabad Talks, a number of aircraft from Iran and the United States arrived in Pakistan to facilitate the movement of diplomatic personnel, security teams, and administrative staff associated with the talks process. It said, “Some aircraft and support personnel remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.” Pointing at the subsequent visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Islamabad, the statement said that it was “facilitated through the existing logistical and administrative arrangements.” In confirmation of the CBS report, Pak said: “The Iranian aircraft currently parked in Pakistan arrived during the ceasefire period.” However, the country attempted to clarify its stance by saying that the aircraft bears “no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.”

Pakistan rejected reports that it allowed Iran to park military and spy aircraft during Iran-US talks, calling the claims “misleading and sensationalized.” Islamabad said the aircraft were linked to diplomatic and logistical support during ceasefire negotiations.

'It arrived during ceasefire period...': Pakistan CONFIRMS presence of Iranian aircraft amid US talks, but says...

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that operators in Pakistan are running sophisticated bot farms and fake social media accounts to undermine American support for Israel and weaken the US-Israeli alliance.In an interview with CBS News' 60 Minutes, Mr Netanyahu described a deliberate campaign using fabricated American personas to erode sympathy for Israel. "We have several countries that basically manipulated social media with bot farms, fake addresses to break the American sympathy for Israel and to break the American-Israeli alliance because they think it's in their interest," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-two-timed-trump-report-reveals-islamabad-quietly-sheltered-iranian-military-aircraft-while-brokering-peace-talks-1778551810479">Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war</a>He added: "It's like you hear a text message, 'I am a red-blooded Texan, I always supported Israel, but I can't stand what they are doing' and turning against Israel, then you trace the address to some basement in Pakistan."The claims highlight growing concerns over Pakistan-led operations on platforms including X, formerly Twitter, and Facebook. In March, Nikita Bier, head of product at X, revealed the platform had dismantled a network run from Pakistan. "Last night, we found a guy in Pakistan who was managing 31 accounts posting AI war videos. All were hacked, and the usernames were changed on Feb 27 to 'Iran War Monitor' or some derivative," Mr Bier said. He noted that X was "getting much faster at detecting this, and also eliminating the incentive to do this."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Last night, we found a guy in Pakistan that was managing 31 accounts posting AI war videos. All were hacked and the usernames were changed on Feb 27 to &quot;Iran War Monitor&quot; or some derivative. We are getting much faster at detecting this—and also eliminating the incentive to do…&mdash; Nikita Bier (@nikitabier) <a href="https://twitter.com/nikitabier/status/2029093084735340740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Separate investigations have exposed the financial incentives driving such activity. A recent report by The Bureau of Investigative Journalism detailed how a man in Pakistan was earning thousands of pounds through Facebook pages that spread racist and inflammatory videos aimed at UK audiences. The content frequently targeted Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, generating revenue through Meta's advertising model.These Pakistani operations often blend automated bots with human-managed accounts and AI-generated content, making them harder to detect. Pakistan has not publicly commented on the specific allegations. With millions of users exposed daily to potentially manipulated content, the issue raises fresh questions on how social media is being regularly manipulated by Pakistan's state and non-state actors.Ahead of the May conflict of last year, India has blocked and withheld many social media accounts based out of Pakistan, indulging in misinformation. They continue to be blocked in India, but new bot accounts linked with Pakistan have regularly emerged.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Deepfake Video Alert! This is an AI generated video intended to spread disinformation! Please stay alert against such fake videos and content on social media. <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBFactCheck?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBFactCheck</a><a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/0htQFkjqiL">https://t.co/0htQFkjqiL</a> <a href="https://t.co/dpvJVMIB7g">pic.twitter.com/dpvJVMIB7g</a>&mdash; MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAFactCheck/status/2053660518775497138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier this week, the fact-check unit of the GOI and India's foreign ministry fact-checked a Pakistan account that was using an AI-generated video to spread misinformation on India's counter-terror operation of last year in Pakistan.

The claims highlight growing concerns over Pakistan-led operations on platforms including X, formerly Twitter, and Facebook. In March, Nikita Bier, head of product at X, revealed the platform had dismantled a network run from Pakistan.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that operators in Pakistan are running sophisticated bot farms and fake social media accounts to undermine American support for Israel and weaken the US-Israeli alliance. In an interview with CBS News' 60 Minutes, Mr Netanyahu described a deliberate campaign using fabricated American personas to erode sympathy for Israel. "We have several countries that basically manipulated social media with bot farms, fake addresses to break the American sympathy for Israel and to break the American-Israeli alliance because they think it's in their interest," he said. Also read | Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war He added: "It's like you hear a text message, 'I am a red-blooded Texan, I always supported Israel, but I can't stand what they are doing' and turning against Israel, then you trace the address to some basement in Pakistan." The claims highlight growing concerns over Pakistan-led operations on platforms including X, formerly Twitter, and Facebook. In March, Nikita Bier, head of product at X, revealed the platform had dismantled a network run from Pakistan. "Last night, we found a guy in Pakistan who was managing 31 accounts posting AI war videos. All were hacked, and the usernames were changed on Feb 27 to 'Iran War Monitor' or some derivative," Mr Bier said. He noted that X was "getting much faster at detecting this, and also eliminating the incentive to do this."

The claims highlight growing concerns over Pakistan-led operations on platforms including X, formerly Twitter, and Facebook. In March, Nikita Bier, head of product at X, revealed the platform had dismantled a network run from Pakistan.

Growing concern over Pakistan social media bot farms targeting UK and US public opinion

Pakistan allowed Iranian military aircraft to park on its airfields in the weeks after the US-Iran ceasefire was announced, potentially shielding them from American strikes, even as Islamabad was publicly positioning itself as a neutral mediator between Washington and Tehran, according to US officials who spoke to CBS News on condition of anonymity.<h2>Which aircraft did Iran 'hide' in Pakistan?</h2>According to the report, among the aircraft sent to Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan, a strategically important installation outside Rawalpindi, was an Iranian Air Force RC-130, a reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering variant of the C-130 transport aircraft. Iran reportedly also moved civilian aircraft to Afghanistan, though it remains unclear whether military planes were among those flights.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-why-speak-in-english-pakistan-s-bizarre-meltdown-over-india-s-operation-sindoor-press-conference-goes-viral-watch-1778233667496">'Why speak in English?': Pakistan's bizarre meltdown over India's Operation Sindoor press conference goes VIRAL | WATCH</a><h2>Pakistan rejects allegations</h2>A senior Pakistani official rejected the claims, telling CBS News that Nur Khan is "right in the heart of the city" and that a large fleet of parked aircraft "can't be hidden from public view."Afghanistan also had an Iranian aircraft belonging to Mahan Air in its hangar. However, Taliban's chief spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, denied that any Iranian planes were in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, an Afghan civil aviation officer said that a Mahan Air civilian aircraft that had landed in Kabul before the war was later moved to Herat Airport near the Iranian border. However, he said that it was not for concealment but for protection after Pakistan began airstrikes on Kabul during separate tensions with the Taliban government over the TTP militant group.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missiles-and-deals-at-the-same-time-us-iran-war-and-peace-dichotomy-explained-through-history-1778225338623">Missiles and deals at the same time? US-Iran war and peace dichotomy explained through history</a><h2>Pakistan's mediator role in question</h2>Islamabad has positioned itself to Washington as a stabilising intermediary and a mediator in the US-Israel-Iran war. However, at the same time, it was trying not to alienate Tehran or Beijing, Iran's most powerful international backer and the source of roughly 80 per cent of Pakistan's major arms imports between 2020 and 2024, according to SIPRI data. China has publicly praised Pakistan's facilitation of indirect communications between the two sides, adding another layer of complexity to Islamabad's balancing act. &nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Pakistan’s role as a US-Iran mediator is now under scrutiny after a report claims Iranian military aircraft were quietly parked on Pakistani airfields after the ceasefire. If true, it raises uncomfortable questions about whether Islamabad was brokering peace publicly while hedging privately.

Pakistan allowed Iranian military aircraft to park on its airfields in the weeks after the US-Iran ceasefire was announced, potentially shielding them from American strikes, even as Islamabad was publicly positioning itself as a neutral mediator between Washington and Tehran, according to US officials who spoke to CBS News on condition of anonymity. Which aircraft did Iran 'hide' in Pakistan? According to the report, among the aircraft sent to Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan, a strategically important installation outside Rawalpindi, was an Iranian Air Force RC-130, a reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering variant of the C-130 transport aircraft. Iran reportedly also moved civilian aircraft to Afghanistan, though it remains unclear whether military planes were among those flights. Also read | 'Why speak in English?': Pakistan's bizarre meltdown over India's Operation Sindoor press conference goes VIRAL | WATCH Pakistan rejects allegations A senior Pakistani official rejected the claims, telling CBS News that Nur Khan is "right in the heart of the city" and that a large fleet of parked aircraft "can't be hidden from public view." Afghanistan also had an Iranian aircraft belonging to Mahan Air in its hangar. However, Taliban's chief spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, denied that any Iranian planes were in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, an Afghan civil aviation officer said that a Mahan Air civilian aircraft that had landed in Kabul before the war was later moved to Herat Airport near the Iranian border. However, he said that it was not for concealment but for protection after Pakistan began airstrikes on Kabul during separate tensions with the Taliban government over the TTP militant group. Also read | Missiles and deals at the same time? US-Iran war and peace dichotomy explained through history Pakistan's mediator role in question Islamabad has positioned itself to Washington as a stabilising intermediary and a mediator in the US-Israel-Iran war. However, at the same time, it was trying not to alienate Tehran or Beijing, Iran's most powerful international backer and the source of roughly 80 per cent of Pakistan's major arms imports between 2020 and 2024, according to SIPRI data. China has publicly praised Pakistan's facilitation of indirect communications between the two sides, adding another layer of complexity to Islamabad's balancing act. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Pakistan’s role as a US-Iran mediator is now under scrutiny after a report claims Iranian military aircraft were quietly parked on Pakistani airfields after the ceasefire. If true, it raises uncomfortable questions about whether Islamabad was brokering peace publicly while hedging privately.

Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war

Russian President Vladimir Putin reunited with his former German language teacher Vera Dmitriyevna Gurevich during a special evening in Moscow this week. The Russian president warmly greeted his elderly teacher with a bouquet of flowers before embracing her in a heartfelt hug. His gesture drew attention online and the video of the incident went viral. Users on social media praised his emotional and human touch. Putin had invited his former teacher to attend the recently concluded Victory Day Parade. The video was shared by Kremlin.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-offers-to-take-iranian-uranium-again-says-no-evidence-of-tehran-striving-for-nuclear-weapons-1778377648824">Putin offers to take Iranian uranium again, says no evidence of Tehran 'striving for nuclear weapons'</a>&nbsp;According to the video, Putin spent time speaking with her privately and later took her out for dinner, reflecting on memories from his school years in what appeared to be a nostalgic reunion. In another notable gesture, the Russian president personally escorted and drove her straight to the Kremlin afterward, underlining the respect and gratitude he continues to hold for the woman who once taught him German during his childhood in Leningrad, now St. Petersburg.The rare public display offered a softer glimpse into Putin’s personal life amid global political tensions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/putin-issues-big-statement-on-russia-ukraine-war-after-calling-it-just-i-think-that-the-matter-trump-zelensky-victory-day-ceasefire-1778379105074">'I think that the matter...': Putin issues BIG statement on Russia-Ukraine war after calling it 'just'</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Vladimir Putin drives to Moscow hotel to personally receive his childhood school teacher, Vera Gurevich. The Russian president later escorted her to his residence for dinner. <a href="https://t.co/SKRWYTdzcE">pic.twitter.com/SKRWYTdzcE</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2054056782071509217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Born in 1952, Putin grew up in post-war Leningrad, experiencing what is often described as difficult and scrappy childhood. The Russian president is fluent in German, a skill acquired during his time as a KGB intelligence officer in Dresden, East Germany, from 1985 to 1990. He has demonstrated this proficiency in public, including a 2001 speech to the German Bundestag, and occasionally speaks German in meetings to discuss specific matters. Many years ago in 2005, a video of Putin reuniting with his former high school German teacher, Mina Yuditskaya-Berliner, during a state visit to Israel had also gone viral.

Putin reunited with his former German teacher in Moscow, greeting her with flowers and a warm hug before taking her out for dinner. The Russian president later personally escorted her to the Kremlin, showcasing a rare emotional and personal side amid global tensions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin reunited with his former German language teacher Vera Dmitriyevna Gurevich during a special evening in Moscow this week. The Russian president warmly greeted his elderly teacher with a bouquet of flowers before embracing her in a heartfelt hug. His gesture drew attention online and the video of the incident went viral. Users on social media praised his emotional and human touch. Putin had invited his former teacher to attend the recently concluded Victory Day Parade. The video was shared by Kremlin. Also Read: Putin offers to take Iranian uranium again, says no evidence of Tehran 'striving for nuclear weapons' According to the video, Putin spent time speaking with her privately and later took her out for dinner, reflecting on memories from his school years in what appeared to be a nostalgic reunion. In another notable gesture, the Russian president personally escorted and drove her straight to the Kremlin afterward, underlining the respect and gratitude he continues to hold for the woman who once taught him German during his childhood in Leningrad, now St. Petersburg. The rare public display offered a softer glimpse into Putin’s personal life amid global political tensions. Also Read: 'I think that the matter...': Putin issues BIG statement on Russia-Ukraine war after calling it 'just'

Putin reunited with his former German teacher in Moscow, greeting her with flowers and a warm hug before taking her out for dinner. The Russian president later personally escorted her to the Kremlin, showcasing a rare emotional and personal side amid global tensions.

Flowers, hug, dinner: Putin's rare gesture for his former German teacher goes VIRAL - VIDEO

Popular streaming platform Netflix has been sued by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who accused the company of secretly collecting data from children and other users without their consent.&nbsp;According to a report by Reuters, the lawsuit filed on Monday (May 11) alleged that Netflix tracked viewers’ habits, preferences and online behaviour while failing to properly inform consumers about how their data was being used. The complaint further claimed that the streaming giant sold or shared such information with advertising companies and commercial data brokers. Paxton also accused Netflix of intentionally designing its platform to be addictive, particularly for children and families, to maximise viewing time and generate profits through data collection.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-bow-to-the-enemy-says-pezeshkian-as-tehran-pushes-recovery-efforts-after-conflict-1778411139602">Iran will ‘never bow to the enemy’, says Pezeshkian as Tehran pushes recovery efforts after conflict</a>&nbsp;“Netflix’s endgame is simple and lucrative: get children and families glued to the screen, harvest their data while they are stuck there, and then monetise the data for a handsome profit,” the complaint filed in a state court in Collin County, near Dallas, stated. The lawsuit added: “When you watch Netflix, Netflix watches you.”&nbsp;According to Reuters, Texas alleged that the company’s practices violated the state’s Deceptive Trade Practices laws. Paxton has requested that the court order Netflix to delete any data allegedly collected unlawfully and impose civil penalties of up to USD 10,000.<h2>What was Netflix’s response?</h2>In response, Netflix rejected the allegations and said it would contest the lawsuit in court. “Respectfully to the great state of Texas and Attorney General Paxton, this lawsuit lacks merit and is based on inaccurate and distorted information,” a Netflix spokesperson said in an official statement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-12-police-officers-die-in-car-bomb-blast-and-gunfight-near-afghan-border-1778393001108">Pakistan: 12 police officers die in car bomb blast and gunfight near Afghan Border</a>&nbsp;The company maintained that it complies with privacy and data protection laws and said it takes the privacy of its members seriously. The case adds to growing scrutiny over how major technology and streaming companies collect, store and monetise user data, especially data linked to children and teenagers. &nbsp;

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued Netflix, alleging the platform illegally harvested children's data and used addictive designs to monetise user behaviour. Netflix denies the claims, calling them meritless.

Popular streaming platform Netflix has been sued by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who accused the company of secretly collecting data from children and other users without their consent. According to a report by Reuters, the lawsuit filed on Monday (May 11) alleged that Netflix tracked viewers’ habits, preferences and online behaviour while failing to properly inform consumers about how their data was being used. The complaint further claimed that the streaming giant sold or shared such information with advertising companies and commercial data brokers. Paxton also accused Netflix of intentionally designing its platform to be addictive, particularly for children and families, to maximise viewing time and generate profits through data collection. Also read: Iran will ‘never bow to the enemy’, says Pezeshkian as Tehran pushes recovery efforts after conflict “Netflix’s endgame is simple and lucrative: get children and families glued to the screen, harvest their data while they are stuck there, and then monetise the data for a handsome profit,” the complaint filed in a state court in Collin County, near Dallas, stated. The lawsuit added: “When you watch Netflix, Netflix watches you.” According to Reuters, Texas alleged that the company’s practices violated the state’s Deceptive Trade Practices laws. Paxton has requested that the court order Netflix to delete any data allegedly collected unlawfully and impose civil penalties of up to USD 10,000. What was Netflix’s response? In response, Netflix rejected the allegations and said it would contest the lawsuit in court. “Respectfully to the great state of Texas and Attorney General Paxton, this lawsuit lacks merit and is based on inaccurate and distorted information,” a Netflix spokesperson said in an official statement. Also read: Pakistan: 12 police officers die in car bomb blast and gunfight near Afghan Border The company maintained that it complies with privacy and data protection laws and said it takes the privacy of its members seriously. The case adds to growing scrutiny over how major technology and streaming companies collect, store and monetise user data, especially data linked to children and teenagers.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued Netflix, alleging the platform illegally harvested children's data and used addictive designs to monetise user behaviour. Netflix denies the claims, calling them meritless.

‘When you watch Netflix, Netflix watches you’: Platform accused of spying on children in explosive Texas lawsuit

The Trump administration has quietly brought back cyanide bombs, once used to control predator populations, but banned in 2023 because they were not only killing native and other endangered species, but also poisoning people. According to a report by Gizmodo, the Bureau of Land Management and the Agriculture Department’s Wildlife Services program signed a memorandum in April which effectively repeals the ban on these cyanide bombs. The M-44s are poison traps that spray sodium cyanide powder on public lands, affecting a wider population of creatures who become the unintentional target of this weapon. Predator Defense, a nonprofit working to protect native predators and to end America's war on wildlife, calls M-44s "indiscriminate killers". It said in a statement, "They are meant to kill coyotes", but they also end up killing "endangered species, essential native predators, and countless beloved dogs, none of which can read warning signs." The group further added that it has "poisoned countless people" and it would eventually some day "kill a child."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ecological-disaster-unfolding-in-western-ghats-as-one-insect-goes-missing-in-india-1777956918157">Ecological disaster unfolding in Western Ghats as one insect goes 'missing' in India</a>&nbsp;Environmentalists have been against M-44s that have been used to protect livestock from predators, control invasive species, manage wildlife diseases and keep humans safe from wild animals. They have been flagged as inhumane to the creatures and dangerous to humans. The Trump administration had done the same thing in 2019 as well. In 2017, a 14-year-old boy and his dog were accidentally sprayed by the cyanide bombs in Idaho. While the boy survived, the canine died. Idaho, Colorado, and Oregon have placed restrictions or bans on the use of M-44s. Trump's officials reauthorised its use in 2019, but reversed the order following public outcry. The Biden administration ordered Wildlife Services not to use M-44s on BLM lands nationwide in 2023. However, &nbsp;BLM and Wildlife Services appear to have reached a deal to reverse it again.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/birds-have-a-preference-for-one-human-sex-and-they-made-it-clear-2-700-times-1777874452101">Birds have a clear preference when it comes to choosing between men and women</a><h2>Bureau of Land Management responds to M-44 use</h2>According to the new order, &nbsp;Wildlife Services must notify the local BLM field office and/or district office before using pesticides restricted by the Environmental Protection Agency. The M-44s fall under the same purview, which means the poison traps can be deployed with prior intimation. A spokesperson for the BLM told the outlet that the memo does not itself "authorise or expand use of M-44s" and refers to restricted-use pesticides that "may be considered under existing law and environmental review." However, environmentalists are concerned about the new memo, and many organisations have said they will fight the order.&nbsp;

M-44 poison traps spray sodium cyanide powder when triggered, and were flagged as a risk to endangered species and humans. A report states that a new memo appears to have opened the doors for the use of cyanide bombs again after they were banned in 2023.

The Trump administration has quietly brought back cyanide bombs, once used to control predator populations, but banned in 2023 because they were not only killing native and other endangered species, but also poisoning people. According to a report by Gizmodo, the Bureau of Land Management and the Agriculture Department’s Wildlife Services program signed a memorandum in April which effectively repeals the ban on these cyanide bombs. The M-44s are poison traps that spray sodium cyanide powder on public lands, affecting a wider population of creatures who become the unintentional target of this weapon. Predator Defense, a nonprofit working to protect native predators and to end America's war on wildlife, calls M-44s "indiscriminate killers". It said in a statement, "They are meant to kill coyotes", but they also end up killing "endangered species, essential native predators, and countless beloved dogs, none of which can read warning signs." The group further added that it has "poisoned countless people" and it would eventually some day "kill a child." Also Read: Ecological disaster unfolding in Western Ghats as one insect goes 'missing' in India Environmentalists have been against M-44s that have been used to protect livestock from predators, control invasive species, manage wildlife diseases and keep humans safe from wild animals. They have been flagged as inhumane to the creatures and dangerous to humans. The Trump administration had done the same thing in 2019 as well. In 2017, a 14-year-old boy and his dog were accidentally sprayed by the cyanide bombs in Idaho. While the boy survived, the canine died. Idaho, Colorado, and Oregon have placed restrictions or bans on the use of M-44s. Trump's officials reauthorised its use in 2019, but reversed the order following public outcry. The Biden administration ordered Wildlife Services not to use M-44s on BLM lands nationwide in 2023. However, BLM and Wildlife Services appear to have reached a deal to reverse it again. Also Read: Birds have a clear preference when it comes to choosing between men and women Bureau of Land Management responds to M-44 use According to the new order, Wildlife Services must notify the local BLM field office and/or district office before using pesticides restricted by the Environmental Protection Agency. The M-44s fall under the same purview, which means the poison traps can be deployed with prior intimation. A spokesperson for the BLM told the outlet that the memo does not itself "authorise or expand use of M-44s" and refers to restricted-use pesticides that "may be considered under existing law and environmental review." However, environmentalists are concerned about the new memo, and many organisations have said they will fight the order.

M-44 poison traps spray sodium cyanide powder when triggered, and were flagged as a risk to endangered species and humans. A report states that a new memo appears to have opened the doors for the use of cyanide bombs again after they were banned in 2023.

Trump administration quietly reverses ban on cyanide bombs that 'poisoned countless people'

The White House, in an aggressive post on X, has offered a wild explanation for why US President Donald Trump once again seemed to be dozing off during a public event in the Oval Office on Monday (May 11). "He was blinking, you absolute moron," said White House's Rapid Response handle in reply to a Reuters article about Trump attending the maternal health event. Notably, the White House's snarky reply was made to a post that did not even mention Trump dozing off, but only included a picture of the POTUS with his eyes closed.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/democrats-roast-trump-on-national-napping-day-with-commander-in-sleep-dig-1773134748472">‘Commander-in-Sleep’: Democrats roast sleepy Trump on National Napping Day</a><h2>'A verrrrrrrrryyyyy long blink'</h2>The White House's response comes as photos and videos of Trump seemingly dozing off while hosting an event on maternal health went viral on social media.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">He was blinking, you absolute moron <a href="https://t.co/7gw3n7l8R3">https://t.co/7gw3n7l8R3</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2053894960261300578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The aggressive response earned White House some sarcastic comments, with Democratic Representative Ted Lieu among others sharing a video of Trump with his eyes closed and the caption, "Dear @RapidResponse47: That is a verrrrrrrrryyyyy long blink". The 17-second video shows Trump with his eyes closed throughout, even as aides standing right beside him talk.Trump, who regularly refers to his predecessor Joe Biden as "Sleepy Joe", has been caught multiple times in the one year of his second term with his eyes closed during official events.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-two-timed-trump-report-reveals-islamabad-quietly-sheltered-iranian-military-aircraft-while-brokering-peace-talks-1778551810479">Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war</a>The latest nodding-off episode comes just a week after he appeared to suffer a bout of fatigue during an Oval Office event announcing the return of the Presidential Fitness Test in public schools. According to reports, similar episodes were observed in April, on multiple occasions in March, as well as in February and January.<h2>‘Commander-in-Sleep’ Trump defends himself</h2>Donald Trump had earlier denied accusations that he falls asleep in public, insisting that photos showing his eyes closed are simply moments of blinking or briefly shutting his eyes to relax. “It’s very relaxing to me,” he said. “Sometimes they’ll take a picture of me blinking, blinking, and they’ll catch me with the blink.” The POTUS had also accepted that he gets little sleep, a claim reinforced by reports highlighting his late-night social media activity and accounts from journalists describing him as staying awake for long stretches even during international trips.

The White House is pushing back hard after viral footage appeared to show Trump dozing off again, insisting he was simply “blinking.” But with critics calling it a “very long blink,” the episode has quickly become fresh fuel for political mockery. Scroll down.

The White House, in an aggressive post on X, has offered a wild explanation for why US President Donald Trump once again seemed to be dozing off during a public event in the Oval Office on Monday (May 11). "He was blinking, you absolute moron," said White House's Rapid Response handle in reply to a Reuters article about Trump attending the maternal health event. Notably, the White House's snarky reply was made to a post that did not even mention Trump dozing off, but only included a picture of the POTUS with his eyes closed. Also read | ‘Commander-in-Sleep’: Democrats roast sleepy Trump on National Napping Day 'A verrrrrrrrryyyyy long blink' The White House's response comes as photos and videos of Trump seemingly dozing off while hosting an event on maternal health went viral on social media.

The White House is pushing back hard after viral footage appeared to show Trump dozing off again, insisting he was simply “blinking.” But with critics calling it a “very long blink,” the episode has quickly become fresh fuel for political mockery. Scroll down.

'You absolute moron': White House goes nuclear as photos of Trump dozing off during Oval Office event goes viral

Questions over Pakistan’s neutrality emerged after a report claimed Iran parked military and surveillance aircraft at a Pakistani airbase during Iran-US talks. Trump ally Lindsey Graham warned that if true, Washington may need to reassess Pakistan’s role amid rising regional tensions.

'If this were true...': Did Pakistan betray US by allowing Iran to park spy aircraft? Trump aide says...

Arcadia mayor Eileen Wang has been charged with acting as an illegal agent of the Chinese government, the Department of Justice said Monday (May 11). &nbsp;She has agreed to plead guilty to the felony charge, the department added in a statement. Wang resigned from her post as mayor on Monday, according to the Arcadia City Council's website. The Justice Department said Wang and an accomplice, Yaoning Sun, promoted pro-Chinese propaganda through a website they operated called US News Center serving the local Chinese American community. Sun pleaded guilty in 2025 to acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government and is serving a four-year prison sentence. This comes just before US President Donald Trump's Beijing visit and meeting with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. Wang, a Democrat, was elected to the Arcadia City Council on a Democratic Party ticket in November 2022. Arcadia is an independent city located in Los Angeles County, California.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-willing-to-work-china-extends-global-stability-olive-branch-to-us-ahead-of-trump-visit-1778493914966">'Willing to work...': China extends global 'stability' olive branch to US ahead of Trump visit</a><h2>What are the allegations Wang pleaded guilty?</h2>In a statement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said that Wang has been charged in federal court with acting as an illegal agent of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The statement &nbsp;claimed that from late 2020 through 2022, Wang and Yaoning “Mike” Sun worked at the direction and control of PRC government officials. They allegedly coordinated with US-based individuals to promote the PRC’s interests by, among other things, promoting pro-PRC propaganda in the United States. It further said that they received and executed directives from PRC government officials to post pro-PRC content on the website. Acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government carries a maximum term of 10 years in prison in the United States.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-trump-s-beijing-visit-from-may-13-to-15-trade-jimmy-lai-taiwan-iran-war-what-s-on-agenda-1778465256028">China confirms Trump's Beijing visit from May 13 to 15: What's on agenda?</a>&nbsp;Roman Rozhavsky, Assistant Director of the FBI's Counterintelligence and Espionage Division, said in a statement: “By her own admission, Eileen Wang secretly served the interests of the Chinese government. Let this serve as a clear warning: individuals who act on behalf of foreign governments to influence our democracy will be identified, investigated, and brought to justice.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, Arcadia city officials distanced themselves from Wang's conduct. City manager Dominic Lazzaretto said that the investigation concerns "individual conduct, and the charges are for conduct that ceased after Wang was sworn into office in December 2022." He confirmed that no city finances or staff were involved in Wang's activities.

Former Arcadia mayor Eileen Wang has agreed to plead guilty to acting as an illegal agent of the Chinese government, the DOJ said. Prosecutors allege she promoted pro-China propaganda through a Chinese American news website alongside accomplice Yaoning Sun.

Arcadia mayor Eileen Wang has been charged with acting as an illegal agent of the Chinese government, the Department of Justice said Monday (May 11). She has agreed to plead guilty to the felony charge, the department added in a statement. Wang resigned from her post as mayor on Monday, according to the Arcadia City Council's website. The Justice Department said Wang and an accomplice, Yaoning Sun, promoted pro-Chinese propaganda through a website they operated called US News Center serving the local Chinese American community. Sun pleaded guilty in 2025 to acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government and is serving a four-year prison sentence. This comes just before US President Donald Trump's Beijing visit and meeting with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. Wang, a Democrat, was elected to the Arcadia City Council on a Democratic Party ticket in November 2022. Arcadia is an independent city located in Los Angeles County, California. Also Read: 'Willing to work...': China extends global 'stability' olive branch to US ahead of Trump visit What are the allegations Wang pleaded guilty? In a statement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said that Wang has been charged in federal court with acting as an illegal agent of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The statement claimed that from late 2020 through 2022, Wang and Yaoning “Mike” Sun worked at the direction and control of PRC government officials. They allegedly coordinated with US-based individuals to promote the PRC’s interests by, among other things, promoting pro-PRC propaganda in the United States. It further said that they received and executed directives from PRC government officials to post pro-PRC content on the website. Acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government carries a maximum term of 10 years in prison in the United States. Also Read: China confirms Trump's Beijing visit from May 13 to 15: What's on agenda? Roman Rozhavsky, Assistant Director of the FBI's Counterintelligence and Espionage Division, said in a statement: “By her own admission, Eileen Wang secretly served the interests of the Chinese government. Let this serve as a clear warning: individuals who act on behalf of foreign governments to influence our democracy will be identified, investigated, and brought to justice.” Meanwhile, Arcadia city officials distanced themselves from Wang's conduct. City manager Dominic Lazzaretto said that the investigation concerns "individual conduct, and the charges are for conduct that ceased after Wang was sworn into office in December 2022." He confirmed that no city finances or staff were involved in Wang's activities.

Former Arcadia mayor Eileen Wang has agreed to plead guilty to acting as an illegal agent of the Chinese government, the DOJ said. Prosecutors allege she promoted pro-China propaganda through a Chinese American news website alongside accomplice Yaoning Sun.

Who is Eileen Wang? California city mayor who pleaded guilty to acting as Chinese agent

The United Arab Emirates has carried out military strikes on Iran, according to people familiar with the matter, who told The Wall Street Journal, positioning the Gulf monarchy as an active participant in a war in which it has become one of Iran’s primary targets. Armed with advanced Western-made fighter jets and sophisticated surveillance systems, the UAE appears increasingly willing to deploy military force to protect its economic interests and expanding influence across the Middle East. Among the reported operations was a strike on a refinery located on Iran’s Lavan Island in the Persian Gulf. Sources said the attack occurred in early April, around the time President Donald Trump announced a cease-fire following a five-week air campaign. The strike triggered a massive fire and disrupted much of the refinery’s production capacity for several months.&nbsp;Iran acknowledged at the time that the refinery had been hit in what it described as an enemy attack and responded with a barrage of missiles and drones targeting the UAE and Kuwait. According to one source, the United States did not object to the strike because the cease-fire had not yet fully taken hold. The source added that Washington quietly welcomed participation from the UAE and other Gulf nations willing to join the military campaign. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment directly on the allegations but referred to earlier statements asserting the country’s right to respond militarily to hostile actions. The Pentagon also declined to comment, while the White House reiterated that President Trump retains every option at his disposal and said the US maintains maximum leverage over Iran.&nbsp;“It’s significant to have a Gulf Arab country as a warring party that struck Iran directly,” said Dina Esfandiary, Middle East analyst and author of a book on the rise of the UAE. “Tehran will now aim to further drive a wedge between the UAE and other Gulf Arabs who are trying to mediate an end to the war.” Before the conflict escalated, Gulf nations publicly stated they would not allow their airspace or military bases to be used for attacks. However, after hostilities intensified, Iran launched waves of missile and drone attacks on Gulf cities, energy facilities, and airports in an effort to increase political and economic pressure on countries supporting the campaign. The UAE became Iran’s primary regional target, facing more than 2,800 missiles and drones, more than any other nation, including Israel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-two-timed-trump-report-reveals-islamabad-quietly-sheltered-iranian-military-aircraft-while-brokering-peace-talks-1778551810479">Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while brokering peace talks</a>&nbsp;The attacks severely disrupted the UAE’s aviation sector, tourism industry, and real estate market, while also triggering layoffs and furloughs. Gulf officials said the war has fundamentally altered Abu Dhabi’s strategic thinking, with Iran now increasingly viewed as a destabilizing force threatening the UAE’s economic model and reputation for stability. Since then, the UAE has emerged as one of the Gulf’s most confrontational states toward Tehran and has continued extensive military cooperation with the United States throughout the conflict, according to people familiar with the matter.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">According to the Wall Street Journal, Emirati warplanes hit Iran’s Lavan Island oil refinery on April 8 in a covert operation the UAE has never publicly acknowledged. This is the strike. It’s a breath of fresh air to see Gulf states standing up to their bully. <a href="https://t.co/9EhJPRysM0">pic.twitter.com/9EhJPRysM0</a>&mdash; Open Source Intel (@Osint613) <a href="https://twitter.com/Osint613/status/2053941002478465535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Speculation surrounding the UAE’s involvement intensified in mid-March after footage surfaced showing a fighter jet over Iran that analysts said did not appear to belong to either Israel or the United States. Open-source researchers later pointed to images allegedly showing French Mirage fighter jets and Chinese Wing Loong drones, both operated by the UAE, being used during operations inside Iran. Although the UAE’s military power is far smaller than that of the United States, analysts say its air force is highly capable. The country operates Mirage aircraft and advanced F-16 fighter jets, supported by aerial refueling systems, surveillance drones, and command-and-control platforms.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tn-cm-vijay-comes-under-fire-over-insult-to-tamil-nadu-state-song-1778550805271/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/tn-cm-vijay-comes-under-fire-over-insult-to-tamil-nadu-state-song-1778550805271/embed</a>&nbsp;Abu Dhabi additionally moved against Iran’s financial networks by shutting schools and clubs in Dubai linked to Tehran and restricting visas and transit access for Iranian citizens, limiting one of Iran’s longstanding economic lifelines amid Western sanctions. Iran has repeatedly accused the UAE of actively supporting the US and Israeli military campaign. Following the destruction of much of Iran’s air-defense systems by U.S. and Israeli forces, analysts say conducting combat missions over Iranian territory became significantly less risky.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

The UAE reportedly carried out covert military strikes on Iran after enduring thousands of Iranian missile and drone attacks, signaling a major shift in Gulf security strategy and regional power dynamics amid escalating Middle East tensions

The United Arab Emirates has carried out military strikes on Iran, according to people familiar with the matter, who told The Wall Street Journal, positioning the Gulf monarchy as an active participant in a war in which it has become one of Iran’s primary targets. Armed with advanced Western-made fighter jets and sophisticated surveillance systems, the UAE appears increasingly willing to deploy military force to protect its economic interests and expanding influence across the Middle East. Among the reported operations was a strike on a refinery located on Iran’s Lavan Island in the Persian Gulf. Sources said the attack occurred in early April, around the time President Donald Trump announced a cease-fire following a five-week air campaign. The strike triggered a massive fire and disrupted much of the refinery’s production capacity for several months. Iran acknowledged at the time that the refinery had been hit in what it described as an enemy attack and responded with a barrage of missiles and drones targeting the UAE and Kuwait. According to one source, the United States did not object to the strike because the cease-fire had not yet fully taken hold. The source added that Washington quietly welcomed participation from the UAE and other Gulf nations willing to join the military campaign. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment directly on the allegations but referred to earlier statements asserting the country’s right to respond militarily to hostile actions. The Pentagon also declined to comment, while the White House reiterated that President Trump retains every option at his disposal and said the US maintains maximum leverage over Iran. “It’s significant to have a Gulf Arab country as a warring party that struck Iran directly,” said Dina Esfandiary, Middle East analyst and author of a book on the rise of the UAE. “Tehran will now aim to further drive a wedge between the UAE and other Gulf Arabs who are trying to mediate an end to the war.” Before the conflict escalated, Gulf nations publicly stated they would not allow their airspace or military bases to be used for attacks. However, after hostilities intensified, Iran launched waves of missile and drone attacks on Gulf cities, energy facilities, and airports in an effort to increase political and economic pressure on countries supporting the campaign. The UAE became Iran’s primary regional target, facing more than 2,800 missiles and drones, more than any other nation, including Israel. Also Read: Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while brokering peace talks The attacks severely disrupted the UAE’s aviation sector, tourism industry, and real estate market, while also triggering layoffs and furloughs. Gulf officials said the war has fundamentally altered Abu Dhabi’s strategic thinking, with Iran now increasingly viewed as a destabilizing force threatening the UAE’s economic model and reputation for stability. Since then, the UAE has emerged as one of the Gulf’s most confrontational states toward Tehran and has continued extensive military cooperation with the United States throughout the conflict, according to people familiar with the matter.

UAE reportedly launched covert strikes on Tehran after massive Iranian attacks, marking a major shift in Gulf regional security dynamics

UAE carried out strikes on Iran amid Gulf war escalation? Here's what report claims

When Donald Trump and Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Busan, South Korea, in October 2025, the immediate goal was simple: stop the relationship between the world’s two biggest economies from spiraling into a full-scale economic confrontation. The meeting, their first face-to-face interaction in six years, came after months of tariff threats, semiconductor restrictions, and rare earth export controls that had shaken global markets.&nbsp;The Busan summit produced what both sides called a temporary stabilisation. Trump agreed to pause new punitive tariffs and ease some pressure on Chinese imports, while Beijing signalled that it would restore purchases of American agricultural goods and soften restrictions on rare earth exports. Both countries also agreed to continue talks on fentanyl cooperation and high-tech trade controls. But the truce never fully resolved the deeper conflict.&nbsp;Since Busan, Washington, and Beijing have continued to clash over semiconductors, artificial intelligence, supply chains, and Taiwan. The United States maintained restrictions on advanced chip exports to China, arguing they were necessary for national security. China, in return, used its dominance over rare earth minerals as leverage, reminding Washington how dependent American technology and defence industries remain on Chinese supply chains.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-and-xi-aim-to-ease-trade-war-in-first-meeting-since-south-korea-summit-1778542696834">Trump and Xi aim to ease trade war in first meeting since South Korea summit</a>&nbsp;Taiwan has emerged as another major sticking point ahead of Wednesday’s summit in Beijing. China has grown increasingly frustrated with US military support and arms sales to Taiwan, while Washington insists its policy remains aimed at maintaining regional stability. Taiwanese officials themselves have expressed concerns about possible ‘surprises’ emerging from the Trump-Xi talks. Trade, however, remains the centerpiece of the relationship.&nbsp;Trump continues to push for what he calls ‘fair trade’, with his administration pressing China to buy more American soybeans, poultry, beef, and Boeing aircraft. Beijing, meanwhile, wants relief from US export controls, especially restrictions tied to semiconductors and advanced technology. There is also a larger geopolitical backdrop shaping the meeting. Since the Busan summit, tensions in the Middle East and the Iran conflict have changed the balance between the two powers. China’s dependence on oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz and America’s military commitments in the region have added new urgency to the relationship. Trump is expected to pressure Xi over China’s purchases of Iranian oil and Beijing’s broader ties with Tehran.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-prime-minister-keir-starmer-faces-pressure-amid-major-loss-in-local-elections-1778519265924/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-prime-minister-keir-starmer-faces-pressure-amid-major-loss-in-local-elections-1778519265924/embed</a>&nbsp;Artificial intelligence and technology security are also expected to feature prominently during the summit. Analysts believe both countries are increasingly worried about cyber risks, AI competition, and the strategic race for technological dominance. What makes this summit particularly significant is that both leaders now see the relationship differently than they did in Busan. China enters the talks projecting confidence, believing it has strengthened its global standing economically and strategically. Trump, meanwhile, arrives looking for deals that can demonstrate economic wins back home while avoiding another destabilising trade war.&nbsp;That means Wednesday’s meeting is unlikely to produce a grand breakthrough. Instead, the focus may be on preventing fresh escalation, extending the tariff truce, and finding enough common ground to keep the US-China relationship from tipping back into open economic confrontation.

Ahead of the Trump-Xi Beijing summit, here’s how US-China relations evolved since the Busan summit in South Korea, including trade tensions, tariffs, Taiwan, rare earths, AI competition, and the biggest sticking points between Washington and Beijing

When Donald Trump and Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Busan, South Korea, in October 2025, the immediate goal was simple: stop the relationship between the world’s two biggest economies from spiraling into a full-scale economic confrontation. The meeting, their first face-to-face interaction in six years, came after months of tariff threats, semiconductor restrictions, and rare earth export controls that had shaken global markets. The Busan summit produced what both sides called a temporary stabilisation. Trump agreed to pause new punitive tariffs and ease some pressure on Chinese imports, while Beijing signalled that it would restore purchases of American agricultural goods and soften restrictions on rare earth exports. Both countries also agreed to continue talks on fentanyl cooperation and high-tech trade controls. But the truce never fully resolved the deeper conflict. Since Busan, Washington, and Beijing have continued to clash over semiconductors, artificial intelligence, supply chains, and Taiwan. The United States maintained restrictions on advanced chip exports to China, arguing they were necessary for national security. China, in return, used its dominance over rare earth minerals as leverage, reminding Washington how dependent American technology and defence industries remain on Chinese supply chains. Also Read: Trump and Xi aim to ease trade war in first meeting since South Korea summit Taiwan has emerged as another major sticking point ahead of Wednesday’s summit in Beijing. China has grown increasingly frustrated with US military support and arms sales to Taiwan, while Washington insists its policy remains aimed at maintaining regional stability. Taiwanese officials themselves have expressed concerns about possible ‘surprises’ emerging from the Trump-Xi talks. Trade, however, remains the centerpiece of the relationship. Trump continues to push for what he calls ‘fair trade’, with his administration pressing China to buy more American soybeans, poultry, beef, and Boeing aircraft. Beijing, meanwhile, wants relief from US export controls, especially restrictions tied to semiconductors and advanced technology. There is also a larger geopolitical backdrop shaping the meeting. Since the Busan summit, tensions in the Middle East and the Iran conflict have changed the balance between the two powers. China’s dependence on oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz and America’s military commitments in the region have added new urgency to the relationship. Trump is expected to pressure Xi over China’s purchases of Iranian oil and Beijing’s broader ties with Tehran. https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-prime-minister-keir-starmer-faces-pressure-amid-major-loss-in-local-elections-1778519265924/embed Artificial intelligence and technology security are also expected to feature prominently during the summit. Analysts believe both countries are increasingly worried about cyber risks, AI competition, and the strategic race for technological dominance. What makes this summit particularly significant is that both leaders now see the relationship differently than they did in Busan. China enters the talks projecting confidence, believing it has strengthened its global standing economically and strategically. Trump, meanwhile, arrives looking for deals that can demonstrate economic wins back home while avoiding another destabilising trade war. That means Wednesday’s meeting is unlikely to produce a grand breakthrough. Instead, the focus may be on preventing fresh escalation, extending the tariff truce, and finding enough common ground to keep the US-China relationship from tipping back into open economic confrontation.

From Busan to Beijing, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping face fresh tensions over tariffs, Taiwan, AI, rare earths, and global trade dominance

Trump-Xi 2.0: Trade peace or temporary pause? Can Beijing and Washington avoid another trade shock?

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