The longstanding tensions between US President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk escalated into a public feud over Trump’s economic bill and clean energy incentives. Musk criticized the legislation, calling it an “abomination,” prompting Trump to express disappointment and claim Musk had previously supported the bill. Musk responded by asserting that his backing was crucial to Trump’s 2024 election victory and warned Democrats would have controlled the House without him. Trump retaliated by stating he asked Musk to leave and revoked Musk’s EV mandate, accusing him of “going crazy.” Musk then announced SpaceX would begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft following threats to cancel government contracts. The spat intensified when Musk alleged Trump’s involvement in the Jeffrey Epstein files, hinting at a major scandal. Trump defended the bill as historic and criticized Musk’s delayed opposition. Musk further predicted Trump’s tariffs would cause a recession and supported Trump’s impeachment. The dispute highlights a sharp breakdown in their previously cooperative relationship.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei firmly rejected a U.S. demand to halt uranium enrichment, calling it against Iran’s interests. The U.S. presented a new nuclear deal proposal via Oman after five rounds of talks, but key issues remain unresolved, including Iran’s insistence on continuing enrichment on its soil and refusal to export its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Tehran maintains its nuclear programme is peaceful. The proposal is expected to be rejected as it does not meet Iran’s conditions. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has intensified sanctions and threatened military action, while Israel continues to warn of strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.
Russia launched a major overnight drone and missile attack across Ukraine, targeting Kharkiv, Sumy, Odesa, and Kiev. One person was injured in each of Kharkiv, Sumy, and Odesa, while civilian infrastructure, including homes and businesses, was damaged. Ukraine's air force intercepted or jammed over 60 of 95 drones. Meanwhile, fighting continued along the front lines as Russian forces claimed gains in Sumy and targeted Ukrainian defence infrastructure. Ukraine conducted an underwater drone strike on the Crimean Bridge, severely damaging its base. Peace talks resumed in Istanbul on Monday, with Russia proposing a 30-day ceasefire and Ukraine requesting time to review terms.
On June 4, Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50% took effect, intensifying his global trade war. Announced on May 30, Trump justified the move as a step to further protect U.S. steel and aluminum industries, claiming they are “coming back like never before.” The tariffs sparked immediate backlash from key U.S. trading partners. Canada’s Chamber of Commerce and United Steelworkers union condemned the decision, warning of harm to cross-border supply chains and Canadian workers. The European Commission criticized the move for increasing global economic uncertainty and hinted at retaliation. Australia also denounced the tariffs as unjustified. Meanwhile, U.S. steelmaker Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. saw a 26% stock surge, with investors betting on increased domestic profits. As the U.S. is the world’s largest steel importer (excluding the EU), the tariff hike is expected to raise steel prices broadly, impacting industries and consumers alike.
On June 3, sirens sounded across Tel Aviv, central Israel, Jerusalem, and parts of the West Bank after a missile launched from Yemen was intercepted by Israeli air defense systems. The Houthis, an Iran-backed group in Yemen, claimed responsibility, stating the missile targeted Ben Gurion Airport. The attack occurred shortly before the start of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. Residents were alerted in advance through mobile push notifications from the Home Front Command. No injuries or damage were reported in this incident. Since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, the Houthis have launched dozens of missile and drone attacks at Israel, most of which have been intercepted. A rare successful strike earlier this month caused minor injuries near Ben Gurion Airport. The latest missile fire came in response to an Israeli airstrike last week on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, which destroyed a plane used by the Houthis.
Elon Musk has publicly clashed with President Donald Trump over a controversial Congressional spending bill, marking his first open disagreement since leaving his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk criticized the bill on X, labeling it as “outrageous” and warning it would raise the budget deficit to $2.5 trillion, potentially bankrupting the country. Despite Musk’s sharp remarks, the White House dismissed the criticism, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that Musk's views would not influence the president. Trump continues to endorse the bill, calling it “unbelievable” and claiming it cuts deficits. Fiscal conservatives and analysts warn it could increase the deficit by up to $4 trillion over ten years. Meanwhile, the White House Council of Economic Advisers projects optimistic growth of 5.2% and cites $1.6 trillion in spending cuts. Musk, though present at a recent press conference, remained silent, signaling his deep disagreement.
Thick smoke from wildfires burning across western Canada spread into the U.S. Upper Midwest on June 3, significantly worsening air quality in Minneapolis. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 168, placing it among the worst in the world that day and matching Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The smoke plume originated from large fires in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and contained fine particulate matter, which poses health risks, especially for individuals with heart or lung conditions. Health officials advised residents to limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure. Although conditions in Minneapolis are expected to gradually improve, lower levels of smoke are forecast to travel further east, reaching cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Boston in the coming days. This event highlights how wildfire smoke can impact air quality far beyond the immediate area of the fires, affecting large regions and posing health concerns across North America.
Thick smoke from wildfires burning across western Canada spread into the U.S. Upper Midwest on June 3, significantly worsening air quality in Minneapolis. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 168, placing it among the worst in the world that day and matching Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The smoke plume originated from large fires in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and contained fine particulate matter, which poses health risks, especially for individuals with heart or lung conditions. Health officials advised residents to limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure. Although conditions in Minneapolis are expected to gradually improve, lower levels of smoke are forecast to travel further east, reaching cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Boston in the coming days. This event highlights how wildfire smoke can impact air quality far beyond the immediate area of the fires, affecting large regions and posing health concerns across North America.
Ukraine’s SBU security service said it carried out an underwater attack on a key road and rail bridge connecting Russia to the Crimean peninsula. Using 1,100 kilograms of explosives, the agency claimed to have damaged the bridge's underwater pillars early on June 3. The SBU released a video showing the blast, which Reuters confirmed as matching the bridge’s structure and location, though the time of filming couldn't be independently verified. The bridge is a vital supply route for Russian forces in southern Ukraine. The incident marks another bold strike by Kyiv on infrastructure supporting Russia’s military operations in occupied territories.
Following the Pahalgam terror attacks and India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, Turkey has reinforced its strategic alignment with Pakistan. Despite offering condolences, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan continues backing Islamabad, drawing criticism from India. Turkey has assisted Pakistan militarily, especially in drone tech, and supports its stance on Kashmir in international forums. India views Turkey’s actions as intrusive and misaligned with its interests. Bilateral ties have weakened, with India reducing engagement while urging Ankara to discourage Pakistan’s use of terrorism. Former Ambassador Anil Trigunayat says Erdogan’s Islamic leadership ambitions are driving this alignment, though India prefers dialogue and mutual respect.
Russia and Ukraine held peace talks in Istanbul, agreeing to exchange prisoners of war and return the bodies of 12,000 fallen soldiers. The meeting lasted less than an hour and was only the second formal negotiation since the conflict began in March 2022. Despite international pressure, no ceasefire was agreed upon. Russia presented a detailed memorandum proposing terms for a full ceasefire, including territorial concessions from Ukraine and limits on its military, demands Ukraine rejected as surrender. The sides agreed to exchange seriously wounded and sick prisoners, as well as young soldiers aged 18 to 25. Both agreed to return 6,000 bodies each. Ukraine also raised concerns about several hundred children reportedly deported to Russia. Ukraine suggested more talks before the end of June, emphasizing that a direct meeting between Presidents Zelenskiy and Putin is necessary to resolve outstanding issues. Turkish President Erdogan expressed hope to host future talks involving Zelenskiy, Putin, and possibly U.S. President Trump, who has threatened to end U.S. mediation without progress.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, in his sixth annual address, defended his harsh security policies, dismissing criticism of authoritarianism. He said peace for Salvadorans is his top priority, even as NGOs and U.S. lawmakers raise human rights concerns.
Palestinians surveyed damage to a mosque and cemetery in Gaza’s Deir al-Balah following an Israeli strike, as ceasefire talks stalled. Israel and Hamas traded blame for the failure of new mediation efforts by Arab and U.S. officials aimed at securing a temporary truce and hostage exchange. Hamas remains in contact with Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Israel insists war will continue until Hamas is eliminated. The conflict began after Hamas’s October 2023 attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis and led to 251 hostages. Since then, over 54,000 Palestinians have been killed and Gaza’s infrastructure devastated, displacing much of the population.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for stronger sanctions on Russia from the European Union and the United States if peace talks in Istanbul fail to produce results. Speaking at the Bucharest Nine Summit in Vilnius, Zelenskyy urged targeting Russian energy, especially oil and tankers, as well as banks and the financial sector. Ukraine’s delegation, led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, arrived in Istanbul on June 2 for a second round of negotiations with Russia, following an initial May 16 meeting that resulted in a prisoner exchange deal. The talks are scheduled at the Ciragan Palace, hosted by Turkey.
Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal warn the West has two weeks to act against Putin's war plans. After visiting Kyiv and meeting Zelenskyy, they urged swift passage of a sweeping sanctions bill to hit Russia’s economy hard. The legislation would target nations still importing Russian oil, including China and India. With peace talks stalled, the senators say Putin is stalling diplomacy and preparing for a major summer offensive.
On Sunday in Boulder, Colorado, a man identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, attacked a crowd at a memorial for Israeli hostages by throwing incendiary devices while shouting “Free Palestine.” He used a makeshift flamethrower, injuring six people aged 67 to 88, some seriously. Eyewitnesses described chaos, with victims suffering burns and bystanders scrambling to help. The event, organized by the group 'Run For Their Lives' to call for hostage releases in Gaza, was disrupted as Soliman also yelled slogans like “End Zionists” and “They are killers.” Authorities evacuated nearby blocks and deployed K-9 units during the response. The FBI and local law enforcement are investigating, with no charges announced yet, though officials pledged full accountability. Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the act, calling it unacceptable hate-fueled violence. The incident comes amid a broader surge in antisemitic attacks in the U.S., including a recent fatal shooting of Israeli embassy staff.
On June 1, huge number of anti-government protesters filled the Gazela traffic junction in Belgrade, Serbia, demanding accountability for a deadly train station roof collapse in Novi Sad that occurred in November and claimed over a dozen lives. The protest, led by students, is part of a broader wave of demonstrations spreading across the country. Students and civil organizations have called for coordinated protests in 30 cities, turning daily rallies into the most significant challenge to President Aleksandar Vucic's 12-year rule. Protesters are voicing deep frustration over what they describe as rampant government corruption and incompetence, which they believe contributed to the tragedy. The student-led movement is gaining momentum, drawing attention both nationally and internationally, and is being seen as a powerful grassroots uprising. The demonstrators are using whistles, banners, and chants to amplify their calls for justice and reform, emphasizing the need for those responsible to be held accountable.
Conservative candidate Karol Nawrocki narrowly won Poland’s presidential runoff election, securing 50.89% of the vote against liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who received 49.11%. The tight race, following a closely contested first round, revealed deep political divisions within Poland, a key NATO and EU member on Europe’s eastern flank. An early exit poll had incorrectly suggested a Trzaskowski win, but late polling and official results confirmed Nawrocki's lead. Backed by Poland’s largest nationalist opposition party and endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Nawrocki’s victory is expected to steer the country toward a more nationalist agenda. Celebrations in Warsaw included Romanian far-right figure George Simion and former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, who praised the result as a major win for both Europe and Christianity. The election outcome highlights rising nationalist sentiment in the region and marks a significant political shift in Poland's leadership and policy direction.
Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has been charged with crimes against humanity for allegedly ordering a deadly crackdown during the 2024 student uprising. Prosecutors cite evidence of planned mass killings, with over 1,400 dead. Hasina, now in exile in India, denies the charges.
South Korea is heading to the polls this Tuesday for a snap presidential election following the ousting of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who imposed martial law in December. Liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung is seen as the frontrunner, while conservative Kim Moon Soo struggles to gain momentum. With just one day between election and inauguration, the new president will face major challenges — from healing national rifts to navigating US tariffs and North Korea’s nuclear ambitions. Over 10 million citizens have already voted early. Who will lead South Korea into this next critical chapter?
Saudi Arabia has stopped over 269,600 people without Hajj permits from entering Mecca ahead of this year's pilgrimage. Authorities say unauthorized pilgrims cause overcrowding and were a major factor in last year’s heat-related deaths. Over 23,000 residents have been penalized and 400 Hajj company licenses revoked. The government has introduced strict fines, deportations, and even deployed drones to monitor the pilgrimage. With 1.4 million official pilgrims already in Mecca, the Hajj is under tight surveillance to ensure safety and order.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed a “brilliant operation” by Ukraine’s Security Service that destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft deep inside Russian territory. The attack reportedly hit 34% of Russia’s strategic cruise missile carriers and was executed across three time zones. Ukrainian drones, transported covertly in trucks, struck airbases housing A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M planes. The strike was months in the making and personally overseen by Zelenskyy. All Ukrainian operatives involved have been safely evacuated. This comes just ahead of direct peace talks with Russia in Istanbul.
Faizan Zaki, a 13-year-old from Texas, won the 97th Scripps National Spelling Bee by spelling “eclaircissement” in the 21st round. He bested Sarvadnya Kadam, who finished second, and Sarv Dharavane, who finished third. Zaki’s win caps off a thrilling competition featuring nine finalists and some of the English language’s toughest words.
Germany announces a new €5 billion military aid package to Ukraine for joint production of long-range missiles. Germany, the UK, the US, and France have lifted restrictions on the range of weapons they supply to Ukraine. The announcement comes aiming to increased pressure on Russia to engage in peace negotiations. Russia’s FM Lavrov has fixed June 2 for second round of Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul.
Trump Offers Canada “free Entry” Into the Golden Dome System. If Canada Agrees to Become the 51st U.s. State or Pays $61 Billion. Carney Warns of Potential Missile Threats to Canada From U.S., How Canada Could Undermine Trump’s Golden Dome Project, Watch Out to Know More.
The U.S. will aggressively revoke visas of Chinese students linked to the CCP or critical fields, part of a broader crackdown under Trump's immigration agenda. The move could disrupt universities and tech sectors, and strain U.S.-China academic ties.
Is Donald Trump punishing Harvard for not accepting Barron? We unpack the rumors, online reactions, and the real reason behind Trump's escalating crackdown on elite universities.
SpaceX launched its Starship rocket for the ninth time on Tuesday evening from its Starbase site in Texas, aiming to complete a full test flight. The 403-foot rocket, designed for future moon and Mars missions, attempted to splash down in the Indian Ocean and deploy eight Starlink-like satellite models. However, the satellite door malfunctioned, preventing deployment. This flight featured a recycled booster, which was not recovered and fell into the Gulf of Mexico. Previous launches had ended in failure shortly after liftoff, but this mission showed progress. SpaceX made several upgrades, including improved thermal tiles and fittings for future capture tests. The FAA had recently cleared the flight with new safety measures in place. NASA is depending on Starship for its Artemis program, with plans for a crewed lunar flyby in 2026 and a landing in 2027. The flight marked another step toward making Starship a reliable vehicle for deep space travel.
French President Emmanuel Macron visited Vietnam on May 26, marking the first French presidential visit in nearly a decade. Aimed at revitalizing bilateral ties, the trip saw the signing of major agreements involving Airbus planes, nuclear energy, satellites, railways, and Sanofi vaccines. As Vietnam tries to avoid harsh U.S. tariffs through trade commitments, European partners like France seek to maintain their economic foothold. Macron underscored support for freedom of navigation and expanded defense cooperation, addressing shared concerns over China’s activities in the South China Sea.
Turkish President Erdogan and Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif met in Istanbul to enhance ties, focusing on defence, energy, and transport. Despite Turkey’s generally cordial relations with India, Erdogan’s recent support for Pakistan during heightened India-Pakistan tensions led to a backlash in India, including boycotts of Turkish products.
Russia launched its most massive air attack on Ukraine overnight, striking several cities including Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv, and Ternopil. The assault, which killed civilians including children, preceded a major prisoner swap between the two nations, with each side releasing 303 detainees.
Turkish President Erdogan and Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif met in Istanbul to enhance ties, focusing on defence, energy, and transport. Despite Turkey’s generally cordial relations with India, Erdogan’s recent support for Pakistan during heightened India-Pakistan tensions led to a backlash in India, including boycotts of Turkish products. The leaders also addressed terrorism and regional issues, with top Turkish ministers attending, highlighting Ankara's strategic pivot toward stronger cooperation with Islamabad.
President Donald Trump’s administration has escalated its crackdown on Harvard University, targeting foreign students and the university’s funding. Trump demanded Harvard reduce foreign student enrollment and provide their names, claiming no foreign government funds the school and threatening to reconsider U.S. grants. Last week, the administration revoked Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students, a move temporarily blocked by a federal judge. Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has vowed to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, signing executive orders against them and launching a multiagency Task Force to combat campus anti-Semitism. Harvard, among dozens of universities under investigation for alleged civil rights violations related to anti-Semitic harassment, faces reviews of its federal contracts and grants totaling billions. The administration has threatened to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status, halted new federal research funding, and initiated legal battles, with Harvard suing the government over these actions. The ongoing conflict highlights a broader effort to challenge elite universities’ policies and funding under Trump’s leadership.
Pope Leo XIV was officially installed on Sunday, May 25, at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome. Elected on May 8, he assumed his role as bishop of Rome and symbolically took possession of the throne of Saint Peter. In his inaugural address, he quoted Saint Augustine, saying, “Christian with you and bishop for you,” reflecting his Augustinian roots. After the mass, he blessed the people of Rome from the basilica’s balcony. Later, he visited the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, where he prayed at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 and chose to be buried there rather than in Saint Peter’s Basilica. Pope Leo also paid homage to the icon of Salus Populi Romani, a symbol of protection for Romans. Earlier in the day, he visited city hall and greeted the mayor, Roberto Gualtieri.
President Donald Trump’s administration has escalated its crackdown on Harvard University, targeting foreign students and the university’s funding. Trump demanded Harvard reduce foreign student enrollment and provide their names, claiming no foreign government funds the school and threatening to reconsider U.S. grants. Last week, the administration revoked Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students, a move temporarily blocked by a federal judge. Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has vowed to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, signing executive orders against them and launching a multiagency Task Force to combat campus anti-Semitism. Harvard, among dozens of universities under investigation for alleged civil rights violations related to anti-Semitic harassment, faces reviews of its federal contracts and grants totaling billions. The administration has threatened to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status, halted new federal research funding, and initiated legal battles, with Harvard suing the government over these actions. The ongoing conflict highlights a broader effort to challenge elite universities’ policies and funding under Trump’s leadership.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, leading an all-party delegation to Guyana, met Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo and shared India’s firm stance against terrorism, especially in light of the recent Pahalgam attack. Tharoor said the VP showed “tremendous understanding” of India’s position on current tensions with Pakistan. The delegation, including MPs from BJP, Shiv Sena, TDP, JMM, and others, was warmly received by the Indian diaspora. As India carries its zero-tolerance message globally, Operation Sindoor sends a strong signal of India’s resolve. The delegation will also participate in Guyana’s Independence Day celebrations.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticizes Russian President Vladimir Putin for recent bombings in Ukraine, expressing deep concern and hinting at potential sanctions. Trump's remarks come amid escalating tensions and efforts to broker a ceasefire in the conflict.
Taree, a city on Australia’s Mid North Coast, has been devastated by catastrophic flooding after three days of relentless rain. Verified eyewitness videos showed major inundation, with streets submerged and vehicles nearly underwater. Emergency services confirmed the Manning River exceeded a 100-year-old flood record.
North Korea has launched an official investigation into the failed launch of a 5,000-ton naval destroyer at its Chongjin shipyard. The warship was damaged after losing balance during the launch, leading to seawater flooding the stern.
The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University's certification to enroll international students, citing concerns over alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party, fostering antisemitism, and inciting violence. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ordered the termination of Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), forcing the university to stop admitting new international students and requiring current foreign students to transfer or lose legal status. Harvard, which enrolled nearly 6,800 international students in the 2024–2025 academic year, condemned the move as illegal and retaliatory. The decision marks a significant escalation in the administration’s campaign against elite academic institutions. Jay Greene of the Heritage Foundation supported the revocation, emphasizing that student visas are a privilege and criticizing universities for prioritizing globalism while benefiting from U.S. taxpayer subsidies. Analysts believe Harvard’s legal challenges are strategic, aiming to negotiate a better outcome rather than overturn the decision outright, acknowledging the government’s dominant position in the dispute.
Elias Rodriguez, a 30-year-old Chicago native, was arrested and charged with multiple federal crimes, including first-degree murder, for fatally shooting two Israeli embassy workers outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on May 21. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, were a young couple known for advocating peace between Arabs and Jews. The attack occurred after an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee. Rodriguez reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” upon arrest, leading authorities to investigate the incident as a hate crime and act of terrorism. He had prior affiliations with far-left activist groups, though these ties had lapsed years earlier. In response, New York City heightened security and leaders across religious and ethnic communities condemned the violence, emphasizing unity against hate. Civil rights and religious leaders highlighted the dangers of incendiary rhetoric, while the investigation into Rodriguez’s motives and potential further charges continues.
Bolivia’s top electoral authority is urging lawmakers to pass a key bill that would safeguard the August 17 presidential elections from legal interference. With multiple candidacies—including Senate President Andronico Rodriguez—facing court challenges, the Supreme Electoral Court is seeking legal clarity to ensure the democratic process isn’t derailed. The proposed law, which has passed the Chamber of Deputies and now awaits Senate approval, would limit judicial reviews that could delay or overturn electoral decisions. The Chamber emphasized the need for finality and stability in the electoral timeline. As the Popular Alliance threatens legal action, Bolivia’s political tensions continue to rise just months ahead of the vote.
The White House-backed MAHA commission, led by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has released a startling report on May 22 highlighting a national crisis affecting American children. The report points to processed foods, chemical exposure, stress, and medication overuse as key factors driving the rise in childhood obesity, diabetes, cancer, mental health issues, allergies, and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. While calling for more research on harmful chemicals like glyphosate and atrazine, the report urges better food quality and safety studies to protect children’s health.
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the war in Gaza will continue until Hamas is disarmed and Gaza falls under Israeli military control. In a press conference, he confirmed support for Trump’s resettlement plan, claimed Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar was likely killed, and said only a temporary truce would be considered to free hostages. Netanyahu criticized the UK’s stance on the conflict and rejected any recognition of a Palestinian state, calling it a reward for terrorism.
A suspected suicide bomber attacked a school bus in Balochistan’s Khuzdar district, killing four children and two adults. Pakistan blames India for backing the attack, while India rejects the accusations. No group has claimed responsibility yet.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the western Kursk region for the first time since Russian forces ejected Ukrainian troops from the area last month. The Kremlin said that during the visit on Tuesday (May 20) Putin met volunteer organizations in the region and visited the Kursk-II nuclear power plant. State television showed Putin meeting volunteers and local officials in the region including acting governor Alexander Khinshtein. Putin was accompanied by Sergei Kiriyenko, Kremlin first deputy chief of staff. Russia said in late April that it had ejected Ukrainian troops from Kursk region, ending the biggest incursion into Russian territory since World War Two. Just over two years after Russia's 2022 invasion, Ukraine on Aug. 6 launched its boldest attack, smashing through the Russian border into the Kursk region, supported by swarms of drones and heavy Western weaponry. At its height, Ukrainian forces claimed nearly 1,400 square kilometres of Kursk.
Israeli protesters gathered near Kerem Shalom border crossing on May 21 in an attempt to block trucks carrying humanitarian aid into Gaza, as international experts warn of looming famine. Anti-aid protesters held signs and waved flags, saying they were "here to block the aid that is going in directly to Hamas in Gaza". Protesters were removed by police from the scene, which also saw pro-aid supporters who wanted to help police to free up the road and let trucks drive towards the Palestinians enclave. #gaza #israelpalestineconflict #israelgazaattack #israelpalestine