On May 19, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for holding Russia-Ukraine ceasefire talks at the Vatican, emphasizing its symbolic significance. During a White House event, he recounted a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where he asked, "When are we going to end this, Vladimir?" Trump acknowledged the significant financial commitments by the U.S. to Ukraine due to the Biden administration's support and expressed confidence that both Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky are inclined towards a resolution. While Trump announced that ceasefire talks would begin immediately, no major concessions were made during his call with Putin. European leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, welcomed the possibility of Vatican-mediated talks. However, the Vatican did not confirm any official offer. Italy expressed readiness to facilitate negotiations aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace, with Pope Leo XIV suggesting the Vatican could mediate global conflicts.
President Donald Trump expressed surprise that the public had not been informed earlier about Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis. Biden revealed on May 18 that he has prostate cancer which has metastasized to his bones, and he is currently reviewing treatment options with his family. The announcement has sparked renewed concerns about Biden’s health and transparency during his presidency. Vice President JD Vance criticized Biden for withholding critical health information from the public. At 82, Biden’s age and medical condition are drawing intense scrutiny, especially in light of a new book that details concerns among Democratic insiders and aides about his mental acuity during his 2024 re-election campaign. Biden’s office stated the diagnosis was made just days earlier, on Friday. Medical experts informed that such cancers are usually detected before reaching an advanced stage, raising additional questions about the timeliness of both the diagnosis and the public disclosure.
Russian President Putin and U.S. President Trump had a two-hour phone call on May 19, discussing the Ukraine conflict and sanctions. They did not set a ceasefire timeline, leaving the issue unresolved. Trump emphasized his preference for quick agreements and diplomacy over sanctions. Both leaders expressed interest in meeting in person but didn’t finalize details. The conversation was friendly and cordial, with Trump offering an open line of communication to Putin. Despite no immediate breakthroughs, the call ended on a positive note.
The small town of Landerneau in Brittany, France, has officially broken the world record for the largest gathering of Smurfs, with 3,076 participants dressed as the iconic blue characters. This joyful feat dethrones Lauchringen, Germany, which held the title since 2019. After two failed attempts, Landerneau’s persistence finally paid off, drawing global attention and uniting fans in a sea of blue hats and white trousers.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will take full control of Gaza under "Operation Gideon’s Chariots" and prevent Hamas from looting humanitarian aid. His statement followed Israel’s decision to ease its aid blockade and allow limited food supplies into Gaza. Palestinian and Israeli media reported incoming trucks with essential supplies, including baby food. Hamas denied looting claims. Amid growing international pressure and famine fears, Israel has intensified ground operations, with Palestinian officials reporting hundreds of deaths in recent attacks.
Former President Donald Trump will speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday at 10 a.m. Eastern to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. This follows the first in-person peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in three years, recently held in Istanbul. Trump had offered to join those talks if Putin attended—Putin declined. Now, Trump says the Monday call could be a turning point.
Yesenia Lara Gutierrez, a mayoral candidate from Mexico’s ruling Morena party, was shot dead in Texistepec, Veracruz, after a campaign rally on May 11. Gunmen on motorcycles opened fire as she greeted supporters, killing three others and injuring three. Her Facebook livestream ended abruptly during the attack. The motive remains unknown. This killing adds to Mexico’s escalating election violence, with at least 39 candidates assassinated ahead of the 2024 presidential polls, making it one of the country’s bloodiest election cycles.
California Governor Gavin Newsom on May 12 directed cities and counties to clear homeless encampments using a new state-issued model ordinance. Emphasizing urgency, he called on local governments to "end the excuses" and act immediately, backed by billions in funding and legal support from a U.S. Supreme Court ruling. Newsom also announced $3.3 billion to expand behavioral health housing and treatment for the homeless, urging communities to provide compassionate alternatives while reclaiming public spaces like streets and sidewalks.
Colombo burst into colour and light as tens of thousands of devotees gathered on May 12 to mark Vesak Day, Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist festival. The celebrations honoured Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death through elaborate pandals, glowing lanterns, and oil lamps symbolising wisdom. More than 8,500 free food stalls served the faithful, with the largest at Independence Square feeding 35,000. The week-long festivities drew devotees from across the island, transforming the capital into a vibrant hub of spiritual devotion and unity.
Operation Sindoor: The Indian Air Force used the S-400 air defence system to track down Pakistani missiles. Pakistan sent loitering munitions at night in an attempt to damage India’s radars and attack India. Indian Air Force S-400 Sudarshan Chakra air defence missile systems were fired last night against targets moving towards India.
SkyStriker is an advanced, cost-effective loitering munition developed through a joint venture between Bengaluru-based Alpha Design and Israel's Elbit Security Systems. Designed for precision strikes, the SkyStriker is an autonomous suicide drone that can operate at a range of up to 100 kilometers. It is equipped with either a 5kg or 10kg warhead and is powered by electric propulsion, allowing for covert, low-altitude operations with minimal acoustic signature. The drone combines the functionality of a unmanned aerial system (UAS) and a missile, capable of seek-and-destroy missions with high precision. Its role in modern military operations enhances situational awareness, performance, and survivability, providing a significant tactical advantage for the armed forces. Its capabilities were notably demonstrated in Operation Sindoor, where it was used to target terrorist infrastructure across the border.
During a press conference in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron announced his support for a gradual lifting of European Union sanctions on Syria, contingent on Syria maintaining its current political path. He also stated his intention to lobby the United States to adopt a similar stance and to delay its planned military withdrawal from Syria. The event marked the first European visit by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in December. Sharaa revealed that Syria has been engaged in indirect negotiations with Israel to reduce tensions amid ongoing Israeli strikes. These talks are being mediated through unnamed third parties. Reuters also reported that the United Arab Emirates has created a backchannel to facilitate dialogue between Syria and Israel. The developments suggest a potential diplomatic shift as Syria's new leadership seeks to stabilize the country both internally and in relation to regional actors. Macron's comments underscore Europe's growing role in this transition.
Trump signed an executive order aimed at reducing approval times for pharmaceutical plants in the country. The order directs the FDA to reduce approval times for domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing plants by eliminating unnecessary requirements. He also said there will be a few major announcements in coming weeks regarding the costs of drugs and medicines.
At the stroke of midnight, twelve climbers raced up a towering structure on Hong Kong’s Cheung Chau island, collecting buns in a centuries-old tradition. The thrilling competition marked the end of the Bun Festival, symbolizing luck, peace, and protection from disaster. This year’s “bun king” and “bun queen” earned glory—and fortune—for their families.
Judge Lilian Moreno, who annulled an arrest warrant for former President Evo Morales, has now been arrested herself. Accused of violating court orders, her controversial decision ignited outrage across Bolivia. Morales, accused of a relationship with a minor, denies all charges and plans to run again in upcoming elections despite a legal ban.
Israeli airstrikes targeted Yemen’s Hodeidah port late on May 5, 2025, in retaliation for a Houthi missile attack near Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport the previous day2345. The strikes hit the port area and a nearby cement factory, causing massive fires-video footage released by Houthi sources showed large blazes at the scene6910. At least one person was killed and over 20 injured, with significant damage reported to port infrastructure34. Hodeidah port is critical for Yemen, handling about 80% of its food imports24. The escalation marks a new phase in Israeli military operations in Yemen, with both Israel and the Houthis vowing further action.
Romania's presidential election began with the first round on Sunday, where hard-right eurosceptic George Simion emerged as a leading candidate. Simion, 38, opposes military aid to Ukraine and is critical of the EU, aligning himself with Donald Trump’s "Make America Great Again" movement. Leading in the polls with around 30%, Simion still needs over 50% to avoid a run-off on May 18. The election follows the cancellation of a previous attempt in November, which was marred by alleged Russian interference in favor of far-right candidate Calin Georgescu, now banned from running. Simion’s main rivals are two centrists—Crin Antonescu, backed by the current pro-Western government, and independent candidate Nicusor Dan, who supports the EU and NATO. Political analysts warn that a Simion victory could isolate Romania, hurt its economy, and destabilize NATO’s eastern flank, especially amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Eurosceptic nationalism is gaining traction across central Europe.
World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit aka WAVES summit is being held in Mumbai from today (May 1). The summit, which will have speakers from the movie world, aims to boost the potential of the media and entertainment industry that reached revenue of Rs 2.5 lakh crore in 2024. The summit aims to unlock a $50 billion market by 2029, expanding India's footprint in the global entertainment economy. India’s media & entertainment industry set to triple to $100 billion, says Mukesh Ambani
New Zealand has entered emergency mode as a violent storm sweeps through the country. On Thursday, May 1, winds in the capital Wellington reached their highest levels since 2013 — with gusts recorded at 160 km/h. The government has issued a rare red wind warning, forcing the closure of schools, universities, roads, and grounding most flights. Parts of the South Island are experiencing significant flooding following 24 hours of relentless rain. Watch the full report for updates on closures, safety warnings, and what to expect next as this extreme weather continues.
Pakistan has moved significant air defence systems, electronic warfare assets, and troops to the border. The deployment is especially in the Sialkot and Lahore sectors, and along the Line of Control (LoC). The 6th Armoured Division and 7th Infantry Division have been repositioned to Bagh, Rawalakot, and Toli Peer in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir . Karachi is protected by advanced HQ-9/P air defence systems. Pakistan has also begun vacating terror launch pads in PoK, moving militants into army bunkers.
U.S. President Donald Trump held a major rally in Michigan to mark the first 100 days of his second term, emphasizing trade policy and its impact on the auto industry. Michigan, hit hard by Trump's steep trade tariffs, was the backdrop for his announcement of an executive order easing tariffs on cars and auto parts. Trump said the move offers U.S. automakers temporary relief while pushing them to increase domestic production. The order includes a one-year rebate of 3.75% on vehicle sales prices, decreasing to 2.5% in the second year. Automakers and analysts warn the tariffs could raise car prices, hurt sales, and reduce global competitiveness. Industry groups have urged Trump to scrap the auto parts tariffs entirely, warning of potential layoffs and bankruptcies. Trump insisted the U.S. holds leverage in trade talks, stating foreign nations, including China, are eager to negotiate deals. He reaffirmed his intent to prioritize American manufacturing.
A shooting in Uppsala, Sweden, left several people injured and three confirmed dead, prompting a murder investigation by local police. Authorities received multiple calls from the public reporting loud bangs in the city center. Upon arriving, officers discovered individuals with injuries consistent with gunfire. A large area around the scene was cordoned off as investigators began their work. Swedish police confirmed that several investigative measures were underway. Reports from SVT public television indicated that the suspect fled the scene on a scooter. Uppsala, located in eastern Sweden, has seen a rise in gang-related violence in recent years, which may be linked to this incident. The police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and are continuing their efforts to identify and apprehend the suspect. This tragic event highlights growing concerns over gang violence in the region.
Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists in Jammu and Kashmir, India strongly condemned Pakistan at the United Nations, citing an "open confession" by Pakistan Defence Minister Khwaja Asif, who admitted his country’s role in supporting and funding terrorist groups over decades. Indian Ambassador Yojna Patel labeled Pakistan a "rogue state" and criticized it for misusing the UN platform to spread propaganda against India. Patel’s comments came during the launch of the Victims of Terrorism Association Network (VOTAN), aimed at empowering survivors. India received broad international support post-attack and stressed the global community’s zero tolerance for terrorism. Patel reiterated that terrorism is criminal and unjustifiable in all forms. As a response to the Pahalgam attack and Pakistan’s alleged involvement, India downgraded diplomatic ties, suspended the Indus Water Treaty, and revoked Pakistani visas. In turn, Pakistan suspended bilateral agreements, including the Simla Agreement, escalating tensions between the two nations.
In the lead-up to Australia’s election in early May, Hava Mendelle hands out pamphlets on the streets of Brisbane with a clear message: “Hey, we’re voting to get Labor out of government.” The Jewish activist and mother of two previously backed Australia’s ruling party for its climate policies. But she doesn’t feel that the government has done enough to address a rise in antisemitism since the beginning of the Israel-Gaza war in late 2023. "I'm Jewish, my parents were Jewish, my ancestry is Jewish. But now I'm almost scared to say it, especially when I'm out with my kids. We speak Hebrew at home, it's a second language for us but I want my children to be connected to it. But I'm scared to speak about it, and I cover up my tattoo. I've heard people in the streets make comments about my tattoo and and yeah like I don't want to... I don't want to put myself at risk but I feel at risk sometimes." Watch here for more details -
In this video, we examine the escalating crisis in Gaza, where the blockade has led to an unbearable humanitarian situation. The United Nations has called for the immediate lifting of the blockade, citing overwhelming suffering as hospitals run out of supplies and civilians are caught in the middle of ongoing airstrikes. We dive into the situation on the ground, the continuing Israeli air and ground assaults, and the urgent need for international intervention.#GazaCrisis
On April 26, a tragic car ramming incident occurred at a Filipino community festival in Vancouver, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 people and injuries to dozens more. The attacker, a 30-year-old Vancouver resident, was arrested at the scene and has been charged with murder. Authorities stated that the man had a significant history of mental health issues but no evidence of terrorism was found. On April 27, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited Vancouver to pay his respects to the victims, expressing condolences to the Filipino community. He also attended a vigil and mass at St. Mary the Virgin South Hill Church. The attack occurred just days before Canada's federal election on April 28. The local community held an emotional vigil to honor the victims, with people lighting candles, laying flowers, and offering support. Filipino BC chairman RJ Aquino emphasized the importance of seeking help for those affected by the tragedy.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney closes his election campaign under a cloud of tragedy after a deadly attack at a Vancouver festival. As voters head to the polls, tensions rise over Trump’s tariffs and U.S.-Canada relations. With Liberals holding a slim lead over Conservatives, British Columbia's battleground could decide it all. Full coverage of the emotional final hours and what’s at stake for Canada's future.
A joyful Filipino cultural celebration in Vancouver turned into tragedy when a vehicle drove into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party on Saturday evening, killing and injuring multiple people. A 30-year-old suspect is in custody. Canadian leaders, including PM Mark Carney, expressed grief, and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh narrowly missed the incident. Police are investigating the motive behind the shocking event.
In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Pakistan Minister Hanif Abbasi has openly threatened India with nuclear retaliation, claiming that Pakistan's missile arsenal, including Ghori, Shaheen, and Ghaznavi missiles, along with 130 nuclear warheads, is aimed "only for India." Abbasi issued this warning in response to India's recent decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. He stated that if India halts Pakistan's water supply, Islamabad should "prepare for a full-scale war," emphasizing that Pakistan's nuclear weapons are ready for use. Abbasi also mocked India's response, claiming that Indian airlines could go bankrupt due to Pakistan's suspension of airspace. This development marks a significant escalation in the already volatile relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Pope Francis’ funeral came to a solemn close as his coffin was carried back into St. Peter’s Basilica. Over 250,000 mourners had paid their respects over three days, and leaders from across the globe gathered to honor a man who reshaped the modern papacy. True to his values, Francis chose simplicity over splendor: a wooden coffin, rewritten funeral rites, and a burial far from the Vatican, in Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major. This video captures the historic farewell of a pope whose humility will define his legacy.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk says he’ll “significantly” reduce his role in the Trump administration to focus more on Tesla—sending the stock up over 5.5% in after-hours trading. But the EV giant faces big challenges: declining U.S. sales, rising tariffs, and protests linked to Musk’s political involvement. Tesla beat low profitability expectations and reaffirmed its cheaper car plans for 2025, but paused China imports and is struggling against Chinese EV rivals. Here's a deep dive into Tesla’s wild earnings day, trade war fallout, and what’s next for Musk’s electric empire.
Wall Street rallied today as U.S. stocks bounced back with significant gains amid hopes of easing tariff tensions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's optimistic remarks on trade with China boosted investor confidence, leading to a strong rebound across all major indexes. Despite the upbeat mood, concerns linger over the S&P 500's recovery to pre-pandemic highs. Stay updated with our recap as we discuss today's market movements, including Tesla's earnings report and notable stock performances like 3M's upbeat results and Northrop Grumman's profit decline.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha and their three children, received a majestic and colourful welcome at the historic Amber Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Folk dancers, traditional drummers, and elephants created a royal spectacle as the Vance family walked down the red carpet at the UNESCO World Heritage site. This marks the beginning of a personal four-day trip to India, including a visit to the Taj Mahal and a public speech in Jaipur. Watch the warm hospitality India extended to the Vance family as tradition met diplomacy.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is under fire again as a second private Signal chat surfaces—revealing he shared sensitive Yemen war plans with family members and a personal lawyer. The revelation follows a previous incident where Hegseth's team mistakenly sent military details to The Atlantic’s editor. Lawmakers are calling for his resignation, while Trump continues to stand by him.
A group of Democratic lawmakers traveled to El Salvador to push for the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a U.S. resident wrongly deported despite a federal court order. Reps. Yassamin Ansari, Robert Garcia, Maxwell Frost, and Maxine Dexter were denied access to Garcia by Salvadoran authorities. The Trump administration, which deported Garcia citing an "administrative error," now claims he’s a gang member. The Supreme Court has ordered his return, but El Salvador’s President Bukele refuses to cooperate. Lawmakers are calling the case a constitutional crisis that threatens due process for all.
US Vice President JD Vance arrived in New Delhi for his first official visit to India, marking a significant moment in India-US relations. In a highly anticipated meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, discussions focused on strategic cooperation and a proposed bilateral trade agreement aimed at resolving lingering tariff issues from previous administrations. Accompanied by U.S. Second Lady Usha Vance and their children, the Vance family also visited Akshardham Temple and attended a cultural puppet show while official talks were underway. Senior Indian leaders including NSA Ajit Doval, EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri joined the high-level talks. Later, PM Modi hosted an official dinner in honour of the Vance family and the US delegation. This visit marks the first US Vice Presidential visit to India in over a decade, signaling a new chapter in bilateral ties and shared global interests.
Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88 following a serious battle with double pneumonia. The Vatican confirmed his passing after days of intense medical care and a prolonged respiratory crisis. As tributes pour in from across the globe, 1.4 billion Catholics enter a period of mourning for the spiritual leader who guided the Church for over a decade.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance has arrived in India with his family for a four-day visit, blending diplomacy and personal travel. He will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today, as both sides push to finalize a trade deal and ease tariff tensions. Vance’s kids in Indian attire charmed the crowd at Palam Airport.
Amid a one-day truce declared by Russian President Putin for Easter, both Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of breaking the ceasefire with attacks. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy claims Russia continued artillery assaults, while Russia blames Ukraine for over 1,000 violations. The failure highlights challenges to peace efforts in the ongoing war.
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court for the second hearing of his criminal trial on insurrection charges. His martial law bid in December led to national unrest and his removal from office. Yoon denies wrongdoing, claiming he acted to protect democracy.
Pope Francis, recovering from pneumonia, made a brief Easter appearance and renewed his call for a ceasefire in Gaza. In his "Urbi et Orbi" message, he condemned the humanitarian crisis, urged Hamas to release hostages, and denounced rising antisemitism.
Speaking to reporters, U.S. president Trump said that United States and Ukraine are set to sign a mineral deal as soon as next week.Trump has framed the deal as a way for the U.S. to recover billions in aid from Ukraine. The aid provided to Ukraine since Russia's invasion in 2022. The deal focuses primarily on critical and strategic minerals essential for advanced technologies, defence, and energy sectors.
A Russian missile attack on Kharkiv on Friday morning killed one person and injured 57 others, including five children. The strike targeted apartment buildings, a school, and a civilian enterprise. Ukrainian President Zelensky criticized Russia's shift to targeting civilian infrastructure despite an agreed moratorium on energy strikes. The attack is part of ongoing tensions, as similar missile and drone strikes hit other Ukrainian cities, including Sumy.
In a major blow to Google, a U.S. judge has ruled that the tech giant illegally dominates key online advertising markets. The verdict marks a turning point in Big Tech regulation, with the possibility of a forced breakup of Google's ad business. Could this be the beginning of the end for Google’s ad empire? Get the full details, expert reactions, and what’s next in this landmark case.
Chinese President Xi Jinping met Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet during a pivotal two-day state visit, sealing 37 agreements covering trade, education, health, and agriculture. As U.S. tariffs loom over Southeast Asia, Xi's visit signals Beijing’s push to cement influence and project economic stability. Cambodia, already China's closest ally in the region and largest debtor, reaffirmed what Xi called an “ironclad friendship.” Watch to understand the deeper significance of Xi’s Southeast Asia tour and how it impacts global geopolitics.
Luigi Mangione, 26, now faces federal charges in the murder of a UnitedHealth Group executive, paving the way for prosecutors to seek the death penalty. Though already charged at the state level in New York—which has no death penalty—the federal indictment intensifies the case. Mangione, who has pleaded not guilty, is accused of murder, stalking, and firearms offenses. A federal court hearing is set for Friday, April 18.
A massive Russian drone attack hit Ukraine’s Black Sea port city of Odesa overnight, injuring three people and sparking fires across residential areas. Ukraine's emergency services shared dramatic visuals of burning buildings and rescue operations. Odesa’s mayor shared photos of destroyed homes and rubble as officials assess the full scale of damage. Stay tuned for the latest on the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Japan's economic revitalization minister, Ryosei Akazawa, has traveled to Washington for crucial trade talks with the U.S., expressing confidence in reaching a "win-win" agreement that safeguards Japan's national interests. The negotiations come amid ongoing tensions over tariffs imposed by President Trump on Japanese exports like cars, steel, and aluminum, despite Japan being the largest investor in the U.S. Trump recently paused a planned 24% reciprocal tariff on Japan, raising hopes for a resolution. Akazawa is set to meet key U.S. officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, with potential topics including Japanese purchases of U.S. defense hardware and Alaskan natural gas. Analysts view Japan’s talks as a critical test that could shape similar negotiations with other countries. While Japan denies manipulating the U.S. Treasury market to influence policy, its status as the biggest holder of U.S. Treasuries gives it notable leverage in discussions.
The White House has demanded an apology from Harvard University over anti-Semitic incidents on campus and warned of $2.2 billion in frozen grants and $60 million in contracts. The university has defiantly stood its ground, defending its autonomy against federal pressure. At the same time, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt took a jab at Joe Biden’s upcoming speech on Social Security, suggesting he’s too old for late-night speeches. The tension between the federal government and Harvard is escalating, setting the stage for a legal and political showdown.