Background: Ukrainian drones struck the Lukoil-Permnefteorgsintez refinery on 6-7 May, causing a fire and disabling the AVT-4 unit. On 7 May, a new drone attack forced the complete shutdown of the Perm oil refinery, taking three primary crude distillation units offline. One unit had been idle since an April 30 attack. Repairs are expected to take weeks. The refinery, one of Russia's largest, processed approximately 12.6 million tons of crude oil in 2024 (about 250,000 barrels per day), producing gasoline, diesel, coke, and fuel oil. Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces confirmed the strike, stating the 1st unit used an unspecified number of drones. The attack is part of Ukraine's campaign to reduce Russian oil revenue, which Kyiv estimates has caused $7 billion in damage in 2026.

Ukrainian Special Operations Forces, in coordination with the Unmanned Systems Forces, struck the loading pier of the Tamanneftegaz oil terminal on the Black Sea coast of Russia's Krasnodar Krai on the night of 12-13 May. The terminal, located in the village of Volna on the Taman Peninsula over 300 km from the front line, is used for transshipment and export of energy resources via the Black, Azov, and Mediterranean seas. A fire was recorded at the facility; damage assessment is ongoing. The operation is part of Ukraine's campaign to degrade Russia's energy logistics and revenue.

The US Producer Price Index rose 6% year-over-year in April 2026, the highest since February 2023, driven by a 15.6% jump in energy costs. Month-on-month, prices increased 1.4%. Core prices excluding food, energy, and trade services rose 4.4%, the highest since 2023. Transportation and warehousing prices surged 5%, indicating second-order effects from higher fuel costs. The data reduces the likelihood of Federal Reserve rate cuts this year, with some officials warning of possible rate increases. Incoming Fed Chair Kevin Warsh faces a challenging economic environment.

Both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have expressed skepticism or disinterest in US-led peace negotiations, indicating a lack of progress in diplomatic efforts to end the war. This joint stance underscores the deep mistrust between the parties and the challenges facing international mediation.

On 13 May, a Russian drone struck a residential building on Konovaltsia Street in Ivano-Frankivsk, western Ukraine, causing a fire and injuring several people, including an employee of the local broadcaster Suspilne. Three residents were evacuated, and emergency services extinguished the fire and provided medical assistance. The attack occurred during a massive Russian UAV assault with over 100 drones in Ukrainian airspace, with warnings of prolonged strikes.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) chief Pamela Rendi-Wagner defended EU cooperation on the hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, which has caused 11 confirmed cases and 3 deaths. This follows French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu's call for stronger coordination. The ECDC is taking a cautious approach, warning of potential asymptomatic transmission, contrary to the U.S. CDC's stance. EU ambassadors are set to discuss a joint strategy.

Slovakia closed all border crossings with Ukraine on Wednesday, citing unspecified security concerns. The closures took effect at 3 pm local time and remain in place until further notice. The Slovak Financial Administration urged the public to monitor official updates. This development follows Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's warning of potential new Russian drone attacks after over 100 UAVs were detected in Ukrainian airspace.

Overnight drone attacks targeted Crimea, hitting Kacha Airfield, Hvardiiske, Simferopol, and the Tavriya Thermal Power Plant. Occupying forces closed the Kerch Bridge, turned off its lighting, and reported gunfire and explosions over the strait. The strikes are part of Ukraine's ongoing campaign to degrade Russian military infrastructure in occupied Crimea.

On May 13, Russian forces struck critical infrastructure facilities in Zhovkva, Lviv Oblast, and near Derhachi, Kharkiv Oblast, causing widespread power outages. The Zhovkva attack left the town without electricity, while the Kharkiv strike cut power to over 4,500 consumers in Derhachi, Bezruky, and Slatyne. Emergency repair crews are working to restore electricity. These strikes are part of a broader Russian drone assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, also affecting Ivano-Frankivsk, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts. No casualties have been reported from these specific incidents.

Following the 2025 trade war, China has gained strategic leverage over the United States, reshaping bilateral relations. China has established an effective veto over U.S. export controls and national security measures, while Washington has separated its diplomacy with Beijing from global alliance management. The U.S. has ceded leverage on technology protections and Taiwan, and Beijing now uses the appearance of rapprochement to undermine trust in U.S. commitments to allies. This shift may embolden Chinese assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, particularly regarding Taiwan and technology protections.

Russian drones and missiles have struck facilities linked to major US companies including Cargill, Coca-Cola, Boeing, and Mondelez in Ukraine, according to a New York Times report. The attacks have raised concerns among business leaders and US senators that Moscow may be deliberately targeting American commercial interests to discourage investment. The Trump administration has not publicly condemned the strikes.

An analysis argues that China enters the upcoming Trump-Xi summit with increased leverage due to the US-Israel war on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz crisis. The US is seeking China's help to resolve the standoff, while Beijing is positioned to demand concessions on Taiwan and Japan's remilitarization. China has demonstrated resilience to the Hormuz closure through stockpiling and diversified supply chains, and is now pushing for a comprehensive grand bargain that includes a halt to US hostilities against Iran and a new multipolar security architecture in the Middle East.

Explosions were reported in downtown Lutsk, Ukraine, during an air raid alert triggered by a massive Russian drone attack. The Lutsk City Council confirmed the explosions and urged residents to stay in shelters. Damage and casualties are being verified. The attack is part of a broader Russian combined air strike on critical infrastructure.

The US Supreme Court is set to issue rulings on a packed docket of 35 remaining cases, including Trump's ability to fire independent agency heads, birthright citizenship restrictions, transgender athlete bans, gun rights, campaign finance limits, and mail-in ballot deadlines. Decisions are expected through June, with significant implications for federal power, immigration, elections, and civil rights.

On May 13, Russian drone strikes across multiple Ukrainian regions injured at least 15 civilians. In Smila, Cherkasy Oblast, three men were injured, two seriously, as drones hit residential infrastructure. In Hlukhiv, Sumy Oblast, a woman and two children were injured, one child suffering an acute stress reaction. In central Kherson, a drone struck a minibus, injuring nine people, including a 60-year-old woman and a 72-year-old man with blast injuries and shrapnel wounds. The attacks are part of a large-scale Russian UAV assault on Ukraine, with over 100 drones reported in Ukrainian airspace and warnings of further waves.

China has introduced Regulations on Industrial and Supply Chain Security that give Beijing broad new powers to retaliate against foreign companies that move manufacturing out of China or comply with US and EU export controls and sanctions targeting Chinese entities. The rules, introduced in April 2025, follow China's blocking of Meta's $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus on national security grounds. The measures are designed to deter decoupling and de-risking efforts by the West, putting multinationals, especially German automakers, in a difficult position as they face conflicting regulatory pressures from China, the US, and the EU.

Background: Since May 2, Russian drone and shelling attacks have targeted energy infrastructure across Ukraine, causing recurring power outages in frontline regions. On May 13, Russian attacks caused new power outages in Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, Poltava, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia regions, expanding the affected areas to include Poltava. Emergency repairs are underway where safety permits. Electricity consumption is 6.1% higher than the previous day due to cloudy weather reducing solar generation, and Ukrenergo urged conservation from 18:00 to 22:00. No scheduled rolling blackouts are planned for May 13.

The UK government announced on 25 March that armed forces could board sanctioned Russian shadow fleet vessels in UK waters, but between 25 March and 11 May, 184 sanctioned vessels made 238 transits through those waters with no recorded boarding. At a CEPA press briefing, experts warned that unenforced commitments undermine sanctions credibility. Mihkel Märtens, author of a new CEPA report, stated that if a government says it will act but does not, it could lead to an embarrassing situation. Benjamin Schmitt, a senior fellow at CEPA and the University of Pennsylvania, described shadow fleet vessels as 'jack of all trade hybrid threats,' citing French court proceedings involving the vessel Kivalla/Pushpa/Borekai/Phoenix, where a captain testified that unaccountable Russian security personnel from a group called Moran, allegedly including a former Wagner mercenary, were present on board collecting intelligence and monitoring the crew. Schmitt personally observed the Kivalla under Estonian Navy interdiction in Muuga Bay in April 2025 and later identified the same vessel as a suspect in the shutdown of Copenhagen Airport through drone activity in September 2025. The vessel has since been renamed Phoenix and was last seen sailing in East Asian waters toward Russia. Schmitt argued the West needs wartime-level staffing to match the scale of enforcement, warning that inconsistent enforcement provides a permissive environment for Russia to strategize.

The first half of May has seen heightened Indo-Pacific security activity: US-Japan Balikatan drills in the Philippines included a Tomahawk missile launch from a Typhon launcher and Type 88 missiles; Japan signed a defense cooperation agreement with Indonesia after loosening arms export restrictions; Taiwan's legislature approved $25 billion in special funding for weapons purchases; and President Trump visited China for talks with President Xi Jinping covering AI, nuclear issues, and trade. Chinese officials criticized the regional military activities, with the foreign ministry describing Japan's rearmament as a 'gray rhino charging towards peace and order.' The Trump administration's temporary shift of military focus away from the Indo-Pacific and its distancing from allies creates uncertainty. The US-China relationship is described as 'the most important relationship on the globe,' with Taiwan's status a key issue in the talks. American business executives including Nvidia's Jensen Huang, Boeing's Kelly Ortberg, and GE Aerospace's Larry Culp are expected to accompany Trump.

French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin announced on May 13 that he is scaling back his proposed criminal guilty-plea reform, excluding all sexual crimes and all crimes triable by assize court. He cited the lack of a parliamentary majority for the original measure, following opposition from lawyers and public criticism. The reform was intended to accelerate case processing but faced significant pushback.

On May 13, a Russian drone attack on Odesa injured two people, who were hospitalized. Debris from a downed UAV fell on a nine-storey residential building, causing several cars to catch fire in residential courtyards. Over 200 windows were damaged. Emergency and municipal services are responding, and an air-raid warning remains in effect.

The German cabinet has approved a draft law to reclassify date-rape drugs as dangerous instruments, increasing the minimum sentence for rape involving such substances from three to five years. The proposal follows a 2024 Federal Court of Justice ruling that excluded date-rape drugs from the definition of dangerous tools. Critics argue that the measure is symbolic without addressing low conviction rates and call for better prevention and victim support infrastructure. The draft now proceeds to the Bundestag and Bundesrat for further deliberation.

Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides announced that the United Nations is likely to launch a new push to resolve the Cyprus issue before Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' term ends this year. He cited Guterres' encouragement from March discussions with Turkish President Erdogan. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, and the last meaningful negotiations collapsed in 2017. This development signals a potential renewed diplomatic effort to reunify the island.

Taiwan's parliament recently passed a record special defense budget of nearly €21 billion, funding US weapons purchases and a new missile defense shield, ahead of President Trump's visit to China. The US Congress approved a $14 billion arms package for Taiwan in January, but its formal transmission by the president was delayed. Top House Democrats on national security committees urged President Trump to approve the sale, warning that delays undermine cross-Strait deterrence and that China should not influence U.S. Taiwan policy. The sale includes Patriot interceptor missiles and anti-drone equipment. Trump stated that discussing arms sales to Taiwan will be on the agenda during his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Lawyer and China hawk Gordon Chang stated that US AI regulations would be impossible to enforce against China due to Beijing's poor record of adhering to promises and the difficulty of policing AI development. He urged the US to race ahead on AI and set global standards while exempting China. His remarks coincided with President Trump's arrival in Beijing for a summit with President Xi Jinping, accompanied by tech CEOs including Elon Musk and Jensen Huang.

Background: On the night of 1-2 May 2025, a Russian drone briefly violated Romanian airspace during a coordinated strike on Ukrainian civilian and infrastructure targets near the Danube border, prompting Romania to scramble F-16 fighter jets. On May 13, Poland scrambled fighter jets and helicopters, activated ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems, and placed forces on heightened alert as a preventive measure during a large-scale Russian drone attack on Ukraine involving 139 UAVs. The attack caused casualties and infrastructure damage across multiple Ukrainian regions, including two killed and four injured in Rivne, eight killed and 11 injured in Dnipropetrovsk, and over 6,500 residents left without power in Poltava after a drone struck an electrical substation.

The UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture will conduct its first visit to France from 17 to 23 May to inspect detention conditions in prisons, police custody, psychiatric institutions, and administrative detention centers. The visit follows France's 2008 ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and comes amid record prison overcrowding, with 88,145 inmates as of April 2026, raising concerns about detention conditions and human rights safeguards.

House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged that the Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure have dampened Republican affordability efforts, as inflation hit 3.8% in April. He defended President Trump's focus on preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, arguing that resolving the conflict will alleviate gas prices and overall economic pressure.

US President Donald Trump denied reaching any understanding with Russian President Vladimir Putin that would hand the Donbas region to Moscow. Trump stated the war in Ukraine is nearing an end, echoing Putin's recent claim. The status of Donbas remains a key obstacle to a ceasefire, with Russia demanding Ukrainian withdrawal and Kyiv rejecting territorial concessions.

On 13 May, a Shahed-type drone used by Russia to attack Ukraine violated Moldova's airspace near Mohyliv-Podilskyi at 16:00, tracked over Bălți, Ungheni, and Hîncești districts before continuing south. Moldova's Defence Ministry confirmed the incursion and temporarily closed airspace over northern Moldova. This incident adds to a pattern of Russian drone spillovers into neighboring countries, including a similar incursion on 8 May, raising regional security concerns.

Background: Axel Springer CEO Mathias Dopfner previously told staff that journalists who disagree with the company's pro-Israel principles should resign. In a speech to the World Jewish Congress in Geneva, Dopfner escalated his rhetoric, declaring that 'anti-Zionism is racism' and proposed a series of measures: preferential immigration and citizenship for Jewish families in Europe, expulsion of anti-Zionists wherever legally possible, and banning TikTok in Europe. He attacked the UN Human Rights Council as the 'human rights Twistings Council', criticized the UK Green Party for mixing climate activism with antisemitism, and argued that criticism of Israel has made European countries no longer safe for Jews. Dopfner also praised UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch's similar proposals and warned that if the West does not defeat anti-Zionism, it 'will destroy itself'.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan arrived in Astana, Kazakhstan on May 13, 2026, for a two-day visit that includes bilateral talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and participation in the Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States in Turkistan. The leaders are expected to discuss deepening strategic cooperation in energy, transportation, trade, and defense, with a focus on the Middle Corridor trade route, Caspian transit, and energy security. The visit reflects growing ties between the two Turkic nations amid geopolitical shifts from the Russia-Ukraine war.

Following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down President Trump's emergency-law tariffs, the Treasury Department has begun issuing refunds to importers. Wine importer VOS Selections received a $110,000 refund. Customs and Border Protection is working to clear $35.46 billion, with total refunds estimated at $166 billion plus interest. The Trump administration is simultaneously appealing a separate ruling against newer 10% tariffs.

Russian forces have escalated attacks on Ukrainian Danube ports located just a few hundred meters from the Romanian border, alarming residents in the Danube Delta UNESCO biosphere reserve. The strikes occur as NATO's eastern flank countries convene in Bucharest for the B9 summit, highlighting the spillover effects of the war in Ukraine. The attacks have intensified, further raising fears among local residents as tensions from the conflict continue to mount.

Western analysts and former US officials, speaking at the Kyiv Security Forum in April 2026, assess that the Russia-Ukraine war may be approaching a turning point, with a potential ceasefire possible by the end of 2026. Key factors include a battlefield deadlock, Ukraine's reduced reliance on Western weapons (now covering 60-70% of its own needs), Russia's worsening economic conditions, and the upcoming US midterm elections in November 2026, which could shift political dynamics. Experts Kurt Volker and Evelyn Farkas believe Russia may accept a ceasefire due to economic pressures, though a full peace agreement remains unlikely. The analysis highlights that time is not on Moscow's side, and significant shifts could occur before the end of the year.

Belarusian dictator Alyaksandr Lukashenka announced on 12 May that his army will adopt a rotational mobilization model, calling up units in turns for intensive combat training to prepare for a potential ground operation, while stating 'we are all preparing for war.' The move formalizes a shift from periodic large-scale exercises to continuous readiness, maintaining pressure on Ukraine's northern border. Ukrainian officials, including Andrii Kovalenko of the Center for Countering Disinformation, dismissed the announcement as a Russian information operation, asserting that Ukraine's forces have the situation under control. The development follows months of observed border activity, including road construction and artillery positioning, and is part of a pattern of Belarusian military posturing that has not led to direct invasion but forces Kyiv to divert resources to the northern front.

At the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi, Kenyan President William Ruto publicly criticized both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for the devastation in Sudan, stating they are 'cut from the same cloth' and have 'taken the country to the dogs.' He rejected claims of siding with the RSF. The summit also saw French President Emmanuel Macron announce new investments in Africa's energy transition, digital, and AI sectors.

Rep. Yvette Clarke, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, announced that 19 CBC members are at risk due to GOP-led redistricting following recent Supreme Court decisions that limited Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The rulings have enabled new congressional maps in Alabama, Louisiana, and other states, potentially reducing Black representation in Congress. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey set a special primary election for August 11 in four districts. Rep. Shomari Figures stated the ruling undermines Black voters' opportunity to elect candidates of choice. The CBC has lost three members in the past 16 months due to deaths and resignation.

Background: Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds resigned after two Ukrainian drones struck an empty oil storage facility in Rēzekne on May 7. The resignation triggered the collapse of Latvia's three-party coalition government under Prime Minister Evika Siliņa after the left-wing Progressives withdrew support, citing Siliņa's handling of the drone incidents. The government now lacks a parliamentary majority, with elections scheduled for October 3. Siliņa plans to appoint Colonel Raivis Melnis as defense minister and form a transitional government. The Progressives will keep their ministers for now.

Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) released a dossier on secular pro-Palestinian extremism, highlighting symbols like the watermelon and Handala, and groups such as BDS and PFLP. The report accuses these groups of antisemitism and denying Israel's right to exist, as German authorities continue to crack down on pro-Palestinian protests. The dossier links these groups to antisemitism and hostility toward Israel, amid ongoing crackdowns on pro-Palestinian protests in Germany.

A UK poll of over 2,000 people reveals that 15% are using AI chatbots for health advice instead of consulting a GP, with a quarter of those citing long NHS waiting lists as the reason. Doctors express concern about risks to patients from relying on AI for medical guidance.

Türkiye's Foreign Ministry announced on May 13, 2026, that bureaucratic preparations for direct trade with Armenia have been finalized as of May 11, 2026, under confidence-building measures initiated in 2022. The new arrangement permits goods transiting through a third country to list Armenia or Türkiye as the final destination or departure point. Technical efforts to open the common border continue. This step marks progress in the normalization process between the two countries and aims to strengthen economic relations and regional cooperation in the South Caucasus.

Western countries, including the EU and US, are racing to reduce dependence on Chinese and Indian pharmaceutical imports after COVID-19 exposed vulnerabilities. The EU is advancing the Critical Medicines Act, passed by the European Parliament in January and agreed upon by the EU Council and Parliament on May 12, to reshore production of critical drugs like antibiotics and insulin at 20-40% higher cost. The US is pursuing tariffs on EU pharmaceuticals (15% in July, 100% threat on branded drugs from October) and investing in biomedical innovation to compete with China, which now accounts for one-third of the global pipeline of new innovative molecules (up from 4% in 2014). The article warns that supply chain disruptions from war or pandemics remain a major security risk, citing dependence on Chinese active ingredients (40% of key starting materials sole-sourced from China) and India for finished generics.

Ukraine imposed sanctions on companies involved in the production of Russian missiles, including suppliers to the Avangard plant (S-300/S-400 missiles), Perm Powder Plant, and Votkinsk Plant (Iskander missiles). The sanctions also target firms that help Russia circumvent international restrictions, such as RT-Komplektatsiya and Spetstekhnologiya, and the IT company Inforion. Ukraine will share the information with international partners to coordinate sanctions.

Background: US peace envoy Nickolay Mladenov has been pressing Israel on aid restrictions and military operations as part of Trump's ceasefire plan. Today: Mladenov stated the ceasefire is holding but far from perfect, with daily serious violations, and reported that over 800 people have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire began in October 2025.

Ukrainian counterintelligence arrested a military deserter in Kyiv who allegedly registered Starlink satellite terminals for Russian forces using personal data provided by Russian intelligence handlers. The suspect was detained at a postal office while attempting to register another terminal. He faces life imprisonment for high treason. The case highlights Ukraine's efforts to prevent Russian exploitation of Starlink communications for drone operations.

The French government previously announced a €50 fuel aid for low-income commuters. On May 13, Minister David Amiel confirmed on France 2 that an online eligibility simulator is now live on impots.gouv.fr, with formal applications opening May 27. The aid targets workers who depend on cars for commuting, with income under €16,880 and daily commute under 15 km, amid rising fuel prices linked to geopolitical tensions. Amiel also noted broader economic impacts, including a 0.2% rise in unemployment to 8.1% in Q1 2026, and reiterated that the aid is temporary, targeted, and financed without increasing the deficit.

Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) chief Lt. Gen. Michael Conley revealed that an AI-powered intelligence transfer system has been used since the start of Operation Epic Fury to rapidly disseminate Top Secret intelligence to aircraft cockpits, reducing transfer time from 20-30 minutes to 2-3 seconds. The tool has saved numerous aircraft over 60 days by improving battlefield situational awareness against Iranian threats. AFSOC also uses AI for intelligence analysis, processing full-motion video and other data in seconds instead of hours.

The Strait of Hormuz crisis, which severely impacts Asian economies due to their heavy dependence on oil and gas transiting the waterway, has seen minimal Asian naval involvement in coalition efforts. Despite having capable navies and direct economic and geopolitical interests, Asian governments prefer bilateral deals or independent operations, revealing limits to U.S. Indo-Pacific coalition-building. The analysis explores the economic pain, naval capabilities, and political fragmentation that explain this absence, and warns of challenges for future U.S.-led coalitions in the Indo-Pacific. The cluster analyzes this paradox, detailing the economic impact on Asian countries, their naval capabilities, and the political and institutional reasons for their absence from coalition efforts. It highlights a preference for bilateral deals, independent operations, and the lack of a common institutional framework, contrasting with European-led missions, and notes the implications for U.S. Indo-Pacific coalition-building.

Russian state media and officials have launched a coordinated propaganda campaign ahead of Victory Day, linking Ukraine to Nazi Germany, blaming NATO for the war, and threatening nuclear escalation. Tactics include discredited narratives, leaflet drops by drones, and a Tucker Carlson interview with a former Zelensky aide making unsubstantiated claims. The campaign aims to bolster domestic support and undermine Western aid for Ukraine.

The Lower Saxony branch of the German left-wing party Die Linke passed a resolution rejecting 'the currently existing Zionism,' describing it as characterized by racism, occupation, and military violence. The move drew sharp criticism from Jewish leaders and the antisemitism commissioner, who labeled it antisemitic. The article traces the historical evolution of Zionism, the impact of the 1967 Six-Day War, and the rise of 'Neo-Zionism' in Israel, linking it to the current government's policies. This development highlights ongoing debates within Germany over the boundaries of criticism of Israel and antisemitism.

British-German startup Hypersonica (Nightfall) successfully tested a hypersonic missile at Mach 6 (7,400 km/h) over a distance of 300 km at Andøya Spaceport in Norway. The test, completed in nine months from concept to launch, aims to develop Europe's first sovereign hypersonic strike system by 2029. The UK had previously stated such weapons could boost Ukraine's firepower. The missile's modular design aims to reduce costs by over 80% compared to traditional programs, potentially reshaping European defense procurement.

An investigation by Annenberg Media and The UCSD Guardian revealed that the University of Southern California (USC) and the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) sold donated cadavers to the U.S. Navy for combat simulations used to train Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) medical personnel. Families were not informed of the military use, sparking ethical concerns. The Navy extended the contract through 2029.

A 17-year-old boy was wounded by shrapnel in a Russian drone attack on the Bilopillia community in Sumy region and hospitalized in non-critical condition. Separately, a 13-year-old boy injured in a previous attack remains in stable but critical condition after surgery; his family had returned to plant a garden after evacuating.

The Council on Geostrategy published a report co-authored by former MoD Director General Peter Watkins, arguing that the UK's nuclear deterrent posture is outdated and lacks a sub-strategic rung on the escalation ladder. The report recommends deepening nuclear cooperation with France, updating public doctrine, acquiring more F-35A nuclear-capable aircraft, and developing a sovereign air-launched sub-strategic nuclear weapon, with an estimated cost of £11-14 billion over 20 years. It warns that Russia's expanded non-strategic arsenal and doctrine necessitate a more flexible UK posture to maintain credible deterrence.

The Russian cargo vessel Ursa Major sank off Spain in December 2024 after explosions. Spanish investigators now reveal the ship was carrying components for two submarine nuclear reactors destined for North Korea, and may have been deliberately sunk by a Western supercavitating torpedo to prevent delivery of advanced nuclear technology. The captain testified that items declared as 'non-dangerous merchandise' — two large hatch covers — were actually reactor components, and he believed the cargo was to be diverted to North Korea's port of Rason. The vessel was operated by Oboronlogistika, a Russian Ministry of Defence-owned company licensed to carry nuclear material two months before the sinking. The sinking occurred two months after North Korea sent 10,000 troops to support Russia's Ukraine invasion. One week after the incident, Russian spy vessel Yantar spent five days over the wreck site, and US nuclear 'sniffer' aircraft have flown over twice. South Korean intelligence reported in September 2025 that Moscow had already handed Pyongyang one nuclear reactor, and multiple South Korean officials said the Kremlin was suspected of sending two to three nuclear submarine propulsion modules to North Korea in the first half of 2025.

Background: A self-declared ceasefire from 9-11 May 2025 reduced but did not halt combat, with both sides continuing limited operations. Today: Analysts argue that temporary truces in the Russia-Ukraine war have become performative tools for media management rather than steps toward lasting peace. A recent three-day cease-fire announced by President Trump was violated by continued Russian drone and missile strikes, and experts note a broader trend of cease-fires being decoupled from substantive peace processes, also seen in the Middle East. The latest truce lacked independent oversight and a substantive political foundation, according to peace process research.

On May 12, 2025, a Tunisian appeals court confirmed the 3.5-year prison sentence for Franco-Tunisian journalist Mourad Zeghidi, who was convicted of money laundering and tax evasion. Zeghidi, a former Canal+ contributor, has been detained since May 2024. The verdict was delivered in the absence of his family and lawyers, who denounce it as judicial harassment, highlighting concerns over judicial independence in Tunisia.

The South Carolina Supreme Court unanimously overturned Alex Murdaugh's murder convictions for the deaths of his wife and son, citing improper comments made by the former Colleton County Clerk of Court to jurors, which violated Murdaugh's right to a fair trial. The case returns to circuit court for a new trial. Murdaugh remains imprisoned on federal financial crimes charges. This decision marks a significant development in a high-profile case that has drawn widespread media attention.

Russian forces used a guided aerial bomb to strike an agricultural company in the Zaporizhzhia district on 13 May, killing a 76-year-old man. The blast wave and shrapnel damaged buildings on the premises, continuing the pattern of Russian aerial bombardment targeting civilian infrastructure in the region.

Ofcom, the UK's online safety regulator, issued its first fine under the Online Safety Act, penalizing an unnamed suicide forum provider £950,000 for failing to comply with illegal content duties. The fine follows a 13-month investigation. Campaigners, including the Molly Rose Foundation, criticized the delay, stating that further lives were lost during the process. The case highlights enforcement challenges under the new legislation.

The Louisiana Senate committee advanced a congressional map (SB 121) that eliminates one of the state's two majority-Black districts, pitting incumbent U.S. Reps. Troy Carter and Cleo Fields against each other. The map, proposed by Republican Sen. Jay Morris, was approved in a 4-3 vote after an overnight hearing. A competing proposal (SB 407) that would have created two "opportunity" districts for Black voters failed. The full Senate is expected to vote Thursday, with a June 1 deadline to finalize the map before the legislative session ends. The move follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision in the Callais case and Gov. Jeff Landry's suspension of House elections.

A nine-month-old girl in Kryvyi Rih had her leg saved by doctors after a Russian strike on a residential building in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on 12 May. Her mother and three other women were also injured. The incident underscores the ongoing civilian toll of Russian attacks on residential areas in Ukraine.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee on President Trump's fiscal 2027 budget request, which proposes a 52% cut to the EPA's budget, reducing it to $4.2 billion. The hearing follows an executive order directing energy and environmental regulators to sunset numerous environmental protections.

Russian forces struck the city of Hlukhiv in Sumy region on the morning of April 13, destroying an educational institution. State Emergency Service extinguished fires; no injuries reported. Over 335 educational institutions have been damaged or destroyed in the region since the war began, with at least 32 beyond repair.

Europe's largest travel operator Tui reported a 10% decline in summer holiday revenue from UK customers, attributing the drop to consumer caution driven by the Iran war and broader Middle East conflict. The company is cutting airline partner seats by 4-5% and noted a shift from Eastern to Western Mediterranean destinations. Tui also reported a €40 million profit hit from the conflict in Q1, though overall losses narrowed. The Strait of Hormuz closure has raised jet fuel price concerns, though EU officials do not foresee short-term shortages.

Georgia Secretary of State and Republican gubernatorial candidate Brad Raffensperger was evacuated from a campaign event at Middle Georgia Regional Airport after a credible bomb threat. A suspicious object was found in a vending machine; no hazardous devices were detected after a sweep. The threat followed a manifesto targeting Raffensperger, who has faced criticism for rejecting Trump's 2020 election claims. Security was increased for future campaign stops.

Russian occupation authorities in Mariupol have added nearly 900 apartments to a 'compensatory housing' list for redistribution, seizing property from Ukrainian residents forced to flee during the 2022 siege. The move follows a 2025 Putin decree allowing seizure of 'abandoned' housing in occupied territories. The apartments are being reassigned to Russian citizens, including military and officials, as part of Moscow's efforts to consolidate control and Russify the city.

Background: A hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship involving the Andes strain resulted in 11 confirmed cases and three deaths, with full evacuation in Tenerife and repatriation to over 20 countries. A woman who had contact with an exposed individual from the ship traveled from San Francisco to Tahiti and Mangareva before arriving on the Pitcairn Islands, where she is now isolating. She is asymptomatic and not considered a suspected case; the risk to the public is considered low. French Polynesia has barred her re-entry. UK authorities, including the UK Health Security Agency, are coordinating the response, recommending a 45-day isolation period for close contacts. The Pitcairn Islands have a population of about 50. Separately, British army medics parachuted onto Tristan da Cunha to assist a resident with suspected hantavirus who disembarked there on April 14.

Turkey showcased its post-earthquake reconstruction efforts in Hatay to international officials and media as part of preparations for the COP31 climate summit. Environment Minister Murat Kurum highlighted the construction of 455,000 homes and workplaces across 11 provinces since the 2023 earthquakes. International officials praised the speed and scale of the rebuilding, describing it as a model for resilient city development.

Fugitive Malaysian financier Jho Low, a central figure in the 1MDB scandal involving the misappropriation of at least $4.5 billion, has filed a request for a US presidential pardon from President Donald Trump to remove criminal charges related to corruption and money laundering. The request is pending with the US Justice Department, but a White House official stated it is not currently under consideration. Malaysian officials, including trade minister Johari Abdul Ghani, oppose the pardon and urge US assistance in locating Low for further investigations. The Wall Street Journal reported that Malaysia temporarily lifted an Interpol red notice against Low to facilitate the return of significant assets.

Russian forces launched drone strikes on Kharkiv's Shevchenkivskyi and Kholodnohirskyi districts early Wednesday, hitting an infrastructure facility in Kholodnohirskyi and causing a fire, with debris falling on a road in Shevchenkivskyi. No casualties were immediately reported. The attack is part of ongoing Russian aerial assaults on civilian areas in Ukraine, following a previous strike on Friday that injured nine people and damaged 38 homes in the Novobavarskyi district.

The 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals previously denied an en banc rehearing of Trump's challenge to the $83.3 million defamation verdict. Now, the court has granted a temporary stay on payment pending Supreme Court review, requiring Trump to post an increased bond of nearly $100 million, including an additional $7,462,492.74 for post-judgment interest. Carroll did not object to the delay under this condition.

Ukrainian drone operators acting as instructors in a NATO-linked military exercise on the Swedish island of Gotland repeatedly 'destroyed' Swedish units using combat-developed drone tactics, forcing the exercise to pause three times for adjustments. The drill simulated an adversary attack on NATO's eastern flank. Swedish and US military officials acknowledged the need to rapidly adapt drone and counter-drone tactics based on Ukrainian experience, highlighting Gotland's strategic importance in the Baltic Sea near Russia's Kaliningrad exclave.

Germany's health system is debating the introduction of a primary care system (Primärarztsystem) where patients must first consult a general practitioner before seeing a specialist. Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) proposes the model to reduce unnecessary doctor visits, long waiting times, and costs. Supporters argue it could streamline care, while critics fear delays in diagnosis and treatment. The German Medical Association is discussing the reform at its annual conference. International examples from Denmark, Netherlands, and Spain show fewer doctor contacts and hospitalizations.

Babcock International has reported a £140 million charge on the Type 31 frigate contract, citing higher-than-expected rework during outfitting and commissioning caused by design changes and out-of-sequence build activity. The charge will impact FY26 results, with around £100 million recognized as a revenue reversal and the remainder added to the contract loss provision. Despite this, the company posted strong underlying performance, with revenue of £5.27 billion and operating profit of £433 million, driven by growth in its Nuclear and Aviation divisions. The charge reflects increased production costs and risk contingency, but Babcock reaffirmed its medium-term guidance and expects FY27 results unchanged.

German wind turbine manufacturer Enercon announced a €50 million investment to establish a rotor blade production facility in Bergama, Izmir, Turkey, creating 700 direct jobs. The plant will produce blades for its E-175 EP5 E2 model, targeting the Turkish market initially and later Eastern and Southern Europe, supporting Turkey's renewable energy ecosystem and local content requirements.

The European Union imported 6.9 billion cubic meters of Russian liquefied natural gas in the first quarter of 2025, a 16% year-on-year increase and the highest level since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. France, Spain, and Belgium led purchases. Despite EU pledges to phase out all Russian gas imports by 2027, reliance on Russian LNG persists amid Middle East disruptions. U.S. LNG imports to the EU also rose 27% in the same period, with the U.S. projected to become the EU's largest gas supplier by 2026.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the United States of deliberately stoking disputes over Iran, Venezuela, Cuba, Greenland, and Canada to divert global attention from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In an interview with RT India, Lavrov criticized US proposals for Gaza for failing to address Palestinian statehood, warning that failure to establish such a state would prolong regional instability. He also suggested that Western powers are fueling India-Pakistan tensions to hinder Eurasian integration, and highlighted ongoing Russia-India defense cooperation.

Former French minister Jean-Yves Le Drian declared the Africa Forward summit, co-organized by France and Kenya, a success, emphasizing its role in fostering Africa-Europe cooperation. He also noted an interruption by President Macron during a speech, who called for silence during participant interventions.

Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz (R-TX) announced support for the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) at a rally near the Capitol, pledging to advance the bill through committee. The legislation, which passed the Senate 91-3 in 2024, aims to create guardrails protecting minors from online harms. The bill faces hurdles in the House over free speech concerns, though recent text changes have secured endorsements from X, Apple, and OpenAI. House Republicans advanced a modified version with narrower liability provisions, drawing opposition from technology safety groups.

Background: The US Navy's fiscal 2027 shipbuilding plan proposed overseas construction and nuclear-powered battleships. Today, the Navy released detailed FYDP funding, allocating $22.34 billion for Ford-class carriers from FY2027-2031, including $4.2 billion for CVN-82 and $3.9 billion for CVN-83 advanced procurement, accelerating CVN-82 procurement to FY2029. The plan also invests $6.7 billion in surface ship industrial base upgrades and $7.2 billion in nuclear shipyard capability. The Navy reaffirms aircraft carriers as its primary strike asset, citing the Ford-class design for 6th-generation aircraft and $5 billion in ownership cost reductions. However, Nimitz-class retirements may temporarily reduce the fleet to 10 carriers in 2030, 2033, 2037, and 2038, potentially straining the congressionally mandated minimum of 11 carriers.

The Dnipropetrovsk Regional Prosecutor's Office is investigating 24 cases of businesses cooperating with Russia despite sanctions. Five individuals have been charged with aiding the aggressor state, including a director who supplied electrical equipment to Russia via a CIS country and the owner of a cardboard plant who attempted to transfer funds to a Russian entity. The cases also involve re-registering enterprises under Russian law in occupied territories. This crackdown highlights ongoing efforts to enforce sanctions and prosecute wartime collaboration.

Families and lawyers of five pro-Palestine activists accused of breaking into Elbit Systems in Ulm, Germany, are demanding the recusal of presiding judge Kathrin Lauchstadt, calling the trial a 'sham'. The activists, from Germany, Spain, Ireland, and the UK, were arrested on 8 September 2024 and face charges including trespassing, property damage, and membership in a criminal organization under Section 129 of the German penal code. During a hearing on 7 May 2025, Lauchstadt repeatedly barred defense lawyers from filing objections to courtroom seating arrangements that prevented confidential communication with defendants, who were paraded in handcuffs and placed behind bullet-proof glass, violating the presumption of innocence. The courtroom at Stammheim court, typically used for terrorism cases, was chosen without checking availability of other courtrooms. The judge also ordered observers removed after applause from the gallery. The trial was postponed after defense lawyers protested and called for the judge's recusal. Defendants face restrictive pre-trial detention conditions, including prolonged isolation, limited visitation, and monitored communications.

The UK government's Regulating for Growth Bill, announced in the King's Speech, will grant ministers powers to temporarily relax regulations for live testing of next-generation defence and maritime technologies. Priority applications include autonomous maritime vessels and cross-sector AI sandboxes, aimed at boosting UK competitiveness against the US, China, Singapore, and Canada. Trials will operate under strict safeguards for consumer and worker protections.

Turkish Environment Minister Murat Kurum visited Beijing and agreed with Chinese counterparts to set up a joint working group on residential development and urbanization. Discussions also covered cooperation for the COP31 climate summit Turkey will host in Antalya, urban planning, housing policies, and smart cities, with a memorandum of understanding to be signed.

Leaders of U.S. special operations commands testified before a Senate subcommittee that proprietary agreements with manufacturers prevent them from quickly modifying equipment, especially unmanned systems. They cited the need for 'right to repair' to keep pace with adversaries like drug cartels and Al-Shabaab. The testimony also highlighted operational strain from the Iran war and complications from European allies denying base access, though 'generational' ties with allies remain strong.

US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee that Ukraine's Delta command and control system integrates drones, sensors, and weapons into a single network, outperforming fragmented US systems. He highlighted the Army's Operation Jailbreak at Fort Carson to break software barriers and link systems, aiming to accelerate decision-making and adopt generative AI, inspired by Ukraine's wartime innovations.

Ivan Andrushchak, a representative of Ukrainian drone manufacturer Chaklun, reported that its UAVs achieve 88-100% mission effectiveness based on frontline feedback. The company presented three systems at the SAHA 2026 exhibition in Istanbul: a reconnaissance drone and two interceptors, including a jet-powered model. International partners show strong interest, but export is currently blocked due to lack of political mechanism. The company highlights real combat experience as a competitive advantage.

FAO Assistant Director-General Viorel Gutu, speaking at the 5th Istanbul International Water Forum, emphasized that COP31, hosted by Türkiye, presents a crucial opportunity to integrate agri-food systems into climate discussions. He highlighted that agriculture accounts for 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions and faces a $1.3 trillion annual financing gap. Gutu called for improved water-use efficiency in agriculture, which currently yields only $0.7 per cubic meter, and urged investment in adaptation and resilience to climate shocks. He also noted that 673 million people faced hunger in 2024 and 2.5 billion lack access to healthy diets, with the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, underscoring the growing urgency to address food systems in global climate policy.

Poland is facing accusations of collaborating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to deport Ukrainian nationals from the United States, a move that has sparked diplomatic and humanitarian concerns.

The US Navy's fiscal 2027 shipbuilding plan, which previously proposed overseas construction and nuclear-powered battleships, now provides detailed targets: a 450-vessel fleet by 2031 including 83 unmanned vessels (47 medium unmanned surface vessels) and 15 Trump-class nuclear-powered battleships by 2055. The plan emphasizes a high-low mix of manned and unmanned systems, modular shipbuilding, and increased industrial base competition. The battleship is expected to cost $43.5 billion for three ships through 2031, though analysts warn nuclear propulsion and new technologies could drive costs much higher.

The Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention camp in the Florida Everglades, known for harsh conditions and celebrated by Donald Trump, is reportedly set to close. State officials informed vendors to prepare for dismantling starting next month, citing ongoing costs. The facility, operated by Florida's emergency management division for DHS and ICE, held up to 1,400 detainees. Environmental and human rights groups welcomed the closure but vow to continue legal action for restoration of the damaged wetlands.

Ukraine's government launched a retraining program for workers aged 50 and older on 11 May, targeting construction and defense sectors hit by labor shortages. The workforce aged 15-70 has shrunk by a quarter since 2021 due to war and emigration, with 6-7 million Ukrainians abroad. The pilot aims to place 2,000 trainees by October 2026, but faces barriers including digital skills gaps and age stereotypes.

In the trial of former RAF terrorist Daniela Klette, her defense team argued there is no evidence linking her to eight armed robberies between 1999 and 2016, claiming the weapons and cash found in her Berlin apartment could have been placed there by others. The prosecution seeks a 15-year sentence for attempted murder and armed robbery. Klette's alleged accomplices Burkhard Garweg and Ernst-Volker Staub remain at large.

Three men—Marshall O'Hara, 21, Fraser Stewart, 22, and Aiden McLaughlin, 21—were sentenced to prison for a series of firebomb attacks targeting properties and a carpet business linked to the Daniel crime family in Glasgow and Lanarkshire. The attacks, part of a gangland feud, involved petrol bombs and accelerants, causing extensive damage. The court described the crimes as 'sheer naked gangsterism' and highlighted the risk of escalation to murder. The sentences were seven-and-a-half years for O'Hara and Stewart, and three years for McLaughlin.

Turkish intelligence and police arrested Mohamed Boulakhrif, a Moroccan national wanted internationally for drug trafficking, in a joint operation in Istanbul's Şişli district. The suspect, described as a leading Moroccan drug trafficker, used encrypted communication apps to conceal his activities. He is expected to be deported after legal procedures.

SoftBank Group reported a quadrupling of annual net profit to 5 trillion yen ($32 billion) for the fiscal year ending March 2026, driven by gains from its investment in OpenAI and other AI ventures. The company increased its OpenAI stake to 13% and is expanding AI data center infrastructure, including a gas-fired power plant in Ohio and potential multi-billion-dollar projects in France. SoftBank also acquired Ampere Computing, ABB's robotics division, and DigitalBridge to diversify its AI portfolio.

Uline, a business supply company owned by major Trump donors Richard and Elizabeth Uihlein, is pausing construction of a new distribution facility in Kenosha, Wisconsin, citing 'current economic conditions' and available space. The company requested a permit extension, delaying construction until 2027 or later. The pause occurs in a key battleground state and follows the Uihleins' nearly $80 million donation to a pro-Trump PAC in 2024.

Cynthia West, a former girlfriend of Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), has accused him of offering her $5,000 in cash to drop a wrongful termination complaint against Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.), a close ally. West alleges Massie arranged her job in Spartz's office, where she worked for about six weeks before being fired after ending their relationship. She then filed a complaint. Massie allegedly made the offer after the complaint was filed. The accusation comes a week before Massie's primary election, where he faces a challenge backed by President Trump. West claims Massie's offer was part of a pattern of hypocrisy, given his public push for transparency in the Epstein files case. Massie declined to comment, and his campaign dismissed the allegations as 'dirty tricks.' Spartz's office cited unsatisfactory job performance for West's termination. West went public in an interview with conservative attorney Marcus Carey.

SubSea Craft announced an evolved version of its MARS Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV), incorporating improvements from extensive testing and operator feedback. The upgraded USV features a digital control system shared with the VICTA dual-domain craft and a modular payload bay for operations in multiple climates including the Middle East. The system has entered production to support an existing customer contract, reflecting the UK company's commitment to delivering autonomous maritime capabilities.

Waymo voluntarily recalled 3,791 robotaxis after identifying a software issue that could cause vehicles to lose control when entering flooded roadways on higher-speed roads. The recall follows an April 20 incident in San Antonio, Texas, where an unoccupied Waymo robotaxi drove into a flooded road and was swept into a creek. Waymo has implemented temporary operational restrictions, including narrowing its operating scope and updating maps, while working on a permanent software fix. The recall underscores ongoing safety challenges in autonomous vehicle deployment.

Israel deported American YouTuber Tyler Oliveira on May 12, 2026, citing prevention of illegal immigration, after Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli accused him of spreading hate in videos critical of Orthodox Jewish communities. The incident highlights Israel's enforcement of entry policies against foreign influencers deemed to incite antisemitism.

Turkey's Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu announced a capacity increase of 18,664 seats on high-speed, mainline, and regional trains operated by Turkish State Railways (TCDD) to meet surging demand during the nine-day Eid al-Adha holiday. Extra high-speed services will run on the Ankara-Istanbul route on May 23-24 and May 30-31, and 260 additional wagons will be added to other routes. The move aims to ensure safe and comfortable travel for citizens visiting family during the holiday.

Tehran's Deputy Governor Seyyed Kamaleddin Mirjafarian announced that approximately 80% of sites damaged in US-Israeli attacks during the ongoing conflict have been repaired, including over 60,000 residential and commercial units. The US-Israeli war on Iran began on 28 February, causing widespread damage to infrastructure. This report highlights the scale of destruction and the pace of recovery efforts in the capital.

Chris Lehane, OpenAI's chief global affairs officer, argued in an interview that the interdependence between AI companies and government necessitates a new public-private hybrid entity to manage AI. He warned that AI firms risk political backlash unless they share wealth, drawing a parallel to Alaska's oil revenue distribution. Lehane described AI as becoming an 'infrastructure technology' or 'utility for intelligence' that should be accessible and abundant.

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander welcomed the King's Speech, highlighting defence investment and energy security as central to the legislative programme for Scotland. He emphasized Scotland's role in national security through defence industries, bases, and personnel, and the government's focus on economic growth and clean energy transition to protect families from global price volatility.

The US Marine Corps has mandated that all active duty, reserve, officer, and enlisted Marines complete a basic artificial intelligence course by December 31, 2026. The 45-minute online course, part of broader Department of Defense efforts to integrate AI, covers generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini via the secure GenAI.mil platform. The training aims to provide foundational AI understanding for decision-making and mission effectiveness, with intermediate and advanced courses in development.

Former SEC Chair Jay Clayton said he does not see excessive leverage in the private credit market, providing a positive assessment of the sector's health as regulators continue to monitor risks. He reiterated that he does not observe excessive leverage, offering a reassuring view on the sector's stability amid regulatory scrutiny.

A Financial Times article highlights the continued appeal of UK assets for investors despite broader market turbulence, pointing to relative stability and investment opportunities as key factors. The article argues that UK assets remain attractive to investors despite global economic volatility, citing relative stability and specific investment opportunities in the current market environment.

Turkic states including Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan adopted the 'Gaziantep Declaration' at a conference in Gaziantep, committing to strengthen international cooperation against illicit trafficking of cultural property. The declaration emphasizes coordination, information sharing, and capacity building, with observers from Hungary, Turkmenistan, UNESCO, and UNODC. This initiative addresses the transnational crime of cultural property trafficking, which threatens shared historical memory.

Despite the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, Tucson, Arizona is preparing to host the Iranian national football team for training ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Local officials and fans express support for the team's safety and welcome, despite President Trump's earlier comments questioning their security. FIFA confirms Iran's participation.