This morning briefing covers multiple significant developments: US President Trump says Iran has an 'interest in reaching an agreement' on its nuclear program; Iraq's new Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi officially assumes office; tens of thousands protest across Europe for the Nakba anniversary; MIT dismantles an espionage network in Turkey; Putin simplifies citizenship for Transnistria residents and will visit China; US energy chief says Strait of Hormuz could reopen by end of summer; UAE confirms OPEC withdrawal was not political; and China and the US agree to reduce tariffs on certain products.

Russian envoy Mikhail Ulyanov criticized reports that the US and Israel are preparing possible renewed military strikes on Iran, warning that such action would show they have not learned from past strategic mistakes. The New York Times reported that President Trump has not made a final decision but that multiple military options have been discussed, while US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said Washington has plans to escalate if necessary.

Background: The US-Israeli war against Iran has entered its third month with no end in sight, characterized by an indefinite impasse, no good deal possible, Washington losing the initiative, Israel's complicating role, and Iran's asymmetric advantage in defining victory as regime survival. Today: Former Congresswoman Jane Harman published an op-ed arguing the US is losing the war with Iran after 37 days of airstrikes, with the Strait of Hormuz now under Iranian control. She proposed three priorities: building an international coalition to reopen the Strait, reviving arms control to prevent a nuclear arms race, and expanding the Abraham Accords to include Saudi Arabia contingent on progress toward a Palestinian state. The piece calls for congressional engagement to push the administration toward a more constructive international posture.

House Speaker Mike Johnson had previously acknowledged that the Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure dampened Republican affordability efforts. In a Fox News Sunday interview, he warned that high gas prices, driven by the Strait of Hormuz closure, threaten GOP midterm prospects, argued that once the strait reopens the party will refocus on kitchen-table issues, and noted that Energy Secretary Chris Wright expects the strait to reopen by summer. Johnson acknowledged that the conflict has put a 'little damper' on GOP messaging on affordability. The national gas price average is about $4.50. The House holds a 217-212 majority. Trump has floated suspending the federal gas tax, which some GOP lawmakers back, but Democrats oppose over Highway Trust Fund concerns. Polling suggests most Americans blame Trump for the price surge.

Eurostat data shows over 4.3 million Ukrainians remain under temporary protection in the EU, with the mechanism extended to March 2027. A UNHCR report projects that under a 'fragile peace with concessions' scenario, 56% of Ukrainian refugees (2.9 million) will remain in Europe until at least 2029. Under a status quo scenario of continued aggression, 99% would stay; under a Ukrainian victory scenario, the number could drop to 32%. The EU is discussing post-2027 status options.

Background: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held separate phone talks with Qatari and Saudi counterparts to coordinate ceasefire efforts between Tehran and Washington. On May 17, 2026, Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani spoke by phone with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. They discussed the US-Iran ceasefire and regional de-escalation efforts, ahead of Iran's expected unveiling of Strait of Hormuz management plans, including possible transit tolls. The Qatari Foreign Ministry stated that Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of all parties responding positively to ongoing mediation efforts to achieve a sustainable agreement and prevent renewed escalation. The officials also reviewed bilateral ties.

Background: The US-Israeli war against Iran continues with no end in sight, characterized by an indefinite impasse, Iran reviewing a US proposal, and ongoing strikes. Today, FIFA held a 'constructive' meeting with Iran's federation in Istanbul to ensure Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup in the US. Israeli strikes targeted eastern and southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire, hitting Sohmor and other locations, killing one Israeli soldier and bringing IDF losses to 21. Iran appointed parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf to oversee relations with China. The USS Gerald R. Ford returned home after a 326-day deployment. Pakistan's interior minister arrived in Tehran to facilitate peace talks. Deadly fuel price riots in Comoros killed one. European countries began negotiations with Iran's Revolutionary Guards navy over Hormuz transit. Iraq's oil exports through Hormuz plunged to 10 million barrels in April.

Ukraine's Minister for Communities and Territories, Oleksii Kuleba, reported that over 50% of businesses in frontline territories are inactive or partially operating, resulting in up to 100,000 job losses. The government has enshrined 'frontline territories' in the state strategy for regional development for the first time, directing at least 50% of the State Fund for Regional Development to projects in these areas. Priorities include rapid repairs of housing and critical infrastructure, development of protective infrastructure, and support for healthcare, education, logistics, agriculture, and business.

During President Trump's three-day visit to Beijing, China projected confidence, framing the summit around 'constructive strategic stability' and warning that mishandling Taiwan could lead to 'clashes and conflicts.' Beijing treated trade outcomes cautiously, emphasizing market access as leverage, and avoided taking sides on Iran. The visit is seen as a test of whether Washington can adjust to China as an established power demanding respect and predictability.

The United States abruptly canceled the planned deployment of 4,000 soldiers from the 1st Cavalry Division to Poland, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth halting the move so suddenly that Pentagon staff, Republican lawmakers, and European allies were caught off guard. Poland's military leadership was blindsided after a classified email alerting the Polish Chief of General Staff went unread for days, causing the defense ministry to learn of the change through media reports. US lawmakers from both parties condemned the cancellation as a breach of law and a slap in the face to a key NATO ally, fueling debate about US commitment to European security amid Russia's war in Ukraine.

An investigation by The New York Times reports that an Iraqi shepherd, Awad al-Shammari, was killed by Israeli helicopter fire after discovering a secret Israeli base in Iraq's western desert. A second base is also alleged. The incident has sparked anger in Iraq and accusations that the US withheld information from the Iraqi government.

Russian forces conducted nearly 40 attacks on Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, resulting in two deaths and five injuries. Strikes hit multiple communities in Nikopol, Synelnykove, and Kamianske districts, damaging infrastructure, residential buildings, and vehicles. The attacks targeted Nikopol, Pokrovske, Myrove, Marhanets, Chervonohryhorivka, Vasylkivska, Mezhivska, Krynychky, Kryvyi Rih, and Zelenodolsk communities. In Nikopol district, a summer house was destroyed and another damaged; two people were killed and four injured, with two hospitalized. In Synelnykove district, a 41-year-old man was injured. In Kamianske district, vehicles were damaged. In Kryvyi Rih area, infrastructure was damaged.

Background: A five-month investigation identified 13 victims of US military strikes on boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, with nearly 200 killed. The Trump administration has intensified these unilateral strikes, destroying 57 boats and killing nearly 200 people. Legal experts deem the strikes illegal extrajudicial killings under international law. The administration's broader rhetoric, including threats against Iran and disregard for the laws of war, is eroding the post-WWII international order and alienating allies.

The Trump administration and Republican lawmakers are seeking to reassure U.S. farmers ahead of midterm elections, following trade tensions with China that have hurt agricultural exports. Trump announced deals with China for soybean, oil, LNG, and Boeing jet purchases. The House passed a farm bill expanding rural investments, but the Senate has not yet taken it up. Experts caution that one-time purchase commitments may not provide the stability farmers need.

Background: On May 15, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree simplifying Russian citizenship for residents of Moldova's breakaway Transnistria region, exempting them from residency, language, and history requirements. Today: Moldovan President Maia Sandu, during a state visit to Tallinn, Estonia, publicly condemned the decree as a recruitment tool for Russia's war in Ukraine, stating 'probably they need more people to send to the war in Ukraine.' She noted that since the full-scale invasion began, most Transnistrian residents have sought Moldovan passports to avoid forced mobilization. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the decree as 'Russia’s way of staking a claim to Transnistria’s territory' and ordered Ukraine's Foreign Ministry to coordinate a response with Moldova. Moldovan Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu echoed Sandu's concerns, warning that a Russian passport carries obligations and that Moldova may summon the Russian ambassador. Sandu dismissed any Russian influence over Moldova's EU accession, asserting 'only the EU can decide whether Moldova can become part of the EU or not. Russia has nothing to do with this.'

Background: Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell previously announced he would remain as a Fed governor after his term ends, amid a DOJ probe and record dissents on the FOMC. In his final press conference as chair, Powell reviewed his eight-year legacy, including the aggressive COVID-19 response, the costly inflation miscalculation, the Silicon Valley Bank collapse, and his firm defense of Fed independence. Powell's chairmanship ended on May 17, 2026, with Kevin Warsh sworn in as successor. Powell will remain on the Fed board as a governor until January 2028, citing the need to ensure the Fed's independence is fully restored. The article details his legacy: the post-pandemic inflation surge (prices 27% higher than pre-pandemic, groceries 30% more expensive), the initial 'transitory' misjudgment, the aggressive rate hikes achieving a 'soft landing', and his defense of Fed independence against Trump's attacks including a DOJ investigation into building renovations. It notes Powell's relationship-building with Congress, particularly Senator Tillis, who blocked Warsh's confirmation until the DOJ probe was dropped. The article also highlights Powell's non-economist background and his focus on maximum employment.

New US college graduates are entering a challenging job market characterized by slow hiring, government funding cuts, tariff uncertainty, and AI-driven displacement of entry-level roles. The unemployment rate for recent graduates is 5.6%, higher than the general population's 4.2%, and underemployment remains around 41%. Competition is intensified by experienced workers laid off due to AI and federal cuts, while AI tools are also reshaping the application and interview process.

Monocrystal, a leading Russian producer of synthetic sapphires used in missiles and drones, has filed for bankruptcy due to production damage from Ukrainian attacks, supply disruptions, loss of European markets, and falling Asian demand. The company's liabilities exceed assets by $50.6 million, and its workforce has halved since 2022. This development highlights the impact of Western sanctions and Ukrainian strikes on Russia's high-tech defense supply chain.

German Federal Minister of Justice Stefanie Hubig has announced plans to amend divorce law to allow victims of domestic violence to bypass the mandatory one-year separation period. She also supports allowing victims to choose the venue for court proceedings to prevent tracking by ex-partners, and is open to introducing a 'yes means yes' standard in sexual criminal law, replacing the current 'no means no' standard. Hubig has reiterated these proposals, emphasizing the waiver of the separation year, venue choice, and openness to an affirmative consent model.

A growing number of House Republicans are breaking with President Trump on major legislation, including housing, FISA surveillance, immigration enforcement funding, and budget reconciliation. The narrow GOP majority means even a few defections can derail Trump's agenda, highlighting a shift in party dynamics as lawmakers prioritize local reelection concerns.

Russia is recruiting Yemeni fighters to fight in Ukraine, offering upfront payments of $15,000, monthly salaries of $5,000, and Russian citizenship. Many recruits are former combatants from Yemen's civil war, lured by financial incentives amid poverty. Reports indicate some fighters have been killed or disappeared, and families plead for their return. The Yemeni government has not taken public action.

Finance ministers and central bank governors from G7 countries gathered in Paris for a two-day meeting on May 18-19, 2025, aiming to overcome internal divisions worsened by US President Donald Trump's policies. The G7's share of global GDP has fallen to 30%, and the group faces challenges from rival forums like BRICS and APEC. The meeting precedes a G7 leaders' summit scheduled for June 15-17 in Évian, France.

Georgia holds its primary elections on Tuesday, setting the stage for November's midterms. Key races include the Republican contest to challenge Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff, and the Democratic primary for governor, where former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms leads. The outcomes will signal Georgia's political direction and affect control of the US Senate, as Republicans hold majorities in both chambers and Democrats seek to reclaim the Senate majority.

Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation Oleksandr Bornyakov described how drones provide real-time intelligence on Russian positions and enable strikes on oil facilities, while AI has moved from operational to strategic command levels. The United Kingdom will fund an AI center under Ukraine's Defense Ministry to further implement these technologies.

Italian authorities searched the German NGO Sea-Watch's vessel 'Sea-Watch 5' in Brindisi harbor and initiated a criminal investigation against its captain on suspicion of aiding illegal immigration. The ship had rescued 166 migrants and reported being shot at by the Libyan coast guard during the operation. This marks the first criminal investigation against a private rescue ship in six years, escalating tensions between Rome and humanitarian organizations. Sea-Watch condemned the move as an 'absurd escalation' and accused Italy of supporting Libya's coast guard, which it says commits crimes against rescuers.

At the Defence Services Asia (DSA) 2026 exhibition in Kuala Lumpur, Turkey showcased 87 companies, with Aselsan as corporate sponsor and TAI's Hürjet mockup as centerpiece. Eight major agreements worth hundreds of millions of dollars were signed, highlighting growing defense cooperation. However, Turkish firms face competition from US, European, Korean, and Chinese companies, and the article argues for strategic procurement to reduce dependence on single sources.

China's commerce ministry announced a preliminary agreement with the US to reduce tariffs on specific products, establish trade and investment councils, and finalize agricultural and aircraft deals. The agreement follows President Trump's state visit to Beijing and aims to stabilize bilateral trade relations, though specifics on tariff reductions remain unclear.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) assesses that Russia's senior military command has presented highly inaccurate battlefield assessments for five months, falsely claiming advances west of Kupyansk. Ukrainian forces advanced near Hulyaipole and continued long-range strikes on Russian defense industry in Stavropol Krai. Russia also expanded passportization in Transnistria.

The 2026 bee swarm season in North America began 17 days earlier than last year, following record heatwaves and the largest honeybee die-off in US history. Experts from Swarmed and the Urban Bee Lab attribute the shift to warmer winters and earlier blooms, which disrupt bee reproductive cycles and may accelerate varroa mite infestations. The early swarming threatens crop pollination, which adds $15bn in value to US agriculture, and could worsen wild bee declines.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported 46 combat engagements since morning on May 17, 2026, with the heaviest fighting in the Kostiantynivka sector where 14 attacks occurred. Russian forces conducted artillery shelling and airstrikes on border areas in Sumy and Chernihiv regions. Ukrainian forces repelled attacks in multiple sectors including Sloviansk, Huliaipole, and Orikhiv.

Former top US health officials, including Anthony Fauci and Stephanie Psaki, warned at a Washington DC event that the US is not ready for the next pandemic. They cited the dismantling of public health infrastructure, the spread of misinformation on social media, and the Trump administration's withdrawal from the WHO as key failures. Experts called for renewed investment in public health, rapid testing, global cooperation, and better communication strategies to rebuild trust.

Russian forces shelled Kharkiv and 14 settlements in the Kharkiv region over the past 24 hours, injuring seven civilians. The attacks involved a guided aerial bomb, nine Geran-2 UAVs, one Lancet UAV, seven Molniya UAVs, five FPV drones, and 40 unidentified UAVs. Damage was reported to residential buildings, a higher education institution, outbuildings, garages, cars, an administrative building, a foster care facility, a sanatorium, and a clinic. In the Saltivskyi district of Kharkiv, drone strikes caused car fires and damaged the street lighting network. This is part of ongoing Russian aerial assaults on civilian areas in Ukraine.

Venezuela's interim government deported former Industry Minister Alex Saab, a close associate of ousted President Nicolas Maduro, to the United States on May 16, 2026. Saab faces US money laundering charges related to a scheme that exploited a subsidized food aid program. The deportation underscores deepening law enforcement cooperation between Washington and interim President Delcy Rodriguez's administration, which has distanced itself from Maduro loyalists. Saab, previously arrested in Cape Verde and later released in a prisoner swap, was detained again in Caracas in February. His extradition may provide evidence against Maduro, who is detained in New York awaiting trial on terrorism and drug trafficking charges.

On May 17, air raid alerts were declared in Kyiv, Chernihiv, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv, and Kherson regions after the Ukrainian Air Force detected Russian drones heading toward Boryspil, the capital, and other cities, including areas in Chernihiv region. Alerts were temporarily lifted but reissued in Kyiv in the afternoon. Air defense forces had shot down targets over the Kyiv region earlier that morning. The incident underscores the ongoing Russian drone threat to Ukrainian civilian areas.

German prosecutors and legal experts are debating the proportionality of hate speech investigations against politicians, following the 2019 murder of CDU politician Walter Lübcke. Specialized cybercrime units in Hesse (ZIT) and North Rhine-Westphalia (ZAC) have conducted house searches and prosecutions for online insults, but critics argue some cases were excessive and chilled free speech. A recent shift shows fewer politicians filing complaints, and Hesse's Interior Minister now advocates prosecution only when human dignity is violated or Nazi references are made. The article details the work of these units, the role of a now-restructured reporting center, and differing interpretations of Paragraph 188 of the criminal code, which penalizes defamation of politicians.

Marcus Hunter-Neill, a drag queen known as Lady Portia Di'Monte, faced severe abuse and death threats after his image was shared on paedophile hunter websites following a children's Drag Queen Storytime event at Holywood Arches Library in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in August 2025. TalkTV paid substantial damages for broadcasting an unfounded allegation. The event was cancelled due to safety concerns. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons criticized the event as inappropriate for children. In response, the actors' union Equity launched a UK-wide campaign against political interference in the arts.

Background: The United States removed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a January military operation but left his party and allies in power under new President Delcy Rodríguez, prioritizing oil-sector recovery over political transition. The US raid on January 3 caused civilian casualties and damage in Catia La Mar, as detailed in on-the-ground accounts. The confusing new political reality includes political prisoner releases, the painting over of Maduro murals, and a protest at El Helicoide prison demanding fresh elections. Venezuelans express mixed emotions—hope for change alongside fear of continued repression. US official Jarrod Agen visited Caracas on the first US commercial flight in seven years, praising progress. Experts suggest Rodríguez aims to preserve the Bolivarian revolution despite the humiliating partnership with Washington.

Background: Russian forces have been conducting daily shelling in Ukraine's Donetsk region, killing and wounding civilians. On May 17, Russian shelling killed one civilian in Malotaranivka and damaged residential and commercial buildings across multiple settlements, including Dobropillia, Mykolaivka, Sloviansk, Kramatorsk, Druzhkivka, and Riznykivka. A total of 234 people, including 44 children, were evacuated from the front line.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that the US, China, and Russia prefer a divided Europe and are pursuing a divide-and-conquer strategy. She urged EU member states to resist bilateral deals with the US and to strengthen the bloc's unity to maintain its geopolitical power. Kallas also discussed Europe's need for a unified strategy on China, contrasting subsidies with more painful but effective tools.

Background: Overnight Russian drone attacks on May 16-17 targeted Kharkiv and Kyiv, damaging homes and civilian areas. On May 17, Kyiv's air defense forces responded to a new afternoon drone attack, engaging Shahed drones with an air raid warning lasting over 45 minutes. The attack is part of a broader Russian drone campaign that began the previous night, continuing the ongoing Russian aerial campaign.

In the Putyvl community of Sumy region, two men (aged 45 and 47) were killed when a drone part they loaded into a car detonated. The incident was reported by Oleh Hryhorov, head of the Sumy Regional Military Administration, highlighting the ongoing dangers of unexploded ordnance in conflict-affected areas of Ukraine.

Jaguar Land Rover and General Motors, in partnership with BAE Systems, are among automotive firms competing for a £900 million UK Ministry of Defence contract to build thousands of 4x4 military trucks, replacing the ageing Land Rover fleet. The contract reflects a broader trend of carmakers pivoting to defence as NATO countries increase military spending, with first deliveries expected by 2030.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) declared on NBC's 'Meet the Press' that the Republican Party has no room for lawmakers who align with Democrats to obstruct President Trump's agenda or seek his removal. He cited Sen. Bill Cassidy's primary loss after voting to impeach Trump and warned Rep. Thomas Massie faces a similar fate. Graham emphasized that the party is 'the party of Donald Trump' and that those who try to destroy Trump politically will lose. His comments underscore the ongoing intra-party purge of Trump critics within the GOP.

Ukraine's State Border Guard Service published video showing drone strikes by the Forpost unit on Russian forces in the North Slobozhanshchyna front. The strikes destroyed Russian vehicles, communications antennas, and shelters, aiming to disrupt coordination, supply, and troop buildup.

German Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder visited Japan to promote green hydrogen cooperation, touring projects with BMW and Toyota. The two automakers are jointly developing third-generation fuel cell technology, with BMW planning a hydrogen series model by 2028. Germany and Japan aim to scale hydrogen infrastructure and supply chains, though green hydrogen remains a niche fuel. Germany allocated €220 million for hydrogen refueling stations and trucks, while Japan focuses on ammonia as a hydrogen carrier.

UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage in London on May 15, 2026, discussing regional developments and bilateral relations. The meeting, alongside official talks with UK Deputy PM David Lammy, signals the UAE's interest in cultivating ties with Farage's party, which has gained in polls and shares opposition to political Islam. Farage has previously pledged to ban the Muslim Brotherhood and praised the UAE for doing so. The UAE also labeled eight British organizations as terror groups over alleged Muslim Brotherhood links in January 2025. This reflects a strategic alignment between Abu Dhabi and Reform UK, with potential implications for UK foreign policy.

Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) teams participated in a three-day international disaster response symposium and search-and-rescue drills in Thessaloniki, Greece, from May 15-17, 2026, alongside volunteer rescue teams from Greece, Albania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Hungary, Kosovo, and Serbia. The event included presentations, field exercises, and public awareness activities using AFAD's earthquake simulation truck. The exercise aimed to strengthen regional cooperation and operational readiness. A new federation of Balkan rescue teams was established, with AFAD's expertise serving as the foundation for future training and certification. This exercise underscores growing regional cooperation in disaster preparedness and emergency response.

A new POLITICO poll conducted by Public First from April 11 to 14, 2025, surveying 2,035 U.S. adults, reveals deepening splits within the Republican Party over support for Israel. Self-identified MAGA Trump voters are significantly more supportive of Prime Minister Netanyahu's government and its Gaza military campaign than non-MAGA Trump voters. Nearly half of MAGA voters back Israel and approve of its government's actions, compared to 29% of non-MAGA voters. Generational divides are also sharp, with younger Trump voters more likely to favor distancing from Israel. The findings have implications for U.S.-Israel relations and GOP coalition cohesion ahead of midterm elections.

Following the success of Artemis II, NASA has restructured its lunar program. The first crewed moon landing is now designated Artemis IV, planned for 2028, while Artemis III will test the SpaceX Starship and Blue Origin Blue Moon Human Landing Systems in Earth orbit. Uncrewed landing tests of these systems will be folded into the Commercial Lunar Payload Services program, which NASA aims to ramp up to a launch per month to build lunar infrastructure. Political pressure from President Trump to land before his term ends adds urgency, though schedule slips to 2029 are possible.

On May 17, debris from a Russian Gerbera-type drone fell in Brovary, Kyiv Oblast, during an air raid alert, damaging two residential buildings (roof, facade, fence, broken window) and the roof of an industrial facility. No casualties were reported. Air defense was also active in Kyiv.

German schlager icon Heino is taking legal action against AfD politician Felix Teichner for using his name in election advertising without consent. Teichner posted on social media that Heino would vote for him, prompting Heino to demand compensation. The case highlights tensions between pop culture and far-right political appropriation in Germany.

The sons of Saudi scholars Hassan Farhan al-Maliki and Salman al-Odah, who face the death penalty, have appealed to the University of Cambridge to abandon plans for a staff training agreement with the Saudi defense ministry. The deal, approved by Cambridge's benefactions committee, would provide leadership and innovation management courses, but critics argue it legitimizes Saudi human rights abuses and undermines academic freedom.

Turkish mining industry groups, including the Mining Platform and the Miners Association of Türkiye, publicly rejected recent statements by CHP deputy Gökhan Günaydın, who criticized mining royalties, alleged gold smuggling, and claimed widespread cyanide use. The sector defended its practices, stating it pays significant taxes and royalties, operates under strict oversight, and that cyanide use is standard globally, including in Europe. The dispute highlights ongoing political tensions over domestic resource extraction and economic policy in Turkey.

The White House is organizing a large-scale mass prayer event on the National Mall as part of US 250th anniversary celebrations, featuring top Trump administration officials including Defense Secretary Hegseth and Secretary of State Rubio. Critics say the event promotes Christian nationalism, while organizers frame it as reclaiming the nation's religious foundations.

The Senate parliamentarian ruled that a $1 billion provision for security upgrades to President Trump's proposed White House ballroom violates the Byrd Rule, preventing its inclusion in a budget reconciliation package. The ruling, announced by Sen. Jeff Merkley, states the project spans multiple committee jurisdictions and is extraneous to the budget process. The Trump administration sought the funds for security measures including bulletproof glass and drone detection. Senate Majority Leader John Thune's office indicated plans to redraft and resubmit the provision.

Background: Russian forces previously struck an industrial facility in Kryvyi Rih, causing damage but no casualties. Today, Russian forces struck an enterprise in the Myrhorod district of Poltava region, damaging technological equipment. No casualties were reported.

A couple who stole £130 worth of fuel from a garage in Gwynedd, Wales, were tracked down by local residents who spotted them on social media and alerted police. The incident highlights a 62% surge in UK fuel thefts, attributed to rising prices linked to the Ukraine and Iran conflicts, and the strain on small businesses.

US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Damascus, describing Syria as a laboratory for a new regional alignment of diplomacy and integration. The discussions focused on regional developments and enhancing economic cooperation between the US and Syria. Barrack reiterated this characterization, emphasizing the potential for a new diplomatic alignment in the region.

On May 16, 2026, Russian forces attacked the Kutsurub and Halytsynove communities in the Mykolaiv region with FPV drones, wounding two men aged 51 and 82. The 51-year-old was hospitalized, while the 82-year-old received outpatient treatment. A car and a school were damaged. This attack is part of ongoing Russian shelling across southern Ukraine.

Republicans who have advanced pro-crypto legislation, including the CLARITY Act, are frustrated that the Fairshake super PAC, which holds a $165 million war chest largely funded by Coinbase, has not yet announced its spending plans for the 2026 midterms. Republicans worry the PAC may not target key opponents such as former Senator Sherrod Brown or Representative Chris Pappas, despite their past criticism of crypto. The industry's hesitation may reflect a strategy to hedge against a potential Democratic takeover.

A Ukrainian cargo plane, flight CVK-7078 operated by Cavok Air, was detained in Trinidad and Tobago after immigration officers discovered undeclared explosives during a refueling stop. The aircraft, en route from the Bahamas to Libya, was carrying 7,656 kilograms of oilwell explosives labeled under dangerous-goods code UN0440. After investigation by local authorities, US border agents, and the UN-backed AIRCOP program, the crew was cleared of responsibility, and the plane was allowed to proceed to Libya. The incident highlights the ongoing shadow conflict between Ukraine and Russia in Africa and the Mediterranean, where both sides vie for influence.

Cuba's Civil Defense has published a nine-page handbook instructing families on how to prepare for a potential military attack, including stocking a backpack with food and medicine and seeking shelter during air raids. The guide, released in late April amid heightened US-Cuba tensions and a severe economic crisis, has drawn public criticism due to widespread shortages of basic goods. The move underscores the Cuban government's efforts to mobilize the population for a possible conflict with the United States, as President Miguel Díaz-Canel has warned of resistance if attacked.

The rotary wing element of the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) celebrated ten years of delivery at RAF Shawbury. Operated by Ascent Flight Training, the programme has modernised tri-service helicopter aircrew training using Airbus Juno HT1 and Jupiter HT1 aircraft with advanced avionics and simulation. Hundreds of students train annually, with many returning as instructors. The milestone highlights the programme's role in blending live flying with synthetic training to prepare pilots and rear crew for frontline operations across the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force.

President Trump threatened to withdraw his endorsement of Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) after she campaigned with Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) ahead of Massie's primary election. Trump called Massie the 'worst Republican congressman' and asked if anyone would challenge Boebert, though the filing deadline has passed and she is unopposed. Boebert defended her support for Massie, citing his work on releasing Epstein files. Massie faces a primary challenge from Trump-endorsed Ed Gallrein.