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Rosenberg: Luhansk strike sparks Russian accusations and vow to retaliate

Rosenberg: Luhansk strike sparks Russian accusations and vow to retaliate

May 23, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A building at the Starobilsk Professional College in Luhansk, eastern Ukraine, was hit early Friday in an attack that killed 21 people and injured 42. Russia blames Ukraine for the strike, calling it a terrorist attack and promising retaliation, while Ukraine says it targeted a Russian military unit nearby.

Key Facts

  • The attack damaged a five-story dormitory building at Starobilsk Professional College.
  • Russian officials say Ukraine used drones to carry out the attack.
  • At least 21 people were killed and 42 injured, according to Russian sources.
  • Russia held an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting about the incident.
  • President Putin said there were no military targets in the area and called the strike a terrorist act.
  • Ukraine's military said it attacked a Russian military unit near Starobilsk on the night of May 21-22.
  • Russia’s UN ambassador called the strike a war crime under international law.
  • Pro-Russian commentators suggested Russia should also target Europe in response.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Zelenskyy says intelligence indicates Russia could use hypersonic missile

Zelenskyy says intelligence indicates Russia could use hypersonic missile

May 23, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Ukraine's President Zelenskyy said his country is checking reports from the U.S. and Europe that Russia may be preparing to use a new fast missile called the Oreshnik hypersonic missile. The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv warned of a possible major air attack on Ukraine in the next day, while Russia said it was planning a response to recent Ukrainian drone strikes.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine is verifying intelligence that Russia might use the Oreshnik hypersonic missile soon.
  • The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv issued a security alert about a possible large Russian air attack within 24 hours.
  • President Zelenskyy said Ukraine is preparing its air defenses against any missile strikes.
  • Russia claimed Ukrainian drone strikes killed several people and injured dozens in eastern Ukraine.
  • Russia’s President Putin ordered the military to come up with plans to respond to Ukrainian attacks.
  • Ukraine denied attacking civilians and said its strikes target Russian military drone units only.
  • The Ukrainian military described the Russian drone unit "Rubicon" as one that targets Ukrainian civilians.
  • Recent fighting involved Ukrainian drone attacks and Russian air strikes in the Kharkiv and Luhansk regions.
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ABC News
I survived a missile strike in the Strait of Hormuz, but my friend has not been found

I survived a missile strike in the Strait of Hormuz, but my friend has not been found

May 23, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A missile hit the oil tanker Skylight near the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire and chaos on board. The attack killed the ship’s captain and one crew member, Dalip Rathore, whose body has not been found, while others, including Sunil Puniya, survived. The strike is part of a larger conflict disrupting one of the world’s busiest shipping routes and affecting thousands of seafarers.

Key Facts

  • The missile struck the oil tanker Skylight near the Strait of Hormuz on March 1.
  • The ship was US-sanctioned and traveling from Dubai.
  • The missile hit the engine room, causing a fire and blackout on the ship.
  • Sunil Puniya survived, but his friend and crew member Dalip Rathore went missing and is presumed dead.
  • The Oman Navy rescued survivors from the water after the attack.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for about 20% of the world’s oil and gas shipments.
  • Since the conflict began, 38 commercial ships have been hit near the strait, causing many vessels to become stranded.
  • Over 20,000 seafarers are currently stuck in the Gulf, with many facing unpaid wages and difficult conditions.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Middle East crisis live: fate of strait of Hormuz hangs in balance as Trump claims Iran deal ‘largely negotiated’

Middle East crisis live: fate of strait of Hormuz hangs in balance as Trump claims Iran deal ‘largely negotiated’

May 23, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump announced that a peace deal with Iran is close to being finalized, which could end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iranian state media disputed Trump’s claim, saying the strait would remain under Iranian control and that no final agreement has been reached yet.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said a “Memorandum of Understanding” with Iran is nearly complete.
  • The deal aims to end the war involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
  • It would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route.
  • Negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program are expected to continue for 30 to 60 days.
  • Iran’s state-linked Fars news agency denied that an agreement was close or that the strait would open under US terms.
  • Talks have been facilitated by Pakistan and included regional leaders and Israel.
  • The deal could lead to the release of $25 billion in frozen Iranian assets.
  • There are still “last-minute disputes” that might prevent a final agreement.
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Guardian World
Venezuelan opposition leader Machado says she will run again for presidency and return from exile by late 2026

Venezuelan opposition leader Machado says she will run again for presidency and return from exile by late 2026

May 23, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said she plans to run for president again and return to Venezuela before the end of 2026. She and other opposition leaders want free and fair elections but said these will need months of preparation and changes to ensure they are democratic.

Key Facts

  • María Corina Machado is a Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner.
  • She has been living in exile since December after hiding in Venezuela for 11 months.
  • Machado aims to return to Venezuela and run for president again by late 2026.
  • Opposition leaders want elections where all Venezuelans, inside and outside the country, can vote freely.
  • Machado says fair elections need neutral election officials and no government interference.
  • Venezuela's current government barred Machado from running in the 2024 election.
  • Official results declared Nicolás Maduro the winner in 2024, but Machado’s team claims her chosen candidate won by a large margin.
  • The Trump administration has supported Maduro’s successor and has not pushed for new elections in Venezuela at this time.
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PBS NewsHour
'Fjord' starring Sebastian Stan wins the Palme d’Or at 2026 Cannes Film Festival

'Fjord' starring Sebastian Stan wins the Palme d’Or at 2026 Cannes Film Festival

May 23, 2026 • France24

Summary

The Romanian director Cristian Mungiu won the Palme d’Or, the top prize at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, for his film "Fjord," a family drama starring Sebastian Stan. The festival highlighted films about war, memory, political division, and queer identity, with several other awards given to notable movies, including the first Rwandan film to be selected at Cannes.

Key Facts

  • Cristian Mungiu, a Romanian director, won the Palme d’Or at Cannes 2026 for the film "Fjord."
  • "Fjord" is a tense family drama featuring actors Sebastian Stan and Renate Reinsve.
  • The festival recognized themes like war, memory, political division, and queer identity in many films.
  • The film "Minotaur" won the Grand Prix, another major award at Cannes.
  • Acting prizes were shared by performances in the films "All of a Sudden" and "Coward."
  • The first Rwandan film to be selected at Cannes, "Ben’Imana," won the Camera d’Or award.
  • Cannes 2026 was noted as one of the most politically focused editions in recent years.
  • The festival included discussions and coverage on cultural diversity and current global issues through cinema.
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France24
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Police Search for Missing Newborn Baby, Public Asked to Help

Police Search for Missing Newborn Baby, Public Asked to Help

May 23, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Halifax police are urgently searching for a missing newborn after a woman arrived at a hospital injured and without the baby. Four people are being questioned, and the public is asked to report any suspicious information to help find the infant or evidence.

Key Facts

  • The search began after a woman in life-threatening condition arrived at a hospital with signs of recent childbirth but no baby.
  • Halifax Regional Police have four individuals in custody for questioning but no charges yet.
  • Search efforts focus on a residential building at 214 Willett Street in Halifax.
  • Nova Scotia Ground Search and Rescue is helping with the investigation.
  • Police ask residents to check their properties and avoid the search area to not disrupt emergency workers.
  • Newborns are very vulnerable and need immediate care to survive, making time critical.
  • Over 30,000 children were reported missing in Canada in 2023 and 2024, with many cases resolved quickly but some still open.
  • Indigenous children are more often among those missing for long periods.
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Newsweek
Murder Suspected in Death of 'Virgin River' Actor Stewart McLean—Police

Murder Suspected in Death of 'Virgin River' Actor Stewart McLean—Police

May 23, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Canadian police are investigating the death of actor Stewart McLean, whose remains were found in Lions Bay, British Columbia. Authorities suspect he was murdered and have started a homicide investigation.

Key Facts

  • Stewart McLean was a 45-year-old actor known for his role in the TV series Virgin River.
  • He was reported missing on May 18, 2026, three days after last being seen at his home.
  • His remains were discovered in Lions Bay, about 20 miles north of Vancouver.
  • The Royal Canadian Mounted Police began investigating and later handed the case to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).
  • Police are reviewing evidence, security footage, and interviewing people to create a timeline of McLean’s activities before his death.
  • The exact date of his death has not been publicly shared.
  • Friends and colleagues described McLean as professional, dedicated, and aware of his surroundings.
  • Authorities ask anyone with information to contact IHIT through their hotline or email.
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Newsweek
Ebola epidemic: Ten African countries at risk

Ebola epidemic: Ten African countries at risk

May 23, 2026 • France24

Summary

The Ebola virus is spreading in parts of Africa, putting ten more countries at risk according to the Africa CDC. Uganda has reported new cases, and violence has occurred at Ebola treatment centers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Key Facts

  • The Africa CDC warns that Angola, Burundi, Central African Republic, Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Zambia are now at risk of Ebola.
  • Uganda has confirmed three new Ebola cases.
  • Three Red Cross volunteers died in eastern DRC after catching the virus in March.
  • In the Ituri region of DRC, residents attacked and burned parts of an Ebola treatment center in Mongbwalu.
  • Due to the attack, 18 people suspected of having Ebola escaped from the center.
  • Another Ebola treatment center in Rwampara, DRC, was also set on fire.
  • The Ebola outbreak was initially concentrated in DRC and Uganda but is now spreading to more countries in Africa.
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France24
Marines conduct rapid response exercise at U.S. Embassy in Venezuela's capital

Marines conduct rapid response exercise at U.S. Embassy in Venezuela's capital

May 23, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The U.S. military held a rapid response training exercise with Marines and aircraft at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela. This comes after the embassy reopened following the removal of President Nicolás Maduro in January.

Key Facts

  • Two Marine Corps Osprey aircraft, which can fly like helicopters and airplanes, landed at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas during the exercise.
  • The drill was announced by Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Yván Gil, who said it was to prepare for medical or disaster emergencies.
  • The U.S. embassy was reopened about two months before the exercise after full diplomatic ties were restored following Maduro’s ouster.
  • Some Venezuelan citizens watched the exercise near the embassy, while others protested with signs against the U.S. drill.
  • President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were captured by U.S. forces on January 3 and taken to New York to face drug charges; they deny the charges.
  • The Ospreys belonged to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263, which is aboard the USS Iwo Jima in the Caribbean.
  • Marine General Francis Donovan, head of U.S. Southern Command, observed the drill and met with Venezuelan officials on the same day.
  • Donovan previously visited Caracas in February and met with Venezuela’s defense and interior ministers.
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PBS NewsHour
Funerals for medics killed in Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon

Funerals for medics killed in Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon

May 23, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Funerals took place for paramedics who died in two Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military says it targets medical sites because they believe Hezbollah uses them to hide weapons and fighters.

Key Facts

  • Two Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon killed paramedics.
  • Funerals for the paramedics were held on the following Friday.
  • The Israeli military has attacked health facilities and medical teams in Lebanon multiple times.
  • Israel claims that Hezbollah hides weapons and fighters in medical locations.
  • The strikes and attacks have caused casualties among medical personnel in Lebanon.
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Al Jazeera
Trump says Iran deal ‘largely negotiated,’ Strait of Hormuz will be opened

Trump says Iran deal ‘largely negotiated,’ Strait of Hormuz will be opened

May 23, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump said that a deal with Iran is mostly finished and will include reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway. He made the announcement after talking with Arab leaders and said the final details of the deal will be shared soon.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said the Iran deal is “largely negotiated.”
  • The deal includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz for navigation.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is an important passage for shipping in the Middle East.
  • Trump spoke about the deal following a phone call with Arab allies in the region.
  • He stated that the last parts of the agreement are still being finalized.
  • The announcement was made on Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social.
  • The deal aims to improve relations between Iran and other countries in the region.
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The Hill
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Trump says Iran agreement ‘largely negotiated’, awaiting finalisation

Trump says Iran agreement ‘largely negotiated’, awaiting finalisation

May 23, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump said that the main parts of a ceasefire agreement involving the US, Israel, and Iran have been mostly agreed upon but still need final approval. The deal aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and involves discussions with multiple countries in the Middle East and others.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a Memorandum of Understanding has been largely negotiated to end the US-Israel conflict with Iran.
  • The agreement would include reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil shipping.
  • Final details are still being worked out by US, Iranian, and other regional negotiators.
  • Trump spoke with leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Pakistan, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Bahrain, and Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu.
  • Trump warned Iran that time was running out for a lasting ceasefire and was close to resuming attacks before Gulf countries requested a pause.
  • Pakistan’s army chief visited Iran recently and reported progress toward a final deal.
  • Iran remains cautious about talks after previous US military strikes during nuclear negotiations.
  • Fighting started on February 28 but has mostly paused since April 8, with the US continuing a blockade and Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz.
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Al Jazeera
Ebola Patients Flee After Second Treatment Tent Set on Fire—'Panic'

Ebola Patients Flee After Second Treatment Tent Set on Fire—'Panic'

May 23, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

In eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, angry residents set fire to Ebola treatment tents twice in two days, causing patients to flee and disrupting medical efforts. The outbreak involves a rare Ebola strain without approved vaccines, and health officials warn that escaped patients increase the risk of spreading the virus.

Key Facts

  • More than a dozen suspected Ebola patients escaped after a treatment tent was set on fire in Mongbwalu, DRC.
  • The treatment tent was provided by the medical aid group Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and was empty during the fire.
  • A similar incident happened in Rwampara, where protesters burned two tents and a deceased patient's body after authorities refused to release the body.
  • The Ebola outbreak involves the Bundibugyo virus, a rare strain with no approved vaccines or specific treatments.
  • The World Health Organization considers the Ebola outbreak risk in the DRC to be "very high."
  • Health officials warn that funerals without proper precautions can spread Ebola because the virus remains contagious in bodies.
  • Security forces used tear gas and warning shots to control crowds during the Rwampara protests.
  • MSF is working with local health officials to set up a 60-bed treatment center and continue care despite community fears.
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Newsweek
Trump faces growing pressure to reopen Hormuz Strait — one way or another

Trump faces growing pressure to reopen Hormuz Strait — one way or another

May 23, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump is facing calls to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, an important shipping route in the Middle East. This comes as gas prices in the U.S. rise to their highest level in almost four years. Iran is also under pressure from Qatar and Pakistan, who are acting as mediators.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway used for oil shipping in the Middle East.
  • Gas prices in the U.S. have reached their highest point in nearly four years.
  • President Trump is being urged to act to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran is involved in blocking or controlling access to the strait.
  • Qatar and Pakistan are mediators trying to influence Iran.
  • The situation affects global oil supply and prices.
  • The timing is critical as Americans prepare for the Memorial Day weekend.
  • The pressure on President Trump is coming from various sides due to the economic impact.
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The Hill
Trump says peace deal with Iran largely reached with strait of Hormuz to open

Trump says peace deal with Iran largely reached with strait of Hormuz to open

May 23, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump announced that a peace deal with Iran has been mostly agreed upon, following talks involving Pakistan, Gulf countries, and Israel. The deal is expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and includes ending the conflict started by the US and Israel in February, with final details still being worked out.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said a peace deal with Iran is largely negotiated, with final details to be announced soon.
  • The agreement would involve the US, Iran, and several other countries.
  • The Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route, will be reopened as part of the deal.
  • Pakistan has been mediating talks between the US and Iran.
  • The deal may include ending the war, negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program, lifting the US blockade on Iranian ports, and opening the strait.
  • Trump spoke with leaders from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, Pakistan, Turkey, and Israel during these discussions.
  • Iran requested the US release frozen assets and compensate for war damages in the proposals.
  • Iran's negotiator said they will not compromise on Iran’s national rights during talks.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Violence and overcrowding hampers Ebola response in DRC

Violence and overcrowding hampers Ebola response in DRC

May 23, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is hard to control because the number of patients keeps rising. Hospitals and treatment centers are full, and attacks on medical facilities are making it harder to respond.

Key Facts

  • Ebola cases are increasing in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • Hospitals and treatment centers are overcrowded with patients.
  • The response to the outbreak is slowed by attacks on medical facilities.
  • Violence in the area disrupts efforts to manage the disease.
  • Overcrowding in hospitals makes it harder to treat patients effectively.
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Al Jazeera
India’s Gen Z ‘Cockroach Party’ is going viral

India’s Gen Z ‘Cockroach Party’ is going viral

May 23, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A satirical political group named the ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ has become very popular in India after the Chief Justice compared unemployed young people to cockroaches. The group reflects frustration with joblessness, rising prices, and living costs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

Key Facts

  • The ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ is a satirical political movement in India.
  • It went viral after Chief Justice Surya Kant compared unemployed youth to cockroaches.
  • The movement highlights frustration with unemployment and economic issues.
  • Issues include inflation and the high cost of living.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government is the current administration.
  • The movement gained more than 22 million Instagram followers in six days.
  • The movement uses satire, meaning it uses humor to criticize politics and society.
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Al Jazeera
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‘Fjord’ by Romania’s Cristian Mungiu wins Cannes top film prize

‘Fjord’ by Romania’s Cristian Mungiu wins Cannes top film prize

May 23, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Romanian film "Fjord," directed by Cristian Mungiu, won the top prize, the Palme d’Or, at the Cannes Film Festival. The drama explores the challenges faced by a Christian family who moves from Romania to Norway and deals with conflicts over cultural values and the child welfare system.

Key Facts

  • "Fjord" is a drama about a Christian family relocating from Romania to Norway.
  • The story is based on real events involving child services taking children from parents for spanking.
  • The movie questions the values of the Norwegian society and its child welfare system.
  • Cristian Mungiu won his second Palme d’Or with this film; his first was in 2007 for "4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days."
  • The Russian film "Minotaur" won the Grand Prix, the second prize at Cannes.
  • Virginie Efira and Tao Okamoto won the best female performance award for "All of a Sudden."
  • Emmanuel Macchia and Valentin Campagne shared the best male actor award for the film "Coward."
  • Marie-Clementine Dusabejambo from Rwanda won the Camera d’Or for best first film for "Ben’Imana."
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Al Jazeera
More than 1.5 million pilgrims brave fierce Mecca heat ahead of Hajj

More than 1.5 million pilgrims brave fierce Mecca heat ahead of Hajj

May 23, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

More than 1.5 million pilgrims arrived in Mecca for the Hajj pilgrimage, facing temperatures near 47°C (117°F). Saudi Arabia has increased shaded areas at the Holy Mosques to help people stay cooler after extreme heat caused many deaths in 2024.

Key Facts

  • The Hajj pilgrimage runs from May 24 to May 29.
  • Temperatures in Mecca reached nearly 47°C during this period.
  • More than 1.5 million pilgrims took part in the Hajj.
  • Pilgrims used umbrellas and drank water to cope with the heat.
  • Saudi Arabia increased shaded areas around the Holy Mosques by five times since 2024.
  • In 2024, extreme heat caused the deaths of over 1,300 people during Hajj.
  • The expansion of shade aims to reduce heat-related health risks for pilgrims.
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