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Watch: Did Trump and Putin get the same treatment in China?

Watch: Did Trump and Putin get the same treatment in China?

May 20, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

China’s President Xi Jinping gave Russian President Vladimir Putin a grand welcome ceremony in Beijing, similar to the one recently held for US President Donald Trump. These ceremonies highlight China’s diplomatic relations with both countries despite having different political ties with Russia and the United States.

Key Facts

  • Xi Jinping hosted Vladimir Putin in Beijing with a big ceremony including flags, a marching band, and cheering children.
  • Donald Trump received a nearly identical welcome ceremony in Beijing just a week earlier.
  • China has very different political and diplomatic relationships with Russia and the United States.
  • Such ceremonies are symbolic gestures that show respect and help understand the diplomatic stance between countries.
  • The visits by both leaders took place shortly before this report.
  • The Chinese welcome ceremonies reflect China’s approach to balancing relations with two major world powers.
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BBC Top Stories BBC US
For communist Cuba, it’s the beginning of the end

For communist Cuba, it’s the beginning of the end

May 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The United States has decided to take steps aimed at ending the current government system in Cuba. This government is described as a dictatorship.

Key Facts

  • The United States wants to change the political system in Cuba.
  • The current Cuban government is called a dictatorship.
  • The US effort signals a significant shift in its policy toward Cuba.
  • No specific actions or plans from the US were detailed in the statement.
  • The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the US and Cuba.
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The Hill
Why Ebola keeps returning to DRC: A heartbreaking human toll

Why Ebola keeps returning to DRC: A heartbreaking human toll

May 20, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing its seventeenth Ebola outbreak in 50 years, with the newest cases starting in the mining town of Mongbwalu. The outbreaks continue partly because of weak healthcare, poverty, unsafe food habits, and difficulty accessing clean water and hospitals, especially in remote areas.

Key Facts

  • The latest Ebola outbreak began in Mongbwalu, an eastern mining town in the DRC.
  • The country has experienced 17 Ebola outbreaks over the past 50 years.
  • Unsafe food practices, such as eating raw or undercooked meat, contribute to the spread.
  • Many remote areas lack nearby hospitals, and some healthcare staff may not be well trained.
  • Access to clean water is very limited in the DRC.
  • The DRC’s healthcare system requires people to pay for treatment, which prevents many from seeking care.
  • The Africa CDC sent experts to help fight the current outbreak by improving epidemiology, data, and community engagement.
  • Past outbreaks, like the one from 2018 to 2020, caused thousands of deaths, showing ongoing vulnerability.
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Al Jazeera
US doctor who contracted Ebola in the DRC flown to Germany for treatment

US doctor who contracted Ebola in the DRC flown to Germany for treatment

May 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

An American doctor who caught Ebola while working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was flown to Germany for treatment, along with his family. The World Health Organization (WHO) says the Ebola outbreak in the DRC is growing quickly and is a serious health emergency.

Key Facts

  • The Ebola outbreak in the DRC involves the Bundibugyo virus, which currently has no approved treatment or vaccine.
  • At least 134 people have died and over 500 cases have been reported so far.
  • The infected doctor is Peter Stafford, a surgeon working with a Christian missionary group named Serge.
  • Stafford unknowingly operated on a patient who had Ebola but was not diagnosed before the outbreak was known.
  • Stafford’s wife and four children are also being checked for Ebola symptoms.
  • The patient Stafford operated on died before being tested for Ebola.
  • The outbreak has spread to urban areas and also reached neighboring Uganda, but WHO says a global pandemic is unlikely.
  • WHO expects the number of cases and deaths to keep rising and calls for an international response.
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Guardian World
Princess Kate's Star Visit Comes as Meghan Markle Dips on TikTok

Princess Kate's Star Visit Comes as Meghan Markle Dips on TikTok

May 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Princess Kate received a strong positive reaction during a recent visit to Italy, generating popular posts on social media. Meanwhile, Meghan Markle’s speech in Geneva on child safety and social media had much less engagement on platforms like TikTok.

Key Facts

  • Princess Kate visited Italy and was warmly welcomed by the public.
  • Kate’s visit sparked viral social media posts showing high audience interest.
  • Meghan Markle spoke in Geneva at the World Health Organization event about protecting children on digital platforms.
  • Meghan’s speech focused on child safety and the impact of social media.
  • Despite the important topic, Meghan’s related posts on TikTok received relatively low likes and views.
  • Meghan is not active personally on TikTok.
  • Meghan and Prince Harry have previously spoken about facing online trolling and racist abuse.
  • Recent popular posts mentioning Meghan often do not focus directly on her or feature unrelated or fake content.
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Newsweek
Harry Styles tour to review staging after fan complaints

Harry Styles tour to review staging after fan complaints

May 20, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Harry Styles’ world tour is reviewing its stage design after some fans complained they could not see him well during concerts in Amsterdam. The tour team said they will adjust areas blocking views while keeping safety rules in mind, aiming to improve the experience for upcoming shows.

Key Facts

  • Fans complained that the 10-foot tall walkways on stage blocked their view of Harry Styles.
  • The stage includes a "pit" area with four sections where fans stand close while Styles performs around them.
  • The tour started in Amsterdam with 10 shows, but some fans felt they only caught glimpses of the singer.
  • The design aimed to let fans move around rather than stay in one spot, creating a more open experience.
  • Adjustments to restricted viewing areas are planned before the London shows in June and July.
  • The tour has 67 dates but visits only seven cities, with long runs in London, Amsterdam, and New York City.
  • Some fans also complained about high ticket prices combined with travel and hotel costs.
  • Fans who attended early shows feel they experienced problems that future attendees may avoid after changes are made.
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BBC Top Stories
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Beer bin warning for metal fans heading to Download

Beer bin warning for metal fans heading to Download

May 20, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The Download Festival will start on June 10 at Donington Park, Castle Donington. East Midlands Railway warned fans not to bring large containers like wheelie bins full of beer on trains due to safety and space issues. They also said some train services will change because of track work during the festival.

Key Facts

  • Download Festival begins on June 10 at Donington Park, Castle Donington.
  • Thousands of metal and rock music fans are expected to attend.
  • East Midlands Railway will have a reduced train timetable and use replacement buses because of track maintenance.
  • Fans should only bring luggage they can carry easily; luggage trolleys and large containers are not allowed on trains.
  • Last year, some fans tried to bring wheelie bins full of beer on the trains.
  • Staff will be available at stations to help travelers without large containers.
  • Boot-cleaning brushes will be provided for muddy shoes after the festival.
  • East Midlands Airport travelers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys during the festival dates.
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BBC Top Stories
The US must not misread a desperate, cornered Iran

The US must not misread a desperate, cornered Iran

May 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The article warns that the United States might misunderstand Iran’s current situation if it sees Iran only as a strong country trying to change global rules. Instead, Iran is described as an insecure government that is trying hard to survive. Misjudging this could lead to serious problems.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. currently views Iran as a stable power aiming to change international rules.
  • Iran is actually described as an insecure regime focused on survival.
  • If the U.S. misreads Iran’s intentions, it could lead to wrong decisions.
  • This misunderstanding may have serious consequences for U.S. policy.
  • Iran’s situation is more about internal survival than just external influence.
  • The article suggests Washington needs to reconsider how it views Iran’s actions.
  • The focus is on the risks of misjudging Iran’s true state and motivations.
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The Hill
Justice Department expected to announce charges against Raul Castro

Justice Department expected to announce charges against Raul Castro

May 20, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

The U.S. Justice Department is expected to announce charges against Raul Castro, including murder. The charges relate to incidents in the 1990s when two planes carrying humanitarian aid were shot down, killing three American pilots.

Key Facts

  • Charges against Raul Castro are expected today by the U.S. Justice Department.
  • The charges will likely include murder.
  • The case involves the shooting down of two planes in the 1990s.
  • The planes were carrying humanitarian aid to migrants.
  • Three American pilots died in these incidents.
  • A press conference will be held this afternoon to announce the charges.
  • Raul Castro was seen publicly waving a Cuban flag during a May Day parade in 2025.
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ABC News
Mandatory digital ID launch called 'a fiasco' by scrutiny committee

Mandatory digital ID launch called 'a fiasco' by scrutiny committee

May 20, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK government initially planned to make digital ID mandatory for all adults but faced strong public backlash and protests. After criticism and a review by the Home Affairs Committee, the government changed the plan to a voluntary digital ID app designed to simplify verification of identity and work rights.

Key Facts

  • The government announced a mandatory digital ID called "Britcard" in September last year.
  • Public protests and privacy concerns quickly arose.
  • The Home Affairs Committee called the initial launch "a fiasco" due to poor communication and lack of public trust.
  • By January, mandatory digital ID plans were dropped, making it voluntary.
  • The digital ID app will store details like name, birthdate, nationality, residency status, and photo.
  • The government aims to prevent illegal working by making ID verification easier.
  • A petition against mandatory digital ID gathered 3 million signatures over privacy fears.
  • The government has committed not to create a centralized database for digital IDs.
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BBC Top Stories
As Palestinians mark Nakba, Israelis celebrate conquest of East Jerusalem

As Palestinians mark Nakba, Israelis celebrate conquest of East Jerusalem

May 20, 2026 • France24

Summary

On May 15, Palestinians remember Nakba, which means "catastrophe" in Arabic, marking when many Palestinians were forced to leave their homes in 1948 during the creation of Israel. At the same time, Israelis celebrate the "reunification of Jerusalem," referring to Israel taking control of East Jerusalem in 1967, a part of the city previously inhabited by Palestinians.

Key Facts

  • Nakba refers to the forced removal of Palestinians in 1948 during the founding of Israel.
  • Palestinians mark this day to remember their loss and displacement.
  • Israelis celebrate "reunification of Jerusalem," marking when Israel gained control over East Jerusalem in 1967.
  • East Jerusalem was previously the Palestinian part of the city before 1967.
  • The events represent two different and conflicting historical stories about the same land.
  • There are ongoing questions about whether these two narratives can be reconciled.
  • The article comes from a report by FRANCE 24 journalists Claire Duhamel and Amira Souilem.
  • The Israeli-Palestinian conflict involves disputes over territory, history, and identity.
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France24
Xi basks in spotlight as he hosts Putin days after Trump

Xi basks in spotlight as he hosts Putin days after Trump

May 20, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Chinese leader Xi Jinping recently hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin just days after meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. These visits show China's growing influence in global affairs, with Xi positioned as a central figure invited by leaders from both the East and West.

Key Facts

  • Xi Jinping welcomed Vladimir Putin with a formal ceremony similar to the one held for President Trump days earlier.
  • Putin has visited China more than 20 times since 2000 and relies heavily on China amid Western sanctions over the Ukraine conflict.
  • China is Russia’s biggest customer for oil and gas and its top trading partner.
  • Despite many agreements signed during Putin’s visit, Russia’s long-delayed gas pipeline to China remains unapproved.
  • China’s economy and diplomatic strength have grown, giving Xi leverage in talks with both Russia and the U.S.
  • Both Putin and President Trump are dealing with costly wars that have impacted their countries and international standing.
  • China has shifted from near diplomatic isolation five years ago to being a key player in global trade and diplomacy today.
  • International criticism over China’s human rights issues and aggressive diplomacy style did not stop its rise in global influence.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
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US test fires mobile rocket system near Mount Fuji in rapid 'shoot and scoot' drill

US test fires mobile rocket system near Mount Fuji in rapid 'shoot and scoot' drill

May 20, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

U.S. Marines fired a dozen rockets from a mobile launcher called HIMARS near Mount Fuji in Japan during a training exercise. This system can quickly shoot rockets and then move to avoid enemy attacks, and it is important for U.S. military strategy, especially in the Pacific region.

Key Facts

  • The exercise took place at Camp Fuji, near Mount Fuji, Japan.
  • HIMARS stands for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and is mounted on a military truck.
  • It allows troops to fire rockets rapidly and then move to a new location, using "shoot and scoot" tactics.
  • HIMARS has been used in conflicts like Iraq and Afghanistan.
  • Recently, HIMARS was used in an attack on Iran with new long-range, precision-guided rockets.
  • The system's range and mobility are seen as helpful to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
  • During the exercise, only dummy rockets were fired.
  • The drill was coordinated with Japanese military forces and involved safety measures like closing a public road.
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ABC News
Totó la Momposina, vocalist and Colombian music legend, dies aged 85

Totó la Momposina, vocalist and Colombian music legend, dies aged 85

May 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Totó la Momposina, a famous Colombian singer known for sharing traditional Colombian music worldwide, died at age 85 from a heart attack. She helped bring folk music styles like cumbia to international audiences and influenced many younger artists globally.

Key Facts

  • Totó la Momposina was born Sonia Bazanta Vides in 1940 in northern Colombia.
  • She became known for performing traditional Colombian music styles such as cumbia, porro, chandé, and bullerengue.
  • Her music blended African and Indigenous Colombian influences with strong rhythms.
  • She performed internationally, including a notable concert at New York’s Radio City Music Hall in 1974.
  • Political issues caused her to flee Colombia in 1979; she lived in France and performed on streets and public places.
  • She began recording albums in the 1980s and gained wider fame through Real World Records in the 1990s.
  • Totó received a lifetime achievement award at the Latin Grammys in 2013 and was honored by the French government in 2016.
  • Many popular artists, including Timbaland, Jay-Z, and Calle 13, have sampled her music in their songs.
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Guardian World
Raúl Castro indictment expected to be announced in Miami today, sources say

Raúl Castro indictment expected to be announced in Miami today, sources say

May 20, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The U.S. Justice Department is expected to announce criminal charges against Raúl Castro, Cuba's former leader, related to a 1996 incident where Cuban forces shot down planes flown by a humanitarian group called Brothers to the Rescue. The announcement will take place in Miami during a ceremony honoring the victims of that attack.

Key Facts

  • Raúl Castro is 94 years old and the brother of Fidel Castro.
  • He is being charged for his role in the 1996 shootdown of planes flown by Brothers to the Rescue, a humanitarian group.
  • The incident resulted in deaths and has been a point of tension between the U.S. and Cuba.
  • The Justice Department scheduled the announcement at Miami’s Freedom Tower during a victim remembrance event.
  • Jose Basulto, founder of Brothers to the Rescue, expressed hope that the indictment would be made public.
  • Raúl Castro stepped down as head of Cuba’s Communist Party in 2021 but remains influential.
  • The U.S. government considers this case significant in addressing past actions by Cuba’s leadership.
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CBS News
San Diego Mosque Suspects’ Alleged Writings Surface Online

San Diego Mosque Suspects’ Alleged Writings Surface Online

May 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Two teenagers in San Diego attacked a mosque, killing three people before taking their own lives. Investigators found writings online where the suspects praised a previous mosque attacker and expressed hateful views toward multiple groups.

Key Facts

  • Cain Clark, 17, and Caleb Vazquez, 18, fatally shot three people at the Islamic Center of San Diego before killing themselves.
  • The suspects’ alleged writings, found online, show hateful beliefs about Muslims, Jews, Black people, women, LGBTQ+ community, and political groups.
  • They called themselves the “Sons of Tarrant,” referencing Brenton Tarrant, who killed 51 people in New Zealand in 2019.
  • Vazquez claimed membership in the “incel” community, which includes men who feel denied romantic or sexual relationships.
  • The attackers praised Adolf Hitler and other mass killers as inspirations.
  • A victim, Amin Abdullah, resisted the shooters and slowed them down, helping protect about 140 schoolchildren nearby.
  • The suspects likely met and radicalized online but details of their radicalization are still under investigation.
  • Video of the shooting was livestreamed and later shared on a website that posts violent content.
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Newsweek
Map Shows US Cities That Could Go Underwater if Sea Levels Rise 3 Meters

Map Shows US Cities That Could Go Underwater if Sea Levels Rise 3 Meters

May 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Scientists warn that the collapse of Antarctica’s Thwaites Glacier could cause sea levels to rise by nearly 3 meters (about 10 feet) over time. This rise in sea levels would flood large parts of the U.S. coastline, putting many cities at risk of severe flooding or partial underwater submersion.

Key Facts

  • The Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica is becoming unstable and losing ice rapidly.
  • Its collapse could add about 65 centimeters (2 feet) to sea levels initially.
  • This collapse might trigger further melting of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, potentially raising sea levels by up to 3 meters.
  • NOAA maps show that this rise would flood many U.S. coastal cities, including Jacksonville, Tampa, New Orleans, New York City, and parts of California.
  • Florida and the Gulf Coast are especially vulnerable to flooding and land loss.
  • Important infrastructure like airports and sports stadiums could be affected.
  • The glacier has lost over 1 trillion tons of ice since 2000.
  • The floating part of the glacier is breaking apart and melting faster due to warm seawater.
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Newsweek
WHO says Ebola risks high for region, but not a "pandemic emergency"

WHO says Ebola risks high for region, but not a "pandemic emergency"

May 20, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) says the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a serious threat in the region but not yet a global pandemic. So far, 51 cases have been confirmed in DRC and two in Uganda, with ongoing investigations about the outbreak’s start and efforts to control its spread.

Key Facts

  • The Ebola outbreak is mainly in eastern DRC, especially in Ituri and North Kivu provinces.
  • WHO confirms 51 cases in DRC and 2 cases in Uganda, including one death in Uganda’s capital, Kampala.
  • Nearly 600 suspected cases and 139 suspected deaths have been reported, suggesting the outbreak is larger than confirmed cases show.
  • The outbreak likely began a couple of months ago, but investigations are still ongoing.
  • WHO declared a public health emergency of international concern but said the outbreak does not meet the threshold for a pandemic emergency.
  • A U.S. doctor infected with Ebola was evacuated from DRC to Germany for treatment.
  • WHO officials emphasize efforts to track contacts, isolate cases, and provide care.
  • The WHO responded to criticism from U.S. officials by explaining its role is to support countries, not replace their outbreak responses.
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CBS News
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Drakeford links Welsh Labour's collapse to lack of new powers from UK government

Drakeford links Welsh Labour's collapse to lack of new powers from UK government

May 20, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Former Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford said the UK Labour government has offered Wales very few new powers since 2024, which he believes contributed to Welsh Labour's defeat in the recent Senedd election. He criticized Welsh Labour MPs in Westminster for not pushing more devolution, while some within Welsh Labour blamed Drakeford's leadership for the loss.

Key Facts

  • Mark Drakeford led Welsh Labour to victory in 2021 but stepped down as first minister in 2024.
  • Welsh Labour lost control of the Welsh government in the May 2024 Senedd election and dropped to third place.
  • Drakeford says few new powers were given to Wales by the UK Labour government from 2024, weakening Labour’s appeal.
  • Welsh Labour previously supported stronger devolution, meaning more control over Welsh affairs within the UK.
  • Some Welsh Labour members blame Drakeford’s leadership and decisions like the 20mph law and NHS waiting lists for the defeat.
  • The UK Labour government has made some changes, including reforms in Welsh funding and youth justice powers.
  • Welsh Labour still wants more powers over areas like policing, justice, and the Crown Estate but lacks support from Labour MPs in Westminster.
  • Drakeford called on UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to set a timetable for his resignation.
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BBC Top Stories
Beijing as centre stage: Trump & Putin mark 'series of diplomatic visits to the court of Xi Jinping'

Beijing as centre stage: Trump & Putin mark 'series of diplomatic visits to the court of Xi Jinping'

May 20, 2026 • France24

Summary

President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have both recently visited Beijing, showing China's growing role in international diplomacy. Experts note that the visits highlight how the Ukraine and Iran conflicts are affecting the relationship between China and Russia.

Key Facts

  • President Trump visited China shortly before President Putin’s visit to Beijing.
  • The timing of these visits shows China’s increasing importance in world diplomacy.
  • The wars in Ukraine and Iran are influencing how China and Russia work together.
  • China buys a large part of Russia’s exports, but Russia makes up only 4% of China’s international trade.
  • Leaders from China and Russia have praised their strong partnership during meetings in Beijing.
  • China is seen as a more stable power while the US and Russia are involved in ongoing conflicts.
  • Discussions between China and Russia focus heavily on trade and political cooperation.
  • The visits aim to demonstrate China’s central role in global affairs and its relationships with both the US and Russia.
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France24
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