World News

Lithuania's leaders take shelter during drone air alert

May 20, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Lithuanian leaders and parliament members took shelter during a drone air alert in Vilnius, causing flights and travel to stop temporarily. The alert followed recent drone incidents over the Baltic states, involving drones suspected to be from Ukraine and interference blamed on Russia.

Key Facts

Lithuania's president and prime minister went to emergency shelters during a drone air alert.
The alert stopped flights and paused road and rail travel in the capital city, Vilnius.
It is unclear who sent the drone that triggered the alert.
NATO jets were deployed but could not find the drone over Lithuania.
Estonia shot down a suspected Ukrainian drone, believed to have been redirected by Russian electronic interference.
Ukraine apologized for drones accidentally entering Baltic airspace and blamed Russia for redirecting its drones.
Latvia’s Prime Minister resigned after a political crisis related to drones entering Latvian territory.
Russia accused the Baltic states of allowing Ukraine to use their airspace to strike Russia, which the Baltic countries deny.

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BBC World BBC Top Stories

California Fires Update: Where Each Blaze Stands as Thousands Evacuated

May 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Multiple fast-moving wildfires are burning across many counties in California, forcing thousands of people to evacuate quickly. Fire crews are working hard to contain the fires, but conditions are changing rapidly, and smoke is spreading, creating health risks and travel problems.

Key Facts

Thirteen wildfires have been reported across several California counties; two of these fires are now fully contained.
Counties affected include Santa Barbara, Kern, Ventura, Riverside, San Diego, Merced, Imperial, Los Angeles, and Siskiyou.
Evacuation orders have been given to residents in several areas due to immediate life threats from the fires.
Shelters have been set up in affected counties to assist evacuees.
People under evacuation orders are advised to leave immediately and bring essentials like ID, medications, masks for smoke, and pet supplies.
Fire containment levels vary; for example, the Santa Rosa Island Fire is 26% contained, and the River Fire near Bakersfield is 15% contained.
Some fires are difficult for crews to access due to remote locations and wind-driven fire behavior.
Authorities emphasize following road closures and safety instructions closely during evacuation.

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Newsweek

ICE Reveals World Cup Operations Amid Struggling Ticket Sales

May 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will help with security during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Officials plan to focus on stopping fake goods and human trafficking as large crowds gather for the event.

Key Facts

ICE will play a role in security during the 2026 World Cup.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin spoke about the risks of counterfeit products and human trafficking at big events.
ICE’s investigative branch, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), will work daily during the tournament.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will also assist in tackling illegal activities.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) oversees ICE, HSI, and CBP.
The announcement came as ticket sales for the tournament are lower than expected.
Large events like the World Cup can attract various criminal activities.
Details may be updated as the event approaches.

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Newsweek

Blinded and broken, Sunny the owl becomes another casualty of Russia’s war

May 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Russia’s war in Ukraine has harmed wildlife, especially birds. An owl named Sunny was injured by drone attacks and is now being cared for by a volunteer while other birds and their habitats are also suffering due to the conflict.

Key Facts

In February, Russian kamikaze drones attacked the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, causing damage and deaths.
A long-eared owl named Sunny was blinded in one eye and had his wing broken by the attack; his wing was later amputated.
Sunny is currently recovering with a volunteer biologist, Veronica Konkova, who rescues injured birds.
Thousands of birds are trapped in nets and cables set up near the frontlines to stop enemy drones, causing death or injury.
Russian attacks have damaged nature reserves and breeding grounds along the Dnipro River.
The destruction of the Kakhovka dam caused severe flooding and lowered water levels, reducing birds’ feeding areas.
Due to the war and habitat loss, many bird species have disappeared from important wildlife areas.
Some birds, like white storks, are changing behavior by nesting in new places like landfills because their natural food sources are gone.

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Guardian World

Iran threatens war "beyond the region" if U.S. launches new attacks

May 20, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that if the U.S. or Israel attack Iran again, the conflict could spread beyond the Middle East with strong retaliation. President Donald Trump said he was close to ordering new strikes on Iran but held back after allies expressed hope for peace talks.

Key Facts

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard threatens to expand war beyond the region if attacked again by the U.S. or Israel.
The Guard said it has not yet used all of its military capabilities.
President Trump was "an hour away" from launching new strikes on Iran but stopped after allies requested patience.
China’s President Xi Jinping urged for an urgent ceasefire during a summit with Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
A South Korean oil tanker recently passed the Strait of Hormuz with Iran’s approval, the first since the Iran war began.
A South Korean ship was hit by unknown aircraft near the Strait of Hormuz in early May; Iran denied involvement.
South Korea condemned the attack and called for an investigation to find those responsible.
The Iran war is now in its 82nd day, with growing tensions and efforts toward peace talks ongoing.

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CBS News

UK eases sanctions on Russian oil imports as fuel prices soar

May 20, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The UK government has eased sanctions to allow imports of Russian jet fuel and diesel refined in other countries due to rising fuel prices linked to the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This new permission is open-ended but will be reviewed regularly, and it follows a US decision to extend a similar waiver on Russian oil.

Key Facts

The UK now allows imports of Russian jet fuel and diesel refined in countries like India and Turkiye.
This trade licence started Wednesday and has no fixed end date but will be checked periodically.
The UK also gave a temporary licence for some Russian liquefied natural gas imports.
Previous UK sanctions targeted thousands of Russian individuals, companies, and oil exports after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.
The US extended a waiver allowing Russian oil shipments already on the sea to enter its markets, citing disruptions from the Iran conflict.
The European Union and some officials criticized the easing of sanctions, saying it reduces pressure on Russia.
The UK government said the changes are limited in time and specific to this situation.
Opposition Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the UK government for relaxing sanctions after supporting Ukraine for 18 months.

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Al Jazeera

Philippines top court rejects bid to block arrest of senator wanted by ICC

May 20, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Philippine Supreme Court ruled against blocking the arrest of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes related to the country’s drug war. The ruling allows Philippine authorities to proceed with his arrest while other legal questions remain unresolved.

Key Facts

Senator Ronald dela Rosa is wanted by the ICC for crimes against humanity linked to the Philippines’ “war on drugs” from 2016 to 2022.
The ICC is based in The Hague and investigates serious international crimes such as crimes against humanity.
The Philippine Supreme Court denied a petition that tried to stop the arrest of dela Rosa based on the ICC’s warrant.
Dela Rosa has denied involvement in illegal killings during the drug crackdown.
He stayed hidden for six months before coming out last week and taking refuge in the Senate, then fled after a shooting between government agents and Senate security.
The Philippine government will follow the Supreme Court ruling but leaves enforcement details to the Department of Justice.
The ICC estimates that 12,000 to 30,000 people died during the drug war, which was led by then-President Rodrigo Duterte and enforced by dela Rosa when he was police chief.
Rodrigo Duterte is also accused by the ICC, has been in ICC custody since March 2025, and denies wrongdoing.

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Al Jazeera

At least 80% responsibility for ill health in old age down to individual, says study

May 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A new report from UK experts says individuals are at least 80% responsible for their health problems in old age, suggesting people can control how long and well they live. Some experts agree but warn this view overlooks how poverty, pollution, and government policies also influence health.

Key Facts

The report claims personal choices cause 80% of ill health in older age.
It was presented at the Smart Ageing Summit in Oxford.
The study was created by UK experts in medicine, ageing, and policy.
Some experts say this idea is too simple and ignores social and economic factors.
The authors want the government to regulate alcohol like it does smoking.
Critics argue that health is affected by factors like poverty and access to care.
The report cites research showing lifestyle and environment strongly affect lifespan.
The lead author believes the idea gives people hope because they can take control of their health.

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Guardian World

MPs ask Channel 4 for answers over 'horrifying' Married At First Sight allegations

May 20, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A group of UK Members of Parliament (MPs) has asked Channel 4 for explanations after serious allegations emerged about the reality show Married at First Sight UK. Some participants have claimed they were raped or forced into unwanted sex acts by their on-screen partners. The MPs are also questioning the TV regulator Ofcom about its role in addressing these issues.

Key Facts

Two women said they were raped by their husbands on the show, and a third claimed non-consensual sex.
The House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee sent letters to Channel 4 and Ofcom asking about their responses.
The MPs want to know how Channel 4 handles complaints and protects participants in reality TV.
Channel 4 started an outside review of participant welfare after the allegations.
Channel 4’s chief executive said the broadcaster acted quickly and carefully with participant safety in mind.
The production company for the show claims its welfare system is top quality and handled cases properly.
Married at First Sight UK is a show where strangers marry in staged ceremonies and live together while being filmed.
Ofcom is asked about its powers to investigate and whether it will start its own inquiry into these allegations.

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BBC Top Stories

US and Israel planned to install Ahmadinejad as Iranian leader, NYT says

May 20, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States and Israel planned to replace Iran’s government with former hardline President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad during a war on Iran. The plan failed after an Israeli strike meant to free Ahmadinejad from house arrest wounded him, and he later stopped cooperating and disappeared.

Key Facts

The US and Israel aimed to install Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as Iran’s leader during a conflict.
Ahmadinejad was under house arrest and closely watched by Iranian authorities.
An Israeli strike targeted Ahmadinejad’s home to free him but wounded him instead.
Ahmadinejad survived but stopped working with the US and Israel after the attack.
He previously served as Iran’s president from 2005 to 2013 and held strong anti-US and anti-Israel views.
Ahmadinejad praised President Donald Trump in 2019 and suggested better relations between Iran and the US.
The US hoped to replicate a successful raid on Venezuela’s leader to remove Iran’s leadership.
Ahmadinejad had conflicts with Iran’s current regime and was barred from elections and restricted in movement.

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Al Jazeera

Iran Promises 'Many More Surprises' For US If Strikes Resume

May 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Iran warned the U.S. that it has many surprises ready if American attacks start again, even as talks for a peace deal continue. President Donald Trump delayed planned strikes after regional leaders and mediators worked toward ending the conflict, but both sides remain ready for possible renewed fighting.

Key Facts

Iran threatened more actions if the U.S. resumes military strikes.
President Trump paused a planned attack after leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE persuaded him to consider peace.
Pakistan is helping mediate talks and recently passed a new peace proposal to U.S. negotiators.
A fragile ceasefire has been in place since early April but has seen brief military exchanges.
Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping route, and has limited ships passing through.
The U.S. continues to enforce a blockade on Iranian ports, turning away ships.
Iran’s peace proposal includes allowing it to enrich uranium and the U.S. lifting its blockade.
President Trump said Iran is eager for a deal but that current written terms differ from what was discussed.

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Newsweek

WHO says risk of global spread of Ebola outbreak is low, but high at national, regional levels

May 20, 2026 • AP News

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) says the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda poses a high risk within those countries and nearby areas but a low risk of spreading worldwide. So far, 51 cases have been confirmed in Congo and 2 in Uganda, with many more suspected cases being investigated.

Key Facts

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke about the Ebola outbreak on Wednesday.
There are 51 confirmed Ebola cases in northern Congo, mainly in Ituri and North Kivu provinces.
Uganda has reported 2 confirmed Ebola cases in its capital, Kampala.
Nearly 600 suspected Ebola cases are being monitored, with 139 more suspected cases also noted.
WHO believes the actual number of cases may be higher than confirmed numbers.
The risk of Ebola spreading globally is low, but the risk remains high within affected countries and their regions.
Health officials expect the number of Ebola cases to increase.

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AP News

WATCH: Inside the world of celebrity body doubles

May 20, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

The article explores the work of celebrity body doubles. It shows how these doubles stand in for famous people during movies, TV shows, and public events.

Key Facts

Celebrity body doubles are people who look like celebrities.
They help in scenes where the real celebrity cannot or should not appear.
Doubles can be used in movies, TV, or public appearances.
Their job requires matching the celebrity’s movements and style.
This helps keep the celebrity safe and private.
Sometimes doubles perform stunts or risky actions.
The article includes a report by ABC News’ Hanna Battah.

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ABC News

WHO says risk of global Ebola spread is low, but high at national, regional levels

May 20, 2026 • France24

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) says the risk of Ebola spreading globally is low, but the danger is high within affected countries and nearby regions. The outbreak involves a rare Ebola strain in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, with dozens of confirmed and hundreds of suspected cases.

Key Facts

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reported 51 confirmed Ebola cases in Congo’s Ituri and North Kivu provinces.
Uganda has confirmed 2 cases in its capital, Kampala.
There are almost 600 suspected cases and 139 suspected deaths linked to the outbreak.
The Ebola strain involved is the rare Bundibugyo type, for which no approved vaccines or medicines currently exist.
The outbreak was detected late because initial tests checked for a more common Ebola type and came back negative.
WHO declared the situation a public health emergency of international concern but not a pandemic.
Congo is expecting experimental vaccines for other Ebola types from the US and UK, but these take time to test and use.
Ebola spreads through contact with body fluids and causes severe symptoms, often leading to death.

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France24

Trump-Carney feud moves into military realm

May 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The U.S. Department of Defense said it will leave a joint military board shared with Canada, increasing tensions between President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. While Prime Minister Carney tried to minimize the issue, many people in Canada reacted strongly against the U.S. decision.

Key Facts

The Pentagon announced the U.S. is leaving a joint military board with Canada.
This move adds to ongoing tensions between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Prime Minister Carney publicly downplayed the significance of the U.S. withdrawal.
Some people and officials in Canada reacted angrily to the U.S. decision.
The joint military board involves cooperation on defense matters between the two countries.
The decision to pull out signals a shift in U.S.-Canada military relations during President Trump's term.
No details were shared about how this change will affect future military coordination.

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The Hill

‘Late Show’ no more: Late-night TV’s future uncertain as Colbert bows out

May 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Stephen Colbert is ending his time as host of "The Late Show" this week. CBS is canceling the show, which started in 1993 with David Letterman. This change reflects a shrinking late-night TV scene that has become more political over time.

Key Facts

Stephen Colbert will host his final episode of "The Late Show" this week.
CBS announced it is canceling "The Late Show."
The show began in 1993 with David Letterman as the original host.
Late-night TV shows have been reducing in number recently.
Political topics have become more common in late-night TV.
The future of late-night television looks uncertain after these changes.

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The Hill

Israeli minister orders West Bank hamlet evicted after hearing he may face arrest warrant overseas

May 20, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Israel’s finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, ordered the eviction of the Palestinian village Khan al-Ahmar in the West Bank. He said this move responds to reports that he might face an international arrest warrant for war crimes.

Key Facts

Bezalel Smotrich is Israel’s finance minister and oversees West Bank settlement policy.
He ordered the immediate evacuation of the Palestinian Bedouin village Khan al-Ahmar.
Smotrich stated the eviction is a response to possible war crimes arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The ICC keeps its arrest warrant plans secret and has previously issued warrants for other Israeli leaders like Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Israel does not accept the ICC’s authority but the warrants may limit international travel for those targeted.
Khan al-Ahmar has been in a legal battle for years and lost legal protection in 2018 after Israel’s Supreme Court rejected appeals against its demolition.
The village is home to about 200 Palestinians and has an EU-funded school.
Critics say the demolition efforts are part of a larger plan to expand Israeli settlements in the central West Bank and remove Palestinians.

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AP News

Residents of Lithuania’s capital told to shelter as drone alarm underlines NATO’s eastern jitters

May 20, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Residents of Vilnius, Lithuania, were told to take shelter due to an alarm about drones near the border with Belarus. The alert lasted about an hour, leading to the closure of the Vilnius Airport airspace and causing political leaders to move to safe places amid ongoing tensions related to Russia’s war with Ukraine.

Key Facts

An emergency military alert instructed people in Vilnius to “immediately head to a shelter or a safe place.”
President Gitanas Nauseda and Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene moved to shelters during the alarm.
Lithuania’s parliament, the Seimas, was evacuated temporarily.
The alert was triggered by detected drone activity in Belarus, with no drones seen in Lithuania itself.
Lithuania borders Belarus and Russia's Kaliningrad exclave, making it sensitive to regional conflicts.
Ukrainian drones have crossed or fallen in NATO territory recently, causing concerns and accusations of electronic interference.
Russia has threatened retaliation if Baltic countries support Ukrainian drone attacks.
Political fallout related to drone incidents has occurred in neighboring Latvia, including resignations of top officials.

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AP News

Ukraine ally Britain eases sanctions on Russian oil as fuel prices surge over Iran conflict

May 20, 2026 • AP News

Summary

The United Kingdom has eased sanctions on Russian oil to reduce the impact of rising fuel prices caused by the Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This change allows the import of Russian oil refined into jet fuel and diesel in other countries, but the government states the move is temporary and specific.

Key Facts

The UK government changed its rules to allow imports of Russian oil refined in countries like India and Turkey.
The change aims to help British people cope with higher fuel prices after the Strait of Hormuz was closed.
About 20% of the world’s oil usually passes through the Strait of Hormuz, and its closure has disrupted global fuel supplies.
The UK remains a strong supporter of Ukraine and maintains tough sanctions on Russia overall.
Some UK lawmakers believe this easing could disappoint Ukraine and weaken pressure on Russia’s economy.
The US has also temporarily eased some sanctions on Russian oil to manage supply issues.
Finance ministers from the US, UK, and other Group of Seven countries reaffirmed their commitment to keep pressuring Russia for its actions in Ukraine.

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AP News

Cannes pays tribute to ‘Thelma and Louise’ in festival poster

May 20, 2026 • France24

Summary

The Cannes Film Festival has chosen an image from the movie "Thelma and Louise" for its new festival poster. The film originally premiered at Cannes in 1991 and is known for its focus on women's stories.

Key Facts

Each year, Cannes Film Festival creates a new official poster.
The poster features a famous scene from a well-known movie.
This year’s poster is from Ridley Scott’s film "Thelma and Louise."
"Thelma and Louise" premiered at Cannes in 1991.
The image is displayed around the city and used on festival merchandise like mugs and pencils.
The film is recognized for its feminist theme.
The festival takes place annually in the city of Cannes, France.
The poster helps celebrate the festival’s history and cinema heritage.

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France24

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