https://aseannow.com/rss/42-world-news1.xml/World news reports from around the worldenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/israeli-drug-suspect-arrested-on-koh-samui-r2023/Thai immigration police have arrested an Israeli national accused of involvement in a major drug trafficking network after he allegedly fled to Koh Samui to evade prosecution in Israel. Get today's headlines by email The suspect, identified only as 36-year-old Tol, was detained on 26 May 2026 by officers from Surat Thani Immigration Police following coordination with Israeli police representatives in Thailand. Israeli authorities had issued an arrest warrant for him over alleged involvement in drug trafficking and violent crime in Israel. Police said the operation began after Immigration Division 2 informed Surat Thani immigration officers that the suspect had recently been traced to the popular tourist island of Koh Samui. Officers were also instructed to revoke his permission to stay in Thailand on the grounds that he posed a threat to national security. Investigators tracked the suspect to his accommodation after discovering he had travelled from Singapore to Koh Samui on a commercial flight. Immigration officers then moved in and detained him. A subsequent search of the property uncovered cocaine, MDMA and powdered narcotics packaged in several small plastic bags. Officers also seized digital weighing scales allegedly used for handling drugs. The items were reportedly hidden inside the kitchen area of the accommodation. Police stated that the packaging and weighing equipment suggested the suspect may have been supplying drugs to tourists in Thailand, rather than simply hiding from prosecution overseas. During questioning, Tol reportedly admitted being part of a drug trafficking network in Israel and confirmed he had fled to Thailand. However, he claimed the narcotics found in his room had been purchased for personal use after visiting Koh Phangan. Investigators said they were not convinced by the explanation and are continuing to examine evidence, including digital records and possible supply routes, to identify the source of the drugs and any associates operating in Thailand. The suspect has been transferred to Bo Phut Police Station on Koh Samui to face charges of illegal possession of Category 1 and Category 2 narcotics. Authorities stated that once legal proceedings in Thailand are complete, he will be deported to Israel to face further prosecution. Thai immigration officials also confirmed that the suspect will be permanently blacklisted from re-entering Thailand. Police Colonel Naruwat Phutthawiro, chief of Surat Thani Immigration Police, said the arrest followed orders from Police General Samran Nuanma, deputy national police chief and director of the national centre targeting transnational crime and illegal immigration. He said immigration officers nationwide had been instructed to intensify action against foreign criminals operating in Thailand. Pictures courtesy of Newna Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thairath 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 23:01:02 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/austrian-gets-1673-years-in-thai-prison-r2022/An Austrian expatriate has been sentenced to 1,673 years in a Thai prison for the repeated sexual abuse of his young daughter. The 54-year-old, originally from western Austria, will likely die behind bars, as Thai law caps actual imprisonment at 50 years. The offences took place in Nakhon Ratchasima province, north-east Thailand, over several years. Get today's headlines by email The man, who already had a previous conviction for child abuse in Austria, began abusing his daughter when she was just eight years old. He had sole custody of the child after separating from his partner. The abuse included handing the girl over twice to a photographer, who also assaulted her and produced nude images that the father then distributed. When the child, given the pseudonym Anong by the newspaper, tried to escape the cycle of abuse, her father threatened to abandon her. Emotional blackmail and fear of being left alone forced the girl to endure the suffering for years. An international charity eventually alerted authorities to a chat group in which the Austrian shared grotesque images of his daughter. The investigation began following that tip, but it took four years before a final court ruling delivered justice. The man was convicted of 134 separate offences, with Thai law counting each rape as an individual crime, explaining the exceptionally long sentence. The verdict is legally binding. Andreas Holzer, director of Austria’s Federal Criminal Police Office, said: “This case shows once again how essential international cooperation and close exchange between Interior Ministry liaison officers and local authorities are.” He added that investigations were rapidly advanced in order to protect the affected child. Krone reported that the Austrian will serve a maximum of 50 years in practice due to Thai sentencing caps, effectively a life sentence. No further legal appeals have been reported. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Thai and Austrian authorities to track down convicted sex offenders who relocate abroad. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Krone 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 22:52:56 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/brit-russian-held-with-cannabis-after-thai-flight-r2021/A British rapper and a Russian dancer have been detained in Dubai after 17 kilograms of cannabis were allegedly discovered in a suitcase on a flight from Bangkok. The pair were arrested by UAE authorities after arriving from Thailand earlier this month. Get today's headlines by email Russian national Karina Zorina, 29, claimed she had been set up by the British musician, who is reported to be in his 30s. According to reports, the rapper was initially released on bail before being rearrested after Zorina told investigators the suitcase had been checked in under her name without her approval. Zorina had reportedly been living and working in Phuket at the Moulin Rouge nightclub, which is known for employing Russian and CIS dancers. She said she met the British rapper in Thailand and agreed to travel with him to Dubai for what she believed would be a two-day trip to renew her Thai visa. Russian media reported that the rapper was travelling with another associate from Bangkok Airport and that the group swapped suitcases shortly before boarding the flight to Dubai. Zorina later told a friend she felt uneasy about the luggage switch but still boarded the plane. When officials in Dubai inspected the luggage after arrival, they allegedly found sealed black packages containing cannabis. Both travellers were detained and questioned by authorities. According to reports, the British rapper initially attempted to blame the Russian woman for the drugs. However, following Zorina’s testimony to investigators, authorities detained him again as the case widened. Russian media reported: “Zorina insists on taking a polygraph test with the rapper. She is sure that the rapper set her up.” Her parents are reportedly waiting for airport CCTV footage, fingerprint analysis from the suitcase and additional forensic evidence which they believe could support her claims of innocence. The case has drawn attention because of the United Arab Emirates’ strict anti-drugs laws. The UAE maintains a zero-tolerance approach towards recreational drugs, including cannabis products and CBD substances that may be legal in other countries. Under UAE law, possession of even very small quantities of drugs can lead to lengthy prison sentences, deportation or more severe penalties. Smuggling and trafficking offences carry the harshest punishments, including the possibility of the death penalty in some circumstances. The Sun reported that authorities in Dubai have not yet publicly announced formal charges against either suspect. The investigation is continuing, with forensic examinations and airport security evidence expected to play a key role in determining the outcome of the case. Pictures courtesy of The Sun Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now The-Sun 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 22:44:32 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/police-probe-scam-links-in-pattaya-weapons-case-r2020/Police are expanding their investigation into Chinese suspect Mingchen Sun after uncovering more than 1,000 financial transactions allegedly linked to scammer networks, officers said on 26 May at the Technology Crime Suppression Division headquarters in Muang Thong Thani. Get today's headlines by email Pol Maj Gen Siriwat Deepor, commander of Technology Crime Suppression Division 1, said the case is being examined in two main areas: national security concerns and alleged links to scammer gangs. He confirmed that the Technology Crime Suppression Division had established a dedicated investigation team under the direction of Pol Lt Gen Surapol Prembutr, commissioner of the bureau. Authorities have already received one main investigation file containing evidence of financial routes allegedly connected to Mingchen Sun. Police said the evidence clearly linked financial transactions to the suspect, who is already facing charges related to possession of war weapons. Investigators also found connections to more than 1,000 transactions involving TPO, or Third Party Operator, accounts. Officers are now analysing the transactions in detail to trace the movement of funds and gather further evidence for prosecution. Pol Maj Gen Siriwat said investigators had divided responsibilities among several police divisions to accelerate the inquiry. The investigation team will later reconvene to review progress and determine further legal action. Police stated that if additional evidence emerges linking specific financial routes or transactions to criminal activity, separate charges and cases could be filed individually against those involved. Authorities said the aim was to ensure all aspects of the case were fully investigated. The investigation follows growing concern in Thailand over transnational scam networks and financial crimes linked to online fraud operations. Technology crime police have intensified efforts in recent years to track money trails and dismantle networks using mule accounts and third-party payment systems. Officials have not yet disclosed further details regarding the origin of the transactions or whether additional suspects have been identified. No timeline has been given for the completion of the investigation. Matichon reported that police said further updates would be announced once investigators completed additional reviews of the financial evidence and clarified the connections between the transactions and alleged scam operations. [Insert video here if available] Related stories Chinese-man-held-over-possible-Pattaya-terror-plot Chinese-suspect-leaves-icu-in-Pattaya Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 22:30:34 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/swedish-man-found-dead-in-nonthaburi-condo-r2019/A 63-year-old Swedish man was found dead inside a condominium in Bang Si Mueang, Nonthaburi, after neighbours reported disturbing noises and later a strong odour coming from the unit, police said. Officers entered room 93/319 on the third floor and discovered the body of Andreas Alexander Andersson. He was confirmed dead at the scene and a formal post-mortem to establish the cause of death will be carried out. Get today's headlines by email Neighbours said they had previously heard repeated noises from the apartment over a period of time, described as sounds of arguing and objects striking walls. The disturbances reportedly continued before stopping suddenly around two weeks prior to the discovery of the body. After the noises ceased, residents later noticed a persistent foul smell and later observed liquid seeping from the unit. One neighbour, identified only as “Tum”, 37, a civil servant living next door, described the resident as largely private and rarely seen interacting with others in the building. He added that the man was often seen wearing rubber gloves and protective coverings over his feet when disposing of rubbish outside. Police from Bang Si Mueang Station were alerted to the condominium after concerns were raised about the odour. Officers forced entry into the third-floor room and found the body lying face down, wearing only underwear. Inside the apartment, investigators reported seeing bottles of toilet-cleaning chemicals and multiple cans of insecticide, and the room was described as being in a state of disarray. Emergency responders from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation and forensic doctors from the Institute of Forensic Medicine attended the scene. The body was transferred for a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death. Authorities have not confirmed the cause of death and are awaiting forensic results. Investigators said they are examining all available evidence from the scene. The neighbour, Tum, said he had previously joked about whether a violent incident could have occurred inside the room, but did not anticipate a fatal outcome. Amarin reported that police said the investigation remains ongoing and further updates will be provided once post-mortem and forensic analysis results are available. No additional details have been released at this stage. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 22:21:05 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/contractor-found-dead-in-ceiling-in-bang-lamung-house-r2018/A 37-year-old build contractor who had been missing for five days has been found dead inside the ceiling of a house under renovation in Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, with police suspecting electrocution as a possible cause. The body of Mr Jakphan Yodpech was discovered on 25 May 2026 at around 16:30 after a smell was reported coming from the property. Get today's headlines by email The discovery was made at a single-storey house in Village 1, Huai Yai, Bang Lamung district, where renovation work was underway. Police officer Pol Lt Capt Prakasit Paladej of Huai Yai Police Station, together with a duty doctor from Wat Yansangwararam Hospital and rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation in Pattaya, attended the scene. The body was located in the ceiling cavity and was already in a decomposed state, with reports indicating death had occurred approximately five days earlier. Rescue teams were required to remove sections of the ceiling to retrieve the remains due to the position of the body. Initial checks suggested Mr Jakphan had been working above the ceiling structure when the incident occurred, with electrocution considered a possible factor. However, authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of death and investigations remain ongoing. Family members had previously reported him missing after they were unable to contact him from around midday on 20 May 2026. The case was escalated after an unusual smell was noticed at the property, prompting a search that led to the discovery of the body. Police have recorded the circumstances and continued to examine the scene and surrounding electrical systems. Amarin reported that the body has been transferred to Pattaya Bhattamakun Hospital for storage and safekeeping while relatives complete documentation to claim the remains for religious funeral rites. Investigators say a full determination of the cause of death will be made following further examination and forensic review. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 22:10:03 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/mika-salo-says-bangkok-injury-was-probably-an-accident-r2017/Former Formula One driver Mika Salo has told Thai police he was not assaulted after suffering a serious leg injury near Bangkok’s Nana intersection on 19 May 2026. The 59-year-old Finn said he believed the wound was caused accidentally, possibly by a motorcycle number plate scraping his leg, according to information provided by hospital staff. Get today's headlines by email Police from Lumpini Police Station and Tourist Police invited Salo from his hotel on 26 May 2026 to give a statement about the incident. Officers said the former F1 driver had not initially filed a complaint because he was unaware of how the injury occurred until bystanders pointed out blood flowing from his left leg. Salo told reporters he did not feel anyone attack him while walking near the Nana junction on Sukhumvit Road. He only realised something was wrong after members of the public alerted him to the injury. He then sought medical treatment, where doctors and nurses informed him the wound appeared consistent with a cut caused by a sharp object. Despite the injury requiring 28 stitches, Salo described it as a minor matter. He said Thailand’s hot weather was the main inconvenience because it prevented him from swimming during his holiday with family members. He confirmed no property had been stolen and stressed he did not believe he had been targeted by an attacker. The former racing driver also dismissed concerns about safety in Thailand. Salo said he regularly visits the country and considers Bangkok one of the safest cities he has experienced. He added that he loved Thailand’s weather, sunshine and people, and intended to return again in future. Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phiwphan, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, visited Salo at Police General Hospital before he travelled to Lumpini Police Station for questioning. Through an interpreter, Salo thanked Thai police for their assistance and said media reports in his home country appear to have exaggerated the incident, leading many to the misunderstandings. Investigators are now reviewing CCTV footage from the Nana intersection area and gathering witness evidence to determine the exact cause of the injury. Pol Capt Yosawi Chanthawat, the investigating officer at Lumpini Police Station, said police had received information from the hospital that similar injuries had previously been caused by motorcycle registration plates scraping pedestrians. Khaosod reported that police said the position and nature of Salo’s wound made that explanation possible, although officers are continuing to verify the evidence. Authorities confirmed the investigation remains ongoing while they examine surrounding circumstances and available surveillance footage. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:59:57 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/farage-donor-linked-to-bangkok-office-addresses-r2016/A Bangkok office tower and a run-down apartment block have been linked to billionaire crypto investor Christopher Harborne, one of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s biggest financial backers. The Daily Mirror tracked down several addresses in the Thai capital connected to companies linked to Harborne, whose wealth is estimated at GBP18.2 billion. Get today's headlines by email One address, located nearly two dozen floors up in an anonymous Bangkok tower near the US embassy, is listed for Harborne on UK Companies House records and probate documents for his late father. The only visible sign of the businessman’s presence was a small notice for AML Global Ltd among other company names, while staff at the building reportedly said “messengers” sometimes collect mail there. The report said no staff linked to Harborne were present during the visit. Clients at the building can rent office space from GBP3.42 a day per person, while “virtual office plans” are available from GBP1.83 a day, according to promotional material cited in the article. Harborne, 63, has been drawn into controversy in the UK over an undeclared GBP5 million gift to Nigel Farage, which Farage said was intended to cover security costs. The Parliamentary standards commissioner is investigating whether Commons rules were broken, although Reform UK has stated the payment was “a personal, unconditional gift” and that no rules were breached. The businessman, who also uses the name Chakrit Sakunkrit in Thailand, has lived in the country for more than two decades. Thai shareholder filings reportedly connect him to Kamalaya, a luxury wellness retreat on Koh Samui, as well as several Bangkok-based companies. Another Bangkok property linked to Harborne was described as a gated residential address lined with potted plants. A staff member there reportedly said they had not seen Harborne when shown his photograph. The Mirror also located a separate multi-storey apartment building in Bangkok where three of Harborne’s companies - Chakrit Holdings, Bahati Properties Company Ltd and Praewpayome Company Ltd - are registered. The property was described as worn down, with peeling exterior paint, while a mother and son said to work for Harborne were reported to live there. In the Sunday Times Rich List published earlier this month, Harborne was ranked sixth. The publication said his most valuable asset is a 12% stake in cryptocurrency firm Tether, which Forbes values at USD200 billion, putting his holding at an estimated GBP17.778 billion. The Mirror reported that the investigation is likely to intensify scrutiny of Harborne’s business footprint in Thailand as questions continue in the UK over political donations, transparency and corporate structures linked to wealthy overseas-based donors. Pictures courtesy of Daily Mirror Related story Farages-gift-from-Thailand-based-donor-to-be-probed Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Mirror 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:51:04 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-tourist-held-after-cars-damaged-in-chiang-mai-r2015/Police in Chiang Mai detained a Chinese tourist on 26 May 2026 after she allegedly damaged several vehicles during an argument with her boyfriend near Charoen Charoen Market in San Kamphaeng district. Get today's headlines by email According to reports from the Chiang Mai Provincial Police radio centre, the dispute involved a Chinese couple arguing near Charoen Charoen Market on Chiang Mai-Mae On Road in tambon San Klang, San Kamphaeng district. During the altercation, the woman allegedly grabbed hard objects and threw them at passing vehicles, causing damage to cars belonging to local motorists. Patrol officers from San Kamphaeng Police Station were dispatched to the scene and found the male tourist waiting for officers. The woman had already left the area barefoot and was seen walking along the highway towards Wat Don Chan in Mueang Chiang Mai district, which falls under the jurisdiction of Mae Ping Police Station. Mae Ping police later located and detained the woman. Officers reported that she cried continuously while in custody. San Kamphaeng police then travelled to Mae Ping Police Station to transfer her back for questioning. During the transfer, the woman reportedly resisted police efforts to place her in the patrol vehicle. Officers eventually persuaded her to cooperate and transported her to San Kamphaeng Police Station. Witnesses said she repeatedly shouted the word “family”, claiming the dispute was a private matter. Pol Col Suramon Chalermchan, superintendent of San Kamphaeng Police Station, confirmed that both Chinese tourists had been taken into custody and handed over to investigators for questioning. Police said preliminary information indicated the couple had been arguing before the woman allegedly used hard objects to strike and throw at vehicles near the market area. Authorities are now waiting for affected motorists to formally file complaints regarding the damaged vehicles. Police said further legal proceedings will depend on statements from victims and the outcome of the investigation. Komchadluek reported that the incident caused disruption in the area and drew attention from passersby as officers attempted to calm the woman and safely remove her from the roadside. No injuries were reported during the incident. Pictures courtesy of Komchadluek Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:41:37 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/judge-delays-comey-trial-over-seashell-post-r1056/Former FBI director James Comey has won a request to delay his criminal trial over a social media post that prosecutors say threatened President Donald Trump. Get today's headlines by email A federal judge ruled on Tuesday that the trial will now begin on Oct. 21, several weeks later than originally expected. Comey is scheduled to appear for arraignment on Sept. 30. Trial pushed backU.S. District Judge Louise Wood Flanagan approved the delay request without publicly detailing the reasons behind the revised schedule. The case centres on an Instagram post made by Comey showing seashells arranged on a beach to form the numbers “86 47”. Supporters and allies of Trump argued that the image amounted to a coded threat against the president. They pointed to the slang meaning of “86”, which can mean to remove, reject or “get rid of” something. Trump is the 47th president of the United States. Federal prosecutors later charged Comey with threatening the president. Comey denies wrongdoingComey removed the post after criticism mounted online and said he had not intended the image to be interpreted as violent. After the indictment was unsealed, he posted a video online rejecting the allegations and criticising the case against him. “Well, they’re back. This time about a picture of seashells on a North Carolina beach a year ago,” Comey said. “And this won’t be the end of it, but nothing has changed with me. I’m still innocent, I’m still not afraid, and I still believe in the independent federal judiciary, so let’s go.” The former FBI director has not entered a formal plea. That is expected during his Sept. 30 arraignment hearing. Political backlash growsThe prosecution has become politically charged, with critics of the Trump administration arguing the case reflects a broader effort to target perceived political opponents. Some opponents also pointed to a separate case against Comey that was dismissed last year by a judge. That indictment involved unrelated allegations. Trump allies, however, have defended the criminal charges and argued that threats against a sitting president must be treated seriously, regardless of who makes them. Justice Department defends chargesAt a press conference announcing the indictment last month, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the case was about enforcing federal law protecting the president. “It’s not a very difficult line to look at,” Blanche said. “We cannot, you are not allowed to threaten the President of the United States of America.” Blanche said the Justice Department regularly prosecutes similar cases and argued that Comey’s post crossed the line between constitutionally protected speech and criminal conduct. The trial is expected to renew debate over free speech protections, political expression and how online posts are interpreted in criminal investigations involving public officials. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:35:55 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/rail-probe-blames-safety-failures-in-korat-crash-r2014/Thai transport officials have concluded that the crane collapse which struck a passenger train in Si Khio, Nakhon Ratchasima, was not an accident but the result of multiple engineering and safety failures during construction work on the high-speed rail project. Get today's headlines by email The findings were announced on 26 May 2026 by Jirapong Thepphitak, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and chairman of the fact-finding committee. The collapse happened on 14 January 2026 at 9.15am when a Launching Gantry crane fell onto Special Express Train No. 21 travelling from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Ubon Ratchathani between Nong Nam Khun and Si Khio stations. Authorities said 31 people were killed in the disaster. Investigators spent 45 days examining the site, inspecting physical evidence, testing materials, analysing steel components with electron microscopes and producing engineering simulations to determine the cause of the collapse. The committee found that the Launching Gantry, used to install large concrete segments, was operated in breach of engineering procedures and safety regulations on the day of the incident. Investigators said excessive load pressure was placed on the front support point, damaging structural components and causing the crane to collapse onto the railway line while the train was passing underneath. The report also identified serious failings in site supervision and safety management. Investigators found construction teams had failed to obtain mandatory railway closure permission, known as ‘Window Time’, before carrying out work. The committee also cited unauthorised operations, inadequate equipment inspections and inconsistent on-site monitoring. Piyapong Jiwatkulpaisan, Director-General of the Department of Highways, and Anan Phonimdaeng, acting governor of the State Railway of Thailand, joined the briefing. Officials said construction work on the project would continue under stricter safety controls and enhanced oversight measures. The State Railway of Thailand said all work near active rail lines would now require written ‘Window Time’ approval before operations begin. Advance and retrospective work approvals will also be abolished, with supervising consultants required to approve work daily using photographic evidence from construction sites. Rail authorities said engineers and safety officers must remain on site throughout operations, with work suspended immediately if standards are breached. Independent third-party specialists will inspect every Launching Gantry crane in use across the project, including structural, lifting and hydraulic systems. Officials also announced new safety measures including real-time monitoring systems, tilt sensors, tension monitoring and CCTV cameras fitted to all major machinery. PT Bar steel supports will be replaced after no more than 60 uses and will be banned from reuse. Amarin reported that the railway authority is also compiling details of damage to infrastructure, railway operations and property as part of ongoing legal and contractual action against those responsible. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Related story Multiple-deaths-after-crane-collapses-onto-passenger-train Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:34:17 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/trump-says-medical-checkup-showed-perfect-results-r1055/U.S. President Donald Trump said his latest physical examination showed he was in excellent health, following months of scrutiny over several minor medical issues and public speculation about his fitness for office. Get today's headlines by email Trump, who turns 80 on June 14, said “everything checked out perfectly” after undergoing a six-month medical exam on Tuesday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. In a short post on Truth Social, the president did not provide details about the examination or release any medical findings. Questions over fitnessTrump has frequently portrayed himself as healthier and more energetic than former President Joe Biden, who left office last year at the age of 82 after facing persistent questions about his age and ability to serve. However, recent photographs showing a rash on Trump’s neck renewed attention on the president’s health. The images followed earlier photographs published in July 2025 that appeared to show swollen ankles and bruising on one of his hands, which was reportedly covered with makeup. White House physician Sean Barbabella previously said Trump was using a commonly prescribed cream as a preventative treatment for the neck rash, although no further details about the condition were disclosed. After the earlier photographs emerged, Barbabella said the issues were benign and that tests found no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease. The White House later said the swelling in Trump’s legs was caused by a common vein condition, while bruising on his hand was attributed to frequent handshaking. Medical scrutiny continuesTrump became the oldest person ever inaugurated as U.S. president when he began his second term in January 2025. Tuesday’s visit marked his third trip to Walter Reed in just over a year. The president maintains a busy golf schedule and recently joked about his level of physical activity during an Oval Office event attended by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.. Kennedy said Trump walks roughly nine miles every time he plays golf, prompting Trump to reply: “When I am not using the cart.” Trump also disclosed last October that he had undergone a magnetic resonance imaging scan as part of another physical examination. At the time, the White House declined to explain why the MRI had been ordered, saying only that it showed the president was in “exceptional physical health.” Walter Reed National Military Medical Center The president later defended undergoing the scan, telling reporters that MRIs were routine and claiming doctors described the results as unusually strong. Medical experts have noted that MRIs are not normally included in standard physical exams and are typically used to investigate specific medical concerns. In a memo released after Trump’s earlier examination, Barbabella said the president’s “cardiac age”, measured using electrocardiogram data, was estimated to be about 14 years younger than his actual age. Public appearancesTrump has also drawn attention after appearing to close his eyes during several public meetings, including a Cabinet session earlier this year. Addressing the incident in February, Trump dismissed suggestions he had fallen asleep. “Some people said, he closed his eyes,” Trump told officials at the time. “It got pretty boring.” Meanwhile, Biden disclosed last year that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had spread to his bones. He later underwent radiation treatment. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:28:18 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/ferrari-debuts-first-all-electric-supercar-r1054/Luxury sports car maker Ferrari has unveiled its first fully electric vehicle, the Luce, marking a major shift for the Italian brand as it enters the high-end EV market. Get today's headlines by email The new model, priced at $640,000 (£474,320), is Ferrari’s first five-seater and departs sharply from the company’s traditional styling. The car was developed in collaboration with LoveFrom, the design agency founded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive. Ferrari presented the Luce in Rome, with chief executive Benedetto Vigna saying the vehicle had taken five years to develop. The name Luce means “light” in Italian. New Direction for FerrariThe Luce represents a significant change in strategy for Ferrari, which had previously resisted producing fully electric vehicles and instead focused on hybrid models powered by petrol and electricity. According to Ferrari, the car uses a company-made electric motor on each wheel, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60mph (96km/h) in roughly 2.5 seconds. The company also said all major components are produced in-house, a move designed to ensure long-term servicing and protect the vehicle’s resale value. Ferrari said it will continue manufacturing petrol and hybrid models alongside its new electric offering. Mixed Reaction OnlineThe launch prompted divided reactions on social media, with some users criticising the design and Ferrari’s move into electric vehicles. One post on X described the car as “straight to the junkyard trash”, while another claimed Ferrari had damaged its brand in the same way critics argued Jaguar had with its recent electric concept designs. Others praised the Luce, with one commenter calling it an “absolute masterclass in design” and describing it as a “game changer”. Ferrari’s chief design officer Flavio Manzoni acknowledged the new model could divide opinion. Speaking in an interview with YouTuber Cleo Abram, he said criticism was a natural part of innovation and predicted attitudes towards the design would improve over time. EV Market ChallengesFerrari’s move comes as several major luxury carmakers scale back electric vehicle ambitions amid slowing demand and increased competition. Lamborghini has abandoned plans for a fully electric model and shifted its focus towards hybrids, citing weak demand for high-end EVs. Meanwhile, Porsche has reduced its EV targets as it faces weaker sales in China and tariffs in the United States. The wider automotive industry has also been affected by growing competition from Chinese manufacturers, which have expanded rapidly by producing cheaper electric vehicles at scale. In the United States, carmakers including Ford Motor Company and Volkswagen have increased focus on petrol-powered vehicles as demand for EVs weakened and incentives for buyers were reduced under President Donald Trump. Despite broader industry pressures, Ferrari remains Europe’s most valuable carmaker, supported by its strategy of producing highly exclusive vehicles. However, the company’s shares have fallen more than 25% over the past year, reflecting a wider slowdown across the global luxury sector as inflation has weakened demand for expensive consumer goods. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:15:48 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/british-man-remanded-over-koh-phangan-crash-r2013/A 51-year-old British man has been remanded in custody after riding a motorcycle into a senior doctor on Koh Phangan, leaving the victim seriously injured. Police on Koh Phangan submitted a detention request to Koh Samui Provincial Court on 26 May 2026 and strongly opposed bail, citing concerns the suspect could flee Thailand. Get today's headlines by email The suspect, identified as Mr Wilcox, was transferred by investigators from Koh Phangan Police Station at 8.30am via Nathon Pier in Surat Thani province. He faces allegations linked to a hit-and-run crash on the Koh Phangan Hospital-Thong Sala road in Moo 1, Koh Phangan, on the night of 23 May. The injured victim was named as Associate Professor Dr Theerasak Kaewamtuang, 53, a lecturer in respiratory medicine and critical care. He suffered serious injuries in the collision after allegedly being struck while walking along the road. Police said their investigation uncovered CCTV footage showing Mr Wilcox purchasing two cans of alcohol from a supermarket at around 8.30pm, approximately 17 minutes before the crash. The shop was located about 1.4 kilometres from the scene and officers alleged he drank while walking back to his parked motorcycle before riding away. Witnesses at the scene reportedly told investigators the suspect was shouting loudly after the collision and appeared heavily intoxicated. Medical tests, a day later, confirmed the presence of a Category 2 narcotic substance, identified as cocaine, in his body. Investigators also stated the suspect did not hold a Thai or international driving licence and possessed only a UK driving licence. The motorcycle involved had allegedly not had its annual tax renewed since early 2025 and was reportedly uninsured under Thailand’s compulsory motor insurance scheme. Police filed seven charges against Mr Wilcox, including reckless driving causing serious injury, fleeing the scene without assisting the victim, driving without a licence, using an untaxed vehicle, using a vehicle without compulsory insurance, cocaine use and drink-driving causing serious injury. Pictures courtesy of Khaosod During questioning, the suspect denied two allegations: fleeing the scene without assisting the injured victim and drink-driving causing serious injury. The remaining charges were acknowledged as part of the investigation process. Authorities said bail was opposed because the offences carry severe penalties and the suspect, as a foreign national without a permanent address in Thailand, could abscond. Police added that updates had been regularly provided to the victim’s family. Khaosod reported that investigators are also preparing to examine a company reportedly linked to the suspect to determine whether it was operating legally under Thai law. Officers said they would investigate possible nominee shareholding arrangements involving Thai nationals allegedly used to conceal foreign business ownership on Koh Phangan. AQM88G7hpAr5H-6jetlc8NHufSc60y89lbIYcs5D1neFE9NeoZxkJuLwDtQpLmj5kut6AxncLlxH3ZYOABf4nrZuN6-3DnxJo0bxPdyOhw.mp4 Related stories British-rider-held-after-hit-run-on-Phangan Doctor-airlifted-to-Bangkok-after-Brits-crash Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:14:29 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/starmer-pledges-action-on-childrens-social-media-use-r1053/Prime Minister Keir Starmer has promised “decisive” action to address the impact of social media on children in the UK, following a meeting with bereaved parents and campaigners pressing for stricter online safety measures. Get today's headlines by email Speaking after talks at Downing Street on Tuesday, Sir Keir said the government was committed to acting as a consultation on children’s social media use reached its final day. Campaigners have urged ministers to introduce tougher restrictions, including a possible ban on social media access for under-16s. Parents who attended the meeting said they welcomed the opportunity to present their concerns directly to the prime minister, but some remained doubtful about whether the government would introduce strong enough measures. Calls for tougher restrictionsAmong those attending was Ellen Roome, whose son Jools Sweeney died aged 14 in 2022. She said she remained unconvinced that meaningful change would follow. “I think we’ve heard it so many times before,” she told the BBC outside Number 10, adding that she would stay “sceptical” until concrete measures were introduced. Roome and other campaigners urged the government to raise the minimum age for access to social media platforms considered harmful to 16. Mariano Janin, whose daughter Mia died by suicide aged 14 in 2021 after experiencing bullying at school and online, also attended the meeting. He said he wanted to believe action would follow but argued that the current “status quo” remained unchanged while technology companies continued rapidly introducing new products, including AI chatbots. Parents described the talks as a “listening exercise”, saying they had outlined their concerns in detail in an effort to prevent further harm to children online. Government considers next stepsThe government’s consultation on children’s social media use closes on Tuesday evening after receiving more than 80,000 submissions from parents, young people, charities and campaign groups. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the government would publish its response during the summer, with new protections for under-16s expected by the end of 2026. Measures under consideration include stronger age verification checks, night-time app curfews, and limiting features such as autoplay and infinite scrolling. Officials are also examining whether restrictions should apply to platforms including Roblox Corporation’s Roblox and Discord. Kendall said ministers wanted to ensure any new rules were effective and durable. “We’ve got to get this right, and we’ve got to make it last,” she told the BBC. Debate over bans and platform controlsFormer health secretary Wes Streeting added pressure on the government by backing calls for a social media ban for under-16s. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Streeting said regulators and politicians had been “asleep at the wheel” while technology firms developed addictive platforms for children. He compared the behaviour of large technology companies to the tactics once used by the tobacco industry, arguing that the “precautionary principle” should apply to social media regulation. Others, however, warned against blanket bans. Police leaders and industry representatives have argued that regulation should focus on specific high-risk features rather than entire platforms. Donya Soni-Clark of trade association TechUK said restrictions targeting features such as private messaging would be more effective than banning individual apps. Meanwhile, the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges called for doctors to routinely ask children about their device and social media use, citing concerns over mental and physical health impacts linked to online content. Pressure on technology firmsCampaigners and child safety groups have also called for technology companies to align content standards with age ratings used by the British Board of Film Classification. Some campaigners pointed to Australia’s move to restrict social media access for under-16s, although reports that children had still managed to bypass controls have raised concerns over how effective such laws can be. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has said age verification should be managed at device level so underage users are prevented from downloading apps. Kendall insisted the government would continue with reforms even if technology companies opposed them. “No one’s going to stop me from doing what I think is right for this country,” she said. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:06:05 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-embassy-thai-police-rescue-four-in-myanmar-r2012/Thai police, working with the Chinese Embassy and Chinese police, have rescued four Chinese nationals who were allegedly tricked into working for a call centre scam gang in Myanmar. The operation was announced on 26 May 2026 by Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Deputy National Police Chief and director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Centre, at the National Referral Mechanism centre in Don Mueang. Get today's headlines by email The four Chinese nationals were freed on 22 May after what Thai authorities described as close coordination between Thailand, China and Myanmar. Officials said pressure from all three countries led to the victims being released from the scam operation. Investigators found the group had legally entered Thailand through Suvarnabhumi Airport on 3 May 2026. After staying at a hotel near the airport, they travelled to Tak province before crossing into Myanmar using transport arranged by a Chinese acquaintance who had persuaded them to seek business opportunities in Thailand. According to police interviews, the four intended to travel to Chiang Mai for business purposes and each carried around 30,000 yuan and 10,000 baht in cash. Authorities noted that all travel expenses, including flights, accommodation and transport, had been paid for by the Chinese contact who organised the trip. Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid The victims had reportedly warned family members before travelling that if contact was lost, police in China should be notified immediately. Thai authorities said CCTV footage, travel records and evidence collected so far do not show that the group was abducted or forcibly detained while in Thailand. However, officials are continuing investigations under Thailand’s National Referral Mechanism process to determine whether the case involved deception, coercion or human trafficking offences. Representatives from the Chinese Embassy in Thailand are observing the screening process. Thai police said the country could not completely avoid being used as a transit route by transnational criminal networks because of regional transport links and natural border crossings. Authorities insisted, however, that law enforcement agencies had strengthened monitoring and would act on all requests for assistance from domestic and international partners. Police also revealed they are considering action with the Department of Land Transport against ride-hailing applications and unlicensed transport operators suspected of facilitating human trafficking networks. Authorities believe illegal transport services may have been used to move victims towards border areas. Pol Gen Thatchai said Thailand remained a safe destination for foreign tourists but warned travellers to carefully verify overseas job offers. He cautioned that people entering Thailand on tourist visas or visa exemption schemes while having all expenses paid by third parties should be alert to possible scams. Thaitabloid reported that Thai police confirmed that investigations would continue beyond the rescue operation, with authorities in Thailand and China working together to identify recruiters, coordinators, transport providers and others linked to the network. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 21:00:53 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/nasa-reveals-new-plan-for-permanent-moon-base-r1052/Nasa has outlined a series of robotic missions, drones and lunar vehicles it plans to send to the Moon as part of a wider effort to establish a permanent US base on the lunar surface. Get today's headlines by email Several private companies, including Blue Origin, have been selected to build the equipment. The programme forms part of the United States’ push to return astronauts to the Moon before President Donald Trump leaves office in 2028. The plans come as competition between the US and China over lunar exploration intensifies. China aims to land astronauts on the Moon by 2030 and continues to expand its space programme. Robotic missions to pave way for lunar baseOn Monday, China launched the Shenzhou-23 mission, carrying astronauts to the Tiangong space station space station. Earlier this year, Nasa announced a $20bn initiative to build a permanent base near the Moon’s south pole by 2032. The proposed outpost would use both solar and nuclear energy. Nasa administrator Jared Isaacman said the latest announcements showed the US would “never give up the Moon again”. China challenge adds pressure to Moon programmeA permanent base on the Moon could support scientific research, future mining operations and eventual missions to Mars. However, some experts believe Nasa’s timetable may be difficult to achieve. Although the US successfully sent four astronauts around the Moon during the Artemis II mission in April, concerns remain about whether the agency can develop a reliable system for landing astronauts on the lunar surface in time. Dr Simeon Barber told BBC News that China could still become the next nation to land humans on the Moon. “It would not surprise me at all if China gets there first,” he said, pointing to delays in developing lunar landing technology. Landers, drones and lunar vehicles plannedNasa’s Ignition Moon Base programme is divided into three stages. The first phase focuses on robotic exploration before astronauts arrive. The agency plans to send robotic landers and hopping drones to survey and map difficult terrain near the lunar south pole. Cargo vehicles and rovers would also be deployed to transport scientific instruments, communications equipment and astronauts across the surface. On Tuesday, Nasa said contracts had been awarded to companies including Blue Origin, Intuitive Machines and Astrobotic. Courtesy of CBS News Blue Origin’s proposed lander, Endurance, is expected to perform precise autonomous landings and navigation. Astrobotic’s Griffin-1 lander is planned to touch down near Nobile Crater close to the Moon’s south pole. The missions will also deliver scientific instruments, including high-resolution cameras and laser-based landing systems. According to Moon Base programme executive Carlos García-Galán, the robotic phase is expected to continue until 2029, involving 25 launches and the delivery of four metric tonnes of cargo to the Moon. Power systems and housing planned by 2032The next phase would involve building solar and nuclear power facilities on the Moon, including fission reactors designed to provide long-term energy supplies. By 2032, Nasa hopes astronauts will be able to live in semi-permanent housing on the lunar surface. Long-range rovers would allow crews to travel greater distances across the Moon. The Moon’s south pole is seen as especially valuable because of frozen water deposits that could provide drinking water and oxygen. Much of the project depends on the readiness of the Human Landing System being developed by SpaceX. The spacecraft, known as Starship, has experienced repeated delays and technical setbacks. Dr Barber said the biggest challenge remained landing astronauts safely on the Moon. He added that political pressure appeared to be influencing the pace of the announcements. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 20:55:42 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/marriage-scam-crackdown-ordered-across-thailand-r2011/Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration has ordered a nationwide review of marriage registrations to combat sham marriages used by transnational criminals seeking illegal advantages in the country. Officials warned that any civil servants found facilitating fraudulent registrations or accepting bribes would face severe disciplinary action. Get today's headlines by email Director-General Narucha Khosasivilai signed an order sent to governors in every province, instructing district offices, local registration offices and municipal authorities to tighten anti-fraud checks. The move followed reports that criminal networks and foreign fraudsters were increasingly using fake marriages as a means to gain unlawful benefits in Thailand, undermining confidence in the national civil registration system. Authorities said complaints had also been received regarding improper practices at some registration offices. The directive aims to strengthen oversight and ensure all marriage registrations comply fully with legal procedures. The new measures focus on three high-risk groups. The first covers foreign nationals, whose passports and supporting documents from their home countries must now undergo stricter verification. The second targets ethnic minority groups and stateless individuals classified under registration categories type 6 codes 50-72 and type 7. The third includes people without official registration status, specifically groups coded 0-89 and 0-00. Officials have also introduced four additional anti-corruption mechanisms. These include real-time checks of marriage records to prevent duplicate or fraudulent marriages, separate questioning of applicants where suspicious circumstances arise, and stricter authentication of foreign “certificate of no impediment” documents through Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A revised interview form, known as Por Kor 14, will now be issued in Thai, English and Chinese. The form clearly outlines criminal penalties for providing false information to authorities. Narucha stressed that registrars have the authority to reject any marriage registration immediately if they believe it may be a sham arrangement. He also ordered officials not to demand or accept payments beyond the legal registration fees. Any officer found involved in corruption, abuse of authority or facilitating fraudulent marriages would face immediate and severe disciplinary punishment, according to the directive. ThaiRath reported that the crackdown is expected to increase scrutiny at registration offices nationwide in the coming weeks, particularly in cases involving foreign nationals and vulnerable registration groups. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thairath 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 20:51:32 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/israeli-opposition-slams-emerging-us-iran-deal-r1051/Israel’s opposition leader Yair Lapid has criticised an emerging agreement between the United States and Iran, calling it harmful to Israel and the wider Middle East while accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of failing to influence negotiations with Washington. Get today's headlines by email Speaking to reporters in Jerusalem on Monday, Lapid said the proposed deal under discussion “fails to achieve any of Israel’s goals for the war” and described its details as “disturbing”. “The deal is bad for Israel, bad for the region, bad for the citizens of Iran,” he said. War aims and proposed termsIsrael and the US launched military operations against Iran on 28 February, saying they aimed to dismantle Iran’s ballistic missile programme, curb its support for regional proxy groups and prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon. Both Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump had also said they hoped the conflict would create conditions for the fall of Iran’s government. According to regional officials, the proposed agreement would require Iran to surrender its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz. In return, the US would end its blockade of Iranian ports and lift sanctions on Tehran. The deal would reportedly leave broader negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme to a later 60-day period. It remains unclear whether the talks would also cover Iran’s missile capabilities or its backing of armed groups across the region. Lapid thanked Trump for joining Israel in the conflict, but said Netanyahu had failed to maintain influence over Washington during negotiations. “The Israeli government is at an all-time low in its ability to influence decisions in Washington,” Lapid said, referring to Trump’s recent remark that “Netanyahu will do whatever I want him to do.” Israel’s position on sovereigntyAn Israeli official familiar with conversations between Netanyahu and Trump said the prime minister had repeatedly stressed that Israel retained “freedom of action” against threats in any arena. “Israel is a sovereign state, we are not a vassal state and we are not a protectorate,” Lapid said. Lapid currently leads the centrist Yesh Atid party and served briefly as Israel’s prime minister in 2022 under a rotation agreement with former premier Naftali Bennett. The pair have now merged their political factions ahead of elections due by the end of October, seeking to unite opposition groups against Netanyahu after years of political fragmentation. Debate over Palestinian statehoodLapid also addressed the issue of Palestinian statehood, saying the next Israeli government would not pursue a two-state solution in the near future. He said the aftermath of the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas and the wars that followed had fundamentally changed Israeli public opinion. “There will be no two-state solution in the coming years, because Israelis now understand this will become just another failing terrorist state on our borders,” Lapid said. At the same time, he said he would oppose unilateral moves that could permanently prevent the creation of a Palestinian state in the future. Lapid added that Bennett had assured him Israel would not move towards annexing the occupied West Bank. Coalition plans before electionLapid also ruled out forming a future governing coalition with Arab political parties. Opinion polls suggest the opposition alliance may struggle to secure a parliamentary majority without support from Arab lawmakers, as happened in 2021 when Lapid and Bennett formed a coalition government with backing from Mansour Abbas and his small Arab faction. Lapid defended that earlier arrangement as “the right government for the moment” but said Israel’s political climate had shifted after nearly three years of conflict. He said neither he nor Bennett intended to rely on Abbas’ party in the next election cycle. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 MaTue, 26 May 2026 20:47:18 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/eu-says-russia-trying-to-intimidate-europe-r1050/European officials have dismissed renewed Russian threats against Ukraine and Western diplomats, accusing Moscow of trying to intimidate Europe as the Kremlin escalates warnings over Kyiv. Get today's headlines by email Speaking ahead of a meeting of the EU General Affairs Council on 26 May, Polish Foreign Ministry State Secretary Ignacy Niemczycki said Russia’s rhetoric was part of a long-standing strategy aimed at spreading fear across Europe. “This is nothing new,” Niemczycki said, according to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. “Putin uses this tactic to spread fear among us here in Europe. And I just want to say: It will not work.” His comments came after Moscow intensified warnings following a new wave of attacks on Ukraine and statements concerning the Oreshnik missile, which Russia says is capable of carrying nuclear weapons. Niemczycki said Poland’s position remained unchanged, arguing that Europe should both increase pressure on Russia and strengthen support for Ukraine. Baltic states dismiss missile threatsLatvian Foreign Ministry Parliamentary Secretary Artjoms Uršuļskis also downplayed the significance of Russia’s references to the Oreshnik missile. He described the weapon as largely a propaganda tool in the imagination of Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying recent strikes and messaging campaigns had not altered Latvia’s assessment of the war. Uršuļskis said Russia appeared unable to make meaningful progress on the battlefield, while Ukraine was growing stronger. He added that he saw no indication Russian attacks would change the overall direction of the conflict. Meanwhile, French Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pascal Confavreux said leaving Kyiv was “out of the question” despite Russia’s threats of further strikes. Diplomats vow to remain in KyivEU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová said diplomats and foreign nationals had no plans to leave the Ukrainian capital. Mathernová criticised Russia for invoking international humanitarian law while continuing attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine. “Russia is again threatening diplomats and foreigners, demanding that we leave Kyiv. But we are not going anywhere,” she said. She accused Moscow of hypocrisy, pointing to years of strikes on apartment buildings, schools, hospitals, museums and power infrastructure across Ukraine. Moscow warns of sustained strikesOn 25 May, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Russian attacks on Kyiv were being carried out in response to Ukrainian actions and would continue. Russia’s Foreign Ministry later announced what it described as a sustained campaign of “systematic strikes” targeting defence industry facilities in Kyiv. It also urged foreign nationals to leave the city “as soon as possible”. The ministry said Russian forces could target facilities involved in the design, production and operation of drones, along with what it called “decision-making centres and command posts” in the Ukrainian capital. Moscow also repeated accusations that Ukraine had attacked a university in Starobilsk, describing the incident as “the last straw” that prompted the latest strikes on Kyiv. The Kremlin accused Ukraine of violating the Geneva Conventions, while making no reference to Russia’s own continuing attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities, which have killed civilians throughout the war. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 MTue, 26 May 2026 20:34:00 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/iran-condemns-us-strikes-amid-truce-talks-r1049/-fifthIran has accused the United States of committing a “gross violation” of the ceasefire after American forces launched new air strikes in southern Iran, raising fresh doubts over efforts to extend the truce and end the conflict. Get today's headlines by email. The US Central Command said on Monday that it carried out what it described as “self-defence strikes” against Iranian missile sites and boats attempting to place mines in southern Iran. Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the attacks as “aggressive and unjustified actions” and warned that Tehran would respond. “Without a doubt, the Islamic Republic of Iran will not leave any evil unanswered and will not hesitate to defend the Iranian nation,” the ministry said in a statement. Strikes near Strait of HormuzThe reported strikes took place in Hormozgan province, which borders the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important shipping route through which roughly one fifth of the world’s oil supplies pass. Iran has effectively blocked the waterway since the conflict began on 28 February, contributing to a sharp rise in global energy prices. The US military did not specify the exact locations targeted. However, an unnamed US official cited by the New York Times said the operation focused on an area near Bandar Abbas, a major southern port city that hosts an Iranian naval base on the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media earlier reported explosions in Bandar Abbas, saying local authorities were investigating. Later, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had shot down a US drone and fired at an American fighter jet that entered Iranian airspace, although it gave no further details about the timing of the incident. Ceasefire under pressureThe US and Israel launched military operations against Iran on 28 February with a series of attacks that included one which killed Iran’s supreme leader. Following weeks of fighting, a ceasefire was agreed on 8 April. The truce has largely held, despite a significant clash earlier this month. In its statement, US Central Command said the latest strikes were intended “to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces”. The renewed military action comes as diplomatic efforts continue to preserve and potentially extend the ceasefire agreement. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a deal remained possible but cautioned that negotiations would require “a few days” more. At the weekend, President Donald Trump first indicated that an agreement was close before later saying negotiators had been instructed “not to rush into” a settlement. Talks continue in DohaAccording to US media reports, negotiators are discussing a memorandum of understanding rather than a final peace agreement. The reported proposal includes a 60-day extension of the ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and further negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme. Iran said on Monday that progress had been made in the talks but stressed that a deal was “not imminent”. One of the main obstacles is understood to be Tehran’s demand for the release of frozen Iranian assets held overseas. The negotiations have largely been mediated by Pakistan, while Qatari mediators have also hosted talks this week in Doha. A source briefed on the discussions told Reuters that Iran’s central bank governor attended Monday’s meetings, where talks focused mainly on frozen Iranian funds, Tehran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, and the future of the Strait of Hormuz. The US, Israel and several Western countries accuse Iran of enriching uranium to develop nuclear weapons. Iran maintains that its nuclear programme is intended solely for peaceful civilian purposes. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 20:20:36 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-couple-allege-tiktok-exploitation-by-chinese-agency-r2010/A Thai couple has accused the Chinese-linked media agency, Stylepop Media, of exploiting poverty-themed TikTok content for financial gain. The couple, once behind the TikTok channel known as "Big Boss Family," allege they were manipulated into creating scripted content showcasing their financial struggles. They claim the agency exploited their hardship while imposing strict financial terms. Get today's headlines by email The Big Boss Family's TikTok journey began with genuine depictions of their life's challenges, but the couple was soon approached by Stylepop Media, which offered them 1,000 baht per video. The condition was adherence to scripted content, and they were forbidden from accepting viewer donations. They were also required to share 80% of sponsorship earnings with the company. Their TikTok earnings became their sole income source, amounting to about 20,000 baht monthly. However, promises by the agency were reportedly unfulfilled, leading to financial difficulties for the family. A plea for advance payment for their son's medical needs was denied, and subsequent attempts to seek alternative work led to their contract's termination. The agency took over and renamed their TikTok account. In the wake of their revelations, social media users evaluated other accounts with similar narratives, uncovering another creator allegedly linked to Stylepop Media. This creator, initially perceived as a struggling single father, used his platform for business promotions, further entwining him in the controversy. Despite increasing public scrutiny, Stylepop Media's response has been to privatize its TikTok account while remaining silent. As scrutiny grows, no official statement from government bodies has clarified any legal implications for the involved parties. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 26 May 2026Tue, 26 May 2026 11:37:18 +0000